Frequently Asked Questions for Light Emitting Diode (LED) Light Therapy
What is Light therapy?
So what is low-level light therapy? It’s the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to tissue to obtain therapeutic benefits. The energy delivered is then used to improve cellular performance. Low-level light therapy can be delivered through light emitting diode (LED) devices or cold lasers, and has a variety of applications across many medical fields. The treatment is non-invasive, painless, requires no recovery time, and can be used on all skin types.
How does it work?
In the same way that plants use chlorophyll to convert sunlight into plant tissue, high intensity light emitting diodes (LEDs) utilizing specific, proven wavelengths of light can trigger a natural biostimulatory effect in human tissue. Research has shown that phototherapy can increase circulation, accelerate tissue repair, kill acne bacteria, decrease inflammation, improve skin tone, texture and clarity, as well as ease muscle and joint pain, stiffness, spasm, and arthritis.
What is the research on it?
Research indicates that cells absorb particles of light (photons) and transform their energy into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the form of energy that cells utilize. The resulting elevation of ATP is then used to power metabolic processes; synthesize DNA, RNA, proteins, enzymes, and other products needed to repair or regenerate cell components; foster mitosis or cell proliferation; and restore homeostasis. Simply put, the LED light source provides compromised cells with added energy so the cells performance is enhanced. For example, fibroblast cells will increase collagen and elastic production in connective tissue.
When is it used?
We use LED light therapy during our facial treatments. Typically it is performed while the acupuncture needles are being retained if doing cosmetic acupuncture. Its very relaxing. We use LED light therapy after our Micro-needling treatments to reduce any inflammation after the treatment. It is also used during our Acne sessions as well our acupuncture sessions where we are working with muscle aches and pains.
How was LED Light therapy discovered?
This technology was originally developed by NASA for astronauts who could become injured or ill on a long-term space flight. It is used today as a safe and natural method of treating a variety of skin conditions such as acne or rejuvenating anti-aging treatments. It also works great for pain.
What type of LED light machine do you use for treatments?
We use a machine called Celluma. It is safe, clinically tested and approved by the FDA for pain management and skin care, Celluma uses light energy to improve cellular health by accelerating the repair and replenishment of compromised tissue cells.
How does the Celluma device Boost Collagen Production?
Let’s quickly run through two biology basics: the Krebs Cycle and Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP).
1. The Krebs cycle is what generates cellular energy inside your body. Light activation boosts the body’s natural Krebs Cycle which in turn assists in creating more ATP.
2. ATP is the energy currency of all the cells in your body. When your body has sufficient ATP levels, then it has more energy to spend on restorative processes such as collagen elastin production – these are the proteins your body uses to heal itself.
In summary:
Light Therapy = Enhanced Krebs (energy) Cycle = Greater ATP Availability = More Collagen
What does it do specifically?
When all of the important metabolic events (from question above) are happening, it then results in greater outcomes beyond just collagen production. We see a cascade of benefits such as:
Cell generation to replace old cells (mitosis)
Reduction and prevention of cell death (apoptosis)
Neurogenesis (new neurons)
Development of new capillaries (angiogenesis)
Increased blood flow
Enhanced Nitric Oxide production
The synergistic effect is that your body is optimized to heal itself. Patients who use Celluma LED light therapy devices begin seeing:
Skin rejuvenation and the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines
Accelerated healing of chronic wounds. *
General pain reduction including muscle, joint and arthritic pains.
.
Is it painful?
No, not at all. In fact, there is very little to no sensation felt during the treatment. Celluma helps tissues heal naturally from the inside out and is very relaxing. It is quite bright so protective eye goggles are worn during treatment.
Does this treatment work for wrinkles or aging skin?
Yes! LED light therapy increases ATP production and stimulates collagen production in the skin.
Does it work for Acne?
Yes! We use it in all of our acne treatments. We use LED light therapy with acupuncture, herbs, and topicals for the best results. This treatment is done twice a week for 5 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of the condition.
Does it work for Pain?
Yes! LED light therapy can reduce inflammation that leads to pain.