Among other things, it is said to be able to alleviate impurities, pigment disorders and irritations, reduce wrinkles and even strengthen the immune system: Light therapy is also a popular method in the beauty sector to counteract skin problems – and can now even be done at home. With an LED mask you can use the method yourself that was previously only available in beauty salons. But how exactly does it work? And what should you consider when buying and using such a face mask? Dr. med. Susanne Steinkraus has a specialist practice for dermatology, aesthetic medicine, laser medicine and cosmetics in Hamburg. She explains to stern what you should know about the beauty tool.
An LED mask works, as the name suggests, with LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) that work in the deeper layers of the skin (up to ten millimeters deep). The masks are usually equipped with over 100 small LED lights. There are different light variants that combat different skin problems through their different light waves.
This explains Dr. med. Steinkraus: “Red light (550 to 660 nanometers) is a classic in light therapy and its positive effect has long been clinically confirmed. Red LED light stimulates collagen production. Fine lines can be plumped up and the formation of new wrinkles can be slowed down. By the way “The treatment with red light stimulates blood circulation and can therefore ensure a fresher complexion. So it’s no wonder that masks with red LEDs are a popular anti-aging tool.”
Blue light (400 to 450 nanometers), on the other hand, can have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, according to the expert. “It can help reduce blackheads, pimples and oily skin. Stubborn acne and psoriasis can also disappear thanks to the blue LEDs. In addition, blue light stimulates oxygen production, making the skin appear vital and lively.” Another plus point: “Blue light influences the hormonal balance and can therefore help with winter depression and sleep disorders. Perfect for the dark season,” explains Dr. med. Susanne Steinkraus.
Green light (~ 525 nanometers) also promotes skin rejuvenation, as the expert explains. It has a calming and wound healing effect. “Dark pigment spots can be broken up by treatment with green light. The complexion can become more even over time and look more youthful. Green LED light also relieves migraines.”
However, Steinkraus points out: “While red, blue and green are already well-known in light therapy, there are also masks with a larger selection of colors. However, the promised effects have not yet been verifiably confirmed.” According to some manufacturers, pink/violet light is said to stimulate cell regeneration and renewal and have a detoxifying effect. Yellow light is said to smooth the skin and reduce redness. White light is said to stimulate metabolism and minimize the appearance of fine lines.
There is also treatment with a five-fold (or even seven-fold) combined LED light: Such masks are usually equipped with around 150 small diodes that can emit, among other things, red, blue, green, yellow light and white light either individually or in combination. There are also face masks that are intended to intensively combat only very specific skin problems, such as the model from Currentbody, which combines red LED light (633 nanometers) with near-infrared (830 nanometers) to achieve better anti-aging results.
By regularly using an LED mask, the skin can become clearer and the connective tissue becomes firmer. Pigment spots, sun damage and other problems can also be corrected. Regarding use, Steinkraus says: “You can use the mask with LED function two to three times a week, for 15 to 20 minutes each time. Thoroughly cleanse your face of make-up before use and apply a cooling serum or day cream . This can increase effectiveness. A small pair of safety glasses protect your eyes from the LED rays – you should wear these throughout the entire treatment.”
The expert explains that the application works best while lying down and if you position yourself in a relaxed manner. After application you can care for your face as usual. In order to achieve a visible and, above all, lasting effect, consistent and regular use of an LED mask is necessary. You should also strictly follow the instructions on the product and not irradiate your face for longer than recommended. Dr. med. Susanne Steinkraus also points out that devices for use at home are usually limited in their effectiveness because the light dosage is significantly weaker than in treatment by a specialist. You should never believe any promises, but rather seek advice from a dermatologist first.
But can using an LED mask also bring dangers? Steinkraus says: “The brightly colored masks may seem a bit strange at first glance and raise concerns – you don’t have to, because the masks usually have no UV content and only use targeted wavelengths. As a doctor, I only recommend light therapy if you are pregnant from or when taking medications that make the skin sensitive to light.”
It is best to discuss its use with your dermatologist beforehand. “The most important thing is to protect your eyes from the light of the LEDs. As a rule, the light therapy devices are designed in such a way that the eyes are spared; eye protection is included in the delivery or you can purchase one yourself.”
There are LED masks not just for the face. The procedure can also be used in the neck and neck area, for example, and can help to improve the skin and stimulate collagen production there. For example, Currentbody has developed an LED mask for the neck and décolleté that works on the same principle as the mask for the face. It can also be used preventatively to counteract deeper wrinkles and signs of skin aging.
There are also LED products just for the eyes or individual areas of the skin. Here too, you should make sure that you protect your eyes properly. You should also always look at customer reviews and read them carefully. Products should always come with clear instructions. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Note: This article contains general information and is not a substitute for a visit to a dermatologist.
Sources: “Hautsache Miltenberg” / “Skin Styling”
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