Fear can be one of the biggest barriers for skin care professionals (especially new ones) when considering new modalities in their treatment rooms. Other times, it is inexperience or lack of practice. Whatever it is, it is beneficial to continue to learn new techniques and modalities that will improve and enhance your clients’ experience. A lot of people want maximized results in a minimal amount of time; they want instant gratification. There are many great ways to add in a new treatment that new professionals can afford while also making it an affordable upgrade for clients. One that is very easy to use and safe for virtually any client is LED therapy.
{mprestriction ids=”3,4,26,18,6,7,8,9,14,18,43,44″}BEHIND THE SCENES
Light therapy is one of the oldest forms of healing. It has been utilized as far back as ancient Egypt where it was used to treat a wide variety of ailments and conditions. Through modern technology, uses with NASA, and several scientists along the way, LED has been expanded into the aesthetics industry for several beneficial purposes.
LED stands for light-emitting diode. It’s a source of light that converts electrical energy into light energy, which then releases that energy in the form of photons. The chromophores or pigments in skin absorb these photons of energy, which initiates the triggering of adenosine triphosphate, or cellular energy.
LED works off wavelengths of light. The wavelength determines the range and color produced and the benefit of the specific light being produced. LED treatments that are used in skin care fall within the visible spectrum of light. They use red, amber, blue, and infrared light, each having their own unique skin benefit.
THE POWER OF COLOR
Red
Red light is generally used for antiaging concerns. With a wavelength of 620 nanometers to 700 nanometers, it is able to penetrate the dermal layer of skin. Using red LED stimulates cellular metabolism and increases cellular energy. Joined with the ability to increase collagen and blood flow, red light can also speed up wound healing.
Blue
Blue light, compared to red, has a shorter wavelength, falling within the 400 nanometers to 475 nanometers range. With this shallow depth of penetration, it easily stays within and targets the epidermis. This is why blue LED is great for destroying acne-causing bacteria, or c. acnes. Combining both red and blue light together works well for acneic clients. Some LED lights already have both combined into one. If not, using red light after blue light can help reduce inflammation and swelling of infected pores or follicles.
Amber
Amber light, also yellow light, has a short enough wavelength at 570 nanometers to 620 nanometers to give a shallower depth of penetration, somewhere between the red and blue. It helps the healing process and can minimize redness. Some devices may add amber light to red light so they can work in conjunction for healing effects.
Infrared
Generally also combined with red light, infrared light can penetrate further than skin and warm the body’s tissues from the inside, accelerating the healing process and reducing inflammation. Infrared light helps the process of building proteins, enzymes, and other growth factors within the body.
While the process of applying LED isn’t complicated, be sure to choose a brand or training that will give support and further education if needed. Make sure to always check for contraindications such as photosensitizing medications, although there aren’t many. Consistency is key with LED, as with any other aspect of aesthetics training. The best results will be seen with daily use of around 20 minutes. If you opt for a larger panel in your treatment room, you may also want to retail a handheld device to allow your clients to continue the process at home.
There are so many modalities that can be paired with LED, especially with the anti-inflammatory and healing qualities. Some skin care professionals may decide to offer it as a complimentary upgrade while others may build the price right into their standard treatments. Some may even offer it for their clients’ birthday month as a free treat with their facial. The possibilities are endless. Decide what works for you, your space, and your budget. You may be surprised how easily LED can add a little revenue to your business.
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Andrea Gregaydis is a licensed aesthetician and international CIDESCO diplomat. She holds multiple additional licenses as a New York state instructor and nail technician, as well as certified laser technician. Gregaydis is the lead instructor at the Aesthetic Science Institute and has over 10 years of experience as a practitioner, team coordinator, and role model for hundreds of future skin care professionals. She is contributing author to top industry trade magazines, as well as a speaker at various aesthetics conferences across the United States. She is also a CIDESCO International Examiner.
