Red Light Therapy for Skin: What You Need to Know About LED Face Masks

Red light therapy (RLT) is a treatment that uses red low-level wavelengths of light to treat skin issues, promote healing, and offer other health benefits.

The development of RLT began in 1967 with Hungarian physician Endre Mester, who initially tested its effects on skin cancer. He later demonstrated the positive impact of laser light on wound healing processes. In 2002, the FDA approved the first RLT device, marking a significant milestone in its medical application.

Red light therapy has gained significant attention as a non-invasive treatment method for various health and wellness issues. This comprehensive guide explores red light therapy safety, benefits, and efficacy, offering insights into its applications and effectiveness.

How Red Light Therapy Works

RLT operates through several mechanisms, primarily at the cellular level. One well-supported theory is that red (600–810 nm) and near-infrared (810–1064 nm) light is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) in the mitochondria, which helps enhance ATP production and cellular energy. This process can improve cell function and promote healing and anti-inflammatory effects.

Another significant mechanism involves water in cells. Research suggests that when interfacial water (water at surfaces) absorbs visible or near-infrared light, it undergoes charge separation, creating areas with different pH levels. This can change the shape and function of proteins.

Additionally, RLT might reduce the thickness or stickiness of interfacial water in mitochondria, helping the F0F1 ATP synthase enzyme, which functions like a tiny motor, to rotate faster and produce more ATP, enhancing cellular energy production.

Safety and Efficacy of Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy, known by various names, is supported by scientific literature which lists nearly 60 different terms, including:

• Photobiomodulation (PBM)
• Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT)
• Low-level laser light therapy (LLLT)
• Low-power laser therapy (LPLT)
• Low-power laser irradiation (LPLI)
• Soft laser therapy
• Cold laser therapy
• Photonic stimulation
• Biostimulation

Of these, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is the most commonly used term. A systematic review analyzed the safety of PBM in oncologic applications and concluded that PBM is a non-invasive therapy with a favorable safety profile. It is considered viable for various treatments, including skin rejuvenation and wound healing​.

Several medical fields support using red light therapy as a therapeutic modality with minimal adverse effects. Below are the benefits of red light therapy.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy

RLT offers a variety of potential benefits, many of which have been supported by scientific research. Here are some of the key benefits:

Red Light Therapy for Skin Health

RLT can help with various skin conditions, including acne, wrinkles, scars, and sun damage. The therapy is non-invasive, painless, and can improve overall skin tone and texture.

1. Acne Treatment

Red light therapy has shown effectiveness in treating acne vulgaris, a condition that affects the oil glands and hair follicles of the skin. It is characterized by pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes deeper lumps like cysts or nodules, typically on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.

Studies indicate that red light can improve mild to moderate cases of acne by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. A 2012 study investigated the efficacy of red and infrared low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for treating acne vulgaris.

The findings indicate that red and infrared LLLT effectively reduce acne lesions. More importantly, red light therapy showed a slightly higher efficacy in reducing inflammatory lesions than infrared light therapy.

2. Anti-aging

A 2013 study published in Photomedicine & Laser Surgery used a combination of red (633 nm) and near-infrared (830 nm) light treatments. This combination was applied to evaluate their cumulative effects on reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and skin roughness, and on increasing intradermal collagen density​.

The treatments significantly reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Moreover, participants reported smoother skin texture and a notable increase in intradermal collagen density, contributing to healthier skin.​

A more recent study demonstrated the effectiveness of PBM using red LEDs in reversing skin aging signs. The study measured:

• Anti-wrinkle effect
• Facial oval relaxation
• Firmness and elasticity
• Dermis density
• Skin smoothness
• Complexion homogeneity
• Pore diameter
• Sebum regulation

The results measured after 1, 2, and 3 months of use showed progressive improvement, confirming the effectiveness of LED PBM in reversing visible signs of skin aging. All volunteers observed an overall improvement in skin quality.

3. Wound Healing

Researchers examined various doses of red light (661 nm) for their impact on cell viability and wound closure rates, measured at 0, 24, and 48 hours post-treatment.

Results indicated that doses between 3 and 4.5 J/cm², which is the amount of energy delivered per square centimeter during red light therapy, increased wound healing rates, ROS production, and cellular orientation toward the wound margin. Controlled ROS levels can promote cell proliferation and migration, aiding tissue repair.

Red Light Therapy for Specific Skin Conditions

Skin conditions that were found to benefit from red light therapy include:

1. Psoriasis

Phototherapy has been widely employed to treat psoriasis, including trunk, scalp, arms and legs, and partial nail psoriasis. Ultraviolet (UV) light is effective for stable plaque psoriasis, while pulsed dye laser (PDL) is optimal for small topical lesions and nail psoriasis.

Today, LLLT has gained traction in dermatology due to its effectiveness in treating psoriasis. A preliminary study showed that combining 830 nm (near infrared) and 630 nm (visible red light) emitted by LEDs can effectively treat psoriasis.

2. Eczema

Phototherapy is emerging as a promising non-invasive treatment for eczema, supported by various scientific studies. The three primary wavelengths of light used in phototherapy are blue (415 nm), red (633 nm), and near-infrared (830 nm), each demonstrating several therapeutic benefits.

Research indicates that phototherapy can be effective when used in conjunction with topical treatments, enhancing their efficacy.

3. Rosacea

Two case reports used LED therapy, combining blue light (using 480 nm) and red light (using 650 nm), to treat papulopustular rosacea in two patients. The findings suggest that LED therapy with blue and red light could be an effective, safer, and well-tolerated treatment option for managing rosacea.

Red Light Therapy for Pain Relief

Increasing evidence shows that light exposure can modulate pain, leading to the use of phototherapy for various pain conditions. The effectiveness of phototherapy depends on the wavelength, intensity, and application method.

1. Arthritis

The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. An older study found that low-power light therapy significantly reduced pain and disability in elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis, particularly with red and infrared light, which also delayed the need for retreatment.

However, a recent study highlighted ongoing debates about its effectiveness for rheumatoid arthritis. While some research suggests benefits like reduced inflammation and cartilage repair, other studies have not found significant differences compared to placebo treatments.

2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Red light therapy has shown potential in treating carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). One study revealed that LLLT can improve hand grip, visual analog scale (VAS), and sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) after 3 months of follow-up for mild to moderate CTS.

In contrast, different study findings showed evidence that LLLT is only effective in the short term (0 to ≤5 weeks). It was found that the benefits of pain, function, and recovery diminish after five weeks, with moderate and conflicting evidence at 7- and 12-week follow-ups.

Additionally, a systematic review and network meta-analysis concluded that adding LLLT to splinting for CTS management is not recommended. LLLT offers limited additional benefits over splinting alone in pain reduction, symptom severity, and functional improvement.

3. Neuropathic Pain

Recent findings on phototherapy found that red light (660nm) applied to the skin reduces pain in neuropathies, while the same wavelength can worsen migraines when applied visually. On the other hand, green light exposure reduces pain in conditions like migraines and fibromyalgia.

Red Light Therapy for Dental Pain

Dental professionals use red light therapy to address various oral health issues, such as reducing pain, inflammation, and ulcers, and controlling harmful oral microbes. Treatments involving red light therapy for oral health include:

1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

TMJ causes non-dental orofacial pain, affecting jaw movement and causing muscular and joint pain. A 2019 study evaluated the effectiveness of PBM using red and infrared LEDs for treating TMJ.

The study found increased maximum mouth opening (MMO), indicating improved jaw function. This was measured with a digital caliper and showed significant improvement in the PBM group. Moreover, electromyography (EMG) showed changes in the electrical activity of masticatory muscles, suggesting that PBM positively impacts muscle function.

2. Minor Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (MiRAS)

A research study was performed involving children diagnosed with MiRAS, who were randomly assigned to either a laser therapy (645 nm) group or a placebo group. The study assessed lesion size, pain levels, and parental satisfaction at various time points.

Results showed that the laser therapy significantly reduced both the size of the ulcers and pain levels compared to the placebo, especially notable on days 4 and 7 for lesion size and day 4 for pain reduction. The study concluded that PBMT is an effective treatment for MiRAS in children and is well-accepted by their parents.

Red Light Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease

Red light treatment can potentially benefit in the management of Alzheimer's disease through the following:

1. Anxiety and Depression

Mood changes often occur in the early stages of Alzheimer's and can manifest as increased anxiety, irritability, or a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. In an animal study, researchers hypothesized that PBM could alleviate anxiety and depression, potentially reducing memory loss and dementia risk.

Behavioral tests at 10 months measured neuronal damage, mitochondrial function, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress. Results showed that PBM shows promise as an early intervention for depression and anxiety in Alzheimer's due to improved mitochondrial function and reduced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress.

2. Apoptosis

A 2008 study explored how low-power laser irradiation (LPLI) can mitigate apoptosis, a key process in Alzheimer's disease. During apoptosis, cells undergo a series of characteristic changes, including cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation, and membrane blebbing. These ultimately lead to the cell's death and removal without causing an inflammatory response.

Researchers found that LPLI improved cell viability and reduced apoptosis by activating protein kinase C (PKC), increasing bcl-xl (a cell survival protein), and decreasing bax (a cell death protein), thereby regulating the bax/bcl-xl mRNA ratio and inhibiting apoptosis.

3. BDNF Expression

In Alzheimer's disease, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels drop early on, affecting neuron survival and growth. BDNF is a protein that plays a critical role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. It is essential for long-term memory, learning, and cognitive function.

LLLT can upregulate BDNF, helping rescue neurons and dendrites. A study showed that LLLT increased BDNF via the CREB transcription factor, which is dependent on the ERK pathway. This led to improved dendrite growth, branching, and spine density. Overall, LLLT can protect against neuron loss and dendritic atrophy caused by Alzheimer's, offering a potential therapeutic approach.

Red Light Therapy for Other Conditions

1. Androgenic Alopecia

Researchers hypothesized that LLLT promotes hair growth by stimulating specific cells and pathways in the hair follicles, leading to increased cell proliferation and release of growth-promoting factors.

A 2021 study found that low-level 650 nm red light promotes the growth of human hair follicles and delays the transition from the growth phase (anagen) to the regression phase (catagen). RNA sequencing revealed that this effect involves several biological processes, including immune cell movement, metabolism, and cell junctions.

These findings suggest that red light stimulates hair follicles by activating various cellular mechanisms.

2. Myopia

A recent meta-analysis studied the effect of repeated low-level red light (RLRL) therapy on myopia in children. This study found that the therapy effectively managed myopia progression with minimal adverse effects.

Most reported side effects, such as temporary visual disturbances, were minor and resolved quickly. However, the effect of long-term RLRL treatment and the rebound effect after cessation require further investigations.

Another systematic review compared the safety of red light therapy to other myopia control interventions, such as atropine drops and orthokeratology. The review found red light therapy has fewer side effects than traditional methods.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Red light therapy (RLT) is generally considered safe for most people when used correctly. However, like any treatment, it can have potential risks and side effects.

Risks

Here are some of the potential risks associated with red light therapy:

• Eye Damage: Prolonged exposure to red light, especially without proper eye protection, can potentially damage the eyes. It's crucial to wear appropriate protective eyewear during treatments.
• Skin Sensitivity: Some people may experience increased sensitivity to light, which can lead to discomfort or skin irritation.
• Overuse: Excessive use of RLT can lead to skin burns or other damage. It’s important to follow the recommended duration and frequency of treatment sessions.
• Interactions with Medications: People taking medications that cause photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to light) may experience adverse effects when using RLT.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as active skin cancer or certain eye disorders, should avoid RLT or consult a healthcare provider before use.

Side Effects

Here are some of the potential side effects associated with red light therapy:

• Mild Redness: Some users may experience mild redness or a warm sensation on the skin after treatment, which typically subsides quickly.
• Tightness or Itchiness: The treated area may feel tight or itchy, but these sensations are usually temporary.
• Headaches: Some people report headaches after using RLT, possibly due to the brightness of the light.
• Temporary Worsening of Symptoms: In some cases, users might experience a temporary worsening of symptoms before improvement is noticed. This is sometimes referred to as a “healing crisis.”

Final Thoughts

Red light therapy offers a wide range of potential benefits, from skin rejuvenation and pain relief to mental health improvements. It is a safe, non-invasive treatment with minimal side effects, making it an attractive option for many people. Whether used at home or in a professional setting, red light therapy can enhance health and well-being.

While it is generally safe and beneficial for a variety of conditions, it is essential to be aware of and mitigate potential risks and side effects. By following recommended guidelines and consulting healthcare professionals, users can safely enjoy the therapeutic benefits of red light therapy.

FAQs on Red Light Therapy Safety

How often should I use red light therapy?

The frequency of RLT sessions depends on the condition and the specific device used. Typically, LED face masks are applied to the skin for 20 to 30 minutes and can be used two to three times per week. Handheld devices, on the other hand, can be used three to five times weekly, with each session lasting 10 to 20 minutes.

Can red light therapy cause cancer?

There is no evidence to suggest that red light therapy causes cancer. A study investigated whether low-level light therapy (LLLT) would promote tumor growth in the presence of existing malignancies. The results showed no measurable effect of LLLT on tumor growth, indicating that the therapy did not promote the growth of existing tumors under the conditions tested.

Can anyone use red light therapy?

Individuals with certain conditions, such as photosensitivity (including those taking medications that cause photosensitivity), epilepsy, or thyroid disorders, should first discuss with their healthcare provider before starting treatment. Pregnant women, children, and cancer patients should also seek medical advice prior to use. Additionally, people with darker skin tones may be at higher risk of experiencing hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

Can red light therapy be used with other treatments?

Yes, RLT can often be used in conjunction with other treatments. It can complement other therapies for skin conditions, pain management, and wound healing. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining treatments.

Can red light therapy help with weight loss?

There is limited evidence supporting red light therapy's potential for weight loss. Most research has concentrated on reductions in waist circumference, commonly referred to as body contouring or body sculpting. Some studies suggest that red light therapy may cause fat cells to shrink, but these studies might be biased as they were often funded by device manufacturers.