Is Red Light Therapy a Scam?

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT) is an emerging therapy that shows promise in treating wrinkles, redness, acne, scars and other signs of aging. As you might have seen in a dermatologist's office or online ads for home devices, red light therapy usually takes the form of a mask, light board, or wand with tiny LED bulbs that emit a low-level red or Nearly red wavelengths. infrared light. The devices are then "applied" - panels and some masks held a short distance from your face; other masks and wands are applied directly to the skin for a short period of time (usually about 15-30 minutes) to help treat a variety of skin types situation. These skin problems can range from medical - including actinic keratosis (a common skin growth that can lead to cancer), acne and rosacea - to cosmetic, namely fine lines and wrinkles.

Is Red Light Therapy a Scam?

While it sounds too good to be true, red light therapy has proven to be a universal treatment for many health conditions. Red light therapy research dates back to 1967, when the first device was developed, and by the 1990s, NASA began researching red light therapy for pain relief. This article will cover the many benefits and uses of red light therapy to better understand how it can help. Research supports each use and benefit to show results.

How has the interest in red light therapy evolved?

NASA initially began experimenting with plant-grown red light therapy in space to help heal astronaut wounds. Like many developments, research into other potential uses began.

In fact, the use of red light therapy in photodynamic therapy has been widely accepted in medicine. In this therapy, a low-power red laser is used to activate the photosensitizer drug. This interaction creates a chemical reaction that destroys the cell. It is used to treat some skin conditions, including skin cancer and psoriasis, acne and warts, and other types of cancer.

RLT is now being studied (or already in use) to treat a variety of health conditions. What is confusing and controversial is the effectiveness of the therapy for its advertised purpose.

So does red light therapy really work?

Most experts say you may see some skin-enhancing effects from red light therapy, but as with most skin rejuvenation treatments, the most noticeable effects will be temporary. "It's not going to stop the clock," Dr. Barron said. But that's why it's recommended for regular use in the office, spa or at home. "The results you get from red light therapy are cumulative, additive and synergistic," says Dr. Jagdeo. In other words, if you want to achieve smoother skin and reduce fine lines, you need to maintain your regimen so that you can build and support each other; over time - usually a few weeks, according to the doctors we interviewed Or a few months - you should start seeing noticeable changes.

Is red light therapy safe?

Red light therapy appears to be safe and has no side effects, at least with short-term use and as directed. This therapy is non-toxic, non-invasive, and not as harsh as some topical skin treatments. Unlike carcinogenic ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning rooms, RLT does not use this type of light.

That said, if you know you're prone to hyperpigmentation, you may want to consult with your dermatologist to help you choose an at-home device, says Dr. Lamb. "If a patient who is prone to hyperpigmentation comes to me, I might advise them to avoid devices that are placed directly on the face and stick with devices that are away from the skin."

Best of all, when done correctly, "red light therapy is safe and manageable for the average adult," says Dr. Baron. Photodynamic therapy may be covered by insurance when used medically to treat actinic keratosis, but don't expect your insurance to cover acne, rosacea, or skin rejuvenation. Out-of-pocket costs vary by treatment area and office location, but typically range from $35 to $400 per treatment.