LED Light Therapy
What is LED Light Therapy?
LED light therapy is a treatment that uses visible and infrared light to treat specific indications such as acne and some skin cancers. It is also used to promote wound healing and general skin health.
Blue 415nm
Blue light is specifically designed to treat acne. It targets the porphyrins in the bacteria that contribute to acne and therefore has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. This can be used on its own or alongside topical, oral medication or peels and laser treatments. We usually recommend twice weekly treatment for optimal results. However, once weekly treatment is still beneficial if you are time poor. The treatment takes 15 minutes on average.
Red 630nm
Red light is great for boosting circulation, reducing inflammation and promoting skin recovery. It has been used more frequently in recent years to boost hair growth. It is also used for photodynamic therapy (PDT) (hyperlink), which is used for the treatment of superficial skin cancers and actinic keratoses or sunspots (in combination with a chemotherapeutic cream – metvix).
Infrared 800nm
This light is sometimes used in combination with red light. Its wavelength penetrates deeper into the skin, even reaching the muscles and ligaments. It has significant anti-inflammatory benefits and is used in skin for healing. It may result in a reduction in swelling, redness, pain and bruising and therefore can be used after surgery, laser treatment and injectables.
AT HCDL we use LED light treatments as a stand-alone treatment, but also commonly combine it with other treatments, such as our vascular laser, CO2 laser, and after surgical procedures.
What does LED Light Therapy feel like?
This treatment relies on visible and infrared light delivered in specific wavelengths to the skin. Some people feel a gentle warm sensation throughout the treatment. There is no pain, discomfort or downtime associated with this treatment. To ensure optimal eye safety your eyes will be covered with protective goggles during the treatment.
Who can have this treatment?
Most patients will be able to have LED treatments.
Exceptions will be patients that have light sensitive skin conditions, such as lupus, albinism and light induced urticaria. Patients on photosensitizing medications may not be suitable for light treatment. For more information, please consult your dermatologist.
How long does the treatment take?
Most light treatments last approximately 15-20 minutes. There is some individual variation.
What areas can be treated?
Most skin areas can be treated, including hair and scalp.
What is the downtime?
LED light treatment has no downtime. You can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
What are the side effects?
This treatment rarely has any side effects. Most patients report a warm sensation which rapidly resolves after treatment. You may look pink after the procedure due to increased blood flow to the skin. This will fade soon after treatment.
How many treatments will be required?
Most courses of treatment will be between 5-10 treatments, spaced at once or twice weekly. Specific indications e.g. post-surgery or post laser, have different treatment courses.
What do I have to do before and after the treatments?
We recommend coming to your appointment without makeup or sunscreen. We encourage patients to minimise sun exposure before and after treatment.
How do I book a treatment and what is the cost?
This treatment may be performed by one of our experienced Registered Nurses and can be booked in directly. Alternatively, book in for a consultation with one of our dermatologists. Your dermatologist will discuss your treatment goals with you during your consult. The results will vary depending on your age, degree of sun damage and skin type, as well as what parameters your doctor or nurse uses.
For prices please refer to our ‘Fees and Packages’.
For more information about this procedure, including costs for the consultation and treatment contact our team on (02) 4003 7693.