Red Light Therapy: What is behind it?
That we are big fans of infrared light is probably already known to you from our article about infrared saunas . Now we have discovered the effect of infrared light for the face and are bringing our obsession with infrared light into our own homes. We are talking about "Red Light Therapy".
By Eva Staudinger
What's behind it?
Red Light Face Therapy, also known as LED facial treatment, is based on the use of special red LED lights that emit at different wavelengths. Available in a variety of devices such as portable wands, lamps, masks, and more, Red Light Therapy is a popular method among dermatologists and celebrities like Chrissy Teigen and Kate Hudson. These red LED lights penetrate deep into the skin and are said to help treat various skin issues and improve skin health. The treatment promises firmer, smoother skin, reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, improved skin elasticity, and a more even complexion. Sounds tempting, doesn't it?
The advantages
But what does science say? In fact, there are some promising studies supporting the benefits of Red Light Face Therapy. Researchers have found that red LED light can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to improved skin texture and firmness. Furthermore, it can reduce inflammation, support the skin's healing process, and stimulate cellular metabolism. These positive effects can help achieve a more youthful and radiant appearance.
- Promotes blood circulation
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
- Tightens and firms the skin
- Relieves inflammation
- Fading of scars and acne
The best part is, you don't have to rush to the nearest salon to book an expensive Red Light Face Therapy treatment. You can conveniently enjoy the benefits of this method from home. There is now a wide variety of LED masks and devices on the market specifically designed for home use. You can find our two favorites here.
Our recommendations for home use
Best all-round device: CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask
Price: 329€ AT CURRENTBODY
Why we love it: The practical thing about the mask is that you can flexibly fasten it at the back of your head and it doesn't have to be held in place. Your hands are free as a result. So you can move freely during the 10-minute treatment and do whatever you want. Confused looks from your roommates are guaranteed ? I like to wear it in the morning during my Morning Pages or Morning Stretches. It's also a good option in the evening while reading. Or in between while hanging laundry or cooking. You see, you have no excuses not to use it, and there are no limits to its application. Through red and near-infrared light, this facial mask can increase collagen production and promote wound healing, while overall improving skin texture, complexion, and firmness. According to CurrentBody, the device is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 35% within four weeks.
Specifications: FDA-approved, two wavelengths: Red (633 nm) and near-infrared (830 nm)
Best 4-in-1 Red Light Wand: Solawave Radiant Renewal Skincare Wand
Price: 169 € AT SOLAWAVE
Why we love it: Although it is not a mask, the Solawave red light wand is one of my favorite LED light therapy devices. I use it in the morning or evening after washing my face as a facial massage tool together with my serum. The wand emits red light with several LEDs and combines it with vibrating warmth to unite four technologies: red light therapy, microcurrent, facial massage, and therapeutic warmth. After a 5-minute massage, my face looks immediately fresher and more vital. Solawave recommends using the wand for five minutes, three times a week.
Specifications: One wavelength: Red (630 nm)
Important to mention: Red Light Face Therapy is not a quick fix! To see visible results, you should make the use of infrared light a regular ritual and ideally use the LED mask or the red light wand 2-3 times per week. Have fun trying it out!
About Eva:
Eva Staudinger is a German model signed with international agencies in New York, London, and Paris. With her many years of professional experience, skincare, beauty, and wellness are topics she engages with daily and with great enthusiasm. Business trips to New York, Sydney, or London allow her to always gain insight into the latest beauty trends, which she will then share with us as part of the SoSue Beauty section. In addition to her work as a model, the native of Bergisch Gladbach has also completed her bachelor's degree in economics at the University of Cologne. She has since relocated her base from the Rhineland to the north in Hamburg, where she lives with her boyfriend and where her German agency “PMA” is located. She regularly takes her followers on her Instagram account "evastaudinger" on her travels around the world and shares insights from her latest discoveries in beauty, wellness, and food – anyone interested is welcome to take a look.