How LED Light Therapy Works & Who It’s For
If you’ve ever seen a glowing mask on Instagram or heard someone rave about how their skin looked brighter after just one session, they were probably talking about LED light therapy. But what is it really, and how does it work?
As an esthetician, I love using LED therapy in treatments because it’s non-invasive, painless, and incredibly effective for a wide range of skin concerns. Whether you're dealing with acne, aging, or inflammation, this tech-driven treatment could be your new skincare secret weapon.
Let’s break down how it works and who it’s best for.
💡 What Is LED Light Therapy?
LED (Light Emitting Diode) therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and trigger natural cellular processes—like healing, collagen production, or killing acne-causing bacteria.
Originally developed by NASA to support wound healing, LED light therapy is now a go-to treatment in professional skincare for its ability to transform skin safely and gently.
🌈 What Do the Different Colors Do?
Each color of light penetrates the skin at different depths and offers unique benefits:
🔴 Red Light (630–660 nm)
Stimulates collagen and elastin production
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Improves overall tone and texture
Supports wound healing and repair
Best for: Anti-aging, sensitive skin, and skin rejuvenation
🔵 Blue Light (415–470 nm)
Kills acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes)
Reduces active breakouts and inflammation
Helps regulate oil production
Best for: Acne-prone skin and oily skin types
🟣 Purple Light (Red + Blue)
Combines acne-fighting and anti-aging benefits
Reduces acne while boosting healing and minimizing scars
Best for: Adult acne and combination skin
🟢 Green Light (520–535 nm)
Calms and balances skin tone
Reduces redness and hyperpigmentation
Helps fade dark spots and sun damage
Best for: Uneven skin tone, rosacea, or post-inflammatory pigmentation
✅ Who Should Try LED Light Therapy?
LED therapy is safe for most skin types and concerns, including:
✔️ Acne and oily skin
✔️ Aging or mature skin
✔️ Rosacea or redness
✔️ Dull, dehydrated skin
✔️ Post-facial or post-peel recovery
It’s also great for those who want noticeable results without downtime, irritation, or invasive procedures.
🧴 What to Expect During a Session
You’ll relax under a light panel or mask for about 15–30 minutes.
The treatment is painless—no heat, no discomfort.
There’s no downtime, and makeup can be applied afterward.
For best results, a series of sessions is recommended (often weekly or bi-weekly for 4–8 sessions).
It can also be added to a facial as a finishing step for enhanced results.
💬 Final Thoughts from Your Esthetician
LED light therapy is one of my favorite treatments to offer because it’s gentle, versatile, and works below the surface to actually change the way your skin functions. Whether you're dealing with breakouts, inflammation, or aging, there’s an LED wavelength designed to help.
Curious which light is right for your skin? Book a facial or add LED to your next treatment and experience the glow for yourself!