Q: What do dermatologists say about red light therapy, and what are the best types of red light therapy devices?

A: Dermatologists generally have positive views on red light therapy benefits for certain skin conditions. Not to be confused with UV and blue light, most red light therapy, also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), utilizes red light-emitting diode (LED) lights. Unlike standard red light bulbs, these LED bulbs produce proven beneficial wavelengths of red light. Some devices incorporate near-infrared lights, which have slightly longer wavelengths, penetrating more deeply and delivering a plumping effect. Light is absorbed by receptors in the skin in a process known as photobiomodulation, producing a chemical change in the skin that facilitates repair and better skin functioning. This non-invasive regenerative therapy can help reduce inflammation while improving skin texture and appearance. However, it's always best to consult a dermatologist to determine whether red light therapy is suitable for your skin concerns.

Benefits of Red Light Therapy:

• Helps promote collagen production and improves skin elasticity, which supports the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin tautness. It also represses certain enzymes (MMPs), which break down our collagen, preserving skin health.
• Helps reduce inflammation and redness, making it beneficial for conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.
• Enhances wound healing by supporting the stimulation of cell regeneration.
• Helps improve circulation and promotes overall skin health.
• As a non-invasive and painless treatment, it has little to no minimal side effects.
• Serves as a great alternative to topicals contraindicated for pregnancy and other health concerns.
• Does not heat the skin, nor cause damage, discomfort, redness, peeling, burning, or potential side effects like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or scarring.
• No downtime is required.
• It is suitable for all skin types and tones.
• Safely pairs with an existing skincare regimen and complements other treatment modalities.
• It may help minimize scarring at incision sites. 

Applicable uses of Red Light Therapy:

• Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments.
• Acne treatment for both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne.
• Relief for conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea.
• Wound healing and scar reduction.
• Pain relief for conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness.

Types of Red Light Therapy:
There are several options, with red light therapy at home and professional versions ranging in effectiveness and price. For home use, there are less expensive handhelds, or, for multi-taskers, red light therapy mask options or caps for red light therapy for hair loss. Do your research so that the device you invest in will be user-friendly and produce the positive changes in your skin and hair you expect. Make sure that the device you purchase emits the following wavelengths: 663 nanometers for red light and 830-905 nm for infrared light, having irradiance of near 40 with more diodes to ensure it delivers the intensity needed to effect a transformation. Be sure to use red light on clean, dry skin or hair and adhere to manufacturer directions. After treatment, follow with yournatural skin care serum,moisturizer, orhair growth serum. Professional LED devices involve full panels of LED lights and have a stronger output than more conservative red light therapy devices for home use, producing quicker, more robust results. There is even a red light therapy bed for full-body care! Note: The studies on red light efficacy are based on in-office professional treatments.

Limitations of Red Light Therapy:

• Results may vary depending on individual skin type and condition.
• Multiple sessions are usually required to see significant improvements.
• If the correct protocols or dosages are not followed, desired outcomes may not be achieved.
• People with problematic skin conditions should consult with a dermatologist before starting treatment.
• Safety precautions, such as wearing protective eyewear and avoiding overexposure to the light, must be followed.
• At home devices with lower energy levels may require longer-term use to obtain the desired effects.
• Some research indicates that red light therapy may reduce fat from the arms and waist and burn over 500 calories per session. Others claim that infrared body wrap devices burn anywhere from 500 to over 1,000 calories. However, actual results are modest at best.
• People with light sensitivity, seizure disorder, or migraines should abstain.

Q: Just how important is skin barrier health? What breaks down your skin barrier?  What can I do to help preserve the skin barrier?

A: A healthy, intact skin barrier (stratum corneum) is essential for skin health and whole body wellness. It acts as a protective shield that keeps moisture in and harmful environmental elements, such as pollutants, various pathogens, and harsh weather conditions, out. A healthy skin barrier is also proven to help control systemic inflammation, tied to numerous health conditions.

Signs your barrier is compromised: Your barrier may not be “acting how it used to” and exhibit the following:

• Dryness, tightness, and itchiness
• Reactivity, sensitivity, redness, and irritation
• Redness and visible capillaries
• Flakiness and dullness
• Breakouts
• Eczema flare-ups
• Hives and rashes

How do you damage your skin barrier? Several factors can disrupt your skin’s pH level, compromising and weakening the skin barrier. Here are just a few:

• Intense and/or repeated exposure to UV rays
• Stress
• Harsh skincare products with irritating ingredients - Bar soap or sulfate-based cleansers, alcohol-based toners, products with artificial fragrances, etc.
• Improper product usage - Overuse, over exfoliation, or use of products not suited for your skin type or concerns.
• Aggressive treatments - Invasive chemical peels, laser treatments, microneedling, and other invasive procedures.

Extreme weather conditions can also temporarily weaken the skin barrier.

How do you repair your skin barrier? Gentle skin barrier repair products with ingredients to build skin barrier integrity are the best way to strengthen your skin’s protective shield.Ceramides, fatty acid-rich, skin-friendly plant oils (squalane, safflower oil, argan oil), humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol), peptides, and niacinamide help with moisture retention and prevent trans-epidermal water loss. Antioxidants are also essential for shielding the skin against environmental aggressors like pollutants and allergens. Here are some tips to help preserve and strengthen your skin barrier:

• Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, non-stripping, sulfate free cleanser that won't disrupt the skin's natural oils. For persistent redness and irritation, choose anatural face cleanser for sensitive skin.
• Moisturize: Apply agentle moisturizer twice daily to keep your skin's moisture levels up and support the skin barrier function. To preserve your skin’s youthful vitality, choose askin barrier repair cream with the ingredients mentioned above. For skin left exposed for some time, amoisturizer with argan oil and plant based stem cells can help repair the skin on your face and neck. Apply afast-absorbing body moisturizer with safflower oil, squalane, and macadamia nut oil to support the skin on your body.
• Avoid Harsh Ingredients: Omit skincare products with harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol that can irritate the skin. For exfoliation, choose agentle exfoliating cleanser with jojoba and oat extracts to support your barrier.
• Sun Protection: Apply areef safe sunscreen with barrier-friendly jojoba oil daily to protect skin against UV damage.
• Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet with antioxidants and essential fatty acids to bolster skin health from within.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
• Regular Skin Check: If you notice any signs of skin barrier damage, such as redness, dryness, or irritation, consult a dermatologist for proper treatment.

How do you know if your skin barrier is healthy? Skin will feel comfortable and appear smooth, luminous, and calm. Remember, a healthy skin barrier is vital for maintaining skin radiance. By following these tips and being mindful of the products you use, you can help protect and strengthen your skin barrier for a glowing complexion.