Wise choice

All you need to know about LED light therapy so you can make the best buying decision

A results-driven LED device can improve the outcome of almost any service, increase income through new treatments, retail and rental initiatives, and increase referrals. It is important to understand exactly what makes an LED device effective. Being able to decipher marketing hype from scientific parameters will make the selection process much less intimidating. Use the guidelines below, which are based on proven scientific principles that apply to all LED brands, to help make the best buying decision.

1. Choose a device emitting evidence-based wavelengths; blue, red and near-infrared. These wavelengths have been clinically proven to increase ATP production in cells compromised due to ageing, illness, disease, or poor lifestyle choices. Blue addresses acne issues, while red and near-infrared decrease inflammation and increase micro-circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the area. Red and near-infrared are also desirable for their ability to stimulate fibroblast activity and boost collagen and elastin production.

2. The efficacy of a light therapy session depends on the amount of energy absorbed by the cells. It is prudent to choose a shape-taking LED system which can contour to the treatment area for optimal and consistent energy absorption. Laws of optical physics have established that the closer the light device is positioned to the skin, the more energy is absorbed. The amount of energy emitted at the surface of an LED device is not relevant – it is about how much energy is available for absorption at the skin surface, and it needs to be in the range of 2-10 J/cm 2 .A rigid light delivery system makes it difficult to keep the distance between the light source and the skin constant, leading to inconsistent light absorption.

3. The beneficial effects of LED therapy require a specific energy delivery and should be in the range of 2-10j/cm². The correct parameters result in processes known to be anti-aging, enhance wound healing, reduce pain and improve acne.

4. Delivering the light energy in a pulsed manner has been shown in the clinical literature to enhance the cell’s ability to absorb more energy over the treatment period. Choose a device that offers pulsing as an option.

5. It takes cells a certain amount of time to absorb enough energy to effect a change at the cellular level. High quality LED devices call for treatment times of 20 to 30 minutes to deliver a full therapeutic dose of energy, upregulating cellular activity for up to 48 hours post-treatment.

6. Choose an FDA-cleared and medical-CE LED device. This guarantees the device has been reviewed for efficacy and safety.

7. Look for a multi-functional device. One device should be able to meet all your skin care and pain management needs and be used anywhere on the body.

For more information visit international.celluma.com, email pc@celluma.co.uk or call +44 (0) 203 981 3993