Illuminating LED

Dr Patrick Treacy considers the power and potential of LED therapy

DR PATRICK TREACY

Dr Patrick Treacy, a renowned f igure in aesthetic medicine, is celebrated for his innovative contributions to LED therapy. He developed award-winning procedures like the Dublin Lift and the PLUS Technique, which incorporate LED therapy for comprehensive skin rejuvenation.

LED technology uses semiconductors to emit light, with specific wavelengths selected for their therapeutic benefits. Common wavelengths include red (630-700 nm), blue (405-470 nm), and near-infrared (700-1200 nm). Light energy is absorbed by skin cell chromophores, initiating key processes like cytochrome c oxidase activation, which increases adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production for enhanced cellular repair and regeneration. Controlled light exposure also modulates reactive oxygen species (ROS), acting as signalling molecules for cellular repair. Additionally, specific wavelengths can alter gene expression related to inflammation, collagen production, and cell proliferation, collectively improving skin health.

CLINICAL BENEFITS

Red light reduces inflammation, benefiting conditions like rosacea and acne by decreasing redness and swelling. Blue light’s strong antibacterial properties effectively treat acne by killing Propionibacterium acnes, reducing acne lesions and improving skin clarity. Near-infrared light penetrates deeply, promoting healing and tissue repair, making it suitable for post-surgical healing, scar treatment, and deeper skin concerns. Recent research shows green light therapy is promising for managing hyperpigmentation by downregulating tyrosinase activity, breaking down melanin clusters, reducing inflammation, and promoting cellular turnover, leading to a more even complexion.

SAFETY PROFILE

LED therapy is considered non-invasive, due to its use of low-intensity light that doesn’t cause thermal damage to the skin or underlying tissues. LEDs emit specific wavelengths that are selectively absorbed by chromophores within the skin, penetrating various depths without disrupting the surface or causing cellular damage. LED therapy poses minimal risk across different skin types as it does not involve ultraviolet (UV) light, known to cause DNA damage, increase skin cancer risk, and accelerate skin ageing. Unlike lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL), LEDs operate at energy levels safe for all skin types, making LED therapy suitable for prolonged and repeated use.

COMBINING WITH OTHER TREATMENTS

Combining LED therapy with other aesthetic treatments enhances effectiveness and speeds up recovery. At Ailesbury Clinic, LED therapy is used after ablative laser treatments like CO2 and fractional lasers to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair with red and near-infrared light. Post-microneedling, LED therapy stimulates collagen production by activating fibroblasts, as seen in the Dublin Lift, which incorporates red light for skin rejuvenation. LED therapy also benefits post-chemical peels by encouraging tissue repair and epidermal formation.

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS

One key development is the integration with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, which can analyse skin scans and patient history to create personalised LED treatment plans. AI-driven devices could monitor skin responses in real-time and adjust LED parameters dynamically to enhance efficacy and minimise side effects. Future LED devices might integrate with other treatments like microneedling, radiofrequency, or ultrasound, allowing for simultaneous therapies that improve outcomes and reduce session times. Developments in flexible and wearable LED technology could lead to LEDinfused masks, patches, and garments for convenient at-home treatments with better skin contact and coverage. Additionally, future LED devices may offer better control over multiple wavelengths, enabling practitioners to use different wavelengths simultaneously or sequentially to address complex skin issues in a single session. This is exemplified by the EOS-X by Déesse Pro, the first medical-grade LED solution to incorporate 1070nm wavelength technology.

INTEGRATING LED THERAPY

Invest in medical-grade equipment with proven efficacy and safety profiles, such as the EOS-X by Déesse Pro. Tailor your approach based on individual patient factors like skin type, condition, and treatment goals, and regularly update protocols based on patient feedback. Implement a system to monitor progress and document changes in skin condition to refine treatments continually. Educate patients on realistic expectations and be aware of contraindications such as photosensitive conditions and certain medications, ensuring thorough patient history and screening to prevent adverse effects.