Back 10 Feb 2024 / MZ Blog, Spotlight

LED 101: The Science Behind LED.

There’s a reason LED light therapy has recently boomed in popularity – it really does work! So, what exactly is LED, and how does it differ from at-home laser technology? Light therapy was first recognised for benefiting the skin in the ’90s; Further to NASA studying the application of LED light on plant growth in space, the method showed great promise for healing and treating wounds. It was soon being more widely used, and the rest is history.

What is LED & How It Works?
First, let’s understand what LED is. LED stands for Light-Emitting Diode, light that emits narrowband, low-intensity light energy across the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared spectrum, in skincare, Light Therapy utilises LEDs to target deeper layers of the skin, stimulating cellular function. No bottled skincare formula can match the depth and benefits provided by LED treatments. Clinical studies have proven its efficacy in boosting collagen, improving skin laxity, and reducing inflammation. LED is often hailed as a ‘skin-healer,’ recharging cells’ energy and empowering the skin’s natural repair process.

Now, let’s uncover how LED light penetrates the skin and works its magic.

How Does LED Light Penetrate the Skin?
LED light, especially in the red spectrum which is used in our MZ SKIN LED masks, penetrates the skin, reaching down into the dermis where collagen and elastin are produced, this makes red light therapy ideal for addressing signs of premature ageing. It acts as an energy booster for the collagen and elastin factory in our skin, resulting in a smoother texture with reduced fine lines and wrinkles.

Biochemical Effects of Red-Light Therapy
Red light therapy (RLT) works by exposing the skin to low levels of red and near-infrared light. This exposure may lead to positive biochemical effects, strengthening the mitochondria—the cell’s energy powerhouse. Studies suggest that RLT increases the transportation of electrons, oxygen consumption, and levels of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), essentially enhancing the energy production within cells.

Effect of Light on Collagen Production
Let’s delve into collagen production and how light plays a pivotal role, particularly in the context of fibroblasts.

  1. Light’s Impact on Fibroblasts: Fibroblasts are specialized cells in the skin responsible for producing collagen, the protein essential for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. When exposed to certain wavelengths of light, such as red and near-infrared, fibroblasts become activated. This activation triggers a cascade of events, leading to an increase in collagen production.
  2. Differences Between Light Sources: Now that we’ve explored the wonders of LED technology, let’s take a moment to distinguish it from other light sources commonly used in skincare, such as laser diodes and intense pulsed light (IPL)
  3. Laser Diodes, IPL, and LEDs Compared: Laser diodes emit a focused beam of light, while IPL uses a broad spectrum of light. LEDs, on the other hand, emit low-intensity light over a specific wavelength. While lasers and IPL can be more intense, LEDs are preferred for their nonablative and nonthermal nature, making them safer and more suitable for regular use in skincare.
  4. Does More Diodes Mean More Effectiveness in at home devices? Now, a common question: Does the number of diodes in a device impact its effectiveness? The answer is not straightforward. While more diodes can potentially cover a larger surface area, the key lies in the specific wavelengths emitted and the dose delivered, and their ability to target desired skin concerns. It’s not just about the quantity and quality of light emitted

So why at-home LED?
Having at-home LED devices in the form of a mask allows you to manage a consistent treatment plan without timely in-clinic appointments. The best skincare routine is one you can keep! So having a device that fits with your busy schedule is the best way to keep up your routine for radiant skin. So, whether you’re targeting signs of ageing or seeking overall skin improvement, consider the transformative power of LED therapy with the MZ SKIN LED range.

Learn more about MZ SKIN’s LED therapy devices and discover which LED Device is right for you. 

Skin Advisor