LED Light Therapy: How It Works, Benefits, and Side Effects, According to a Dermatologist

From acne breakouts to early signs of ageing, LED light therapy is fast becoming a go-to skincare solution—and not just at fancy clinics. But what is it doing to your skin? We spoke to Dr Raina Nahar, Consultant Dermatology at PD Hinduja Hospital and MRC, Khar, Mumbai, to break down how this trending treatment works and what you should know before trying it.

What Is LED Light Therapy?

LED Light-Emitting Diode) Therapy uses specific colours of light to stimulate your skin cells. It’s not the same as UV rays, so there’s no risk of burning or long-term damage. According to Dr Nahar, “It helps improve skin health by energising cells, boosting repair, and reducing inflammation, all without pain or downtime.”

How Different Colours Help Your Skin

Each light colour targets different skin concerns:

• Red Light (630–700 nm): Think of this as your anti-ageing buddy. It boosts collagen, smooths fine lines, and promotes skin healing after a peel or microneedling.

• Blue Light (400–470 nm): A hero for acne-prone skin, it kills bacteria on the surface, helping reduce pimples and calm inflammation.
• Green Light (520–550 nm): This helps fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and brighten dull skin—ideal if you’ve had too much sun.
• Yellow Light (570–590 nm): Best for sensitive or red skin, it soothes, reduces puffiness, and strengthens your skin’s natural barrier.

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Is LED Light Therapy Safe?

Yes. LED therapy is safe for all skin types, says Dr Nahar. Side effects are rare but can include temporary dryness or redness. However, avoid it if you’re on light-sensitive medications or have active infections.

At-home LED masks and tools can work, but they’re gentler and take longer to show results. For more stubborn skin issues, clinical sessions (usually 6–12 of them) are more effective, especially when combined with other treatments like microneedling or peels.

LED light therapy isn’t magic, but with consistency and the right plan, it can be a game-changer for your skin. Dr Nahar recommends consulting a dermatologist before starting, especially if you have ongoing skin concerns.

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