Light therapy is a treatment used in the management of some skin problems such as psoriasis and acne.
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It is well known that acne can be improved by sunlight but this has to be balanced against the knowledge that excessive exposure to UV light is associated with ageing of the skin and an increased risk of skin cancer. A relatively new method of light therapy removes the potentially damaging ultra-violet rays and instead uses blue and red wavelengths produced by a light box which the patient can use for 15 minutes each day. |
Blue light in the range of around 414 nanometres has the potential to kill pacnes in those who have mild to moderate acne with a few minutes use. It also stimulates the production of collagen.
Red light in the 600-1200 nanometer light range is known to combat acne by reducing blemishes, redness and rosacea. It is also therapeutic for reducing enlarged pores and tightening the skin.
Research from the Department of Dermatology Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York stated in conclusion: "Combination blue and red LED therapy appears to have an excellent potential in the treatment of mild to severe acne. Treatment appears to be both pain and side-effect free."
Information written by the talkhealth medical panel
Last Reviewed: 3 March 2011
Next Review Date: 1 November 2013
