19 Feb Why LED is One of the Most Underrated Skincare Treatments

LED Light Therapy: The Most Underrated Treatment in Skincare

We often overlook LED therapy in favour of expensive, high-tech treatments that sound more advanced but have little scientific proof behind them. In reality, LED light therapy is one of the most researched and effective options you can choose for your skin. It is affordable, non-invasive, and completely fuss-free.

At our Durham salon, we use LED both as a standalone treatment and to enhance recovery after other services such as microneedling, fillers, or Botox. It helps calm inflammation, supports healing, and strengthens the skin barrier.

Understanding How LED Works

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. The treatment uses specific wavelengths of light energy to communicate with skin cells, triggering natural repair and regeneration. Unlike laser therapy, LED does not generate heat or cause surface damage. It works by sending gentle light energy into the skin to stimulate biological activity at a cellular level.

This technology was first developed by NASA in the 1980s to promote wound healing and tissue growth in astronauts. Since then, countless dermatology studies have confirmed its benefits for both cosmetic and medical skin concerns.

The Science Behind Each Light

Different wavelengths of LED light penetrate the skin at different depths, and each colour supports a unique process:

Red light (around 630 to 700 nanometres) increases circulation and stimulates fibroblast activity, which encourages collagen and elastin production. According to a 2017 clinical review in the Journal of Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, red light therapy can increase collagen density by up to 31 percent after ten treatments.

Blue light (400 to 470 nanometres) is known for its antibacterial effects. It targets the bacteria that contribute to acne without damaging surrounding tissue. A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology showed that blue light can reduce inflammatory acne lesions by more than 70 percent after four weeks of consistent use.

Green light (515 to 525 nanometres) helps even out skin tone and reduce pigmentation by regulating excess melanin production.

Yellow light (570 to 590 nanometres) has a calming and healing effect, helping to reduce redness and irritation.

Near-infrared light (700 nanometres and beyond) penetrates deepest, promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and improving overall skin resilience.

Why Professional LED Treatments Work Better

Not all LED is created equal. Many at-home LED masks and handheld devices use weaker bulbs that do not deliver the same wavelength precision or intensity needed to produce results. They might offer a gentle boost, but they rarely reach the depth required to change how skin cells behave.

We use medical-grade LED systems that deliver clinically proven energy levels and wavelengths. This ensures every treatment is both safe and effective. It is why professional LED results last longer and deliver visible changes in texture, tone, and healing.

Why LED Deserves More Credit

What makes LED therapy stand out is how versatile and gentle it is. It suits nearly every skin type and condition, even sensitive or post-treatment skin. It has no downtime, no discomfort, and no risk of damage when used correctly.

I often describe it as a “healing switch.” When the skin is stressed or inflamed, LED helps turn recovery back on. It encourages the body’s own repair system to do what it does best — rebuild and restore balance.

How We Use LED in Our Treatments

In our Durham salon, LED therapy is used both as a standalone facial and alongside other treatments to boost results. We often include it after enzyme therapy, peels, or microneedling to calm redness and speed recovery. Clients also book regular LED sessions during the winter months when skin feels dull or lacks circulation.

The consistency is what makes the biggest difference. Research published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine found that clients receiving LED twice weekly for four weeks showed a 50 percent improvement in skin tone and hydration compared with those receiving a single session.

Who Benefits Most from LED Therapy

Because LED targets repair and balance rather than forcing exfoliation or heat, almost anyone can benefit from it. It is especially useful for:
• Reducing inflammation after active treatments
• Soothing skin prone to sensitivity or redness
• Supporting acne-prone skin by controlling bacteria naturally
• Boosting healing and hydration for tired, dehydrated skin

Safety and Eye Protection

LED is widely considered one of the safest treatments available. There is no UV light, no risk of burns, and no downtime. However, proper eye protection is essential during treatment, particularly when using blue light. Those with light sensitivity or specific neurological conditions should seek advice before booking.

A Final Word

In the world of skincare, trends come and go, but LED light therapy continues to stand out because it works. It is backed by decades of research, has proven biological effects, and delivers visible improvements without aggression or downtime.

If you want a treatment that helps your skin heal, strengthens its natural defences, and fits easily into your routine, LED is one of the best investments you can make. Sometimes the simplest solutions really are the smartest.