Best at Home Light Therapy
Do you feel like you’re constantly being sold the latest, greatest anti-aging device?
wondering is this product worth it?..... or is this an expen$$$ive Halloween mask?
First, let me be transparent that I'm generally not for these at-home treatments, and especially not for at-home laser hair removal. I wish I could shout from the rooftops “don’t waste your tiiiiimmmeee!!”
And I feel like I deserve compensation from the ones my mom bought for me- ahem Kim Kardashian’s at-home laser hair removal device c. 2007.
At-home LED devices are add-on self-care treatments that are subtly effective if you’re super compliant for the allotted amount of weeks the device recommends. I say they’re more for your enjoyment and peace than improving the skin. They have a place, but they do not replace your in-office treatments. I'd suggest keeping an eye out for them when they're on sale.
The good news is that most of these treatment technologies aren’t new. In the past years many companies are attempting to bring in-office technologies to the at-home market.
In a medical clinic, laser devices function by targeting chromophores, which are color-producing areas of a molecule so that the laser functions via pigment in the skin.
Treatments involve a specific wavelength of light to target and elicit a specific response in the skin.
Light is the base of the most popular at-home treatments so let me explain how they work so you can answer the question: are they worth it for you?
Red Light Therapy and Blue Light Therapy
Discover the wonders of light therapy, a gentle, safe, and remarkably effective path to elevate your skin's overall appearance. These treatments are a breeze – they're non-invasive and painless, ensuring a pleasant experience throughout.
Here's the scoop: blue light is your ally against breakouts, while red light swoops in to combat inflammation and the telltale signs of aging.
How does this magic work? By harnessing the power of light to kickstart collagen and elastin production – the dynamic duo responsible for maintaining youthful, firm skin. Wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone, age spots, and even those lingering scars and stretch marks don't stand a chance.
But here's the bonus – light therapy doesn't stop there. It's a team player, enhancing the absorption of your favorite serums and moisturizers, ensuring your skin gets the full benefit of your skincare routine.
Red Light Therapy:
- The wavelength of light used is important. Red light therapy typically uses wavelengths between 620 and 850 nanometers.
- The intensity of the light is also important. The light should be intense enough to penetrate the skin, but not so intense that it causes pain.
- The duration of treatment is also important. Treatments typically last for 10-20 minutes.
- Red light therapy can be used safely on most people, but there are some exceptions. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, should talk to their doctor before using red light therapy.
Blue Light Therapy:
- Exposes small portions of your skin to low levels of a specific wavelength of blue light.
- Clinically proven to kill Cutibacterium acnes (previously known as P. acnes), the bacteria that causes visible acne.
- Blue Light Therapy is safe for use on all skin types, as it does not harm the surrounding tissues.
- These must be done OFTEN- every 2-3 days to see continued results.
At-Home Laser Treatment Devices
So let’s talk about specific devices....
PLUS the size makes it incredibly easy to travel!
AND it has 3-minute timers for different areas of the skin and cuts off at 12 minutes.
Solawave takes skincare to the next level with two fascinating electrical currents: Microcurrent and Galvanic Current.
Microcurrent is like a gentle workout for your face, whether you're at home or in the office. It's the secret behind reducing those pesky fine lines. This clever technique employs a mild current to wake up your facial muscles, encouraging your body to naturally build muscle and promote the production of elastin and collagen – the dynamic duo for a firmer, more sculpted appearance. Plus, it kickstarts your skin's tissue repair process, revealing your inner radiance.
However, a quick note: Microcurrent isn't suitable for individuals dealing with active cancer or those with implants/defibrillators. If you fall into these categories, it's best to chat with your doctor before diving into the world of skincare devices.
Now, let's talk about Galvanic Current. This beauty is a non-invasive, energy-packed powerhouse that's all about teamwork. It partners up with your favorite serums and creams to supercharge their absorption, making sure your skincare products work their magic more effectively. So, say hello to radiant, rejuvenated skin with Solawave!
Fun Fact: Some microcurrent devices requires a special conductive gels or serums to work properly, but the Solawave does not require a specific serum.
PRO TIP: You use the wand during your serums step. You can use with your Vitamin C, but I suggest doing it prior to with a Niacinamide Serum like the Naturium or the Solawave Serum.
Other Light Devices I’ve Tried
Currentbody LED Face Mask and Currentbody Eye Perfector
I absolutely love the timers on these which means you get to take a break for a few minutes.
They both offer red light, which will benefit overall complexion like I discussed above.
A wonderful gift from my MIL - she knows I love skincare.
This one offers a lot like the Solawave does, but it has many parts. It comes with a soft case to make it easy to travel, but it’s just not as compact.
However, the Theraface Pro does also offer some extra benefits like blue light therapy and a silicone cleansing brush head built in to the device.
My summary is that these can be a wonderful addition to your at-home self care routine in addition to your daily skincare routine and yearly in-office treatment plan.