If you have issues with dark spots or uneven skin tone, you have probably used different solutions like serums, peels, or even professional treatments but still, you have not gotten the result you wanted.
That's where red light therapy can come in handy.
In this article, we will explain what hyperpigmentation is, how red light therapy works to reduce discoloration, and why it might be the best solution for your skin issues.
What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a very common skin condition that involves the appearance of darker patches or spots on the skin due to the excess production of the pigment melanin which gives your skin, hair, and eyes their color.
This color change on your skin may be due to sunburn, inflammation, hormonal changes, and skin injury, including acne, harsh treatments, or trauma.
Although hyperpigmentation is not dangerous, it can be quite stubborn to remove for many people due to its slow healing time.
There are different types of hyperpigmentation:
- Sunspots (solar lentigines): These are more likely to occur in the elderly and are the result of long exposure to UV rays.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): The residual darkening of the skin after acne, burns, or any other form of skin inflammation.
- Melasma: This is a condition associated with hormonal changes and manifests as darker, irregular patches, mainly on the face.
Because melanin production is deep within the skin, hyperpigmentation treatments require patience and consistency.
Does Red Light Therapy Help With Hyperpigmentation?
Yes, red light therapy is good for hyperpigmentation as it helps the skin repair itself. UV light makes dark spots worse, while red and near-infrared light acts deeper and controls melanin production to even out skin tone.
It’s 633nm and 830nm wavelengths have energetic properties that help in repairing the skin, reducing discoloration, and making the surface of the skin smooth.
It was first investigated as a healing tool by NASA, and today, it is used in skincare products.
It can reduce the effects of hyperpigmentation and fine lines and enhance your skin’s collagen production for a better appearance.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that involves using red and near-infrared light to help the skin repair itself. This type of light helps to improve cell function and the skin in general.
It can also be used to relieve wrinkles, enhance skin tone, and increase collagen production for better skin appearance.
Many people choose red light therapy as a natural way to enhance their skin without subjecting themselves to costly and risky procedures or the adverse effects of chemicals.
How Does Red Light Therapy Help with Hyperpigmentation?
Red light therapy is a process where your skin is encouraged to do the work of reducing discoloration instead of only removing the dark spots from the surface of the skin. It regulates melanogenesis, accelerates skin turnover, and improves the quality of the skin.
Balancing Melanin Production
Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces excessive melanin. Red light therapy returns the melanin production to normal and spots will fade off gradually over a period of time.
Speeding Up Skin Cell Turnover
The skin is a self-regenerating organ that periodically sheds old cells and creates new ones. When melanin gets trapped in certain areas, discoloration remains on the skin for a longer time than it should. Red light therapy enhances the functioning of the skin cells so that the pigmented cells are removed from the skin at a faster rate, thereby giving the skin a more even tone.
Calming Inflammation
Most cases of hyperpigmentation are attributed to irritation, whether it is acne, skin injury, or irritating treatments. Red light therapy reduces inflammation and is particularly beneficial for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that results in the development of persistent dark stains.
Repairing Skin and Strengthening Collagen
Red light therapy enhances skin repair by boosting the production of collagen, which enhances skin texture and health. The long-term use with the regular application looks for a smoother and more even appearance.
How to Use Red Light Therapy for Hyperpigmentation
In order to get the best results, it’s important to use red light therapy correctly. Let’s check out the following insights.
How to Prepare for a Session
1. Clean your face to remove makeup, sunscreen, and any other skincare product that you may have applied.
2. Place the device a few inches from your skin for even exposure.
3. If using a high-intensity unit or treating the area around the eyes, then wear protective eyewear.
Detailed Guide for Effective Use
1. Place your device in a manner that will cover the area to be treated completely.
2. Turn on the light and relax for 10 to 20 minutes while your skin works to absorb the wavelengths.
3. Apply your skincare products, including moisturizer and sunscreen if using it during the day.
4. Stay consistent and use it several times a week for optimal, long-lasting results.
Best Wavelengths
- 633nm (red light) affects the epidermis and improves the skin’s tone and texture.
- 830nm (near-infrared light) reaches the dermis to repair and reduce inflammation.
Can Red Light Therapy Cause Hyperpigmentation?
No, it doesn’t. In contrast to UV light, which provokes melanin excess, red and near-infrared light makes skin work effectively without creating further dark spots.
Can Red Light Therapy Prevent Future Hyperpigmentation?
Yes, it can also tighten the skin so that it resists damage more effectively. It can’t replace sunscreen, but it could help your skin recover its status following sunburn and other dermatological conditions causing brown spots.
What to Expect: Timeline & Results
You might feel a bit of glow or your skin may feel tight after the first session, but real changes take time. You will begin to see some improvements in your skin tone and texture within 1-2 weeks. Dark spots and more intense discoloration also require more time, normally to clear up in 4-12 weeks with the help of the applications.
The frequency of your results depends on several factors. Mild pigmentation will heal faster than severe or chronic discoloration. Skin type also plays a role in this process because melanin production is different for every person.
If you stick to a regimen, protect your skin from additional damage, and combine treatments with a good skincare routine, you will see gradual, long-term improvements. Hyperpigmentation does not disappear overnight, but with consistency and the right tools, you can get brighter, more evenly toned skin.
At-Home Devices vs. Professional Treatments!
Both at-home and professional red light therapy are equally good at removing hyperpigmentation with different strengths, ease of use, and prices.
Home Red Light Therapy
Home equipment is cheap, but patience is needed. Clinical treatments are more powerful than home equipment, but over time, you will see slow improvement over weeks or months of use if you use it regularly. The sessions should last around 10-20 minutes, 3-5 times a week.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to use in the long run
- Slower outcome, with the need for continuity
Cons:
- Slower outcome, with the need for continuity
Professional Treatments
Treatments at salons are performed with more potent equipment and lead to faster and more apparent changes. It is ideal for heavy hyperpigmentation but is costly and includes frequent visits.
Pros:
- More visible and faster changes
- Supervised by experts
Cons:
- Less convenient, more costly
Which One Is Right for You?
At-home gadgets are a good place to start for mild to moderate hyperpigmentation. If more significant results are desired or the discoloration is severe, professional treatments may be a better solution for you.
Costs of Red Light Therapy vs. Salon Session
Salon treatments are priced between $50 and $200 per session. They usually require appointments more than once a week. It is not uncommon to spend more than $600 for a month’s treatment and therapy for chronic diseases over the years may cost more than $10,000.
At-home red light therapy is an investment that will reward you in the long run. Handheld units are small and lightweight and the entry-level models start at $269, while the high-end panels are between $399 and $5,499 to cover the entire body. Once you buy them, you can use them as many times as you want without having to shell out extra money.
If you are looking for an instant result and a professional touch, then it is worth visiting a salon. But for the purpose of economy and simplicity, the device for home use is the most optimal solution.
Potential Side Effects and Risks for Treating Hyperpigmentation with Red Light Therapy
While red light therapy is a popular and safe treatment for hyperpigmentation, it’s important to understand the potential side effects and risks before starting.
- Mild skin irritation: Some individuals may experience temporary redness or sensitivity after treatment.
- Dryness or peeling: Skin may feel dry or start to peel, particularly for those prone to dehydration.
- Headaches or eye strain: Prolonged exposure without proper eye protection can cause discomfort.
- Worsening of melasma: Red light may stimulate melanin production, making melasma more noticeable in certain skin types.
- Overusing: It is safe when it is used properly, but overusing or high intensity could cause skin irritation, burns, or sensitivity.
- Improper usage: Home devices are more likely to be misused, so it is important to read the instructions to avoid side effects.
If you are unsure, then talk with a dermatologist before beginning treatment, especially if you have sensitive skin or other underlying medical conditions
Real-Life Experiences and Testimonials
Credits: https://www.solawave.co/pages/before-and-afters
Credits: https://www.solawave.co/pages/before-and-afters
Credits: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/NEWKEY-Therapy-Colours-Photon-Reduction/dp/B07S65M898
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy is a simple way to improve hyperpigmentation by regulating melanin production, promoting skin renewal, and reducing inflammation.
It may not be instant, but with consistent application, it can help to reveal a smoother complexion. It is always better to seek advice or discuss the matter with a dermatologist before the treatment,
If you decide to use red light therapy at home, it is crucial to choose a contemporary device that is recommended as safe and powerful enough to use at home. Our Liftlab led face sculpting tool with red light therapy enables you to bring professional standard therapy into your home and finally achieve the improvements that you want to see for your skin. Begin your journey to better skin and a clearer complexion today.
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Josef Mohamed is a Content Marketer and Web Designer with over 6 years of experience.He brings a wealth of knowledge to his work, making him a reliable source for readers interested in practical insights about beauty. His writing style is straightforward, aiming to provide real facts and avoid common myths in the beauty industry.