Aesthetic Medicine > Aesthetic Treatments > Light Emitting Diodes (LED)

Light Emitting Diodes (LED)

Principles

LED is nothing new. Ordinary fluorescent lights used at home or office is an example of LED. The principle is not complicated. The light is generated by hitting a medium with electrons passing at high speed, from the positive to the negative end.

This technology originates from NASA researches. Where researchers utilise different light sources to influence the cellular activities, stimulate or inhibit certain metabolic functions. A well-known example is how green plants make chlorophyll when they are stimulated by daylight.

Scientists call this photo-modulation, photo-regulation, or photo-bio-stimulation. Apart from the stimulation on collagen and elastin, it has a positive effect on the whole dermal matrix.

Difference With Laser / IPL

This new concept is very different. Laser and IPL use high energy and the heat generated to damage targets, with subsequent removal or regeneration.

LED, on the other hand, is a low energy device, and uses a combination of light signals to alter the cells behaviour.

Some proven evidences include:

• Diminish the enzymes which break down collagen during normal metabolism, Matrix Metallo-proteinases MMP-1 and MMP-2

• Stimulate the mitochondria inside cells to generate the source of cell energy, Adenosine Tri-phosphates ATPs

Treatment Effects

• Improve acne and red marks
• Reduce fine wrinkles
• Reduce pore sizes and improve smoothness
• Increase elasticity and tightening
• Reduce fine blood vessels and facial redness

The Treatment Procedure

LED is suitable for all skin types. It contains different ranges of wavelengths, with different colours. The tratment usually lasts for 15 - 30 minutes, and is done once or twice a week. Because it is non-invasive and non-heat orientated, it is very safe and there is no feeling during the treatment, and no downtime after.

It may be combined with other treatments, for example a light chemical peeling or micro-dermabrasion just before the LED may enhance the effect. Some may use it together with IPL. Overall, it can be an important part of a whole therapeutic regime.

Some LED treatments use only 1 single range (colour) and the signaled effects may be limited. We use a system which has pre-set programmes to emit multiple wavelengths ranges, from 400nm to 700nm, in different combinations and orders. You just need to lie down and relax, with the robotic arm going round your face automatically.

The initial course comprises 6 - 8 treatments. Thereafter it is up to you to decide how often you need to do an intermittent maintenance treatment.