How Do Light Therapy Wands Work?
There are different types of light: ultraviolet light, such as UVA and UVB rays from sunlight, and visible light, which is where red and blue light come in. (These are the two main light colors used in dermatology, says Frieling.)
Different colors of light have different wavelengths, and penetrate skin to different depths. This is why various LED devices may have different effects. Compared with red light, blue light has a shorter wavelength (420 to 440 nanometers) that penetrates skin on a superficial level, which is why it’s been used for acne, as it can kill bacteria, one cause of acne.
Most often, though, you’ll find red lights in LED light wands, which have a longer wavelength (630 to 680 nanometers). Red light reaches deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production. “With more collagen production, you get more volume in the skin and less wrinkling,” says Frieling.
What Are the Potential Benefits of Light Therapy Wands?
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in July 2023 in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & of 31 studies concluded that both red and blue LEDs are effective in treating acne, and red can be used to rejuvenate skin by stimulating collagen and decreasing inflammation.
“I believe in the technology, and I think it works,” says Dr. Fine. But it’s important to maintain realistic expectations. “You can expect mild to moderate improvement in overall skin quality, and perhaps acne if used consistently,” she explains. Another catch is the wand must be used consistently for the amount of time recommended (by the device manufacturer) to create results.
To make the most of your treatment, Frieling recommends exfoliating skin before using an LED device (to get rid of dead skin cells, allowing the light to penetrate more effectively) and moisturizing after.
Frieling adds that if you’re going to use a light wand device, do so as part of a well-rounded skin-care routine, such as including a retinoid (which works on both acne and collagen stimulation). This is a good time to talk to your dermatologist about where this can fit in and, depending on your skin conditions or goals, what else — topicals, injectables, in-office lasers, you should be using. “Using a red LED light for the rest of your life won’t prevent skin aging,” she says.
One light therapy wand to consider, says Zeichner, is the Solawave 4-in-1 Facial Wand ($110, Amazon.com). This device looks like a razor, and utilizes red light therapy, microcurrent therapy, facial massage, and warmth for a more full-package treatment than other light therapy wands on the market. “Microcurrents are low-level electrical pulses thought to strengthen the foundation of the skin. Vibrations offer massaging benefits to depuff,” he explains. In addition, Zeichner notes that the small size of the device makes it easily portable. Plus, it costs less than other products in this category.
Are There Any Downsides to Light Therapy Wands?
“Just because you can get one of these tools without a prescription or doctor’s visit doesn’t mean that it’s the best or safest choice for your skin,” says Fine. Here are a few considerations.
May Interact With
Certain can make your skin photosensitive, says Fine. This means it will be more sensitive or have an unusual reaction to sources of light, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Some that can increase your sensitivity to the sun include certain antibiotics, antifungals, antihistamines, and diuretics, among others, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is a reason to talk to a dermatologist before using an LED light wand.
May Be Time-Consuming
A handheld wand covers a very small surface area, and if you have to spend minutes on each section of the face, using one can become onerous and take a lot of time. “If I invest in a home light device, I think it makes more sense to do the full face with a mask. These can be pricey, and you’d get more of a benefit with something that has more coverage,” says Fine.
Could Trigger Irritation
If your skin is excessively dry or sensitive or you have open sores on your face from acne, Fine cautions that an LED light device could trigger more irritation. In addition, though red light can be used to ease skin redness, it can also cause skin redness in particularly sensitive people that “sticks around for hours.” “For people who get red easily, I’d be cautious,” she says.
A Final Word on Using Light Therapy Wands
Handheld LED devices use different wavelengths of light to penetrate skin to target acne, lines, and wrinkles, as well as uneven tone and texture. Experts recommend using red light only, as blue light could cause discoloration. Ask your dermatologist if your skin could benefit from one of these devices and how it fits into your overall skin-care routine.
The Takeaway
Light therapy wands are an at-home treatment option that use LED lights to help improve skin problems like wrinkles and acne. Experts recommend red light for collagen stimulation and anti-aging benefits. They don't recommend use of blue light, as it could lead to skin reactions. Talk to your dermatologist to make sure light therapy wands fit into your overall skin-care plan.
