Does red light therapy really work?

We’ll dive deep into the viral wand — including whether it’s worth the expense or effort — but first let’s cover some basics of red light therapy.

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy is a form of “photobiomodulation,” which is a fancy way of saying low-level light therapy to address a range of issues. This non-invasive treatment works by penetrating the dermis and instantly activating your body’s “energy factories” to make more energy, explains Ava ShambanMD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills, California.

“It has been shown to promote wound healing, tissue repair and regeneration – all without tissue damage and controlled injury from lasers or radiofrequency microneedling,” explains Dr. Shamban out. “It also stimulates circulation and oxygenation, which translates into brighter skin.”

You’ll find red light therapy in clinical settings, usually as an addition to standard facial treatments or in combination with other modalities, such as microneedling or chemical peels. Red light therapy devices, including wands and masks, are also available for home use. Although the treatments are similar, there is a distinct difference in LED array, energy intensity and wavelength, which can impact overall efficacy.

Benefits of red light therapy

Because it is non-invasive and completely painless, red light therapy has a long list of benefits. Here are some of the most notable, according to Dr. Samban.

• Addresses signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and laxity
• Stimulates blood and oxygen circulation for radiant-looking skin
• Activates collagen production
• Supports wound healing (including acne and scars)
• Soothes inflammation
• Helps manage skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and rosacea

Red light treatments at home versus in the office

As is always the case when receiving treatment at home or in the office, red light therapy varies widely from device to device.

“An office device is likely FDA approved and evaluated for effectiveness and safety, while home devices are largely unregulated,” he explains. Anna ChaconMD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, Florida. “An office device will also be more powerful, with a higher wattage concentration per square centimeter and a varying wavelength.”

Although at-home red light therapy devices are not as strong or as intense as in-office treatments, Dr. Shamban that they are still of enormous value because you can use them every day. In that sense, they’re a cheap, easy addition to your skincare routine, but don’t expect wild, transformative results.

Wavelengths of red light therapy

The general wavelength range of red light therapy is 630 nanometers to approximately 950 nanometers, with longer lengths penetrating more deeply compared to lower wavelengths. Lower wavelengths (such as those in the 630 to 660 nanometer range commonly found in home devices) primarily target the outer layers of the skin and are effective for surface treatments such as targeting fine lines, improving skin texture, and promoting collagen production, explains Dr. Shamban out.

Higher wavelengths, such as those in the 800 to 850 nanometer range (considered infrared), penetrate deeper into the skin and tissues, making them more effective for healing, rejuvenation and overall skin radiance. Near infrared (up to 950) is believed to reach deeper layers of the skin and underlying structures to stimulate cellular repair and regeneration.

Review of the Solawave 4-in-1 skin care bar

Forever intrigued by the latest and greatest beauty technology, I was eager to get my hands on the coveted Solawave wand, which has been all over social media since its launch. Here are my honest thoughts and experiences with the device:

Is the Solawave Magic Wand worth it?

I think the Solawave wand is worth it, especially for its fairly low cost ($169) and the fact that you can access it every day. Because let’s face it: It’s hard enough to get that monthly facial, while an everyday use item offers consistency. However, your mileage may vary and I personally consider it an addition to my skincare routine versus a complete replacement for in-office red light therapy, or other in-office treatments. I’m also realistic about how much it does for my skin and don’t expect a huge transformation (you have to budget your expectations realistically when it comes to skincare devices, people).

I like that the Solawave wand uses a 630 nanometer wavelength red light therapy, which is effective at addressing superficial concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles, bags under the eyes, and overall radiance. My skin care concerns include all of the above, so that’s a plus for me. It also features “therapeutic heat” and “vibrating massage” – which create a more soothing experience – and galvanic current, which according to Dr. Shamban is a nice extra that improves serum delivery to the skin.

An important consideration, however, is that the device is quite small. While this makes it useful for travel and home use, the minimal number of lights (there are seven) means it only covers a small area. Dr. Shamban says this could impact whether the device can deliver super-effective results, although Dr. Chacon notes that the device has “a good amount of milliwatts per square centimeter,” making it an easy entry-level option into the benefits of LED therapy.

Anecdotally, after 30 days of use, 90 percent of people say their skin feels rejuvenated, 94 percent say skin looks better and 93 percent say it tackles puffiness according to a 60-person independent claim validation study conducted by the brand. Personally, I enjoy the warmth and vibration, and I feel like there is a glowing after-effect that occurs immediately after use. I have also noticed that the occasional pimple I get seems to go away faster if I use the device consistently.

There is a 60 day guarantee that will give you some peace of mind if you try it and decide it’s not for you.

What is better: NuFace or Solawave?

I’ve used both devices and I don’t really think it’s a matter of which one is better, but rather what your skincare goals are. NuFace uses microcurrents to help strengthen, sculpt and lift. The results are minimal, but personally I feel like there is a difference in the laxity/firmness of the skin when I use it consistently, and it also provides a bit of glow right after use. It really is perfect to use before a special event.

Although it is non-invasive, NuFace has a kind of zappy feeling that some may find uncomfortable. Solawave focuses on removing puffiness, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and helping skin look radiant.

Who should not use Solawave?

Solawave is non-invasive and pain-free, but there are some contraindications. According to the device manual, you should not use Solawave if you suffer from light sensitivity, have a history of seizures or epilepsy, cancer, or if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding. People with electronic implanted devices (such as pacemakers or ECG monitors) should also avoid use, and it is not recommended for people with serious skin conditions, including severe acne.

Can you use the Solawave wall every day?

Yes, you can use the Solawave wall every day. The brand recommends starting with a 12-minute treatment daily for the first few days, working up to 30 minutes per day as your skin adjusts. It is recommended to use it no less than three times a week unless you experience side effects such as irritation, tenderness or headache.

How to use the Solawave wand

An advantage of the Solawave wall is that it is super easy to use. Make sure it is fully charged and that you have clean skin with a thin layer of Solwave Activating Serum. Press the button on the wand for two seconds and the device will turn on. Then press the wand onto your skin, starting on the lower cheek and moving upwards and outwards. Repeat this on the rest of your cheek, followed by your other cheek, and then on the forehead and neck (avoiding your thyroid). The head of the device rotates 180 degrees so you can use it more efficiently around your mouth and eyes.

The vibration stops every three minutes, which is your cue to move on to another part of the face (or end the treatment, depending on how long you use it). It switches off automatically after 12 minutes.

Is Solawave FDA Approved?

Home devices do not have to be “FDA approved” like in-office professional treatments. Instead, they receive FDA approval, which carries a lower level of scrutiny. According to the brand, the Solawave Radiant Renewal 4-in-1 Skincare Wand is FDA-approved for light therapy.

The bottom line

The bottom line is that a treatment using a high-quality, regulated device – and performed by a licensed, board-certified dermatologist who does this for a living – will produce noticeable and better results compared to a light touch at home. device. That said– don’t write off the value of the affordability and accessibility of red light therapy devices at home. Your mileage may vary, but if you find it doesn’t work for you, you can return the product within 60 days for a full refund.