Is It Possible to Overdo Your LED Light Therapy at Home?

Certain skincare practices are most effective when applied in moderation. For instance, excessive facial washing can harm the skin's protective barrier, disrupt its pH balance, and strip away essential natural oils, potentially leading to breakouts, dryness, and irritation. This begs the question: can the same principles be applied to LED light therapy? This article delves into the workings of LED light therapy, particularly red light therapy, and explores the delicate balance required to maximise its benefits.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe for Regular Use?

Generally, using red light therapy has been demonstrated to be a safe and effective treatment, and isn’t associated with any side effects with proper use. It is non-invasive, non-toxic, gentler than many topical treatments, and free from harmful ultraviolet light. However, its benefits are not immediate, which is why dermatologists and manufacturers often recommend consistent use over several months.

The frequency and duration of red light therapy sessions depend on various factors including the user’s goal, underlying health conditions, skin sensitivity, and whether the treatment is administered at home or by a professional dermatologist. Despite this, certain individuals should exercise caution when planning to use red light therapy. 

According to Dr. Debra Jaliman M.D., a New York-based dermatologist and author of the book Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist - individuals with photosensitivity or those taking medication that makes them photosensitive should avoid red light therapy. The treatment can trigger potential adverse reactions such as redness, stinging, and burning.

Additionally, individuals with a history of cancer should consult their healthcare provider before using red light therapy. Some studies indicate LED light therapy does not lead to tumour safety issues development. In contrast, other research suggests red light therapy can potentially enhance cancer cell aggressiveness by promoting cell proliferation. This underscores the need for more research about the treatment’s possible benefits and adverse effects on cancer patients. 

Possible Side Effects of Red Light Therapy

Most possible side effects associated with red light therapy often stem from the misuse of its devices. Reports have shown people experiencing burns, lesions, and blistering from red light therapy sessions exceeding 30 minutes, defective equipment, and users falling asleep with the device in place. Excessive or direct exposure to red light or near-infrared light can also lead to irreversible retinal damage. 

Does More Red Light Therapy Mean More Benefits?

The biostimulary effect of red light therapy arises from an increase in the cell’s energy in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). These elevated ATP levels manufacture more energy to drive cellular processes such as cell reproduction. It also induces the production of fibroblasts, cells responsible for collagen synthesis. However, this process also generates Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), a cellular metabolism byproduct that can damage cells and contribute to the natural ageing process in excess levels. 

In his published paper, Ageing Is a Stick Business, Andrei Sommer explains that the initial exposure to red light therapy induces a burst of ATP production triggering beneficial cell behaviour. However, prolonged exposure leads to ROS accumulation, which can negate these benefits. Theoretically, this means longer red light therapy exposure can reduce its skin rejuvenation benefits. 

A potential solution is the use of pulsed light, which alternates the red light between on and off states. This can prevent ROS build-up and allows the mitochondria to recover, thereby enhancing the treatment's efficacy.

That said, higher ROS levels can be beneficial in certain contexts such as treating fibrosis as it slows down the rapid production of dermal fibroblasts resulting in decreased scar tissue. 

Optimal Use of Red Light Therapy

Determining whether one can overdo red light therapy at home does not yield a straightforward answer. Using high-quality and government-approved devices such as the ROJO Light Therapy panels involves minimal to no risk. However, several factors influence the treatment's effectiveness. To achieve optimal results, it is crucial to adhere to manufacturer instructions and seek professional advice from dermatologists. 

For more information about red light therapy panels for home use, reach out to us at ROJO today!