Used in aesthetic and general medicine, LED photobiomodulation is a revolutionary treatment that regenerates our cells. How? Simply by exposing them to a pulsed, cold light. Derived from soft laser technology, photobiomodulation helps hydrate the skin deeply, oxygenate the blood, and even speed up healing. In this article, we explore how it works and its various aesthetic and medical benefits, along with how it relates to its cousin, light therapy.
Did you know that all living cells emit and capture light? They do so constantly. The same goes for skin cells, which, when exposed to the light energy emitted by an LED lamp, resonate with it. By absorbing the light energy they are exposed to, cells undergo both chemical and physical changes. Their activity is stimulated, especially the synthesis of collagen and elastin, which give our skin its elasticity. This phenomenon is called photobiomodulation.
Before diving into the specifics of each light, let’s look at the process itself. The primary target of photobiomodulation is what we call the cytochrome C complex. It is located in the inner membrane of cellular mitochondria and is a vital component of the electron transport chain. As such, it controls our cellular metabolism.
When absorbed by cytochrome C oxidase (COX), the LED light stimulates this transport chain, increasing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in the mitochondria. This is particularly important because when our tissue is damaged, ATP production is disrupted, and our metabolism slows down. Photobiomodulation helps restore oxidative processes and, therefore, return cells to normal function.
Laser stimulation also produces free nitric oxide (NO) and modulates reactive oxygen species (ROS). NO is a powerful vasodilator involved in many physiological processes, including the inflammatory response. By increasing NO and ROS levels, photobiomodulation is an effective ally in reducing inflammation.
In summary, PBM restores normal cellular function, prevents cell death, reduces inflammation, and speeds up tissue regeneration.
The light rays emitted by the LED lamp penetrate more or less deeply into the various layers of our skin, depending on their wavelength, or color. There are five colors in photobiomodulation: red, blue, yellow, green, and infrared. Depending on the color and its intensity, the light will act at different levels, stimulating cellular activity, especially the synthesis of collagen and elastin fibers.
→ Blue Light: Focuses on the epidermis. Its main effect is to act on skin imperfections. It is known for its anti-inflammatory action and effectiveness in treating acne. However, it should be limited, as it can also contribute to cellular oxidation, and we are exposed to blue light from screens around us.
→ Yellow Light: Penetrates more deeply into the dermis, stimulating blood and lymphatic circulation, making it ideal for anti-aging treatments and slowing hair loss.
→ Red Light: The longest wavelength in the visible spectrum, primarily affects deeper tissues and fibroblasts. It is used to firm the skin and treat alopecia (hair loss).
→ Green Light: Works on brightening the complexion and reducing pigment spots.
→ Infrared Light: Invisible to the naked eye, penetrates even deeper into the skin, boosting hydration, collagen, and elastin production. Combined with red light, it becomes even more powerful, optimizing treatment effects.
The effects of LED light bring many benefits, primarily boosting cellular regeneration.
The skin will be better oxygenated and hydrated, while restructuring itself, resulting in a healthier, smoother appearance. Over several sessions, skin exposed to photobiomodulation light regenerates deeply. Small imperfections will diminish due to its anti-inflammatory and healing activity. If the skin shows signs of aging, these effects will also reduce significantly.
On a physiological level, the benefits of LED photobiomodulation are also diverse:
→ Activation of fibroblasts, reactivating collagen and elastin production.
→ Detoxification of the skin.
→ Strengthening of its immune defenses.
Thanks to its wide range of action, photobiomodulation treatment is used for various applications across almost all fields of aesthetic medicine. It can, for example, target:
This quick, painless treatment revitalizes the complexion and has an almost immediate anti-aging effect. This LED technique can also be combined with other treatments to soothe the skin and promote healing.
Photobiomodulation can be applied to different parts of the body, supporting tissue regeneration, promoting fluid circulation (blood, lymph), and even aiding in weight-loss treatments or providing relaxing effects.
Photomodulation has been proven effective for hair regrowth, promoting dense and healthy hair by prolonging the growth phase and slowing hair loss.
To date, over 400 randomized clinical trials suggest that photobiomodulation is effective not only in aesthetic applications but also in general medicine, such as pain relief and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. It even helps treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
As mentioned, photomodulation effects depend on the color of the LED rays used. Depending on your needs, a specific approach is recommended. Treatments usually combine at least two colors for optimal effects. Sessions are painless and can be done year-round, on all skin types, with visible results after 6-8 sessions.
At Maison Magnifisens, we use Triwings, the most powerful LED illuminator in the world, significantly reducing treatment time while delivering unmatched results.
To book your LED photobiomodulation session, simply make an appointment here!
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