Can I use a salicylic acid serum after LED treatment?
LED, also known as red light therapy, is currently on the rise, especially now that easy-to-use devices are available for home use, and everyone can benefit from intense and impressive results. Since LED therapy helps heal wounds, repair tissues, and fight inflammation, is it a good idea to use salicylic acid at the same time as the treatment? Or can the combination achieve incredible skin results?
Well, let’s learn more and explore whether you can use a salicylic acid serum after LED treatment.
Can I use salicylic acid with light therapy?
Yes, believe it or not! Salicylic acid and other beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are oil-soluble and can penetrate deep into the lower layers of the skin. They can target clogged pores and clear the buildup of excess sebum, bacteria, dirt, debris, and other impurities. They also have anti-inflammatory effects that loosen the dead skin cells bound to the skin’s surface. Combining salicylic acid or BHA with light therapy can be effective in fighting breakouts. Some people often find that salicylic acid is too strong for their skin, especially for dry and sensitive skin types. Therefore, LED is the go-to for effectively treating skin blemishes without the drying effects of salicylic acid.
Can I use LED light after a chemical peel?
You certainly can, as many reputable salons actually offer the use of LED light after a chemical peel. The combination of the two is thought to result in a radiant, fresh complexion with little to no downtime.
Originally an idea developed by NASA and the Navy SEALs, LED light therapy uses blue and red light to promote muscle growth and allow superficial wounds on the skin to heal quickly. Since this method is completely painless and works so well, it was only a matter of time before the beauty industry took a liking to the idea, resulting in LED treatment devices being everywhere.
LED light therapy is an effective and non-invasive way to fight the signs of aging by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, two substances that play an important role in giving your skin a plump, hydrated appearance and youthful glow.
Although it sounds complicated, combining LED light therapy with a chemical peel is a safe and effective way to address the most common skin concerns, from hyperpigmentation, dark spots, early signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles to loss of skin elasticity.
Can I use LED light with retinol?
Yes, believe it or not, you can use LED light with retinol. I completely understand that this can be a bit daunting due to retinol’s reputation for being very effective for the skin. Although retinol comes with a set of instructions on how to introduce it into your daily routine and build skin tolerance, it is recommended to apply retinol to the skin after using LED light to minimize irritation or increased skin sensitivity.
For best results, wait until after your evening skincare routine is complete before you perform your LED treatment session. Afterwards, wait about 10 minutes before applying your retinol product, then go to bed and let the vitamin A work its magic while you catch up on your beauty sleep.
I know it sounds simple, but it’s important to consult a doctor, dermatologist, or trained professional before trying any new formula or ingredient on your skin to avoid unnecessary irritation.
How often should you use red light therapy on your face?
This largely depends on the skin concern you want to treat, from combating uneven skin tone to minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to healing long-term sun damage. A course of 3-5 sessions per week for about 10-20 minutes each for 4 months is recommended for best results and visible changes in your skin tone. There are a variety of advantages to using LED therapy, including the red light in the machine. Here are some of the main benefits you can expect:
Anti-Aging – Red light can stimulate skin cells (also known as fibroblasts) and boost the production of collagen in the skin. It can help the skin repair damage and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the skin. Over time, you will notice that your complexion looks smoother and firmer.
Wound Healing – As mentioned above, red light helps stimulate the skin’s collagen. This is very effective for superficial wounds on the skin, with many studies showing that signs of redness are reduced, swelling and inflammation subside, and bruises heal quickly.
You’ll find that the combination of red and blue light creates a powerful skin combo that can address a range of skin concerns. Especially when there are signs of inflammation and redness.
Do LED lights help with acne scars?
Yes, they absolutely do! Acne scars occur when a blemish is squeezed or broken, causing a break in the skin’s surface. This minor trauma develops into a dark spot that only becomes more pigmented when exposed to the sun. Fortunately, LED light therapy allows you to repair sun damage with regular treatments and daily use of an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. Other acne scars, such as those that leave your face with uneven texture, can also be alleviated through collagen stimulation, resulting in a smoother, more even, and more radiant complexion.
Here are some tips for using salicylic acid serums with LED therapy, as well as more details on the benefits you’ll experience when using LED therapy. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, where you can find me if you have any questions or just want to discuss skin concerns!
