How it Works

• The light from LEDs interacts with cells and stimulates them into multiplying and producing new collagen and elastin, a connective tissue in the skin. By controlling the wavelengths of LEDs, cells can be turned on and off, and studies show that this kind of energy can also be used to stop collagen from forming, which can be helpful in preventing scars.
  
  

Treatment

• During the procedure, a lamp that delivers a steady stream of LED energy is aimed at the desired area of treatment. The entire process takes between 20 and 30 minutes, and most people can return to work and regular activities immediately afterward.
  
  Experts recommend patients undergo one 30-minute LED skin treatment session every seven to 10 days for six weeks, and undergo maintenance treatment every 30 to 60 days.
  
  The number of treatments and length of therapy depends on the severity of the problem and the surface area being treated. Results are progressive, and improvements are more noticeable after each successive treatment. The intervals between treatments may be lengthened as the procedure nears completion.
  
  

Benefits

• Studies show the benefits of LED skin rejuvenation treatment include strengthening of the skin, reduction of wrinkles and acne scars, reduction of freckles and brown spots, improved texture, ability to perform on all ethnic skin types and affordability compared to other light-based therapies. LED skin treatments have also produced positive results in combating aging and sun damage.
  
  

Drawbacks

• Reported negative effects of LED skin treatments include redness and tingling after treatment. In addition, multiple treatments are sometimes required before seeing the best results, and treatments sometimes need to be lengthened to three to six months.
  
  

Cost

• One session of LED skin treatment can cost between $50 to $200, as of June 2010, so the expense can add up over the course of extended treatment. Some places sell LED skin rejuvenation kits for home-use, which allows users to conduct treatments themselves for roughly between $300 and $500.