Over the years, a wide range of technological advancements has emerged. Some of these were created to aid skin conditions ranging from sun damage, wrinkles, acne, and many more. One particular technology that aids skin conditions is red light therapy. If it’s your first time encountering red light therapy, it essentially involves using targeted light to deal with various skin conditions. However, ensuring to get the most out of red light therapy benefits and the best outcome from the procedure requires proper skin preparation for adequate light absorption.
If you’re considering treatment, it’s best to know everything about the procedure. Consider checking out LightTherapy.org and other reliable sources online to ensure a head start on the basics of this therapy.
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What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT) is a procedure that utilizes red and near-infrared light in specific wavelengths that the cells in the body readily absorb. Upon absorption, the wavelengths work wonders by improving the overall function of the mitochondria (the cell’s powerhouse), resulting in significant production of energy or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at the cellular level.
If you’re unfamiliar with the term ATP, it’s the molecule that holds and delivers energy to the body cells. The more the cells receive energy, the better they become at making your body healthy, including your skin.
Since the light utilized during the therapy improves the cell’s capacity to produce energy and cellular regeneration, red light therapy may be the best solution to boost collagen production, minimize skin-related inflammation, and diminish the appearance of scars and other forms of skin damage.
The therapy usually lasts for around 20 minutes at a time. Generally, it can take up to ten treatment sessions, depending on the specific results you want to achieve and the skin condition you have. You’ll lie down directly under the light in some settings, while others utilize light-infused wands maneuvered over your skin. It all depends on what machine the clinic uses and the focus area.
As a non-invasive form of therapy, there’s no recovery period. After your session, you can continue your skincare routine and apply makeup products. An important consideration is applying sunscreen with superior UVA protection since red light therapy can increase your skin’s photosensitivity.
Tips On Preparing For Your First Red Light Therapy Session
The proper preparation of your skin plays a key role if you want to get the best results from red light therapy. Here are several pointers to think about before your appointment.
1.Maintain Your Skincare Routine
Perform your usual skincare routine on the days leading up to your scheduled appointment. Make it a priority to be careful when handling your skin. As much as possible, try to avoid irritating your skin. Steer clear of any potent products or excessive exposure to the sun.
2.Proper Cleansing Of Your Skin Before Therapy
Clean your skin using a non-drying, mild cleanser before the therapy to eliminate any leftover mineral-based sunscreen or makeup containing zinc. Remember that the presence of products on your skin, such as lotions, foundation, perfumes, or anything else you use, can reduce the overall effectiveness of the therapy.
Certain products, such as retinol or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), react unfavorably since these active ingredients increase skin sensitivity, potentially triggering irritation. Even if these are part of your daily routine, avoid using them until after your appointment.
3.Exfoliate The Skin
Exfoliating is also a crucial preparatory step before undergoing red light therapy. Do this after your cleaning routine. During exfoliation, any lingering dead skin cells, dirt, oil, or anything that may be blocking the pores are removed. The process eliminates potential barriers preventing the light from fully penetrating your skin. Make sure to exfoliate your skin every week and on the day of your scheduled appointment.
4.Maintain Proper Hydration And A Balanced Diet
Aside from preparing your skin’s surface for the therapy, there are also things you need to do that can work wonders from within to ensure a good outcome. If you want your skin to be in its best condition on your scheduled appointment, maintain a well-balanced diet and proper hydration.
For your diet, consider including food choices that aid skin hydration, such as salmon, spinach, tomatoes, walnuts, bananas, egg yolks, and dairy products. Remember that nuts are packed with vitamin E, which supports your skin’s lipid layer while maintaining skin hydration. Additionally, always make it a priority to drink enough water throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Red light therapy is becoming a preferred option among those who want to effectively manage various skin conditions such as inflammation, acne, and wrinkles, to name a few. Depending on your skin condition, red light therapy may be worth considering for its benefits. If you’re undergoing this therapy for the first time, keep in mind these preparatory measures to ensure the best outcome.
