FAQs - Collagen Red Light Therapy
WHAT CAUSES AGING?
The aging of human skin is affected by numerous factors. As a result of internal and external factors, the skin changes constantly from infancy to adulthood. Structural and functional changes occur within the dermis layer, which is the supporting layer, and the epidermis, which is the outer visible layer of skin. The skin’s metabolism and natural functions start declining from the age of 25. Aging means that the cells of our skin are unable to replenish themselves properly and over time the skin’s natural protective hydro lipid film (external barrier to defend against bacteria) is weakened. This results in dry complexion, wrinkles, sensitive skin and loss of elasticity. After the age of 45, the skin starts to become thinner -- making it more vulnerable to damage caused by environmental factor. Red light emitted by collagen lamps stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which are the main proteins that contribute to our skin’s elasticity, texture, and tone.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM COLLAGEN FLUORESCENT LAMP TREATMENT?
Treatments using red collagen light will improve skin tone and texture, control pigmentation spots, help reduce pore size, encourage vibrant, healthier-looking skin, and reduce wrinkles. The light also stimulates blood circulation and repairs the elastin fibers within the tissue to help keep the skin firm.
IS RED LIGHT THERAPY SAFE?
Red light therapy is one of the few methods that gently and harmlessly reduces the signs of aging. The lamps are free from UV light. Phototherapy has no reported side effects, nor any reported damage to the eyes and the body. It is pain free. No healing or downtime is involved. Invasive procedures such as microdermabrasion, injections, Botox, chemical peels or laser resurfacing, can have side effects merely by the nature of the procedures. A physician should be consulted if light sensitive medication is prescribed or if patients suffer from increased sensitivity to light. Some people may also experience brief warmth (“glow”) following treatment. Finally, as with all other technologies, collagen light therapy cannot be used indiscriminately with other products that may themselves cause side effects.
HOW IS THE FDA INVOLVED?
Collagen fluorescent low pressure lamps are not subject to FDA regulations because narrowband collagen lamps do not emit UV (ultraviolet) or hazardous wavelength of light.
WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?
The anti-aging effect is dependent on the device type (bed, booth, table, top, etc.), skin condition, age as well as number, wattage and density of lamps in the system you are using. Everyone reacts differently. Many people report noticeable results, including improved skin tone, reduction in pore size and the diminished appearance of age spots within the first 30-60 days of scheduled use. To achieve maximum results you should follow the device manufacturer’s recommended exposure schedule.
ARE THERE ANY PRECAUTIONS NEEDED WHEN USING RED LIGHT THERAPY?
We recommend the use of protective eyewear such as goggles; red light won’t harm your eyes, but may appear very bright. We also suggest consulting with your cosmetic expert or directly contacting the manufacturer of your light therapy device. Each unit is unique depending on the number, wattage and density of lamps in the system. People with the following conditions should avoid exposure to light therapy devices:
- if you are photo-allergic or take medication that may cause light sensitivity
- if you suffer from porphyria or epilepsy
- if you take cortisone or steroid injections
- if you are pregnant
HOW DOES RED LIGHT THERAPY DIFFER FROM LASER TREATMENTS?
Red light therapy is non-invasive, natural, pain free and does not cut, burn, or break the skin as do laser treatments. There is also no downtime. Abrasive lasers use heat and concentrated light to vaporize or remove tissue. Collagen lamps produce no vaporization or burning of tissue, and therefore no inflammation or erythema. Red light therapy is one of the few available non-invasive “tools” that works naturally to alleviate the appearance of aging skin, such as wrinkles and mottled skin tone.
