LED light therapy has increasingly been used in treatment for multiple concerns such as acne, wrinkles, and lacklustre complexion. Whether done at a clinic or at home with a light-emitting diode device, adding the correct skincare products really complements it for better efficacy.
The right combination helps soothe the skin, improve hydration, and maximise the overall effects of the entire treatment course. For those who are using red light to reduce eye bags or target particular skin concerns, like hyperpigmentation or inflammation, choosing the right skincare is very important in getting the best results.
Here’s a guide to the best skincare products to use before and after LED light therapy for healthy, glowing, and rejuvenated skin:
Why Combine Skincare Products with LED Light Therapy?
LED light therapy is a fantastic tool for stimulating collagen production, improving skin texture, and reducing inflammation. However, the success of the treatment depends on your skin condition before and after the session. Skincare products can complement the therapy by:
- Preparing the Skin: Cleansing and exfoliating before your session can remove surface debris, ensuring light penetrates the skin effectively.
- Results Enhancers: Some serums and moisturisers increase collagen synthesis, remove pigmentation, and hydrate.
- Soothing and Protecting Skin: The post-treatment aftercare product range will decrease the redness caused by treatments for sensitive skin as well.Â
Best Pre-Treatment Skincare Products
It is important to use products that prepare the skin without causing sensitivity before beginning your LED light therapy session. Avoid using harsh exfoliants, retinoids, and photosensitising ingredients; opt for these alternatives:
- Cleanser
Start with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser meant to remove makeup, dirt, and oil without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Some examples of hydrating and soothing cleansers would include glycerin or chamomile extract.
Recommended Ingredients: Aloe vera, cucumber extract, hyaluronic acid
- Hydrating Toner or Essence
A hydrating toner can pre-prep the skin, thus helping it to better absorb the active ingredients, as well as reduce redness and irritation.
Recommended Ingredients: Rose water, green tea, niacinamide
- Antioxidant Serum
Antioxidant-rich serums neutralise free radicals, protecting your skin from environmental damage. Serums containing Vitamin C are perfect as they also lighten the skin, improving the production of collagen.
Recommended Ingredients: Vitamin C, ferulic acid, CoQ10
Best Post-Treatment Skincare Products
Post-treatment skin care is essential to calm the skin and seal the benefits of LED light therapy. Avoid any harsh actives and focus on hydrating, nourishing, and repairing the skin barrier.
1. Moisturizer
A lightweight yet deeply hydrating moisturiser helps soothe and replenish the skin. Look for formulas with ceramides or peptides to promote healing and maintain hydration.
Recommended Ingredients: Ceramides, peptides, squalane
2. Soothing Face Mist
A calming face mist can instantly hydrate and refresh the skin. It’s a great addition, especially after using red light for eye bags or full-face treatments.
3. SPF Protection
Always finish your routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, especially if you’ve undergone LED therapy during the day. Sun protection is essential to maintain results and protect against UV damage.
Recommended Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide
Targeting Specific Concerns with Skincare and LED Therapy
- Red Light for Eye Bags
If puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines are the most concerning features for you, red light can be particularly useful. When used in combination with hydrating eye creams that have caffeine, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, red light therapy may increase circulation to enhance the skin’s appearance.
For an extra kick, you can use LED eye patches that integrate light therapy with cooling or hydrating gel pads. These are designed to fit the contours of the under-eye area, reducing swelling and brightening the skin.
- Blue Light for Acne
Blue light therapy is best used for acne treatment as it targets acne-causing bacteria. Pair it with salicylic acid treatments or niacinamide-based serums to reduce breakouts without irritating the skin.
- Green Light for Hyperpigmentation
Green light therapy can reduce the production of melanin, so it is good for those with sun spots or uneven skin tone. When paired with gentle brightening agents like alpha arbutin and liquorice root extract, the fading process is accelerated.
Don’t Use These Products with LED Light Therapy
Although many cosmetic products will complement LED therapy, others should not be used since they will raise sensitivity or directly interfere with the beneficial effects of the treatment. Among these are:
- Retinoids: Irritant effects are commonly manifested when this chemical is exposed to light therapy.
- Exfoliating Acids (AHA/BHA): Can increase photosensitivity
- Fragrance or Essential Oils: This may trigger redness or allergy reactions.
Final Thoughts
The right skincare products are essential for getting the best results from LED light therapy. Whether you are targeting acne, signs of ageing, or using red light for eye bags, a thoughtful skincare routine can help you achieve a glowing, healthy complexion.
Hydrating and soothing ingredients should be prioritised before and after your sessions, and products that may irritate or sensitise your skin should be avoided.
With the right combination of skincare and LED light therapy, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the radiant skin you’ve always wanted.