Light therapy is a treatment in which red, green, yellow, and blue light are used to treat various conditions. Blue light therapy is a treatment method that utilizes specific wavelengths (405nm-420nm) of blue light to address various skin conditions, including acne.
Blue light penetrates the skin and treats underlying skin issues when it reaches the skin. It functions by focusing on and getting rid of the bacteria that cause acne. Blue light treatment has been studied scientifically ever since it was discovered that it has antibacterial qualities that can kill microorganisms. Studies have been done over time to determine its efficiency and safety. These studies have demonstrated the promise of blue light therapy as a non-invasive and drug-free method for controlling various conditions, and they have produced encouraging results.
Purpose of blue light therapy: Why do we actually use blue light therapy?
Blue light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that is used for different purposes.
Blue light therapy for skin care and acne: Blue light therapy is used to cure acne and enhance skin quality. It reduces inflammation and encourages cleaner skin by focusing on and killing the germs that cause acne. Studies have demonstrated that blue-light therapy is a successful acne treatment. It functions by focusing on and eliminating the germs that cause acne, reducing inflammation, and producing cleaner skin. Blue light therapy effectively decreased inflammatory acne lesions by 77%, according to a study that was published in the Journal of Dermatological Science. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology showed that four weeks of blue light therapy resulted in a 54% decrease in acne lesions. The promise of blue light therapy as a non-invasive treatment is highlighted by these findings
Skin cancer treatment with blue light:
Blue light therapy is frequently used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) to treat certain types of skin cancer and actinic keratoses. Sun exposure causes these reddish, scaly areas, which can progress to skin cancer. A dermatologist applies a photosensitizing drug to the skin during PDT, making the treated area susceptible to light damage. The drug is then activated by using blue light, which destroys malignant or precancerous cells. It’s an excellent strategy for managing these illnesses and preventing them from worsening. After applying the photosensitizing drug to your skin and allowing it to soak in for an hour or two, the dermatologist will shine blue light into the treated region for a few minutes.
Blue light therapy for sunburn:
In clinical and research trials, blue light therapy has demonstrated promise as a viable treatment for sunburn. Blue light therapy aids in reducing swelling and accelerating the skin’s ability to repair after sun exposure. Blue light penetrates the skin and activates cellular repair processes, which helps burned skin heal. It is crucial to remember that for best results, blue light therapy should be used with other sunburn treatments, such as topical creams and pain medicines. Blue light therapy for sunburn should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy.
Blue light therapy for the treatment of depression:
Blue light therapy is also employed to lessen depression. According to research, blue light exposure may help control circadian rhythms and elevate mood. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that occurs during specific seasons, is known to respond well to it. Sitting in front of a dedicated light box that emits intense blue light is part of the blue light treatment process. It’s crucial to remember that blue-light treatment for depression should only be carried out under a doctor’s supervision. They may make individualized recommendations and guarantee the therapy is used safely and effectively.
Blue light therapy for pain:
Blue light therapy is also used for reducing pain. A study was conducted in 2021 which shows significant results in reducing pain through blue light. In an experimental pain model including humans, blue light lessens pain and exhibits antihyperalgesic effects. Consequently, blue light may provide a potential therapeutic strategy for pain in a variety of conditions. Blue light significantly decreased spontaneous pain as measured by pain ratings on a numeric rating scale. Similar to how pain intensity was dramatically affected, the German version of the McGill Pain Questionnaire revealed. In contrast to red light or thermal control therapy, blue light also demonstrated antihyperalgesic, antiiallodynic, and anti-hypothesis effects.
How exactly does blue-light therapy work?
How much blue light therapy is beneficial?
Blue light therapy is thought to be beneficial in a variety of ways because it helpful in:
- Treating acne
- Treating sunburn
- Reducing depression
- Helpful in skin cancer
- Beneficial in skin appearance
- Beneficial in reducing pain
Blue light therapy looks to be safe as well, with only minor side effects. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, blue light contains no UV rays and has no evidence of increasing the risk of skin cancer or aging/rejuvenation
