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Does LED Light Therapy Really Improve Skin?

When I first heard about the use of LED light therapy as a treatment for rejuvinating skin, I was intrigued. It seemed like an effective way to get glowy and younger-looking skin without needles—plus, celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas famously created an LED light bed that's Vogue-approved and sought-after by A-listers, so it had to be good.

But my interest was really piqued when I learned that LED light had the power to help banish blemishes and breakouts (my problem skin is basically the bane of my existence). Since I'd do anything for a clearer complexion, I put LED light therapy to the test, and (spoiler alert) loved the results.

Click here to see the full benefits of LED Light therapy device

Yes, LED Facial Treatments Do Work (But Not In A Flash)                          

If you follow any celebrities on Instagram, chances are you've come across a picture of an LED treatment before.

You know that strange-looking serial killer mask that retails for about $2,000? That's it. Or perhaps you've thought of trying one of the many at-home handheld devices, such as the Quasar MD Plus that Kim Kardashian uses (apparently, she's "really big on laser facials"). Or maybe you've seen someone wearing funky protective eyewear at a medispa or doctor's office and all kinds of bright lights were involved? Yep, that would be it as well. LED skin treatments all the rage nowadays. Here's what you need to know about them.

Blue light or red light?

There are various kinds of LED facials available on the market today, and the technology is rapidly evolving. Some skin treatments involve the use of blue light, while some only use red light.

The basic premise of LED skin therapy is that different colours trigger different reactions beneath the epidermis and penetrate the skin at varying depths. Blue light is generally used to kill the bacteria that causes acne, providing an effective treatment for blackheads and whiteheads, whereas wavelengths of red light are normally used to speed up healing and stimulate collagen production, simultaneously shrinking enlarged pores and tightening the skin.

LED treatments are painless, non-invasive and no downtime is required. According to Sacha Bourdage, Director of Laser Services at the Victoria Park Medispa in Montreal, Canada, "people are looking for a lot of alternatives these days... An LED treatment is great for targeting areas that are hard to hit with Botox and injectables, bringing out the plumpness and reducing the appearance of crow's feet and other wrinkles."

https://www.vitactivate.com/products/red-light-therapy-home-device-anti-aging

Do LED light facials really work?

The treatments can last a mere few minutes, depending on the type of technology used. That's right! Perfect during lunch hour, much?

OK, but do they really work?

Dr. R. Glen Calderhead, one of the world's leading experts in phototherapy and photosurgery, seems to think so. In a recently published study, he states that "low-level light therapy (LLLT) with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is emerging from the mists of black magic as a solid medico-scientific modality, with a substantial buildup of corroborative bodies of evidence for its efficacy and elucidation of the modes of action. Reports are appearing from many different specialties; however, of particular interest to plastic surgeons treating the aging face is the proven action of LED-LLLT on skin cells in both the epidermis and dermis and enhanced blood flow. Thus, LED-LLLT is a safe and effective stand-alone therapy for patients who are prepared to wait until the final effect is perceived."

So, yes -- but not overnight.

And the price is rather steep, too: count on average $50 to $300 per treatment. And although some customers who've undergone blue light therapy claim that most of their dimples disappeared after a single treatment, Bourdage advises caution: "It's not a cure. It's a treatment." Typically, you'll need at least four treatments before you start noticing results. In order to rejuvenate the skin's appearance, improve its texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, a few weeks will be required. The good news? The benefits are cumulative, and one treatment per year is normally sufficient to maintain the results afterwards.

You can do it at home, too: according to prominent New York City aesthetic medicine expert Dr Z. Paul Lorenc, using a pharmacy-bought LED skincare device can be a great alternative to clinical-grade treatments: "Probably the biggest pro is that it works. Studies conducted using LED for acne and anti-aging showed significant improvement in both. The biggest con is that you have to commit to using it every day. This needs to become part of your daily skin care regimen. For some this may be a burden!"

For patients that lack discipline, opting for a more powerful machine might be a better option: "Light is measured in nanometers, and LED lights have different depths. Devices like the one that we have here can only be used in medispas or on a medical level... It all comes down to the expectations you have," says Dr. Lorenc.

"LED light has demonstrated significant efficacy for various skin pathologies," says Bourdage. "The LED light by itself can stimulate specific cell lines and improve certain aspects of the skin, and the technology can be further improved when combined with light-absorbing chromophore gel, which allows the LED light to penetrate deeper into the skin. We use Lumibel to reduce the appearance of crow's feet, marionette lines, forehead lines and pore size. For patients with acne-prone skin, we offer a treatment called Lumibel."

Here's how a typical LumiBel light-emitting diode session unfolds: the patient comes in after having her picture taken and lies down on an examination table, where the aesthetician uses a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup or impurities before applying a special gel onto her face. The multi-LED LumiBel blue light system is then used to activate the gel, converting the light from the lamp into different color wavelengths. The light panels can also be used on other acne-prone body areas, such as the chest or back.

Although the machine never actually touches the skin, the patient must wear protective eyewear. At Victoria Park & other medispas, small stickers can be placed over the eye area in order to treat crow's feet. "How can you expect the LED light to treat your crow's feet if you're wearing these huge goggles?" exclaims Bourdage. Indeed... Make sure you keep this in mind when booking your next appointment! Don't be afraid to ask the receptionist if stickers -- not just goggles -- are available at your local medical spa or dermatologist's office.

This particular treatment lasts nine minutes (most LED treatments are over in less than twenty minutes), during which a warm, pleasant sensation can be felt over the entire face. While you're there you can listen to some background music, mediate, even take a power nap -- honestly, the whole process really isn't as freaky as it may sound.

After the treatment, once the gel is delicately removed, a moisturizer is applied along with an SPF to protect the skin from UV rays. Flushing very rarely occurs. That's right, you're free to walk around town or go right back to work -- no one will ever guess what you were doing just a few minutes before. "Most of our patients find it relaxing!" Bourdage candidly points out. And based on their comments and the technology's commercial success, it certainly seems like it's here to stay.

What is LED Light Therapy?

First off, let's talk about what LED stands for: light emitting diode. Without getting too technical, an LED is a light source that emits infrared light (and thereby, heat) when activated, exactly like the machine pictured below. LED light therapy is most often administered via single light units or formations of panels that are directed at the skin from a few inches away. The benefits come from exposure to the light; there is no machine-to-skin contact when the panels are involved. It can also be administered through a handheld wand that you would expose skin to in the same way. Most spas use the panels, because they cover more surface area, while the hand-held devices are a more practical option for at-home use.

LED lights come in different spectrums, including red, white, and blue infrared.

Reviews at RealSelf

In an effort to brighten my overall skin tone to...

In an effort to brighten my overall skin tone to correct years of sun damage and acne pigmentation, I found that Forever Young BBL was my logical procedure choice. Admittedly, research of YouTube videos and online reviews were mixed and prompted me to seek a private consultation for further enquiry.

Clear Rayz Blue/red LED   

jessicarabbitmiami said : Let's start with the basics: I am in my mid-thirties and have very thin porcelain skin. I also get mild adult acne since having my tubes tied. The hormone changes are very apparent in my skin. It has lost some lustre and elasticity, and i have noticeable melasma now. I also have some sun damage... READ MORE    11 photos 8 comments 15 members found this helpful Not Sure

My First Experiment with Green and Blue LED Treatments  

 Jeanne1786 said:  I have been using a blue LED panel at home for three days now to treat a pimple and one cystic acne bump. Make that two cysts because there was another that reared its ugly head (no pun intended) today. (Ba-dum-pum!) Results from the blue LED light panel: AWESOME! Even after the first...

Burning Tongue After Blue Light Treatment  

 GeminiGirl77 said:  I did an at home treatment with blue light on my chin and upper lip area to treat a breakout. I shined the light around the area for about 10 minutes total, I didn't feel any heat or discomfort. After about half an hour I started getting a tingling sensation in my front teeth and a burning... READ MORE    2 comments Worth It

Wrinkle and Skin Quality Treatment - New York, NY   

EONYC said: Excellent bedside manner and treatment - - very noticeable difference to my skin. She took time to understand what I wanted out of the treatments and recommended various options. She is very flexible in timing. She also helps to establish an at home regiment that will retain the treatment... 

References

https://www.realself.com/LED-Skin-Treatment/reviews

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Bed Pillows Compared - Which One Do You Like?

Just like a mattress, your pillow is pretty much a personal choice. It might feel like you’re not investing as much money, but you are investing just as much in your overall comfort.

In fact, it could be possible that you’ve just bought a new mattress and you still get those upper back, neck and shoulder pains. This might have nothing to do with your mattress, and it could have everything to do with your choice of pillow. This is why I have added a page with tips for choosing a pillow that will help you if you’re not sure what type of pillow you should be using. You can find it here.

However, as is my way I couldn’t just leave it there so below you will find a few quick reviews on some of the best bed pillows I have come across.

>> Click to see more about Bed Pillow

Best Value Hypoallergenic Goose Down/Goose Feather Pillow

In case you hadn’t notice due to the description of this pillow, it is best suited to those of you that need a softer surface beneath your head. So, if you sleep on your back this one might be the answer to your dreams! It’s made from 50% white goose feather and 50% white goose down.

The cover is 100% cotton and the feathers and down within have been cleaned using a CentroClean system which is why it’s hypoallergenic. If you prefer a fuller pillow that you can sink your head into, this is the one for you.

Oh, and it’s available in various sizes, including Queen, King, 1 ‘8 x 22 inch and 2’ 2 x 22 inch.

Best Memory Foam Side Sleeper Pillow

What I love most about this pillow isn’t just that you get the benefit of memory foam (my favorite as you probably know), but you get the benefit of Iso-Cool technology. If you’ve never heard of this before it’s the perfect answer for those of you who get hot overnight. It has something called PCM or Phase Change Material.

This means it’s full of tiny beads that cleverly react to your body temperature. If you’re too warm, the beads absorb heat so you feel cool, and if you’re too cold it releases heat so you feel warmer (clever huh). Aside from this great feature, you can buy this pillow in 3 sizes and all of them have a hypoallergenic cotton cover that can easily be removed using the zipper.

Do bear in mind however, that because this pillow has memory foam it can feel firm so it’s probably better for side sleepers.

Best High-End Goose Down Pillow

Right, I’m moving back to soft pillows, but for this one you’re in for a treat! Royal Hotel has created one of the most luxurious pillows you can buy, and it’s full to brimming with hand plucked white goose down. All of the down used is bacteria free and to finish the whole thing off you have a cover made from 100% Egyptian cotton complete with double silk piping.

This may not be the cheapest pillow on the market, but you get two for the money, and personally I think they make the perfect gift because the packaging is something to behold on its own! You can buy them in King and Standard sizes, but do bear in mind that even the standard size is pretty huge due to the amount of goose down used by the manufacturer.

If you like big, soft but not too soft pillows and feel like treating yourself or someone special, these pillows should be on your shopping list!

Best Allergen and Bed Bug Proof Pillow Cover

Ok, so this is “just” a cover and not a pillow, but considering its functionality I just couldn’t leave it out. For this one I have people who suffer from allergies in mind, and I also think this model is perfect for children. The Safe ZipCover uses EVOLON fabric which has been awarded the Seal of Quality by the ECARF (European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation).

This pillow cover is engineered in Germany under the strictest of regulations and has been medically proven to protect from mites. It will also stop those bed bugs from biting and dust mites will be a thing of the past as well. In fact, if you’re someone who dreads all that sneezing, blocked noses and runny eyes overnight, I think this cover is definitely worth a look. The price will surprise you as well!

The one other point to make is this pillow cover is eco-friendly because it’s constructed using raw materials that are sustainable, and there is no solvent or binders used during the manufacturing process. You can find it in the following three sizes:

Best Value Memory Foam Neck Pillow

If you’ve been looking for a pillow that will help to support your neck and you sleep on your side or back, the chances are some of the big brands are just too much for your budget. That’s why I decided to include this model from Sleep Innovations.

It has been specifically designed to help those of you who suffer from neck and back pain due to poor support from your current pillow. The shape is contoured so that when you lie on it, your spine is properly aligned depending on the position you sleep in. It uses SureTemp memory foam and the cover (which can be removed for washing) is made up of 80% cotton and 20% polyester giving it a velour feel which is soft to the touch.

This pillow also includes a layer of cooling foam so you don’t overheat during the night. What I will say is this pillow can take some getting used to because it’s pretty firm, and the shape isn’t anything like a standard pillow. Oh, and you can buy it in Queen or Standard sizes.

Best Hypoallergenic Down Alternative Pillow

This pillow is not advertised to help with additional support so if you’re looking for something because of your aches and pains, this might not be the answer. However, if you suffer from allergies, it’s a great buy! The whole pillow (which I know interests many people) is made in the USA and it comes with a 3 year warranty, plus a 100% money back guarantee.

The outer layer is 100% cotton and on the inside you benefit from siliconized cluster puff fiber. This gives the pillow an overall feel of “fluffiness” yet it’s not too soft and is the perfect alternative to the more expensive down pillows. Due to the fibers on the inside, unlike many other brands this one shouldn’t lose its shape and in fact the manufacturer boasts it will last anywhere from 3 to 5 years.

The whole pillow is machine washable and it’s available in a good many sizes including Queen, King, Jumbo, Standard, Baby and Body.

Best Duck Down / Duck Feather Pillow

Have you ever been to a hotel and thought “wow, that pillow was amazing”? Well, this one from Pacific Coast is probably the closest you’ll get! What I like most about this model is it’s like a “pillow within a pillow”. Let me explain.

Basically, it’s made up of 95% natural duck feather which has been hyper-cleaned and 5% natural duck down which has also been treated. The down surrounds the feathers within, which results in a pillow that’s soft enough for your head to sink into, but is firm enough to offer you support.

If you’re worried about allergies, this pillow can help as well. Hyper-clean technology means that all dust, dirt and allergens have been removed, and the outer AllerRest fabric prevents these particles from invading the pillow. The only comment I will make is this pillow is thick so if you prefer a flatter surface, maybe one of the other models I have here will suit you better. Plus, you should be prepared to give it a good old “fluff” every morning so it returns to its original shape.

Best Value Down Alternative Pillow

OK, so we all want the best when it comes to the perfect pillow, but paying the prices asked for the most natural and luxurious materials isn’t possible for everyone. You may also be reading this little review and wondering when your search for the perfect pillow at a price you can afford will ever end!

Well, if you’re a notorious stomach sleeper, this model might not do it for you (sorry), but the reason for this is it is quite thick and can feel pretty soft. This pillow uses 100% hypoallergenic Microfiber which has the feeling of down without the price tag. Due to the material used you can put the whole pillow into a washing machine (on a low temperature) and it won’t become lumpy or take forever to dry which makes it pretty convenient to keep clean.

It comes with a 1 year limited warranty and you can buy it in Queen or Standard sizes. Just be prepared (like the one above) to fluff it up the next morning.

Best Firm Memory Foam Pillow

So, if you’ve read some of the reviews above and you prefer a firmer pillow, I can forgive you for thinking I’ve left you out! If you do fall into this bracket of “sleepers”, I chose this model from Z® by Malouf just for you.

Like many of the memory foam mattresses I have reviewed, this pillow uses open cell technology which makes it durable yet “moldable”. Although I would put this pillow in the “firm” category, it doesn’t feel like rock when you lie on it, and it’s received very favorable comments about how quickly it returns to its original shape.

The foam used is antimicrobial and resistant to dust mites and other allergens plus, you get a removable velour cover. Unlike a lot of models of pillow I have come across, this one isn’t just available in different sizes, you can also buy it in high or low loft. If you’re interested, the sizes available are Queen, King and Standard.

Best Value Body Pillow

I grapple with finding pillows (or mattresses for that matter) that will suit all types of sleeper, so I was pleasantly surprised when I came across this body pillow from Sleep Innovations. The manufacturer does advertise it as a medium to medium firm feel but it will help back, side and front sleepers feel much more comfortable overnight.

They have used both SureTemp open cell memory foam and gel memory foam. The first is great for additional support and airflow whilst the second is perfect for keeping you cool by minimizing heat build-up. Other benefits are the 1 year limited warranty, removable cover and mite and allergen free foam.

The only one point I will make is (due to the size) this body pillow is heavy so it might be wise to think about a permanent position for it.