The use of devices in aesthetics can breathe new life into a treatment room and is gaining popularity among clients. The marketing trends of aesthetic modalities have clients seeking treatments with various skin rejuvenation devices. With all the devices available for skin care professionals to use, it may be hard to decipher which are best for a practice – microcurrent, sonophoresis, and LED are just a few of the sought-out devices used in skin care treatments to enhance results. The use of devices should not be taken lightly. First and foremost, professionals must protect their license by knowing their state regulations and the FDA classification of each device. State regulations are not always clear, making it hard to understand the necessary rules. 

LED

LED, commonly referred to as light therapy, produces low levels of light energy. During the 1990s, NASA-sponsored research determined that an LED system could provide the necessary wavelengths and intensities to produce photosynthesis and grow plants in space. NASA subsequently discovered that LED could address astronaut health by maintaining strong cellular growth, preventing bone and muscle loss, and boosting the body’s ability to heal wounds. 

A light-emitting diode is a type of semiconductor that converts electrical energy into light energy that is released in the form of photons (bundles of light energy). The body’s cells can absorb photons and convert them to the form of energy that cells use to carry out normal functions. This form of energy is called adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. As aging occurs, the body produces less ATP, which inhibits cells from performing at peak function. 

In the treatment room, providers use LED at various wavelengths of the light spectrum to target specific skin concerns. Blue light is mainly used for acne, due to its antibacterial properties. Red light is used for skin rejuvenation to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Infrared is often used to fight signs of inflammation. Blue, red, and infrared are the most researched types, but there are other beneficial colors as well. The treatment is simple if all the guidelines are followed, including the use of eye protection. LED is applied on clean skin or with an approved clear serum or mask. It is widely used in skin care by skin care professionals due to its demonstrated effective results with the appearance of many skin conditions. 

References:

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1. Ghafarian, H. (2017, February 15). Consider of micro-current's effect to variation of facial wrinkle trend, Randomized Clinical Trial Study. Academia.edu. Retrieved February 24, 2023, from https://www.academia.edu/31457903/Consider_of_Micro_Currents_effect_to_variation_of_Facial_Wrinkle_trend_Randomized_Clinical_Trial_Study

1. Park, D., Park, H., Seo, J., & Lee, S. (2014). Sonophoresis in Transdermal Drug Deliveries. Ultrasonics, 54(1), 56–65. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ultras.2013.07.007

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