Light Therapy: Antiaging & Wrinkles
The accumulation of chronic inflammation is one of the main contributors to aging. To recap from a previous post, causes of chronic inflammation include genetic factors, lifestyle/environment, pollution, stress, free radicals and oxidative stress, injury, poor diet, alcohol overuse, and smoking.
From our education and clinical studies, we know that aging skin, under microscopic evaluation, presents with the following findings: a reduction of collagen, fragmentation of collagen fibers, degeneration of elastic fibers, upregulation of MMPs, dilated dermal vessels, atrophy, and disorientation of the epidermis.
In clinical practice, common aging concerns displayed by patients include fine lines and wrinkles, skin tone and textural changes, dyspigmentation (brown spots), telangiectasias (spider veins), and loss of elasticity (sagging skin).
When attempting to reduce chronic inflammation, decreasing the amount of free radicals within the body can have positive, beneficial health effects. Consuming a diet rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, limiting alcohol and smoking, stress control, and red light therapies are just a few things you can do to improve your health which in turn works wonders for your skin health.
The benefits of regular red light and near-infrared light therapies on antiaging and wrinkles have been demonstrated in studies. When reviewing cells under microscopic evaluation, the following findings were noted: proliferation of fibroblasts, an increase in collagen, pro-collagen, dermal proteins, and growth factors, improved antioxidant function of cells and tissues, increased cell motility, activation of stem cells and dermal immune cells for increased tissue repair and healing, a reduction of MMPs, increased microcirculation, stimulation of lymphatic cells and local fluid circulation, improved hydration and strength of the skin, and reduced inflammation.
In clinical studies and practice, patients who underwent continuous treatment with light therapies reported:
Fewer fine lines and wrinkles
A more plump and firm appearance
A more refined skin tone and texture
A reduction in redness, swelling, and irritation
A more rejuvenated appearance to the skin with more brightness, glow, and clarity.