Non-Invasive Light Therapy for Acne, Redness & Skin Rejuvenation
LED light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of visible light to support the appearance and health of the skin.
At Yolanda C. Holmes, M.D., P.C. in Washington, DC, LED Therapy may be used as a standalone treatment or incorporated into a broader skincare or aesthetic treatment plan.
Depending on the wavelength used, LED light therapy may help address concerns such as acne-related inflammation, redness, uneven-looking skin, and signs of skin aging. It can also be used as a gentle treatment following certain procedures when appropriate.
Because LED therapy does not involve needles, injections, or intentional removal of the skin's surface, it generally requires little to no downtime.
LED stands for light-emitting diode.
LED light therapy uses specific wavelengths of non-ultraviolet light to deliver light energy to the skin. Different wavelengths interact with the skin in different ways, which is why treatment can be tailored to specific concerns.
Commonly used wavelengths include:
LED therapy does not use ultraviolet light and does not intentionally injure or remove the skin.
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LED therapy may be incorporated into a skincare plan for several concerns, including:
The appropriate wavelength and treatment approach depend on your individual skin concerns.
LED therapy is not a replacement for medical treatment when an underlying dermatologic condition requires diagnosis or prescription therapy.
Blue LED light is commonly used in acne-focused light therapy.
Acne develops through several interconnected processes, including excess oil production, clogged pores, inflammation, and the activity of acne-associated bacteria.
Light-based treatments may help address some of these factors, particularly when used as part of a broader acne treatment plan.
However, LED therapy should not be considered a universal treatment for acne. Patients with moderate or severe acne may require medical therapies such as topical medications, oral medications, or other dermatologist-directed treatments.
If you are experiencing persistent or inflammatory acne, Dr. Holmes can evaluate your skin and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Certain LED wavelengths may have a calming effect on the skin and can be incorporated into treatment plans for patients concerned about temporary redness or skin sensitivity.
LED therapy may be especially useful as a gentle, non-invasive addition to a broader skincare routine.
However, persistent facial redness can have many causes, including rosacea and other dermatologic conditions. If redness is ongoing, recurrent, or associated with other symptoms, a dermatologic evaluation is important.
Red and near-infrared light are commonly used in aesthetic settings as part of skin-rejuvenation treatments.
LED therapy may support the skin's natural processes involved in repair and collagen production, potentially helping improve the overall appearance of:
Results are generally subtle and gradual, and LED therapy often works best as part of a consistent treatment and skincare plan.
LED therapy may be incorporated into certain cosmetic treatment plans following procedures such as:
Whether LED therapy is appropriate immediately after another procedure depends on the treatment performed, the condition of your skin, and the specific protocol being used.
Your provider will determine when LED therapy can safely be incorporated into your treatment plan.
LED light therapy is already incorporated into some of the HydraFacial treatments offered at YHMD.
For example, the Platinum HydraFacial concludes with LED light therapy as part of its multi-step treatment. The Clarifying HydraFacial also incorporates blue LED light as part of its acne-focused protocol.
Patients who want LED therapy can therefore discuss whether a standalone LED session or a treatment that incorporates LED would be more appropriate for their skin goals.
LED therapy can be used on areas of the body where light treatment is appropriate.
Common treatment areas include:
Your provider will determine the appropriate treatment area during your consultation.
LED therapy is a simple, non-invasive procedure.
Your skin is cleansed and prepared for treatment. Protective eyewear may be provided depending on the device being used.
The LED device is positioned over the treatment area and delivers the selected wavelength of light.
Most patients experience little more than a gentle warming sensation.
There are no needles, injections, or skin resurfacing involved.
Treatment time varies depending on the treatment plan and device being used.
LED therapy is generally considered comfortable and non-invasive.
Most patients do not experience significant discomfort during treatment. You may notice gentle warmth from the light source.
Because there is no intentional removal or injury to the skin's surface, LED therapy generally does not require anesthesia.
LED therapy typically requires little to no downtime.
Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment.
Unlike treatments that intentionally resurface or injure the skin, LED therapy generally does not cause significant peeling or prolonged recovery.
Your provider will give you any individualized aftercare instructions based on whether LED therapy was performed alone or in combination with another treatment.
The number of sessions depends on your skin concerns and treatment goals.
Some patients choose LED therapy as an occasional supportive treatment, while others may benefit from a series of sessions.
When LED therapy is being used to support treatment of acne, inflammation, or skin rejuvenation, consistency may be important.
Your provider can recommend an appropriate treatment schedule based on your individual needs.
LED therapy is generally intended to produce gradual improvements rather than dramatic immediate changes.
Depending on the treatment goal, patients may notice that their skin looks calmer, more refreshed, or more radiant following treatment.
For concerns such as acne or skin rejuvenation, visible changes may require multiple sessions and a consistent skincare routine.
Individual results vary.
LED therapy uses non-UV light and can be appropriate for many different skin types.
However, not every patient is automatically a candidate for every type of light therapy.
Certain medications and medical conditions can increase sensitivity to light. During your consultation, tell your provider about medications, supplements, and skincare products you are currently using.
Your provider can determine whether LED therapy is appropriate and which treatment approach is best for you.
LED therapy generally requires minimal preparation.
Before treatment:
If LED therapy is being performed following another procedure, follow the preparation instructions for that treatment as well.
Because LED therapy typically has little to no downtime, aftercare is straightforward.
After treatment, you should:
Consistent sun protection and a personalized skincare routine can help support the overall appearance and health of your skin.
LED therapy is different from laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments.
LED therapy uses non-UV visible or near-infrared light and generally does not intentionally damage or remove the skin.
Laser treatments use concentrated light at specific wavelengths to target structures within the skin and can be used for concerns such as pigmentation, vascular changes, hair removal, or skin resurfacing, depending on the laser.
IPL uses a broad spectrum of light and may be used for certain pigmentation and vascular concerns.
The right treatment depends on what you are trying to address, your skin type, and your overall treatment goals.
Yes. LED therapy may be incorporated into a broader aesthetic or skincare treatment plan when appropriate.
At YHMD, LED therapy may be combined with or incorporated into treatments such as:
Not every treatment should be combined or performed on the same day. Your provider will determine the appropriate timing and sequence.
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Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.
She provides medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology care with an individualized approach based on each patient's skin type, concerns, and treatment goals.
Learn more about Dr. Holmes →
Hanna Mitchell is a skilled Master Aesthetician who works alongside Dr. Holmes to provide exceptional skincare and LED light therapy treatments. With advanced training in medical aesthetics, Hanna brings a gentle, detail-oriented approach to patient care, ensuring each treatment is tailored to your unique skin type and goals.
Her expertise includes LED light therapy, HydraFacial, chemical peels, microneedling, and customized facials. Hanna takes the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and help you feel comfortable and confident throughout your treatment journey.
Learn more about Hanna Mitchell, Master Aesthetician →
Ready to give your skin a gentle, non-invasive treatment that can complement your skincare routine? Schedule a consultation with the YHMD team to determine whether LED Therapy is appropriate for your skin.
Schedule a LED Light Therapy Consultation in Washington, DC
