What is Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) was developed by NASA and is a non-invasive light source treatment that promotes the healing and repair of tissues. This is achieved by the cells absorbing particles of light and transforming the energy into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Simply put, the light allows compromised cells to regenerate. This then creates cellular changes which promote:
Increased circulation
Accelerated tissue repair
Reduction of pain and inflammation
Benefit skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, or ageing (fine lines and wrinkles)
Research also indicates that hair loss can benefit from regular use of LLLT!
Over the years there has been much research about LLLT and DR Michael Hamblin, a Principal Investigator at the Wellman Centre for Photomedicine has conducted many peer reviews on the effectiveness of it.
The device I use is a Celluma Pro and is FDA approved and CE certified which means that it is cleared for medical use for the above conditions. It has three settings, Blue, Red and Near Infrared, each emitting a different wavelength and the correct one will be chosen for you.
What does each setting treat?
The blue light setting would be chosen if you are seeking treatment for acne, blemishes, or wound healing if infections are present, as research shows that blue wavelengths are needed to kill bacteria.
Research shows that the red setting can be beneficial as it can reduce inflammation, redness, and puffiness. Red wavelengths also increase blood flow which helps to generate new healthier tissue and remove toxins from the body. So, for someone with acne the blue light would help to clear the bacteria and reduce acne, and the red light would help with skin healing.
Unlike blue light, near-infrared wavelengths can penetrate deeper into tissues to alleviate pain, increase circulation, and decrease inflammation. The infrared light provides compromised cells with extra energy to speed up the natural repair of tissue cells, support cell production, and restore balance within the body. Therefore, this setting may be used in conjunction with any of the above to help with pain, muscle and joint problems, wound healing, skin tone and deeper lines and wrinkles.
Is Low Level Laser Therapy Safe
Yes, it is safe, but would either not be used or be used with caution for the following:
For use over the abdomen if you are pregnant or if you are lactating
If you have epilepsy as low frequency pulsed visible light (<30Hz) might trigger a seizure in photosensitive, epileptic patients. However, the adverse effects of LLLT have been reported to be no different from those reported by patients exposed to placebo devices in trials.
Those taking photosensitive medications as it can cause skin irritations. Your practitioner will go through any medications that you take and advise you accordingly.
Within one month of a steroid injection.
Those taking immunosuppressants as the medication will prevent the tissues from healing. However, after surgery or an injury, the Celluma Pro can be used to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Those with eye disease or retinal abnormalities.
Acupuncture and LLLT
LLLT can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or alongside acupuncture to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and accelerate healing. It can also be used alongside cosmetic acupuncture to reduce the signs of ageing and to benefit the skin.
If you would like more information, please give me a call and we can discuss your individual needs. In the coming months I will write some blogs on conditions that can benefit from the addition of low-level light therapy to the treatment.
Resources (June 2023)
Clinical Efficacy of Self-applied Blue Light Therapy for Mild-to-Moderate Facial Acne
Blue light or red light? What is the most effective colour on the light spectrum for LED light therapy? And what are wavelengths anyway?
Celluma: Best Infrared Light Therapy for Pain
Red Light Therapy for Hair Loss
Review of PBM Contraindications https://acupuncturetoday.com/article/34288-review-of-pbm-contraindications
Wynyard Aesthetics https://www.wynyardaestheticsacademy.com