Getting good skin isn't rocket science — but it does involve a little bit of biology and chemistry. As someone who's covered skin care and beauty for nearly a decade, I've spoken to countless dermatologists and skin care experts about how to get and maintain good skin. And their advice as stayed the same through the years: hydrate, wear sunscreen and target your skin's problem areas when you first notice them. But recently, there's a not-exactly-old, not-quite-new skin care technology that's been coming up more often when I chat with these experts: red light therapy.
Red light therapy has in recent years undergone a sort of at-home revival, bringing a technology once reserved for the wealthy who could afford monthly treatments at dermatologist's clinics and wellness centers to the masses. The types of horror-moving-inspired red light therapy masks you might expect to see in a dermatologist's office can now be purchased for at-home use — with a hefty price tag, of course. But even beyond those three-figure devices you can now find even more affordable devices in the form of red light wands.
Red light therapy uses low wavelength red light to stimulate cellular activity by increasing energy levels within mitochondria. This increased energy leads to cells that may rejuvenate and repair themselves more efficiently, meaning that RLT (red light therapy) could be an effective treatment for reducing inflammation. In the past RLT has been used a therapeutic technique to repair muscle tissues in athletes and to promote wound healing and scar tissue repair in medial settings, for example. It's also been used by dermatologists and skin care experts to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, scars, acne and redness — especially as an alternative to laser therapy. Both laser and red light therapy are based on the science behind stimulated light-based healing.
"I’m a big fan of light therapies and red light therapy to make the skin healthier, less sensitive and younger-appearing," said Dr. Ashley Magovern of Manhattan Dermatology and resident dermatologist for Dermstore, who we spoke to about building a healthy skin care routine in your 50s. "I still love my lasers, and a lot of people are laser-focused, but I believe in the power of light. To me, it’s the hidden gem. And, it’s so easy."
But let's back up: Why might someone want to invest a red light therapy device in the first place? After all, skin care devices might not seem necessary for everyone. But for targeting specific skin care concerns, experts agree that they're a good investment — especially for those nearing or entering menopause.
The body undergoes many hormonal changes during menopause, which can trigger increased melanin production and increased hyperpigmentation in the skin, in addition to everything else, according to Dr. Magovern. Light therapy devices are an at-home way to tackle the problem, and one devices consistently recommended by experts is the Solawave Radiant Renewal Wand because of its affordable price point and the fact that it's portable.
Many of the experts I've spoken with say that red light therapy devices like the Solawave are effective at boosting collagen to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, firm the skin, prevent acne flare-ups, and reduce redness and inflammation. But even everyday consumers can notice a difference when using red light therapy consistently.
"This definitely helps with fine lines," one Amazon reviewer wrote. "It’s hard to explain…..but sort of gets rid of the dullness and makes your skin appear more youthful looking. It’s not a chore to use the device — I actually look forward to the few minutes that use it, as I enjoy the 'me time.'"
"I've noticed that the brown spots on my face are becoming less visible," another enthusiastic reviewer said.
"I'm not a bright young thing now - spider veins on my nose, bad sun damage under my mouth and on my chin," another Amazon reviewer said. "All are much less visible! I use this wand with CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum and, okay, maybe that's the change factor. But I love the end result, so I'm sticking with this combo."
Of course, as with most skin care products, consistency is key. And like all red light therapy devices, the Solawave should be used in conjunction with your favorite serums to improve your skin's texture and appearance. Use it after cleansing and toning, with your preferred serum, and layer on moisturizer after use.
