When I first tried out a green LED light, I frankly suspected that this would turn out to be one of those nice to have things that aren’t really necessary to life and end up at the back of the bathroom cabinet – the personal care equivalent of a waffle maker. I quickly realized that green LED – for controlling hyperpigmentation – is definitely a goer. But more surprising is that, as the summer progresses, I am going green with a vengeance. A friend emailed me with a similar observation and we realized that different colored LED lights seem to favor seasonal use. Here's how:

Summer goes green

Green LED light helps with skin discoloration. So as summer gives me more exposure to sunlight I have found that I reach for the green light when I get out my Sirius Aurora ($149 in the TIA shop) or the Ultra Renew ($89 in the shop). The backs of my hands are in particular need of it as, despite the use of sunscreen, they are looking a distinct shade darker than the skin on the rest of my face and body. I haven’t seen much independent research behind green LED (as opposed to the well-documented red light), but I am seeing results on my skin in terms of a slight fading of dark spots and more even tone in general. Theoretically, green light targets melanocytes, melanin-producing cells located in the bottom layer of the skin's epidermis. According to Sirius, it inhibits the production of excess melanin, prevents it from traveling to the skin’s surface, and breaks up melanin clusters to diminish existing discoloration.

LED lights (of all colors) can be enhanced by the use of a topical cream or serum that performs a complimentary function. I find that green LED and Lumixyl’s Topical Brightening Crème work really well together.

See red in fall and spring

Red LED is for plumping the skin. Even NASA has recognized that it is therapeutic for the skin and can help heal wounds. Of course, it’s a must year-round, but seems even more necessary in fall and spring when we want to help retain or jump-start collagen production. stimulating the body’s tissues to convert the light energy into cellular energy. Most researchers agree that light therapy increases production of ATP (the energy engine of cells) and the modulation of reactive oxygen. It may also work by targeting water layers on elastin, reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles.

I always use an antioxidant serum with red light. Although the long-term effects of LED are detrimental to radical scavengers, in the short-term it can stimulate them. Researchers have shown the short-term effect can be counteracted with antioxidants such as green tea. I use Your Best Face Antioxidants Concentrate.

Winter blues

I am much more prone to breakouts in winter when my skin is dry and sensitive. This is when blue LED light can come into its own. Blue light wavelengths penetrate the skin and produce singlet oxygen that can destroy acne-causing bacteria. The light energy is absorbed by the targeted bacteria that produce the inflammation associated with acne known as propionibacterium acne’s, or “P. acne’s”. P. acne’s releases porphyrins, which are naturally occurring molecules in the body. When porphyrins absorb certain wavelengths of light, free radical damage is produced which destroys the bacteria.

Think about pairing blue LED with Tilvee’s Cranberry Balancing Lotion or Your Best Face Defend.

I am not suggesting that all you should only use your LED colors seasonally. But hopefully, this will inspire you to play around and use light therapy as it suits your needs.