Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Eczema Prone Skin
Janset Berzeg
2/3/20254 min read
If you or a loved one has eczema, you know how annoying it is. Clinically referred to as atopic dermatitis, eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It predominantly affects children but can persist into adulthood or even develop later in life. There are several types of eczema, with atopic dermatitis being the most common, followed by contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis and so on.
Before you dive deeper into the topic, here is my go-to red light therapy home facial. I tried two other devices but this is the one for me because it has six other light settings, so it's a seven in one home device.
Back to our topic, common causes of eczema include diet, chemicals in our home, including house cleaning stuff, shampoo and body wash, that cause disruptions in the skin barrier. It is said that individuals with a family history of eczema, hay fever, or asthma are more likely to develop the condition but there's no evidence that suggests this.
Triggers can vary significantly among individuals and often include allergens such as certain histamine-rich foods, dust mites, and pet dander. Additionally, irritants such as soaps, detergents, and certain fabrics can exacerbate symptoms. Weather changes, notably dry or humid conditions, along with emotional stress, are also recognized as contributors to flare-ups.
Understanding the causes and symptoms of eczema is vital for effective management. This is exactly what steriod-cream-prescribing medical doctors don't do, so you need to resolve it by yourself with the help of wellness research sites like The Wellnessian. When it comes to eczema though, there's no one size fits all.
You have to find out the foods, environment, weather and chemical irritants that cause your own symptoms and flare-ups by keeping an eczema journal and getting intolerance-tests done.
What Is Red Light Therapy & How Does It Heal?
Red light therapy, often referred to as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to promote cellular healing and regeneration. Originally discovered in the 1960s, its applications have expanded significantly, especially within dermatological practices, where it is increasingly recognized for its benefits in treating various skin conditions, including eczema.
An important note here is that as humans, we want every health issue to have a magic pill and we want that pill to work fast. That pill is within you. Human body has the ability to heal itself but not just with some colored light. If you don't eliminate histamine triggering and allergen foods from your diet, red light or purple light, non of the lights may work.
Back to the red light, the fundamental mechanism behind red light therapy lies in its ability to penetrate into the skin, reaching deeper layers without causing damage. When red light is absorbed by skin cells, it stimulates the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cells, leading to increased energy production in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
This boost in energy accelerates the body's natural healing processes, promotes cellular repair, and enhances overall skin health. Red light therapy is also known for its anti-inflammatory effects, which can be particularly advantageous for individuals with eczema-prone skin, where inflammation is a prevalent issue.
Unlike traditional short-sighted eczema treatments (a.k.a. steroid), red light therapy offers a more holistic approach. We all know that steroid creams, while fakely effective, lead to adverse side effects with prolonged use. Red light therapy, on the other hand, is celebrated for its safety profile and minimal side effects, making it a compelling alternative for those seeking relief from eczema without the risks associated with steroid withdrawal.
Many eczema sufferers report significant improvements in their skin condition after several sessions of red light therapy, noting not only physical benefits but also psychological relief from the challenges of living with eczema. Typical results can be observed within a few weeks, with repeated treatments enhancing effects over time. As such, for those seeking an alternative or complementary approach to conventional treatment options, red light therapy presents a viable solution worth considering.
How Do You Go About It?
Integrating red light therapy into your eczema care routine can be done at home or through professional sessions. To begin, it is essential to assess your personal preferences and budget, as both methods present unique advantages. Home devices, such as portable red light therapy units, can be used as often as needed, in the convenience of your own home. However, professional treatments, typically available in dermatology clinics or specialized spas, may provide more powerful devices and targeted applications that yield faster results.
For at-home use, a simple regimen can be established. You can start by incorporating red light therapy into your skincare routine about three to five times a week. Each session should last approximately 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the device's specifications and your skin's tolerance. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines carefully to avoid any potential side effects, such as overexposure or skin irritation.
When opting for professional sessions, consult with a dermatologist to develop a tailored treatment plan. They can recommend the ideal frequency and duration of sessions based on the severity of your eczema and the response of your skin to the therapy. Commonly, a schedule of weekly sessions is advisable to achieve optimal results during initial treatment phases.
Cost considerations should also be factored into your decision-making process given the probable thousands you already spent on eczema creams. Home devices often involve a one-time investment, while professional sessions can accumulate a significant cumulative expense. Finally, to enhance the effects of red light therapy, consider adopting complementary habits such as keeping your skin hydrated, and managing stress. These can collectively contribute to the overall health and resilience of eczema-prone skin.
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