LED photobiomodulation (PBM) uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to support the skin’s own cellular processes, without heat or tissue damage. At Lady’s Beauty Care we offer full-body LED therapy combining red (635nm) and near-infrared (880nm) wavelengths. This guide covers how it works, what published research has found for skin, and how to prepare for your session.
Ready to book? See our red light therapy in Adelaide page for prices and booking.
Treatment Summary
Red light (630–650nm) works on the more superficial skin layers, while near-infrared (830–880nm) reaches deeper into the dermis. Together they are associated with increased cellular energy (ATP) production and collagen activity in the skin. Published studies have reported improvements in the look of fine lines, skin roughness and complexion with a course of treatments (see the research below). Zero downtime. Results vary between individuals.
On This Page:
How It Works
Photobiomodulation works through photochemical rather than thermal processes. Light is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, which is associated with increased ATP (cellular energy) production. In skin, this has been linked to increased fibroblast activity and collagen production, and a reduction in the enzymes that break collagen down. No heat, no tissue damage, no recovery period.
Wavelength-specific actions
Red light (630–650nm): Works on the superficial skin layers. Used for the look of fine lines, surface texture and overall complexion.
Near-infrared (830–880nm): Reaches the deeper dermis. Used alongside red light for deeper skin quality and as a soothing post-treatment step.
Combined protocol: Both wavelengths together cover a broader range of skin depths — the approach used at Lady’s Beauty Care.
Skin Rejuvenation: What the Research Says
Controlled trial: fine lines, roughness and collagen density
In a controlled trial of 136 volunteers treated twice weekly for 30 sessions with red or broad-spectrum light, researchers reported significant improvements in skin complexion and skin feeling, reduced skin roughness, and increased collagen density measured by ultrasound, compared with controls. No adverse events were reported. Wunsch A, Matuschka K. A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2014. View study →
Laboratory and clinical study: 660nm LED
In laboratory testing on reconstructed human skin, 660nm LED increased Type I procollagen by 31% and reduced MMP-1 (a collagen-degrading enzyme) by 18%. In the accompanying single-blinded clinical study, 87% of participants showed a reduction in wrinkle severity score after 12 treatments. Barolet D, Roberge CJ, Auger FA, Boucher A, Germain L. Regulation of skin collagen metabolism in vitro using a pulsed 660 nm LED light source: clinical correlation with a single-blinded study. Journal of Investigative Dermatology. 2009. doi:10.1038/jid.2009.186 View study →
Disclosure: the first author declared intellectual property related to the LED pulsing technology used in the study.
Studies used devices and settings that may differ from those used in clinic. Individual results vary.
Treatment Protocol
At Lady’s Beauty Care
- Wavelengths: Red (635nm) + near-infrared (880nm) combination
- Session duration: Approximately 15 minutes for full-body coverage
- Frequency for skin rejuvenation: 2–3 sessions weekly
- Initial course: 8–12 weeks for cumulative results
- Maintenance: Ongoing sessions to maintain results
Getting the dose right: LED follows a “biphasic” dose response — there is an optimal range. Too little produces minimal effect, and more is not better, which is why we follow set protocols.
Pre & Post-Session Preparation
48 hours before
Review photosensitising medications
Tetracyclines, doxycycline, certain antibiotics, isotretinoin, and some NSAIDs can increase photosensitivity. If you take any of these, tell your therapist before your session — never stop a prescribed medication without speaking to your doctor.
No ablative treatments
No chemical peels, microneedling, or laser within 48 hours before a standalone LED session unless LED is planned as part of that treatment. Skin should be calm and stable.
24 hours before
Pause retinoids and strong actives
Retinoids, high-strength Vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and benzoyl peroxide can increase sensitivity. Resume after your session.
Avoid sun exposure
No sunbathing or tanning. Sunburnt or irritated skin should settle before treatment.
On the day
Arrive with clean, bare skin
No makeup, oils, occlusives, or barrier creams. These can scatter light before it reaches the skin.
Skip mineral SPF on the day
Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide reflect light — the same reason they work as sun protection. We will cleanse any SPF off before treatment.
Remove contact lenses and jewellery
Remove contacts before facial LED treatment, and metal jewellery from treatment areas, as metal can reflect light unevenly.
Do not apply fresh serums before treatment
Some active ingredients can react with light or reduce absorption. Apply serums after your session unless your therapist advises otherwise.
Post-session
Post-treatment care
- Your therapist will apply hydrating post-treatment products — apply SPF 50+ before going outdoors
- Drink water and stay hydrated
- Avoid saunas, hot yoga, or intense exercise for 24 hours after facial treatments
Safety & Contraindications
Safety record
LED therapy is non-thermal and non-ablative, and published skin studies have reported minimal to no adverse events when protocols are followed. A consultation is still required to check suitability.
Not suitable if you have
- Active cancer or skin cancer, or are undergoing cancer treatment
- Photosensitive conditions (such as lupus or porphyria)
- Photosensitising medications — without medical clearance
- Epilepsy or light-triggered seizures
- Thyroid conditions — particularly for neck/upper chest treatment areas
- Pregnancy
- Active cold sores in the treatment area — reschedule until healed
- Recent burns, open wounds, or active infections in the treatment area
Combining with Other Treatments
LED is a gentle treatment that layers easily with other services:
- After Dermapen 4 microneedling — a soothing, calming finish to your session
- After chemical peels — a gentle add-on to support skin comfort
- Infrared sauna — schedule as separate sessions, not the same day
- Sensitive, redness-prone skin — LED is a gentle option for reactive skin outside of a flare; see our guide to redness-prone skin. If you have rosacea, please see your GP or dermatologist for diagnosis and medical management.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will I see results?
Many clients notice a fresher glow within 2–4 weeks. Changes in the look of fine lines and firmness build gradually over 8–12 weeks of consistent sessions. Results vary between individuals.
How is this different from laser?
Lasers use coherent, high-intensity light that can create controlled heat in the skin. LED uses non-coherent, low-intensity light with no heat or tissue damage. There’s no downtime, and it suits a wide range of skin tones.
Can I use LED if I’m on retinoids?
Generally yes. Pause retinoids for 24 hours before your session, then resume after. Mention any prescription skincare at your consultation.
Is there downtime?
None. You can return to normal activities straight away, including makeup once the post-treatment products have absorbed.
Red light vs near-infrared — which is better?
Neither on its own — they reach different skin depths and are commonly used together. Our protocol at Lady’s Beauty Care uses both.
Book Your LED Light Therapy Session
Available as a standalone session or as part of another treatment. Women-only clinic, Northfield SA.
- Wellness Treatments: Infrared Sauna & LED Therapy
- Dermapen 4 Microneedling Adelaide
- Redness-Prone Skin Guide
- Dermapen 4 Microneedling Blog: Benefits & How It Works
- Red Light Therapy & Infrared Sauna Service Page
Disclaimer
For educational purposes only. LED light therapy at Lady’s Beauty Care is a cosmetic treatment and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any medical condition. It has contraindications including active cancer, photosensitive conditions, certain medications, and pregnancy. A consultation is required before treatment. Individual results vary.
