I have become a big fan of light therapy - it is such an easy, non-invasive way to improve my skin and I never have to worry about product reactions! Here's an easy primer to the difference between the red and blue light benefits:
Red light increases the production of collagen and elastin and
effectively takes action against these signs of aging: reduces the
appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; fights dullness for a radiant
complexion; moisturizes to nourish dry skin for a healthy-looking glow;
improves rough texture for smooth, soft skin; balances skin's colour to
improve uneven skin tone; and firms and plumps for visibly
younger-looking skin.
Blue light improves the overall health of skin for a
more refined texture and brighter, more radiant complexion as well as
clears acne breakouts and blemishes faster and prevents future
breakouts. It kills bacteria at the source, deep within the skin,
without
harshness or irritation - the result is an elimination of blemishes,
clogged pores, pimples and acne breakouts, and a bright, clear
complexion.
I find I get the best results by using both types - I use the blue light first on any visible blemishes and in areas that I tend to break out and follow up with the red light in the same areas - I find it actually helps the blemishes heal quicker, prevents the red mark and clears up any red mark that might occur. I then use the red light in any areas I think are looking too old!
The nice thing about these devices is how portable they are - I use them while watching educational programing (Real Housewives) on the television but could also easily use them just about anywhere - just expect strange looks if you use them in public places! Here are a few to choose from:
Silk'n FaceFX Anti-Aging Light Device - $299 - helps treat periorbital wrinkles and reduce pore size, all
while helping to temporarily improve the appearance of the skin and is perfect for anyone concerned about anti-aging or skin
rejuvenation. After just eight weeks of using Silk'n FaceFX, users
reported improvement in skin texture, a reduction of fine lines and
wrinkles, the fading of skin patches and a reduction of pore size. All
of these benefits combine to reveal younger-looking skin. It can be used anywhere you see signs of aging or desire a youthful
glow.
I like that this one has a metal head, it makes the device feel warm and super smooth on your skin!
Available at The Shopping Channel -
www.theshoppingchannel.com
TRIA Skin Perfecting Blue Light - $245 - includes the blue light device, a 2 month cartridge, battery charger and instructions. You can use it once a day for 5 minutes or twice a day for 2 1/2 minutes and expect
healthy, clear skin, with fewer acne breakouts and no irritation in as little as two weeks. Spare cartridges are $40.
What I like about it as opposed to the traditional creams that I would normally use to treat acne is that it doesn't dry out my skin and make it go all flaky around the blemish area the way a spot treatment does!
Available at
http://www.triabeauty.ca/skin-perfecting-blue-light, Nordstrom and select retailers.
Tanda Luxe - $195- you've already heard me proclaim my
Tanda love previously and now that I'm aware that the device has been improved with the addition of sonic vibration and gentle warming to give it more of a facial effect I am very excited!
It's a very quick addition to a beauty routine. You can use it in targeted areas and it only takes 3 minutes twice a week or for the full facial experience - or you can use the device over your whole face for 12 minutes. You'll notice even better results if you use your favourite serum afterwards - this is when I like to apply a brightening product!
The same improvement of vibration and warming has been made to the blue light system - Tanda Clear+ - $195 - what's really nice is you don't have to buy separate systems if you want to use both - the different light heads are sold individually and can be used with either system!
And of course if it's the blue light you are after and you need something a little more budget friendly, there is always the
Tanda Zap!
Available at Shoppers Drug Mart, The Bay, Sephora, The Shopping Channel - www.theshoppingchannel.com and Tanda.com.
- Lisamarie -