You have probably heard the buzz about light therapy in skincare, with each colour promising to fix just about every skin concern out there without any invasive procedures and even available for at-home use through a growing range of devices. It all sounds a bit like a sci-fi solution to flawless skin, doesn’t it? But with so many colours in the mix, it is easy to get swept up in the hype. So, what do they all actually do, and are they worth trying? Let us break down how each one supposedly helps your skin and see if the results live up to the claims.

What it does

If you are seeking a solution for improving skin texture, red light might be your fighter. It goes deep into the skin and stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve elasticity, and fade dark spots and acne scars.

What is concerning about red light therapy?

While it all sounds impressive, don’t expect overnight miracles. Studies show red light can work, but results may take time — or might not happen at all, because red light simply doesn’t work the same for everyone. If you have got darker skin, for example, visible lights like red can increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. Not exactly what you hoped for, right?

That is why it is best to check in with a dermatologist, especially before trying an at-home device, since they are not as powerful as professional ones. They might work wonders on their own for some, but for others, they might only be effective as an addition alongside other treatments. And don’t forget about side effects: while the short-term ones seem minimal (maybe a bit of irritation), we still don’t know much about the long-term risks. So, as always, tread with caution.

What it does

If you are struggling with breakouts, blue light might be just the thing. Primarily used for treating acne, it targets and kills acne-causing bacteria on the surface of your skin, helping to reduce current breakouts and keep new ones from popping up. And what is particularly interesting is a clinical study that proved the efficiency of at-home blue light devices for treating mild-to-moderate acne.

What is concerning about blue light therapy?

Here is the thing: blue light only works on surface-level pimples, but is not effective for deeper acne types like blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, or nodules. Also, just like red light, blue light is part of the visible spectrum, meaning its effects on darker skin tones can vary.

Generally, blue light therapy is considered safe, with minimal side effects in the short term. However, as with any treatment, it is important to be cautious. Research suggests that blue light exposure from the sun speeds up skin ageing. Of course, your at-home device won’t be as intense as the sun, but do you really want to add more blue light into your routine? Especially when it is also linked to eye strain and possible retinal damage. 

What it does

Green light is a go-to remedy for calming the skin, reducing redness, and evening out skin tone. It is particularly useful if you are dealing with hyperpigmentation, broken capillaries, or rosacea, as it targets excess melanin and inflammation.

What is concerning about green light therapy?

That being said, its effectiveness depends a lot on your skin type and condition. Some people might see great results, while others, not so much. Green light is generally considered to have fewer side effects than other lights, but you could still experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or slight swelling. Plus, there isn’t much research on long-term side-effects and how well it works for darker skin tones. So, once again, have a chat with your dermatologist before diving in.

What it does

Yellow light might not get as much hype as the others, but it is great for treating broken blood vessels and sun-damaged skin. Because haemoglobin (that stuff in your blood) absorbs yellow light well, it is effective at reducing visible veins without damaging the surrounding skin. It is also known to boost skin elasticity and help with wrinkles, especially for skin that has had a bit too much sun.

What is concerning about yellow light?

However, the tech behind yellow light devices is complicated and costly, which means you won’t find as many options. And the cheaper, at-home gadgets? Well, they might not give you what you are hoping for. Also, as with the other lights, yellow light tends to be less effective for those with darker skin due to higher melanin levels.

While all of those types of light therapy can offer some promising benefits, it is essential to approach them with a healthy dose of realism. Be mindful of what your skin truly needs and whether these treatments are suitable for your skin type. Before you rush to buy the latest device, just do your research and consult a dermatologist to ensure it is safe and effective for you. After all, when it comes to skincare, there is no one-size-fits-all remedy.