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LED Light Therapy FAQs: What to Know, According to Skin Therapists

LED Light Therapy Facial — a therapist giving a client an LED Facial

In This Article

Our skin therapists answer the most frequently asked questions about an LED Light Therapy Facial — including how it works, who it suits, safety, results, and cost.

What is LED light therapy?

LED light therapy (Light Emitting Diode therapy) is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate natural healing and rejuvenation processes within the skin.

Different light wavelengths penetrate the skin at varying depths to trigger biological responses such as:

  • Collagen production
  • Reduced inflammation
  • Bacterial reduction
  • Improved circulation
  • Accelerated tissue repair

It does not use ultraviolet (UV) light, so it does not cause burns or sun damage.

LED light therapy is also sometimes referred to as an LED facial or LED phototherapy treatment.

How does LED light therapy work?

LED light therapy works by emitting specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin at varying depths of approximately 1mm to 10mm, depending on the wavelength (colour) of light. 

Different LED light colours trigger different biological responses and, consequently, skin benefits.

Once absorbed by the skin, the light energy stimulates communication between skin cells, encouraging healing, repair, and rejuvenation –  without damaging surrounding tissue. 

What do different LED light colours do for the skin?

Professional LED treatments commonly focus on three main wavelengths:

Red Light

  • Stimulates collagen and elastin
  • Improves fine lines and wrinkles
  • Reduces inflammation and redness
  • Supports healing

Blue Light

Infrared Light

  • Penetrates deeper layers of the skin
  • Supports tissue repair
  • Enhances overall healing and rejuvenation

Some devices may also include green, yellow, purple, cyan, or orange light for additional targeted concerns — though professional machines typically focus on the most evidence-supported wavelengths.

What are the benefits of LED light therapy?

LED light therapy can support a wide range of skin concerns, including:

  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Acne and breakouts
  • Acne scars and texture concerns
  • Hyperpigmentation and dark spots
  • Rosacea and redness
  • Broken capillaries
  • Enlarged pores
  • Dull or tired skin
  • Inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis or psoriasis

Because it works at a cellular level, LED therapy supports long-term skin health — leading to brighter, clearer, more balanced skin over time.

Can LED light therapy help with acne?

Yes.

Blue LED light helps target acne-causing bacteria within the sebaceous glands. By reducing bacterial activity and oil overproduction, LED can help:

  • Reduce active breakouts
  • Calm inflamed acne
  • Prevent future congestion

It is particularly beneficial for mild to moderate inflammatory acne.

Can LED light therapy reduce fine lines and wrinkles?

Red and infrared light stimulate collagen and elastin production — two essential proteins responsible for skin firmness and elasticity.

Over time, this can help:

  • Soften fine lines
  • Improve skin plumpness
  • Enhance overall texture
  • Support long-term skin resilience

LED is especially effective for early signs of ageing.

Can LED light therapy help with pigmentation or redness?

Yes.

Certain wavelengths help:

  • Break down excess melanin clusters
  • Reduce inflammation associated with rosacea
  • Improve overall skin tone
  • Support circulation

For deeper pigmentation concerns, LED may be combined with other treatments as part of a broader plan.

Who is a good candidate for LED light therapy?

LED light therapy is suitable for most skin types and concerns, particularly those experiencing:

  • Mild to moderate acne
  • Early signs of ageing
  • Uneven tone or dullness
  • Redness or rosacea
  • Sensitive skin that cannot tolerate aggressive treatments

It’s often ideal for those wanting skin improvement without downtime due to its gentle and non-invasive nature.

Because every skin journey is unique, a personalised consultation helps determine whether this treatment is the right fit for you.

Who should avoid LED light therapy?

LED light therapy may not be suitable for individuals who:

  • Have a history of epilepsy
  • Are taking light-sensitising medications
  • Are using Accutane (isotretinoin)
  • Have active skin rashes or uncontrolled skin disorders
  • Have certain photosensitive conditions

A professional assessment is always recommended prior to treatment.

What happens during an LED light therapy treatment?

Here’s what you can expect during a professional session:

Step 1: Cleansing and exfoliation
Your skin is cleansed to remove makeup, oil, and impurities to allow optimal light penetration.

Step 2: LED application
The LED device is placed over your face. The selected wavelength is delivered for approximately 30 minutes.
You may feel gentle warmth — many clients describe it as deeply relaxing.

Step 3: SPF application
After the session, sunscreen is applied.

There is no invasive contact, no needles, and no tissue injury.

Additionally, there is no downtime, no peeling, no restrictions. You can return to work, the gym, or your usual routine immediately.

How long does an LED light therapy session take?

Most LED light therapy sessions take approximately 30 minutes, not including preparation and cleansing.

It is often performed as a standalone treatment or added to facials and other skin therapies.

Does LED light therapy hurt?

No. LED light therapy is completely pain-free.

Most clients describe the sensation as:

  • Gentle warmth
  • Relaxing heat
  • Similar to lying in soft sunlight (without UV exposure)

There are no needles, no abrasion, and no burning sensations. Many clients even fall asleep during treatment.

How many LED light therapy sessions are needed?

While some people notice improvement after a single session, optimal results typically require a course of treatments.

A treatment plan often consists of:

  • 4 or 8 sessions
  • Performed every 2 days for best results

LED benefits are cumulative, meaning results build gradually with consistency.

Your aesthetician will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your skin and goals. Start with a personalised consultation to help map out the safest and most effective schedule for you.

When will you see results from LED light therapy?

Many people notice:

  • Immediate post-treatment glow
  • Reduced redness within days
  • Gradual acne improvement over several sessions
  • Collagen-related improvements over several weeks

Consistency is key. The most significant results appear after completing the recommended course.

How long do LED light therapy results last?

LED light therapy benefits are not permanent.

Maintenance sessions are recommended to sustain:

  • Collagen production
  • Acne control
  • Skin brightness

Because LED does not damage tissue, it can be safely repeated as part of an ongoing skin plan.

Is LED light therapy safe?

Yes — when performed by trained professionals, LED light therapy is considered one of the safest non-invasive aesthetic treatments available. 

It is:

  • Non-invasive
  • Pain-free
  • UV-free
  • Suitable for most skin types and tones
  • Free from burns or skin damage

When performed with professional equipment and proper eye protection, it is considered one of the safest aesthetic treatments available.

Are there any side effects of LED light therapy?

For the vast majority of people, LED light therapy has minimal to no side effects.

Some individuals may temporarily experience:

  • Mild redness
  • Gentle warmth immediately after treatment

These effects are typically short-lived and resolve within hours.

Because LED therapy does not emit ultraviolet (UV) rays and does not damage the skin barrier, it does not cause burns, peeling, or tissue injury.

In rare cases, LED therapy may temporarily aggravate pre-existing skin conditions if suitability has not been properly assessed beforehand. This is why professional evaluation prior to treatment is important.

What are the aftercare instructions for LED light therapy?

LED therapy requires minimal aftercare.

After your session:

  • Continue daily sunscreen use
  • Maintain gentle skincare
  • Stay hydrated

You can resume normal activities immediately — including exercise and social plans.

If you’d like a more comprehensive breakdown of how this treatment works — including detailed benefits, candidacy considerations, and treatment planning — you can read our complete guide to LED Light Therapy.

Further Questions About LED Light Therapy

Is at-home LED light therapy as effective as salon treatments?

At-home LED masks can provide mild, gradual improvements.

However, professional machines:

  • Use higher-intensity wavelengths
  • Deliver more targeted treatment
  • Are administered with expert guidance
  • Produce faster, more noticeable results

Professional LED facials are ideal for those seeking structured treatment plans and stronger outcomes.

Can you do LED light therapy every day?

While LED light therapy is safe and does not contain UV rays, daily professional treatments are generally unnecessary.

At-home devices may be used more frequently, but professional treatments deliver stronger wavelengths — meaning fewer sessions are needed to achieve results.

Moderation ensures optimal response and prevents overstimulation.

Can LED light therapy be combined with other treatments?

Yes. LED therapy is often combined with:

  • Microneedling
  • Chemical peels
  • IPL treatments
  • Facials

It can enhance healing, reduce inflammation, and improve overall outcomes when scheduled appropriately.

Is LED light therapy better than laser treatments?

LED therapy and laser treatments serve different purposes.

LED is non-ablative and supports healing and inflammation reduction. Lasers use targeted light energy to remove or destroy specific skin structures.

The best option depends on your skin goals and tolerance for downtime.

Is LED light therapy suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes. LED therapy is often well tolerated by sensitive skin types because it does not break the skin barrier.

However, assessment is still recommended to ensure suitability.

How much does LED light therapy cost?

The cost of LED light therapy varies depending on:

  • The number of sessions recommended
  • Whether it is performed as a standalone treatment or combined with another procedure
  • The specific skin concern being addressed

In general, single-session pricing typically ranges between:

  • $60–$120 for standalone LED sessions
  • Package pricing is available for 4 or 8-session courses

Because LED therapy works best as a series, package plans are often recommended for optimal results.

A consultation helps determine the most suitable treatment plan and personalised pricing.

View LED light therapy facial options and pricing.

Where can I get an LED Light Therapy Facial in Christchurch?

Considering an LED light therapy facial in Christchurch? At Lovoir Beauty Salon & Day Spa, our skin therapists can assess your needs and tailor a plan to your goals. Book a consultation to get started.

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