Experience the future with our AI Simulator
Try Now for FreeFine lines and wrinkles, scars, sun damage, and acne are common skin problems that many people struggle with. But how do you treat them without surgery, downtime, or a shelf full of products that never quite deliver? At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, we offer a number of different options, including red light therapy. This noninvasive, painless treatment has been shown to be effective for a variety of skin concerns and can have you looking your absolute best.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT) is an innovative treatment that has shown promise when treating fine lines and wrinkles, redness, acne, stretch marks, and scars. It can also help speed up the healing process after cosmetic procedures and everyday injuries. The treatment uses low-wavelength red light delivered through panels of light-emitting diodes to help rejuvenate and repair skin cells more efficiently. You may also see it referred to as low-level laser therapy, and many systems pair visible red wavelengths with near-infrared light treatment. Near-infrared light penetrates further to reach muscle and connective tissue below the surface, but does not remove or wound the outer layer of skin, unlike ablative lasers.
Red light therapy is associated with improved blood circulation, faster wound healing, increased collagen and elastin production, reduced inflammation, and broad skin rejuvenation. Researchers have also documented anti-inflammatory effects, which explains why the technology is being studied well beyond aesthetics, including for pain management, for its potential to stimulate hair growth, and as a supportive option when treating rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
The red light has been shown to strengthen and increase the energy of the mitochondria in the skin cells. With more energy, your cells can rejuvenate and repair themselves more quickly, increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, scars, and other concerns. Because the same wavelengths calm inflammation and improve circulation, some patients also notice that sessions help relieve pain and stiffness in the treated area, which is part of why the technology has been adopted for pain relief in physical therapy settings.
board-certified plastic surgeon
DR. KAHLIL ANDREWS
Dr. Kahlil Andrews is a board-certified plastic surgeon from Los Angeles specializing in plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
At his location in Coralville, Iowa, Dr. Andrews’ academic and technical achievements are only exceeded by his commitment to patient care. Whether they are seeking reconstructive breast surgery, outpatient injectable treatment, or a full-blown mommy makeover, Dr. Andrews gives his full attention and focus on achieving excellent patient outcomes.
MEET DR. ANDREWSWho is a Good Candidate for Red Light Therapy?
Because red light therapy is safe for all skin types, most patients are good candidates for red light therapy treatment. It can be especially beneficial if you have the following skin concerns:
- Visible signs of aging
- Scars
- Stretch marks
- Sun damage
- Inflammation
- Psoriasis
- Acne and acne scars
Red light therapy is not recommended for anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, anyone taking medication that increases light sensitivity, or anyone with certain skin conditions or underlying health concerns. Make sure to let your provider know about any medications, supplements, and medical history before starting treatment so we can confirm the therapy is appropriate for you.
The Red Light Therapy Procedure
Red light therapy sessions are simple. You will wear protective goggles, and the treatment area will be positioned under the light panel for a set period of time, usually somewhere between 10 and 20 minutes depending on the concern being addressed. The light creates only very low levels of heat, so it will not burn your skin or be painful in any way. Most patients describe the sensation as a pleasant warmth and use the time to relax.
Red light therapy is an outpatient treatment, so you’ll be able to leave as soon as your treatment session is over. Most patients require treatment a few times a week to see results, and maintenance treatment may be necessary. In-office treatments use more advanced red light therapy devices than at-home devices, producing faster and more noticeable change.
How many treatments you may need varies, but most patients start with 2-3 treatments per week for several weeks, then move to a maintenance schedule once they reach their goal. Results build gradually rather than appearing overnight, so consistency matters far more than any single appointment. Red light therapy is an outpatient treatment, so you will be able to leave as soon as your session is over and return to work or errands right away.
Testimonials
“Aftercare
After red light therapy, you can return to your normal activities immediately. There is no downtime and no recovery period. You may notice mild skin redness after treatment, but that will diminish on its own within an hour or two. Avoid harsh treatments such as strong exfoliants, retinoids, or chemical peels for a day or so afterward, and give your skin time to settle. Dr. Andrews will tell you when it is safe to resume active ingredients, and if you are treating breakouts, he may recommend pairing your sessions with a topical salicylic acid product to keep pores clear between appointments. Use SPF sunscreen regularly and protect the area from the harmful UV rays of the sun, since skin can be more sensitive after treatment. Avoiding excess sun exposure will also protect the collagen you are working so hard to build.
Clinical trials on skin have reported significant improvement in measures such as skin roughness, skin elasticity, and wrinkle reduction after a consistent course of treatment. Research is ongoing, and results vary from patient to patient, but the safety profile is excellent, and the treatment is well tolerated.
Schedule a Consultation
Improving skin health and rejuvenating a more youthful appearance just got easier. If you are struggling with visible signs of aging, scars, or acne, red light therapy may be the perfect solution. During your consultation, your provider will listen to your concerns, examine your skin, and then build a treatment plan that suits your needs.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery today, call our Coralville, IA office at 319.220.4644 or use our online contact form. We can’t wait to help you achieve your aesthetic goals!
Specials, Blog and Financing
