Light therapy and radio frequency energy have emerged as two of the most effective skin tightening treatments! But what is the science behind them, and how do they work?
In recent years, technology has revolutionised the way we approach skincare. Active ingredients and rejuvenating injectables have transformed our daily routines, promising effective solutions to a myriad of skin concerns.
At our medical aesthetic clinic in Colchester, two relative newcomers growing in popularity are light therapy and radio frequency energy. Medically-certified and specially formulated to support a range of in-clinic treatments, they’ve become integral components of our skin rejuvenation journal.
In this blog, Nurse Sophie has delved into the science behind these skin tightening treatments to explore how they can help you achieve a more youthful-looking appearance.
Understanding Light Therapy
Light therapy taps into the potency of three light wavelengths – red, blue and near-infrared – to penetrate deep into the skin’s layers. The blue light, with its antibacterial properties, works to eliminate acne-causing bacteria, whilst the red light addresses inflammation and promotes healing. The near infrared light then stimulates cellular activity, particularly in fibroblasts responsible for collagen production.
Beyond its impact on skin health, light therapy can also improve our overall wellbeing. Studies have shown that exposure to light wavelengths can regulate sleep-wake cycles, alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), improve insomnia, musculoskeletal pain, eczema and even promote hair growth.
At So Medical Aesthetics, we use a device called Dermalux to painlessly emit calibrated wavelengths of red, blue and near-infrared light. During the session, the wavelengths are absorbed by chromophores within the skin, triggering a multitude of biochemical reactions that can result in a tighter, firmer complexion.
What Are The Benefits Of Light Therapy?
Light therapy is one of the most common skin tightening treatments. But its benefits encompass a far wider range of skin concerns. The treatment;
- Stimulates cellular activity in the fibroblasts responsible for producing collagen and elastin. This improves overall skin tone and texture.
- Helps to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leading to a more youthful complexion.
- Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated, eczema-prone skin and promote faster healing of wounds and scars.
- Targets acne-causing bacteria called Propionibacterium. By destroying this bacteria, light therapy helps to clear acne breakouts and prevent future flare-ups.
- Regulates circadian rhythms – the physical, mental, and behavioural changes an organism experiences over a 24-hour cycle – leading to improved mood and energy levels.
- Effectively treats seasonal affective disorder (SAD), boosts energy levels and alertness. Some studies have even suggested that light therapy can improve concentration, memory and cognitive performance.
Understanding Radio Frequency Energy
Unlike light therapy, which primarily targets the surface layers of the skin, radio frequency energy delivers controlled heat deep into the dermis. At our aesthetic clinic near Essex, we use a Focus Dual device to combine the skin-tightening effects of radio frequency energy with the benefits of traditional microneedling.
During this procedure, ultra-fine needles create microscopic channels to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. In turn, the radiofrequency energy is delivered deep into the skin to trigger the production of collagen and elastin – the essential components that keep skin supple and firm.
The skin tightening treatment can be combined with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to lift, tighten and reduce pockets of stubborn fat.
What Are The Benefits Of Radio Frequency Energy?
Pain-free and safe for all skin types, Focus Dual is renowned for its ability to rejuvenate the skin. The treatment;
- Creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin’s surface to stimulate the production of collagen. This helps to diminish the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and creases.
- Effectively resurfaces the skin to reduce the appearance of acne scars, uneven texture and pigmentation.
- Penetrates deep into the dermis to lift and firm sagging skin, particularly in areas prone to laxity such as the jawline, neck and jowls.
- Helps to shrink enlarged pores by improving overall skin texture.
- Generates heat to destroy acne-causing bacteria and promote faster healing of acne lesions.
- Enhances the skin’s ability to retain moisture and nutrients by promoting the production of hyaluronic acid in the dermis.
Skin Tightening Treatments At So Medical Aesthetics
At So Medical Aesthetics, we’re proud to provide light therapy and radio frequency energy as medically-certified methods for achieving youthful, radiant skin!
Whether you’re seeking to reduce fine lines or improve overall skin texture and tone, our advanced skin tightening treatments are designed to help you look and feel your best.
To learn how we can help you feel your most confident, schedule a personalised consultation with a medical practitioner in Colchester today.