#Redlightforacne may be a popular hashtag, but do those LED devices that promise to improve your skin actually work?
The devices, which are available for at-home use, expose the skin to low levels of red or blue light, which are believed to target acne bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Researchers reviewed 6 previous investigations including 216 participants from preteens to middle agers with mild to moderate acne. They looked at the safety and efficacy of at-home light therapy ranging from 2 days to 12 weeks.
Their conclusion… Participants treated with red and/or blue light devices experienced significant reductions in inflammatory and noninflammatory lesions compared to a control group.
And the side effects were minimal -- minor irritation and discomfort. No severe reactions were reported.
Both types of light reduced acne severity, but a combo produced better results.
The authors say these “findings indicate that at-home LED devices likely are a viable treatment option for patients with mild to moderate acne who. are seeking nonpharmacologic management approaches.”
Source: [JAMA Dermatology](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/2830694)
Author Affiliations: Brigham and Women’s Hospital