The Treatment
What is LED Phototherapy?
LED Phototherapy (Light Emitting Diode therapy) is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses specific, clinically proven wavelengths of light to trigger natural biological processes within the skin. Think of it as giving your skin cells the light energy they need to repair, regenerate, and function at their best.
Unlike UV light (which damages skin), the wavelengths used in LED phototherapy are entirely safe and have been the subject of extensive clinical research. Different wavelengths of light penetrate to different depths within the skin and trigger different cellular responses — which is why choosing the right wavelength for your concern is essential.
“LED phototherapy is one of my favourite treatments to recommend because it does something remarkable — it supports your skin’s own repair processes rather than doing the work for it. It’s genuinely one of the most relaxing treatments we offer too.”
At Amber Grove, LED phototherapy can be used as a standalone treatment or — very effectively — as an add-on after microneedling, dermaplaning, or chemical peels to accelerate healing and enhance results.
The Different Wavelengths
Understanding the light types
The three main wavelengths used in LED phototherapy each work differently and target different skin concerns. At your consultation, I’ll select the right wavelength — or combination — for your specific needs.
Red Light · 630–700nm
Rejuvenation & Repair
Penetrates the dermis to stimulate fibroblast activity and collagen production. The most researched wavelength for anti-ageing, healing, and overall skin quality. Reduces inflammation and promotes cellular repair.
Blue Light · 415–450nm
Acne & Bacteria
Works at the surface of the skin to destroy the bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) responsible for acne breakouts. Also helps regulate sebaceous gland activity, reducing oiliness over time.
Near-Infrared · 800–900nm
Deep Healing
The deepest-penetrating wavelength, reaching the subcutaneous layer. Enhances cellular energy production, accelerates healing, reduces deeper inflammation, and supports the treatment of more significant skin concerns.
What It Can Treat
Key benefits
🔴Collagen Production
Red light stimulates fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin, improving firmness, bounce, and the appearance of fine lines over a course of treatments.
🫧Acne Clearance
Blue light destroys acne-causing bacteria and helps regulate oil production — effective for active breakouts without drying or irritating the skin.
🌿Redness & Rosacea
Red and near-infrared wavelengths calm inflammation and reduce the redness and flushing associated with rosacea and reactive skin.
⚡Accelerated Healing
Dramatically speeds up recovery after microneedling, chemical peels, and other resurfacing treatments — reducing redness and downtime significantly.
✨Skin Tone & Radiance
Regular treatments improve overall skin tone, reduce the appearance of pigmentation, and give skin a healthier, more luminous quality.
😌Completely Painless
One of the most relaxing treatments we offer — many clients use the 20-minute session as genuine downtime. No needles, no discomfort, nothing to recover from.
Is This Right For You?
Who is this treatment suited to?
LED phototherapy is one of the broadest-spectrum treatments available — suitable for virtually all skin types and concerns. It’s particularly valuable for those who want to support their skin health without any downtime or recovery period.
✓ Well suited to
- ✓Acne-prone or oily skin
- ✓Sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- ✓Anyone wanting to boost the results of other treatments
- ✓Those with fine lines or loss of firmness
- ✓Skin that needs recovery support after a procedure
- ✓All skin tones — no risk of pigmentation issues
⚠ Not suitable if
- !You have active cold sores (light can trigger a flare-up)
- !You are taking photosensitising medications (some antibiotics, certain acne medications)
- !You have a history of seizures triggered by light
- !You have certain thyroid conditions — discuss with me
Your Appointment
What to expect on the day
LED phototherapy is possibly the most relaxing treatment we offer. There is no discomfort, no preparation, and nothing to recover from.
After a thorough skin cleanse, you’ll lie comfortably while the LED panel is positioned close to your face. Protective goggles are provided to shield your eyes. The light feels warm and pleasant — many clients find the 20–30 minute session genuinely restful. Your skin may look slightly flushed immediately after, which settles within minutes. You can apply makeup, return to work, or go about your day immediately afterwards.
For best results, a course of 6–10 sessions spaced 1–2 weeks apart is recommended, followed by monthly maintenance. Standalone sessions are also available as add-ons to other treatments.
After Your Treatment
Aftercare instructions
☀️
Daily SPFAlways apply sun protection as part of your morning routine — important for ongoing skin health regardless of treatment.
🧴
Normal skincareYou can return to your normal skincare routine immediately — no restrictions apply after LED treatment.
💄
Makeup as normalNo waiting required — apply makeup, go to work, carry on with your day exactly as planned.
💧
HydrationKeep your skin well-moisturised to support the cellular repair processes the treatment has initiated.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
How many sessions will I need to see results?+
Some clients notice an improvement in skin quality and radiance after just one session — particularly in terms of brightness and how their skin feels. For more significant concerns like acne or fine lines, a course of 6–10 sessions produces the most meaningful results, with improvements building progressively. Most clients begin to see noticeable change from session 3–4 onwards. After your initial course, monthly maintenance sessions help sustain the benefits long-term.
Is LED the same as UV light — will it damage my skin?+
No — LED phototherapy is completely different from UV light. UV light (from the sun or sunbeds) causes DNA damage in skin cells, leading to premature ageing and increased skin cancer risk. LED devices used in clinical treatments emit specific, narrow-band wavelengths of visible or near-infrared light that have been extensively tested and shown to be safe for skin. There is no UV component, no radiation risk, and no DNA damage. The treatment has been used safely in dermatological practice for decades.
Can I have LED phototherapy if I have acne AND signs of ageing?+
Absolutely — and this is actually one of LED therapy’s greatest strengths. Many clients in their 30s and 40s are dealing with both adult acne and early signs of ageing simultaneously, which can be frustrating since many treatments for one can worsen the other. LED therapy addresses both concerns simultaneously — blue light targets acne bacteria while red light supports collagen production and reduces inflammation. A combined protocol can be tailored specifically for you.
Can LED phototherapy be done after other treatments?+
Yes — and this is one of its most valuable uses. LED phototherapy is an excellent add-on after microneedling, dermaplaning, and some chemical peels. After microneedling in particular, a session of red LED immediately afterwards significantly reduces redness and inflammation and is thought to enhance the healing and collagen-stimulating effects of the treatment. It pairs beautifully with most other treatments in our menu. Just let me know if you’re interested in combining treatments when you book.
What does the treatment feel like?+
Honestly, most clients find it deeply relaxing. You lie comfortably with protective goggles on, and the LED panel is positioned close to your face. The light feels warm and gentle — there’s no pain, no sensation of anything happening to your skin, and no discomfort at any point. Many clients drift off or use the 20–30 minutes as a rare moment of total quiet. It’s one of those treatments where the experience itself is a benefit.
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