Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1299736
34 ascp skin deep november/december 2020 COLOR EFFECTS Colors used in LED treatments range through the visible spectrum, but most devices have variations in blue, red, and yellow. Blue LED light is often used to treat acne and has a positive eff ect in reducing Propionibacterium acnes, the acne-causing bacteria. Some research indicates blue light may also reduce the activity of sebaceous glands, resulting in less breakouts. Red LED light is considered rejuvenating and healing. It has the deepest tissue penetration of the visible spectrum and has been shown to stimulate fi broblasts, leading to an increase in collagen production. Red LED light is a good post-recovery treatment and could help reverse the signs of aging. 5 Yellow or amber light is often used for photoaging and post-laser treatment. It has been shown to reduce the intensity of erythema after fractional laser skin resurfacing. 6 TREATMENT LED light therapy can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatments like laser, microdermabrasion, or facials. To see the best results, treatments should be performed in series of 2–3 times per week depending on the area and condition being treated, energy output of the device, and color (wavelength) of light. Once the desired outcome has been achieved, treatments can be discontinued or performed on a maintenance schedule of once a month or once every 2–3 months. SAFETY AND CONTRAINDICATIONS LED devices are rated by the Food & Drug Administration as Class 1, which means the device presents minimal risk of injury and can be used by estheticians without physician supervision. However, always check with your state board before incorporating a new device into your practice. LED devices vary in the number of diodes, their energy output or fl uence (measured in joules), whether the light is continuous or pulsed (measured in hertz), and whether expertadvice ADVANCED MODALITIES Liability Insurance Professional liability insurance for LED light therapy protects you in case a client sues. ASCP members have access to optional Advanced Modality Insurance coverage for LED light therapy over 15 joules and other advanced modalities like electrolysis and permanent makeup services that protect you and your esthetics practice. More information about advanced modality coverage, including the steps for applying, is available at ascpskincare.com/ami. Pricing for LED light therapy services over 15 joules ranges from $592 to $692 for the year, and you can bundle that coverage with other advanced modalities to save more. If you can answer yes to the following three questions, you may be eligible for this advanced modality coverage: • Do I have proof of advanced training with hands-on experience? • Am I practicing these modalities within the scope of practice authorized by the state in which I work? • Am I an ASCP member, or do I plan to be? Learn more about ASCP's Advanced Modality Insurance program for members at ascpskincare.com/ami. the device is handheld or freestanding. LED devices are generally safe and don't have a lot of energy output compared to other advanced modalities. However, always protect your clients' eyes, and do not aim to improve medical conditions with LED light without fi rst speaking to a doctor. Contraindications include some thyroid conditions. Clients with epilepsy or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their physician before receiving LED treatment. Certain medications cause light sensitivity, so a thorough consultation should be performed to determine whether the medication can be temporarily discontinued for treatment and whether the client is a candidate for treatment. 7 Notes 1. Tom Harris, Chris Pollette, and Wesley Fenlon, HowStu Works.com, "How Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) Work," accessed October 2020, https://electronics. howstu works.com/led.htm#pt0. 2. Daniel R. Opel et al., "Light-Emitting Diodes: A Brief Review and Clinical Experience," Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 8, no. 6 (June 2015): 36–44, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4479368/#_ _sec5title. 3. Ibid. 4. Harvard Health Publishing, "LED Lights: Are They a Cure for Your Skin Woes? " October 2019, accessed October 2020, www.health.harvard. edu/staying-healthy/led-lights-are-they-a-cure-for-your-skin-woes. 5. Harvard Health Publishing, "LED Lights: Are They a Cure for Your Skin Woes? " 6. Ibid. 7. Joel Gerson, Milady Standard Fundamentals Esthetics (Clifton Park: Cengage Learning, 2015).