Is Blue or Red LED Light Therapy good for treating Acne?

A. Studies confirm that a combination of blue and red light (magenta) is best for the treatment of acne and blemishes. Studies have shown that blue light can significantly reduce the bacterial load in acne lesions, resulting in fewer breakouts and milder acne symptoms. Blue light effectively targets Propionibacterium acnes (now renamed Cutibacterium acnes), a bacteria commonly associated with acne.

While blue light is effective against bacteria, it doesn’t penetrate deeply into the skin and is less effective at reducing inflammation, which is why a combination of red and blue is best.

Red light penetrates deeper into the skin, reaching sebaceous glands and helping to reduce inflammation associated with acne. It works by modulating cytokine production (molecules involved in inflammation), reducing swelling and erythema (redness). Red light also promotes collagen production, which can help with skin texture and scarring that often accompanies acne.