LED red vs. purple light therapy: which is for you?

by The First Refresh

Light therapy is an up-and-coming treatment for various skin and health conditions. LED (Light Emitting Diodes) therapy, in particular, is a non-invasive, natural, and painless method of healing and rejuvenating the skin, promoting overall wellness. The therapy utilises near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular activity, leading to numerous health benefits. 

From red to purple light therapy, each one comes with its own array of benefits, targeting different skin issues. Here at The First Refresh, we’ve incorporated LED light therapy as a part of our Renew Glow and Restore facials, for purple and red light therapy at home. Read on for our breakdown of these types of LED light therapy, so you can decide which one is suited to your skin’s needs! 

What is LED Purple Light Therapy?

LED purple light therapy is a non-invasive and painless treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to promote skin healing and rejuvenation. The purple light used in this therapy has a wavelength of around 405 nanometers, which is different from the traditional red and blue LED lights used in other forms of LED therapy.

What is LED Red Light Therapy?

LED red light therapy is a type of infrared light therapy that uses red and near-infrared light to improve overall skin health. The therapy involves exposing the skin to LED lights for a specific amount of time, usually in a spa or clinic setting. The red and near-infrared light emitted by the LED lights penetrate the skin and are absorbed by the cells, stimulating cellular activity and promoting the healing process.

If you’re wondering whether purple and red light therapy while pregnant is recommended - yes! They’re perfectly safe for mummies and soon-to-be mummies alike.

What are their benefits?

light therapy face treatment

LED purple light therapy: 

Acne Reduction: LED purple light therapy has been proven to reduce the severity of acne breakouts by killing the bacteria that cause them.

Collagen Stimulation: The purple light used in this therapy can stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that helps keep the skin firm and youthful.

Wrinkle Reduction: By stimulating collagen production, LED purple light therapy can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Improved Skin Tone: LED purple light therapy can help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation.

Reduced Inflammation: The purple light used in this therapy has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in reducing skin redness and swelling.

Read more here: Everything to know about facials: how to pick the right one for you

LED red light therapy: 

Improved Skin Health: LED red light therapy can help improve the overall health of the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and promoting a more youthful, radiant appearance.

Increased Collagen Production: Collagen is a protein that helps keep the skin firm and elastic, and as we age, our bodies produce less collagen. LED red light therapy can help stimulate the production of collagen, leading to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation is a key factor in many skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and rosacea. LED red light therapy has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing, making it an effective treatment for these conditions.

Improved Mood and Sleep: LED red light therapy has been shown to improve mood and sleep by regulating the body's circadian rhythm, helping individuals feel more relaxed and refreshed.

The Science Behind LED Light Therapy

LED purple light therapy works by emitting light into the skin, which is absorbed by the skin cells. This energy then triggers the cells to produce more collagen, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The light also has a therapeutic effect on the skin, reducing inflammation and killing bacteria that cause acne.

The science behind LED red light therapy is rooted in the idea that light has the ability to affect cellular processes. Red and near-infrared light are two types of light that are particularly beneficial for the skin and overall health. These lights are able to penetrate the skin and reach deep into the tissues, stimulating the cells and promoting the production of ATP, a molecule that provides energy to the cells. This increase in cellular energy leads to improved cellular activity, including increased collagen production and cell regeneration, which results in healthier and younger-looking skin.

Read more here: Facial FAQs: How often should you go for a facial?


LED light therapy is becoming increasingly popular among people seeking natural and effective solutions for skin care and overall wellness. The therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and painless treatment that does not require any recovery time, making it a convenient and accessible option for people of various skin types. Try it together with our Restore and Renew Glow facials here at The First Refresh.