How Infrared Light Therapy Promotes Collagen
How Infrared Light Therapy Promotes Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body, and it's what gives your skin its structure, strength, and elasticity. Traditionally, as we get older, collagen production decreases naturally. This leads to the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and the loss of firmness. One of the non-invasive methods of overcoming this is through near-infrared (NIR) light therapy with high-energy light sources (usually 700-1200 nm), which can be used to stimulate the natural collagen-building process of your skin. This treatment is commonly administered through LED-lamps or low-level light therapies, which penetrate deeper than the visible red light and cause positive effects to the cells so that their skin is regenerated and tightened.
The Science of Infrared Light Therapy
IR light therapy has been categorized as a photobiomodulation (PBM), which involves the absorption of certain light wavelengths by the cells without heat damage. In comparison to ultraviolet light, which destroys collagen, infrared (particularly, the near-infrared) penetrates to the dermis, the layer of the skin that contains the largest concentration of collagen-producing cells (fibroblasts).
At the cellular level, the core mechanism works like this: infrared light is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase, an enzyme found mainly in the mitochondria (the energy factories of the cell). This enhances the generation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is a currency of energy that runs the functions of the cell. As the amount of ATP increases, fibroblasts become more active and grow and develop new components of the extracellular matrix, such as collagen and elastin.
The literature indicates that low-intensity red and near-infrared light produces a significant gene expression of collagen types (including COL1A1 and COL3A1) and elastin (ELN) and their associated proteins. When taken as an illustration, infrared wavelengths are known to increase the activities of fibroblasts, resulting in an increase in procollagen synthesis and improved cross-linking of collagen fibers with better structural integrity.
How IR Light Stimulates Collagen Production
There are also multiple interrelated pathways in which IR light stimulates collagen:
Mitochondrial Boost and Energy Surge - Increased ATP production gives fibroblasts the energy they need to ramp up collagen production.
Growth Factor Activation - It increases transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), an essential signaling molecule that causes fibroblasts to increase collagen and extracellular matrix.
Increased Synthesis - IR treatment has the potential to reduce matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which destroy existing collagen and preserve it as you accumulate.
Enhanced Blood Flow and Decreased Inflammation - An increase in blood flow to the skin cells helps to provide nutrients and oxygen, which in turn helps to make the surrounding tissue healthier to recover and regenerate. Reduction in inflammation also allows the skin cells to regenerate healthier.
Near infrared light (e.g., 830 nm) or red/NIR light treatments in the form of a combination of collagen density in weeks have been observed to increase, possibly in human skin explants and fibroblast cultures, coupled with enhancement in the way the fibers form and cross-link.
Key Skin Benefits: Collagen, Texture, and Elasticity
Frequent infrared light treatments may result in an obviously fuller, smoother complexion with fewer facial lines and more elasticity. Several clients give positive feedback on increased texture, firmness, and a natural, luminous glow. It is quite attractive as a natural, home or spa procedure with no side effects or downtime, as contrasted with invasive procedures.
Although the effect differs depending on the wavelength of the device, dosage, and regularity, there is clinical support that it is useful in anti-aging. Near-infrared is usually used over red light, and therefore, it is excellent at getting deeper into the skin and attacking collagen.
Is Infrared Light Therapy Right for You?
In case you are looking to naturally restore the collagen levels, but you do not want to take any injections or use any harsh chemicals, infrared light therapy is the one that is worth trying, particularly when it comes to the photoaged or aged skin. It should be combined with good skincare, such as the use of sun protection and hydration, to achieve the best results. Always consult a dermatologist or professional before choosing a device or protocol.
If you want real results without harsh chemicals or injections, infrared light therapy is a solid place to start. Book a session or ask about the devices we use in practice.
Experience infrared light in all bodywork sessions complimentary at Mandala Method Healing.
References
Barolet, D., Roberge, C. J., Auger, F. A., Boucher, A., & Germain, L. (2009). Regulation of skin collagen metabolism in vitro using a pulsed 660 nm LED light source: Clinical correlation with a single-blinded study. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 129(12), 2751–2759. https://doi.org/10.1038/jid.2009.186
Li, W.-H., Seo, I., Kim, B., Fassih, A., Southall, M. D., & Parsa, R. (2021). Low-level red plus near infrared lights combination induces expressions of collagen and elastin in human skin in vitro. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 43(3), 311–320. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12698
Wunsch, A., & Matuschka, K. (2014). A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 32(2), 93–100. https://doi.org/10.1089/pho.2013.3616
Disclaimer
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