The Science of LED Light Therapy
What IS LED LIGHT THERAPY?
Light emitting diode (LED) therapy, also known as photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy (LLLT), is the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to tissue to achieve therapeutic benefits. This non-invasive treatment is effective for addressing various conditions, including acne, aging skin, pain, hair restoration, excess fat, and more. The absorbed light energy enhances cellular performance, promoting self-repair and rejuvenation—just as nature intended.
Phototherapy, particularly LED red light therapy, is well-researched and supported by thousands of peer-reviewed clinical studies from prestigious institutions worldwide. This clinically validated technique is increasingly recognized by dermatologists, cosmetic and general surgeons, and pain management professionals globally, gaining widespread acceptance in mainstream medicine.
Benefits of Light Therapy
Healthy wellness through the power of light. As nature intended.
Natural & Non-invasive
Painless treatment
Fast, effective results
Requires zero recovery time
Safe for all skin types
Light Therapy In Practice
Light therapy can be delivered through light emitting diode (LEDs) devices or cold LASERs, and has a variety of applications across many medical fields. Over the last decade, different applications of light therapy have gained mainstream attention and prevalent use in both clinical and at-home treatment.
Phototherapy, or light emitting diode (LED) red light therapy, has been widely researched and is supported by thousands of peer-reviewed and published clinical research papers from prestigious institutions around the world. Other terms by which light therapy is referred to are photobiostimulation, photobiomodulation, photomedicine, LED light therapy, low-level light therapy (LLLT), red light therapy, blue light therapy, cold and soft LASER therapy. All terms are correct, have the same meaning and are used to describe the delivery of light energy to treat a variety of medical and cosmetic conditions.
HOW IT WORKS
Light therapy emits particles of light called photons.
These photons are absorbed by photoreceptors in the mitochondria of our cells, where the light energy is converted into cellular energy known as ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
The increased ATP levels boost the production of proteins and enzymes, which in turn promote cell repair, regeneration, and overall cellular health for a cascade of therapeutic benefits.
The Mighty Mitochondria
Boosting Cellular Energy With LED Light Therapy
Research indicates that the mitochondria in our cells absorb particles of light (photons) and transform light energy into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the form of energy that cells utilize. The resulting elevation of ATP is then used to power metabolic processes, synthesize DNA & RNA proteins, enzymes, and other products needed to repair or regenerate cell components. It also fosters mitosis, or cell proliferation, and restores homeostasis. Simply put, LED light therapy provides compromised cells with increased energy so cellular performance, repair, and rejuvenation is enhanced naturally.
The Science of Light Energy
Getting Just The Right Dose
We know that effective results from low level LED light therapy starts with the factors that provide a safe, effective dose that up-regulates mitochondrial ATP levels.
Proven Wavelengths
Red light, near infrared light, and blue light are the most clinically studied and proven to produce beneficial effects. Celluma utilizes all three wavelengths synergistically, with doses dependent upon the type of treatment protocol for conditions like aging skin, acne, hair loss, muscle and joint pain, wounds, and excess fat.
Distance & Power
Power and distance from the light source are directly related. In low-level light therapy, like in photography, the inverse square law tells us that with each incremental increase in the distance from the light source, there is an exponential decline in the intensity of light. So ensuring the proper distance from a light source that utilizes a proper power output is an important balancing act in ensuring both safety and efficacy. Too much power at a close distance can be toxic and harmful to the skin. Too little power (or too much distance from the LED source), and treatments will be ineffective.
Celluma devices are designed to be flexible and shaped around the face or body, as close to the skin as possible. Therefore, we are able to make devices that require less power, are safe to have close to or directly on the skin, and most importantly deliver an effective dose within the biphasic dose response curve within 2 - 10 Joules/cm2
TIME
Cells need time to absorb light. You can't speed up nature (or results) if you don't give your body enough time to absorb the light energy that stimulates the up-regulation of mitochondrial ATP levels. There is a lot of misinformation claiming that more powerful devices will deliver the same results in less time. This is not supported by the scientific research, and could also lead to harmful effects. As long as the optimal dose is delivered safely and correctly with the right power output, distance, and proven wavelengths, 30 minutes will get you the optimal results.
Patented Shape-Taking Design
The distance between the light source and treatment area is critical for successful outcomes.
Human bodies are not flat. Thus, maintaining a consistent proximity between the body and the light source is crucial in delivering the optimal dose of light energy to our cells. Which is why we designed and patented our award-winning, flexible, shape-taking technology that allows anyone to contour Celluma LED panels as close as possible to the skin for getting just the right dose of uniform light energy for safe, effective results.
The Science of LED Light Therapy and the Skin
When it comes to aging, a significant factor that leads to wrinkles, fine lines, and joint pain is due to inadequate collagen levels. Collagen is the main structural protein found in your skin and other connective tissue. Collagen literally holds our bodies together. An easy way to remember what collagen does is to look at the Greek prefix ‘kolla’ which means glue.
Increased fibroblast proliferation is just one benefit of LED red light therapy. Fibroblasts make collagen fibers, so it stands to reason that the more, and healthier, fibroblasts we have in the skin, the more and better collagen fibers are made. And as we all know, collagen synthesis and maintenance is the bedrock of anti-aging. Collagen is a key to longevity. Healthy collagen levels are what give us a glowing complexion, firm skin, strong nails, dense bones, and healthy hair. It is also essential in keeping muscles, joints, and tendons in healthy working order. Simply put, the more our bodies produce collagen, the better we’ll look and feel as we age and attempt to delay tissue and cell degeneration.
4 Key Reasons to Choose Celluma
1. Globally Regulated Medical Device
Class II medical device regulated by the FDA (USA), CE (EU), TGA (Australia), and Health Canada, supporting its recognised safety and clinical effectiveness.
2. One Device, Multiple Functions
From scalp to sole, from treating acne, wrinkles, pain, inflammation,support hair growth and body contouring,all in a single device.
3. Safe & Easy To Use At Home
Designed for self-administered professional treatment in the comfort of your home, no appointments, no waiting, and no need for assistance.
4. Exceptional Value
Considering its medical-grade credentials, extensive awards, and adoption by over 60,000 medical professionals, the pricing is exceptionally accessible. The device can also be shared among the whole family, including pets, making the cost per use cheaper than a cup of coffee.
WE KNEW YOU WERE GOING TO ASK
Frequently Asked Questions
Low-level-light therapy or photobiomodulation is based on Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology and is the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to the body for therapeutic benefits. It promotes a natural photobiochemical reaction similar to the process of plant photosynthesis. Just like plants, humans absorb red and infrared (IR) light energy into the mitochondria within our cells, transforming into energy (ATP) and producing a cascade of metabolic effects and proven health benefits.
Think of it as giving your skin, body, and hair a natural energy boost. By penetrating deep into the tissues, this light therapy helps to improve blood circulation and enhance the activity of your cells, encouraging them to repair, regenerate, and function more effectively. This process can lead to healthier skin, reduced inflammation, relief from muscle and joint pain, and for your hair, it means stronger roots, less shedding, and even new growth.
There are several distinct advantages only found with Celluma. Here’s a few…
Revolutionary Flexibility and Shape-ability
Celluma stands out with its patented flexible, shape-taking design, designed to contour around the body, ensuring optimal delivery of light energy to the body. It also eliminates the need for stands, cradles, and other supports.
Multiple FDA-Cleared Treatment Modes
If you find a single Light Therapy device FDA cleared with two, three or even four different treatment modes, you are probably holding a Celluma. This makes them so useful to everyone in your house, because you can select a combination of therapies from treating hair loss, wrinkles and aches and pains, to acne and even body contouring.
Highly effective yet light-weight and portable
Most of our Celluma devices now featured a battery-powered option, freeing you from the constraints of power outlets, enhancing mobility and ease of use. We have the only battery-powered devices in an LED panel configuration. They are made from medical grade components that are designed to be durable, yet lightweight and travel-ready. Even our largest device, the full-body Celluma DELUX is an amazing advancement over weight and heft of LED treatment beds because it stores so easily, hanging on a closet door out of the way when you are not using it.
World-Class Medical Credentials
The entire Celluma SERIES holds the distinction of being the most medically credentialed LED device globally, as well as the most award-winning. This recognition underscores its exceptional quality and effectiveness. You know you can trust the Celluma name because our products have been selected as the preferred light therapy devices by medical professionals, certified aestheticians and high-end Spa operators throughout the USA and in over 100+ countries worldwide.
Leading the Market
The Celluma PRO and multi-panel Celluma CONTOUR are renowned as the most popular and versatile devices available, trusted by professionals and users alike for their superior performance and adaptability. Every other Celluma device is made of the same quality materials, with different sizes and treatment options to fit any budget.
Experience the Celluma difference – a fusion of innovation, flexibility, and proven results.
LED Light Therapy is a highly safe and non-invasive treatment, making it suitable for all skin types and ages. Unlike other light-based treatments, it doesn’t use UV rays, so there’s no risk of burning or skin damage. The light emitted by the LEDs penetrates the skin gently, promoting healing and rejuvenation without any discomfort or downtime.
This therapy has been extensively studied and used in clinical settings for decades, with a strong track record of safety. Celluma follows the science of safety and efficacy very closely and that is why it has been FDA-cleared for various applications, including skin care, hair restoration, and pain management. The vast majority people experience no side effects, and the treatment is so gentle that it can be used regularly to maintain skin and hair health.
However, there are some important contraindications to consider:
- All photo-sensitive drugs are a contraindication for low-level light therapy.
- Allow 3-5 days before administering light therapy and consult your doctor if you have recently been taking photo-sensitive prescriptions.
- Do not use if you are on steroidal medication – injections only.
- Do not use it over a pregnant belly (but you can use it over the face).
- Do not use if you have a history of epilepsy or seizures.
- Do not use over any cancer or any known metastasis before getting clearance from your doctor(s).
In all of the above, or with children under 12, always consult your primary care physician before using Celluma or any light therapy product.
We have an array of options for everyone’s needs and budget.
All of our devices use the same premium, medical-grade LED technology, and deliver the same light energy output and effectiveness per square centimeter of treatment area.
Our devices differ in 2 ways: size and what treatment modes they are programmed with.
LED Size Options
We have five options from smallest to largest:
- Mini Handheld device
- Small Single LED panels
- Large Single LED panels
- Multi-panel LED devices
- Full-Body LED blankets
The Large Single LED panels (like the #1 best-selling Celluma PRO) have more LED’s and cover a 30% larger surface area than the Small Single LED Panels. More coverage = faster results.
For facial treatments, the Large panels cover from the hairline to the chin. The Small panels (like the Celluma RESTORE) cover from eyebrow to chin.
The CONTOUR PLUS is our flagship multi-panel option, and supports up to 3 large panels for 3x the coverage of the Celluma PRO.
The DELUX & DELUX XL are our full-body LED options in two sizes.
Treatment Programs
Choosing the right program is all about your needs and what conditions you are trying to treat.
Celluma devices come with 1-5 FDA-cleared programs. They are:
- Acne
- Wrinkles
- Contour
- Hair Growth
- Aches & Pains
Each program is a different proprietary algorithm that runs on a microprocessor to control a number of variables such as light wavelength, energy dose, pulsed light, and light wave modulation in order to provide optimized results that are based on clinical outcomes.
Recommendations
For faster results, we recommend investing in at least a Large Single LED panel, like the PRO or PRO PLUS. This is the preferred size for facial treatments and pain relief.
For the most treatment options and coverage, we recommend the 3-panel, 4-mode Celluma CONTOUR or CONTOUR PLUS.
For maximum portability and treating smaller areas of the body, the Small Single LED panels like the HOME, FACE, RESTORE, LITE, and NOVA are great options. The POD is great for spot-treatments.
For Hair growth, the FDA-cleared devices include the RESTORE, the NOVA, the ELITE, and the CONTOUR PLUS.
And for the ultimate experience in full-body LED light therapy, the DELUX is the way to go.