Red Light Therapy and Angiogenesis: Stimulating Blood Vessel Formation for Skin Health

Skin health refers to optimal healing and rejuvenation of the cells to perform all external and internal functions. The human body has an intricate network of cells, tissues, muscles, and blood vessels under the skin for rejuvenation. 

Blood vessels are the tubes that carry and transfer blood throughout the body. The vessels deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the cells to carry out various functions. The skin cells and components like blood vessels, collagen, and fibroblasts go through a regeneration process. 

This new blood vessel formation is called angiogenesis— a very crucial process for skin health. Now, we'll discuss all about stimulating new blood vessels and supporting the healing of the skin. 

Understanding Angiogenesis: Formation of New Blood Vessels

As we discussed, angiogenesis is the formation of new blood vessels in the body. The angiogenesis process includes migration, growth, and differentiation of endothelial cells(single-layer cells). These cells are present in the walls of blood vessels. 

Various chemical signals in the body promote the process using vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) binding with endothelial cells. This leads to the regeneration of new vessels.

The angiogenesis process aids in healing wounds on the skin surface. The process of healing and regeneration takes place all the time in the body. Healing of the blood vessels occurs when cells or tissue are deficient in oxygen. A signal to the capillary system and blood vessels is sent for immediate repair. 

Significance of Stimulating Blood Vessels in Skin Aging

We know that skin ages due to several intrinsic and extrinsic factors. The intrinsic factors occur at a cellular level and may include reduction in collagen, elastin, genetic modification, and ethnicity. 

The extrinsic factors are environmental factors, UV exposure, and lifestyle habits. As we age, the regeneration ability of the body reduces due to physiological changes. This intrinsic skin aging impacts the blood vessel process, causing delays in wound healing and skin repair.

In normal working skin, the angiogenesis process is triggered by UV exposure, infrared rays, and heat. However, the reduction in new blood vessels with age causes irreversible damage to the skin.

Another impact of vascular aging is the change in structural properties of the blood vessels. This reduces the arterial elasticity, hence causing further aging.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Different color lights have varying wavelengths, with skin penetrating abilities. Some may penetrate deeper than others, depending upon the wave length. Red light penetrates the skin up to 1-2 mm till myocytes and the fat layer. It has a wavelength of 600nm-700nm.

Red light therapy has been studied to learn about its penetration impact on the skin. It may have the ability to trigger collagen production and stimulate angiogenesis for skin rejuvenation. 

In a recent study, 136 volunteers between 27 and 79 years of age participated to find out how red light impacts wrinkles, fine lines, and collagen density. 113 volunteers out of 136 were randomly picked 

Impact of RLT on Stimulating Blood Vessels for Skin Health

RLT–red light therapy works on wavelengths of light. These include skin-penetrating red and near-infrared. As a result, they can interact with cellular structures, primarily the cell’s mitochondria. 

These mitochondria are responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which gives all the energy to the cells. When exposed to red light, the mitochondria become more efficient, leading to a range of potential therapeutic benefits.

A recent study was done to learn about angiogenesis stimulated by red and near-infrared light in vitro. The focus of the study was capillary formation in the cells in a healthy environment. 

A cell culture was developed to mimic the endothelial cells. The biochemical reactions of these cells were observed both in the presence and absence of red and near-infrared diodes. There was a significant increase in the light-stimulated angiogenesis in the application of red (650 nm) light in comparison to near-infrared (808 nm) light. 

Moreover, there was an increase in cell proliferation, progression, and NO generation with extracellular Ca2+ influx in the cells. This led to a rise in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by endothelial cells. Hence, it generated a new way to activate endothelial cell metabolism.

How to Use Red LED Therapy At Home?

Red light therapy is a great alternative to surgically getting facial rejuvenation. It has multiple purposes, including skin rejuvenation, pain relief, and overall wellness enhancement. One accessible method to harness the potential of RLT at home involves the use of a red LED mask.

Utilizing a red LED mask at home offers a convenient means of incorporating RLT into your skincare and wellness routine. However, it's essential to consult with a professional or dermatologist before beginning any new treatment to ensure it aligns with your skin's needs and goals. Additionally, consistently adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines for safe and effective use.

Benefits of Red LED Therapy

Here are some significant skin benefits of red light: 

Mitochondrial Activation: Red light exposure enhances the transportation of electrons and oxygen consumption within mitochondria, resulting in increased ATP production. This promotes cellular energy and function.

Tissue Repair and Regeneration: The heightened energy within cells can facilitate tissue repair and regeneration, making RLT beneficial for wound healing and reducing scar appearance. The generation of new blood vessels will deliver oxygenated blood for quicker repair. 

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: RLT may reduce inflammation and boost blood flow, potentially aiding in pain relief and overall well-being. This may help in managing wound-related pain. 

Collagen Production: RLT can stimulate collagen and fibroblast production, contributing to healthier skin, reduced wrinkles, and an improved complexion. More presence of collagen in the skin will prevent new fine lines and wrinkles from developing. 

Choosing a Red LED Device 

Using a professional-grade LED device will be a step further to getting rejuvenated skin. We recommend you try the EvenSkyn Mirage Pro LED Phototherapy Face Mask with powerful 204 individual LEDs. 

Mirage is ideal for treating photoaged skin with fine lines and wrinkles. It not only has a red LED, but it also has yellow and blue light modes. With powerful photobiomodulation, the mask regenerates collagen with red light, rejuvenates the face with yellow light, and reduces acne and bacteria with blue light. 

You may use either one of these or combine all three lights with the mask's auto-cycling feature. It may leave your skin rejuvenated, tight, and radiant with regular use. The recommended use time to see the results is doing three 25-minute sessions per week. Since the device is certified by the FDA, CE, Health Canada, and RoHS, it is safe to use regularly. 

Moreover, the mask is easy to adjust as per your face and comes with built-in eye protection. To use the mask, clean your face and prepare to relax in a cozy spot. Just wear it and use the remote/power bank to adjust the color or intensity.

Wrapping Up

Now you know the science behind skin rejuvenation and what keeps it healthy. Most importantly, using the right therapies and skin care is essential for maintaining optimal health. Red vessel and collagen formation naturally reduce with age; hence, it requires a supplemental push for regeneration. Red light therapy is science-backed and may give you the results in just four weeks. 

The cellular changes will rejuvenate your skin from within, giving you youthful-looking, radiant skin. Always remember to be consistent when using these therapy devices, as cellular changes take time. Also, preventative skin care is better when it comes to aging skin, so you may start using LED masks at any age for long-term benefits. 

References: 

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4. Alexander Wunschcorresponding and Karsten Matuschka. "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." Feb 2014
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