It’s safe to use light therapy alongside other acne treatments, such as retinol, said Dr. Angela Lamb, a dermatologist at Mount Sinai Dermatology in New York City. They work in different ways, so their benefits are likely to be additive, she said.
Are some devices better than others?
Dr. Lamb recommended choosing a device that is marketed as “F.D.A.-cleared,” meaning the company has provided information to the Food and Drug Administration demonstrating safety and effectiveness. Wands and masks can both work, but wands typically require more effort because you have to manually glide them along your face, she said.
Dr. Shirazi recommended choosing devices with bulbs that are evenly spaced so that all areas of the skin get equal treatment. Generally, the more bulbs a device has, the better, to maximize the amount of light hitting the skin, Dr. Tripathi said.
Before using any device, wash your face to help the light penetrate the skin, Dr. Shirazi said. And always use it as directed — typically 10 to 20 minutes per session, three to five times per week. And “be patient, as visible results can take several weeks of consistent use,” Dr. Shirazi said.
Although side-effects are rare, they may happen, Dr. Sanan said. The light can damage your eyes, so it’s important to wear protective goggles or to close your eyes when using hand-held devices, or to use masks with eye holes or eye shields, he said. People who are taking medications that can cause light sensitivity — including some retinoids, antibiotics and antidepressants — may be at higher risk for side-effects like redness and burning. People with darker skin tones can, rarely, experience a darkening of the skin after LED therapy. Skin darkening is more likely if the treatment warms your skin — ideally, it shouldn’t, Dr. Bowe said. But if it does, you may want to stop using it.