Do You Use Serum Before or After LED Light Therapy? According To A Cosmetic Doctor

IN THIS ARTICLE:

• 01 What is LED Light Therapy?
• 02 Do You Apply Serums Before or After LED Light Therapy?
• 03 Which Serum Works Best with LED Light Therapy? 

Dr Kara MBchB MRCGP is a GP and Aesthetic/Cosmetic Doctor with over 9 years experience in cosmetic skincare and aesthetic treatments such as botox, dermal filler, and microneedling. She has a passion for safe practice and natural results. She runs a busy aesthetic and skincare clinic in Norwich, UK. 

Dr Kara Cosmetic Clinic Instagram: drkaraclinic Threads: @drkaraclinic

Key takeaways

• Apply serums after your LED light treatment, not before
• LED light therapy can enhance skincare penetration 
• Applying serum after treatment allows LED light wavelengths to effectively penetrate the skin and boost effectiveness

Navigating the world of skincare can be complicated -  especially when trying to incorporate all the 'necessary' steps into your AM or PM routine in the correct order. Let’s explore how Dr. Kara MBchB MRCGP, a Cosmetic Doctor and skin expert integrates LED light therapy devices into her regimen for maximum impact. And we answer the hard-hitting questions like: Do you put serum on before or after red light?

What Is LED Light Therapy?

LED light therapy is a therapeutic beauty technique that uses specific light wavelengths to treat a broad range of skin concerns. Low doses of red light are used to stimulate the functional activity of cells to achieve aesthetic and health benefits such as anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects. Light therapy is rooted in the concept of boosting mitochondrial activity so cells produce more ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) - the chemical responsible for producing collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin - essential skin building blocks for firmness and elasticity.

Dr. Kara MBchB MRCGP, shares her insights on how LED light therapy actually works on the skin, similar to us, Dr. Kara is committed to science-backed approaches to skincare.

'There are numerous studies out there that show the effectiveness of LED to rejuvenate your skin, Scientists have known for years that visible light can affect how the cells of your body work. Different wavelengths of light penetrate the skin at different depths. Red penetrates the deepest and work on things called fibroblasts which help us to make more collagen helpful to rejuvenate our appearance.'

Most worthwhile skincare serums are formulated with potent ingredients that help to nourish, hydrate, and heal the skin. When combined with the stimulating effects of LED light therapy, the correct serums bolster results leaving your skin healthier, more radiant, and more youthful.

Do You Apply Serums Before or After LED Light Therapy?

To maximize the benefits, apply your preferred serum AFTER your LED light therapy session. Exposure to LED light prepares your skin by waking up and stimulating the cells, making them more receptive to the nourishing ingredients in serums as well as moisturizers. This allows your skin to fully absorb the serum with enhanced overall results.

LED Mask

LumaLux Face | Pro LED Light Therapy Mask

Our most advanced LED mask for deeper skin renewal - fine lines, acne, hyperpigmentation, skin texture

View product

Which Serum Works Best With LED Light Therapy?

Now that you understand the benefits of serums and the best time to apply them, you may be curious about the most effective combinations. These will depend on your specific skin type and concerns. Here are a few options and their benefits

Red light therapy (or infrared therapy) and hyaluronic acid

When used with red light or healing infrared therapy, hyaluronic acid helps keep the skin plump and hydrated.

Blue light therapy and salicylic acid

This combination helps keep pores clean and can be particularly beneficial for acne-prone or congested skin.

Red light therapy and vitamin C

Vitamin C has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging benefits, much like red LED light therapy. Together, they can brighten the complexion and support a more youthful look.

Red light therapy and niacinamide

Niacinamide boosts overall skin health and hydrating, it is deeply soothing and is a great follow-up ingredient for LED light therapy.

The Takeaway

To maximize the benefits of LED, it’s essential to follow up with the right serums. Applying skincare products after your LED session helps lock in moisture, boost hydration, and support the skin’s natural healing process. Whether you're using hyaluronic acid for deep hydration or vitamin C for a glowing complexion, the combination of LED therapy and targeted skincare can work wonders. Remember, consistency is key—so make it a habit to nurture your skin after every treatment for the best results.

Are you in search of the perfect LED light therapy device? If you lead a busy lifestyle, consider opting for the convenience of an LED mask. The LumaLux Face includes seven different LED light colors with infrared and deep infrared light to that effectively target a wide range of common skin concerns.

Dr Kara MBchB MRCGP is a GP and Aesthetic/Cosmetic Doctor with over 9 years experience in cosmetic skincare and aesthetic treatments such as Botox, Dermal filler and Microneedling. She has a passion for safe practice and natural results. She runs a busy aesthetic and skincare clinic in Norwich, UK. 

  written by Charlotte Rycroft