The Glow Science: LED Light Therapy Explained

Why Light Therapy?

Imagine giving your skin cells a mini energy boost. That’s exactly what LED light therapy does. When skin is exposed to very specific wavelengths of light, the cells’ “power stations” (mitochondria) absorb it and use it to fuel important repair and regeneration processes. The result? Skin that functions better — and looks brighter, firmer, and healthier.

At Peppermint Clinic, we use the Dermalux® Tri-Wave MD, a professional-grade system delivering clinically proven wavelengths at therapeutic power levels. And for clients who want to maintain results at home, there are now several high-quality LED masks on the market that are worth considering.

The Benefits (Backed by Clinical Studies)

Research into LED light therapy has shown it:

• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production

• Improves skin texture and radiance

• Helps calm redness and inflammation

• Supports healing and recovery (post-procedure, acne flare ups, etc.)

  
  

This isn’t just anecdotal – this is backed by numerous clinical studies and trials.

Wavelengths That Work (and Why They Matter)

Not all light colours are created equal. The clinical benefits come from very specific wavelengths:

• Red light (633 nm): Boosts fibroblast activity, stimulates collagen, improves overall radiance and tone.

• Near-infrared light (830 nm): Reaches deeper into the skin to calm inflammation and speed up healing.

• Near-infrared light (1072 nm): A newer wavelength under study, showing promise for deeper penetration into skin tissues and firming. Some research even suggests potential protective effects on cells.

• Blue light (415 nm): Targets acne-causing bacteria but should only be used when acne is diagnosed due to potential risks with pigmentation and light sensitivity.

Irradiance & Fluence: The “Dosage” of Light

It’s not just the colour of light that matters — it’s also the strength and dose.

• Irradiance = power density, measured in mW/cm²

• Fluence = total energy delivered, measured in J/cm²

  
  

Too weak, and nothing happens. Too strong, and it just creates heat without benefit.

Peppermint Clinic’s Dermalux Tri-Wave MD is one of the world’s most powerful LED systems:

• Radiance (fluence) up to 240 J/cm² in a single treatment

• Adjustable irradiance from 7 – 200 mW/cm², depending on the programme

  
  

This level of precision and power is not achievable with home devices — which means clinic treatments deliver faster, more dramatic results in fewer sessions.

Who Should Avoid LED?

LED light therapy is safe for most people, but there are a few exceptions:

• If you’re currently on doxycycline or other photosensitising medications

• If you’re using strong topical retinoids

• If you’re prone to light sensitivity

Our team will always check suitability during your consultation.

In-Clinic LED Treatments at Peppermint Clinic

You can enjoy LED as a stand-alone session, or as an add-on to boost many other treatments (excluding Botox).

Pricing:

• £25 per session

• £125 for 6 sessions (save £25 / 1 session free)

• £250 for 12 sessions (save £50 / 2 sessions free)

  
  

The more you buy, the more you save.

If you’re having PRP for hair loss, LED is already included at no extra cost.

At-Home Options: Omnilux & CurrentBody

We know there are dozens of at-home LED masks out there. But here’s the catch: many don’t deliver the right wavelengths or power to make a clinical difference. That’s why it’s so important to do your homework before investing.

Two brands that consistently perform well in independent reviews and clinical testing are Omnilux and and CurrentBody. Both offer masks that use the key wavelengths (633 nm red and 830 nm near-infrared), at an irradiance level (~30–35 mW/cm²) that’s strong enough to be effective, while remaining safe for regular home use.

• Omnilux Contour (633 & 830 nm) – flexible design, FDA-cleared, with published clinical studies

  
  

• Omnilux Men’s (633, 830 & 1072 nm) – includes the deeper-penetrating 1072 nm wavelength

  
  

• CurrentBody Skin LED Mask (633 & 830 nm) – highly rated in press reviews and independent testing, widely used at home

Both companies have other devices for areas such as the neck, décolletage, and hands if you have skin concerns in these areas — but again, the key is to make sure any device you choose offers the clinically validated wavelengths and adequate irradiance.

At-Home LED: What to Look For

• Proven wavelengths (red 633nm, near infrared 830nm, +/- 1072nm)

• Adequate irradiance (power output, not just “brightness”)

• Published clinical evidence

• Trusted brand with safety testing

• Ideally a minimum 2-year warranty

Final Glow-Up: In-Clinic vs At-Home

Feature

Wavelengths

Fluence/Radiance

Irradiance

Experience

Cost

Peppermint Clinic Dermalux

415, 633, 830 nm

Up to 240 J/cm²

Adjustable 7 – 200 mW/cm²

Relaxing 20-min salon treatment

From £25 / course savings available

At-Home Devices (Omnilux / CurrentBody)

633, 830 nm (1072 nm in Omnilux Men’s)

~21 J/cm² per 10-min session

~30–35 mW/cm²

Convenient 10-min home sessions

~£300–£350 (discount codes often available)

Clinic vs. At-Home LED — What’s the Difference?

Not all LED devices are created equal.

In-Clinic (Dermalux TRI-Wave MD):

• Delivers up to 240 J/cm² radiance per treatment

• Adjustable irradiance from 7 – 200 mW/cm²

• Uses clinically proven wavelengths for targeted results

• More powerful → fewer sessions needed and results are faster

  
  

At-Home Devices (Omnilux, CurrentBody, etc.):

• Convenient for regular top-ups between clinic visits

• Safe, effective, and clinically tested (but lower power)

• Great for maintaining skin health at home

• Choosing the right model matters → check wavelengths, irradiance, and safety data

Think of home LED masks as maintenance… and clinic LED as your results accelerator.

Ready to Try LED?

Glow your way — whether it’s with a relaxing session in clinic or with an easy at-home mask, LED light therapy is one of the easiest, scientifically backed ways to future-proof your skin.

Click the link below to learn more & book your in-clinic Dermalux session now

Book Now