Experts claim red light therapy could help keep your skin healthy during the winter months. During the colder months, our bodies don’t receive as much sunlight as usual and it can cause our skin to lose moisture and become dry and flaky.
But at-home red light therapy masks are increasingly popular as a way to give our complexions a boost and appear more youthful. They are said to help with a range of issues, from acne and inflammation to signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Sam Cinkir, CEO of skin and hair clinic Este Medical Group, said: “Colder weather can have a really negative effect on our skin and leave it dry and flaky. As temperatures drop the outer layers of our skin, the stratum corneum, can dry out and the loss of this barrier lets moisture seep out from below.
“Our skin then becomes irritated and itchy and without adequate moisture, it cracks and sheds. Red light masks have become an increasingly popular way of defeating dull, dry skin and some people report major benefits.
“The red light waves stimulate the mitochondria, otherwise known as the energy store of the cell, which in turn helps with the upregulation of collagen production and a reduction of inflammation and redness in the skin.
“It also can help with boosting blood circulation and aid cellular repair, helping the skin look more vibrant and healthy.”
When the seasons change and winter hits, our skin can really feel the worst of it. Harsh winds, cold temperatures, and lashing rain all take their toll on our skin, but central heating indoors can harm sensitive skin too by drying out the air.
Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that delivers red and near infrared (NIR) light to the skin and cells. It is used by many people to treat skin complaints such as dryness, acne and wrinkles.
Sam also advises to avoid notorious diuretics such as alcohol, coffee and caffeine as these can cause further dehydration to the skin. He also recommends using gentle cleansers free of harsh chemicals to remove impurities, while applying a deep hydration moisturiser can also be a saviour in the colder months.
