We’re taking an in-depth look at the viral wand — including whether it’s worth the expense or the effort — but first let’s cover some red light therapy basics.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy is a form of “photobiomodulation,” which is a fancy way of saying low-level light therapy to address a variety of concerns. This non-invasive treatment works by penetrating the skin to directly trigger your body’s “energy factories” to create more energy, explains Ava ShambanMD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills, California.
“It has been shown to promote wound healing, tissue repair and regeneration – all without tissue injury and without the lesion controlled by lasers. radio frequency microneedling“Dr. Shamban explains. “It also stimulates circulation and oxygenation, making skin more radiant.”
You’ll find red light therapy in clinical settings, usually as a supplement to standard facials or in combination with other modalities, such as microneedling or chemical peelsRed light therapy devices, including wands and masks, are also available for home use. Although the treatments are similar, there is a notable difference in LED array, energy intensity, and wavelength, which can affect the overall efficacy.
Benefits of red light therapy
Being non-invasive and completely painless, red light therapy has many benefits. According to Dr. Shamban, here are some of the most notable.
- Eliminates signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and sagging
- Stimulates blood and oxygen circulation for glowing looking skin
- Triggers collagen production
- Aids wound healing (including acne and scars)
- soothes inflammation
- Helps manage skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema and rosacea
Red light treatment at home vs in the office
As with any time you get treatment at home versus in the office, red light therapy varies greatly from device to device.
“An in-office device is likely approved by the FDA and evaluated for its effectiveness and safety, whereas home devices are widely unregulated,” explains anna chaconMD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, Florida. “An in-office device will also have increased power with a higher concentration of wattage per square centimeter and varying degrees of wavelength size.”
While at-home red light therapy devices are neither as strong nor as intense as in-office treatments, Dr. Shamban says they still have tremendous value because you can use them every day. In this sense, they’re a low-cost, easy supplement to your skin care routine, but don’t expect wild, transformative results.
red light therapy wavelength
The typical wavelength range for red light therapy is 630 nanometers to about 950 nanometers, with longer lengths penetrating more deeply than shorter wavelengths. Shorter wavelengths – such as the 630 to 660 nanometer range you might find in home devices – primarily target the outer layers of the skin and are effective for surface-level treatments such as addressing fine lines, sagging skin, Improving the texture and boosting of the skin. Collagen production, explains Dr. Shamban.
Higher wavelengths, such as the 800 to 850 nanometer range (considered infrared) penetrate deeper into the skin and tissues, making them more effective for healing, rejuvenation, and overall skin glow. Near-infrared (up to 950) is believed to reach the deeper layers of the skin and underlying structures to promote cellular repair and regeneration.
Solawave 4-in-1 Skincare Wand Review
Always fascinated by the latest and greatest beauty technology, I was eager to get my hands on that iconic Solawave wand that has been all over social media feeds since its launch. Here are my honest thoughts and experiences about the device:
Is the Solawave stick worth it?
I think the Solawave stick is worth it, especially for the moderately low cost ($169) and the fact that you have access to it every day. Because let’s be real: It’s hard enough to get that monthly facial, whereas a daily-use item provides consistency. However, your benefits may vary and I personally consider it a supplement to your skin care routine, versus a full replacement for in-office red light therapy – or other in-office treatments, for that matter. I’m also realistic about how much it’s working for my skin and I don’t expect any major changes (you have to budget your expectations realistically when it comes to skin care tools, people).,
I like that the SolaWave Wand uses 630 nanometer wavelength red light therapy, which is effective in addressing surface-level problems like fine lines and wrinkles, inflammation, and overall glow. My skin care concerns include all of the above, so this is a plus for me. It also includes “therapeutic heat” and “vibration massage” – which create a more soothing experience – and galvanic current, which Dr. Shamban says has a plus that improves serum distribution on the skin .
However, one major consideration is that the device is quite small. While this makes it handy for travel and home use, the minimal number of bulbs (there are seven) means it’s only treating a small surface area. Dr. Shamban says that this may affect whether the device is able to deliver super effective results, although Dr. Chacon says that the device has “a good amount of milliwatts per square centimeter” which gives it one of the benefits. Makes an easy, entry-level option. of LED therapy.
Anecdotally, after 30 days of use 90 percent of people say their skin is rejuvenated, 94 percent say the skin has improved, and 93 percent say the 60 -According to individual independent claims validation studies it addresses puffiness. I personally enjoy the heat and vibration, and feel like there is a brightening effect immediately after use. I’ve also noticed that the occasional pimples I get will heal faster with continued use of the device.
It has a 60-day guarantee that provides peace of mind if you try it and decide it’s not for you.
Which is better: NewFace or Solawave?
I have used both of these devices and I don’t really think about which one is better, but it is important to consider what your skin care goals are. newface Leverages microcurrent to help toning, sculpting and lifting. The results are minimal, but I personally feel like there is a difference in skin laxity/firmness when I use it consistently, and it also produces a slight glow immediately after use. It really is perfect to use before a special event.
While non-aggressive, NuFace has a kind of nervous feel that some people may find uncomfortable. Solawave focuses on de-puffing, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and helping skin look brighter.
Who should not use Solawave?
Solawave is non-invasive and pain-free, but it does have some contraindications. According to the device manual, you should not use Solawave if you have any photosensitivity problems, a history of seizures or epilepsy, have cancer, or if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Should do. People with electronic implanted devices (such as pacemakers or ECG monitors) should also avoid its use, and it is not recommended for people with serious skin conditions, including severe acne.
Can you use the Solawave wand every day?
Yes, you can use the Solawave wand every day. The brand recommends starting with 12-minute treatments per day for the first few days, working up to 30 minutes per day as your skin acclimates. It is recommended to use it at least three times per week until you experience any side effects such as irritation, sensitivity or headache.
How to use Solawave wand
One of the great things about the Solawave wand is that it is extremely easy to use. Make sure it is fully charged and your skin is clean with a thin layer of Solawave Activating Serum. Press the button on the wand for two seconds and it will turn on, then press the wand onto your skin, starting at the lower cheek and moving upward and outward. Repeat on the rest of your cheek, then the other cheek, and then on the forehead and neck (avoiding the thyroid gland). The head of the device rotates 180 degrees so you can use it more efficiently around your mouth and eyes.
The vibration stops every three minutes, which is your cue to move on to another part of the face (or end the treatment depending on how long you use it). It will automatically switch off after 12 minutes.
Is Solawave FDA approved?
Home devices do not need to be “FDA approved” like professional, in-office treatments. Instead, they are FDA-approved, which involves lower levels of testing. According to the brand, the Solawave Radiant Renewal 4-in-1 Skincare Wand has received FDA clearance for light therapy.
bottom line
The bottom line is that treatment using a high-quality, regulated device — and performed by a licensed, board-certified dermatologist who does this for a living — is more noticeable than a light-touch at home. And will provide better results. equipment. said that-Don’t overlook the value of affordability and accessibility to at-home red light therapy devices. Your mileage may vary, but if you feel it is not working for you the brand allows you to return the product within 60 days for a full refund.
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