Is it true that red light therapy masks prevent wrinkles?

"Red light therapy, where LED lights are shone on your skin, has been around for a while, says Afshin Mosahebi, a professor in plastic surgery at University College London. But what was once an expensive treatment you'd go to a professional to receive is now becoming widely available in the form of light-up masks you can wear at home. Reasonable reports show that the treatment is good for wound-healing, says Mosahebi."

"The theory is the light will stimulate cells to produce collagen but there's no substantial evidence to back this up Mosahebi also warns there is limited research into using red light therapy as a repeated, long-term treatment something manufacturers encourage with the masks. We don't know what happens when people use it in the long term. We don't know if it actually causes more aged skin because light is the main cause of ageing, or whether it has any effect on skin cancer."

Red light therapy uses LED lights applied to the skin and has transitioned from professional clinics to consumer light-up masks. Clinical reports indicate effectiveness for wound healing and inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis through increased circulation, reduced inflammation, and enhanced cell regeneration. Evidence for wrinkle prevention is limited; the proposed mechanism is stimulation of fibroblasts to increase collagen production, but substantial proof is lacking. Professional treatments deliver higher intensities and may be more effective than at-home masks. Research on repeated, long-term use is limited, leaving uncertainty about effects on aging and potential cancer risk. Basic skin-care measures remain primary for delaying wrinkles.

Read at www.theguardian.com