Light Therapy - Skin Care by Light Therapy

Light waves travel at a tremendous speed of 1,86,000 miles per second. There are many kinds of light waves, but for beauty and skin care, only three types of rays are important. These are known as ultraviolet rays, infrared rays and visible lights. Infrared rays produce heat whereas ultraviolet rays produce germicidal and chemical reactions.

Ultraviolet Rays

These are invisible rays and their action is both chemical and germicidal. These rays stimulate the activity of body cells and increase iron and vitamin D contents and the number of red and white cells in the blood. The slightest obstruction of any nature whatever will hinder ultraviolet rays from reaching the skin. So the skin must be entirely cleansed before being subjected to ultraviolet rays.

Lamps are available in the market to give ultraviolet ray treatment. If the lamp is placed 30 to 36 inches away, the reaction of the rays will be limited. When the lamp is placed near, within 12 inches from the skin, the rays are not only destructive to bacteria but to the tissues also. Average exposure may produce redness of the skin, and an overdose causes blistering. Always start with a short exposure of two to three minutes and then gradually increase the time to seven to eight minutes. Skin tanning may be the result pf one or more exposures to ultraviolet rays, because they stimulate the production of pigment or coloring matter in the skin. Sunburns occur in various degrees. A slight reddening of the skin are signs of first degree sunburn while itching, burning or peeling are sings of second degree ones. Over-exposure to ultraviolet rays produce third and fourth degree burns which are destructive to the tissues of the skin. Light ultraviolet rays are used for acne, and to combat hair dandruff. They also promote the healing of hair as well as its growth.

Infrared Rays

These rays soothe first degree sunburns. They relax the skin without increasing the temperature of the body, dilate blood vessels in the skin and increase the production of perspiration and oil. To apply infrared rays, the lamp is operated at an average distance of 30 inches. At first the lamp is placed close to the skin, and then moved back gradually. Protect your eyes during exposure, and do not permit the light rays to remain on body tissues for a long time. Move the hand, carrying the lamp, back and forth to break constant exposure. The length of exposure should not exceed five minutes.

Visible Lights

The lamp used for reproducing visible lights is usually a dome-shaped reflector in various colors. The blue light has a tonic effect on the bare skin. While the red light has strong heat-rays which have a stimulating effect when used over the skin, it is recommended only for dry and scaly skins. Remember to protect your eyes from the glare and heat of light. Avoid cream, oil and powder to obtain the best results.

Structure of Epidermis
Structure of Dermis
Sebaceous Glands
Sweat Glands

Caring for the Skin

• Hormones and their Effect on the Skin
• Caring for the Skin by Electric Therapy
• Light therapy
• Quick Home Facial
• Skin Care by Reflex therapy
• Skin Surgery
• Baby's Skin Care
• Oils and Your Skin

Healthy Skin