How Light Energy Works

The root cause of any condition is compromised mitochondrial function (that is to say, when cells are not producing the energy required to drive normal cellular activity), light therapy is scientifically proven to provide the energy that cells need to increase ATP production and get back to work.

In medical aesthetics, this applies to a multitude of common skin conditions, including treating acne, wrinkles, managing pain, as well as increasing circulation and decreasing inflammation.

Specific wavelengths of light energy, when properly absorbed, up-regulates compromised cells. The light (photons) energy is absorbed by photoacceptors in the mitochondria and used to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The ATP produced then stimulates various metabolic processes which can result in the repair and regeneration of cell and tissue components.

Low level-light therapy has been shown decrease a patient’s recovery time while reducing discomfort levels and enhancing overall outcomes.

It is ideally suited following any ablative procedure as well as pre and post-surgery for the following reasons:

• Phototherapy has been shown to accelerate tissue repair, decrease wound size, accelerate the resolution of erythema, accelerate wound closure and prevent dehiscence.
• Phototherapy prior to surgery may reduce the incidence of hypertrophic scars and keloids .
• Ongoing post-surgery photo-rejunvenation (activation of fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin, stimulation of keratinocytes which produce keratin to provide structural strength to the skin).
• Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation prevention.  
• Activation of mast, macrophage and neutrophil cells decrease inflammation and protect against infection.
• Phototherapy is anti-bacterial.  The presence of P-acne bacteria can lead to post-operative infections, particularly in shoulder surgery.  Using the Celluma prior to surgery will decrease the presence of this bacteria.
• The 1st setting is Acne: This is the blue dominant program and is anti-bacterial. The blue causes the C.Acnes bacteria to destroy itself. Blue is the least penetrating of all three wavelengths. In the Acne setting there is also lots of red and a little infrared being emitted. These 3 wavelengths work synergistically to enhance outcomes. The red increases micro-circulation to bring more oxygen and nutrients to the area for healthier skin and tissue repair. The red also reduces the redness and inflammation associated with the acne lesions. Red enhances immune and lymphatic response for better drainage/removal of dead cells and toxins from the area. Keratinocytes also respond well to the red wavelength and are responsible for skin tone and firmness.

• The 2nd setting (middle) is the Red dominant program, called Wrinkles in the USA. This is the wrinkle/anti-aging program and may be used for everything other than Acne or Pain. So, when in doubt use this program. It is the only program with almost equal emission of each of the 3 wavelengths. Use it for all skin related conditions. It is ideal for use following laser, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, microneedling, peels, and injections. Also, ideal for use following surgery and deep ablative procedures accelerating healing about 3-6x the normal rate. Many different cells respond really well to Red and Infrared. See additional information below.

• The 3rd setting is Aches & Pain. This is near-infrared dominant and is the deepest penetrating setting. Use this for all pain, joint, muscle issues. This is an anti-inflammatory setting and is excellent for increasing micro-circulation, angiogenesis and neurogenesis. This is a great setting for supporting any condition located deeper in the tissue, such as post-surgical incisions.