LED Light Therapy Explained: The Science Behind Red, Blue & Near Infrared Light
- Salt and Light Official | Australia
- Jul 12
- 6 min read
Discover how LED light therapy supports healthy skin, acne-prone skin, skin rejuvenation and scalp health with clinically studied wavelengths.
LED light therapy has become one of the most widely researched, non-invasive technologies used in professional skin clinics and increasingly in the home. Using carefully selected wavelengths of light, LED therapy helps support the skin's natural processes without heat, needles or downtime.
Whether your goal is to support healthy ageing, improve the appearance of blemish-prone skin or maintain a healthy scalp environment, the right wavelengths of light can complement a consistent skincare routine.
At Salt and Light Official, we believe education is just as important as great products. That's why our O LED Light Therapy Device has been developed around wavelengths that have been extensively investigated in photobiomodulation (PBM) research.
While the O LED device incorporates additional wavelengths to provide a versatile treatment experience, this article focuses on the three wavelengths with the strongest body of published research:
415nm Blue Light
630nm Red Light
850nm Near Infrared Light
What Is LED Light Therapy?
LED stands for Light Emitting Diode.
Unlike lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL), LED therapy does not damage the skin through heat. Instead, it delivers specific wavelengths of visible and near infrared light that are absorbed by cells within the skin and underlying tissues.
This process is known as photobiomodulation (PBM).
Research suggests these wavelengths may influence the mitochondria—the energy-producing structures within our cells. By supporting cellular energy production (ATP), LED therapy may help cells perform their normal repair and renewal functions more efficiently.
Because different wavelengths penetrate to different depths, each colour of light has been studied for different applications.
Why Wavelength Matters
Not all LED devices are created equally.
The effectiveness of LED therapy depends largely on the wavelength being delivered. Different colours penetrate the skin to varying depths and interact with different biological structures.
The O LED Light Therapy Device focuses on three of the most extensively researched wavelengths to support multiple skin and scalp concerns.
Wavelength | Primary Focus | Commonly Studied For |
415nm Blue Light | Surface of the skin | Acne-prone skin and clearer-looking skin |
630nm Red Light | Skin rejuvenation | Collagen support, skin firmness and healthy ageing |
850nm Near Infrared | Deeper tissues | Skin recovery, scalp wellness and hair follicle health |
415nm Blue Light – Supporting Clearer-Looking Skin
Blue light is best known for its role in supporting blemish-prone skin.
Research has shown that blue light may help reduce Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes), the bacteria associated with acne. By activating naturally occurring compounds within these bacteria, blue light creates an environment that helps reduce bacterial activity while leaving surrounding skin largely unaffected.
Blue light has been studied for supporting:
Acne-prone skin
Oily and congested skin
Clearer-looking skin
Reduction in visible blemishes
Balanced-looking complexion
Because blue light works primarily within the upper layers of the skin, it is commonly used in skincare routines focused on breakouts and congestion.
630nm Red Light – Supporting Healthy Skin Ageing
Red light is one of the most extensively studied wavelengths in photobiomodulation.
Unlike blue light, red light penetrates deeper into the skin where fibroblast cells are found. Fibroblasts produce collagen and elastin, two structural proteins that contribute to skin firmness, elasticity and a smoother-looking complexion.
Research has investigated red light for supporting:
Collagen production
Skin firmness and elasticity
Reduction in the appearance of fine lines
Improved skin texture
More even-looking skin tone
Skin recovery following environmental stress
Red light is a popular choice for those looking to support healthy ageing and maintain vibrant-looking skin.
850nm Near Infrared Light – Supporting Skin Recovery & Scalp Health
Near infrared (NIR) light is invisible to the human eye but penetrates more deeply than visible red light.
Because of its deeper penetration, 850nm light has been widely investigated for supporting normal cellular function beneath the skin surface.
Research has explored near infrared light for supporting:
Healthy skin recovery
Cellular energy production
Skin comfort following cosmetic treatments
Scalp wellness
Hair follicle health
Near infrared light complements red light, making the two wavelengths a popular combination in professional photobiomodulation devices.
LED Therapy for the Face
The face remains the most popular treatment area for LED therapy.
Regular use may help support:
Healthier-looking skin
Brighter complexion
Improved skin texture
Skin firmness
Clearer-looking skin
Healthy skin barrier function
Because LED therapy is gentle and non-invasive, it can be used alongside an appropriate skincare routine.
LED Therapy Beyond the Face
LED therapy isn't just for facial treatments.
The flexible design of the O LED Light Therapy Device allows it to be comfortably positioned on many areas of the body, including:
Neck
Décolletage
Chest
Back
Shoulders
Arms
Hands
Legs
Whether you're looking to support healthy-looking skin on the body or complement your existing skincare routine, the versatility of the O LED device makes full-body treatments simple and convenient at home.
Supporting Scalp & Hair Follicle Health
Interest in photobiomodulation for scalp health has grown significantly over recent years.
Research has investigated red and near infrared light for supporting the normal hair growth cycle and maintaining healthy hair follicles. Scientists believe these wavelengths may support follicle function by improving cellular energy production and creating an environment that supports healthy scalp function.
The flexible design of the O LED Light Therapy Device allows it to be comfortably positioned over the scalp, making it a practical addition to a hair and scalp wellness routine.
For best results, consistency is key. LED therapy is designed to complement—not replace—a healthy lifestyle and appropriate hair care routine.
Why Combine Blue, Red & Near Infrared Light?
Each wavelength offers unique benefits.
Blue Light (415nm) supports clearer-looking, blemish-prone skin.
Red Light (630nm) supports collagen production, skin firmness and healthy skin ageing.
Near Infrared Light (850nm) supports deeper cellular processes involved in skin recovery and scalp wellness.
Together, these wavelengths provide a versatile approach to supporting healthy skin from the surface through to deeper tissues.
Meet the O LED Light Therapy Device
The O LED Light Therapy Device has been thoughtfully designed for people wanting the convenience of professional-inspired LED therapy at home.
Its flexible design allows treatment of the:
Face
Neck
Chest
Back
Body
Scalp
With multiple treatment modes and clinically relevant wavelengths, the O LED device fits easily into your skincare and wellness routine.
Like any wellness practice, the benefits of LED therapy are achieved through regular, consistent use over time.
Is LED Light Therapy Safe?
LED light therapy has been widely studied and is generally considered a safe, non-invasive treatment when used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
As with any device, it is important to read all instructions before use and speak with your healthcare professional if you have any medical concerns or are unsure whether LED therapy is suitable for you.
The Bottom Line
LED light therapy is one of the most researched technologies available for supporting healthy skin and scalp function.
Among the many wavelengths available, 415nm Blue Light, 630nm Red Light and 850nm Near Infrared Light remain some of the most extensively studied for supporting clearer-looking skin, healthy skin ageing, skin recovery and scalp wellness.
The O LED Light Therapy Device combines these key wavelengths into one flexible device that can be used across the face, body and scalp, making it a versatile addition to a comprehensive skincare and wellness routine.
Whether you're looking to support radiant-looking skin, complement your skincare regimen or maintain a healthy scalp environment, consistent LED therapy can become an easy and enjoyable part of your self-care routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I use LED light therapy?
Most people use LED light therapy three to five times per week initially, before moving to a maintenance routine. Always follow the instructions supplied with your device.
Can LED light therapy be used on the body?
Yes. The O LED Light Therapy Device is designed to be used on the face, body and scalp, making it suitable for a wide range of treatment areas.
Can LED light therapy help with healthy ageing?
Research has investigated red light for supporting collagen production and improving the appearance of skin firmness, texture and fine lines as part of a consistent skincare routine.
Can LED light therapy be used for scalp wellness?
Yes. Red and near infrared wavelengths have been widely investigated for supporting scalp health and healthy hair follicle function.
Disclaimer: LED light therapy is intended to support healthy skin and scalp function and general wellness. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or medical condition. Individual results may vary.
Comments