Over the last few years you’ve read more and more about the advances that have been made in light therapy. From laser hair removal to acne treatment, laser and light therapies have become a staple in the world of dermatology. You may have already experienced one or more of the options in your dermatologist’s office but now, for the first time, the best light therapies are available in at-home versions that actually work. Here are a few of the best ones and how they stack up against their industrial big sisters.

LED – We have seen the anti-aging properties of LED light therapy in dermatologists’ offices. Yellow and infra-red LED lights have been found to boost collagen levels and help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Now there are dozens of at-home LED units that claim to duplicate these results. The good news is that some of them actually work. The bad news is that they are among the more expensive models (somewhere in the $300 - $400 range). Look for models that duplicate the exact light frequencies your doctor uses for results closest to what you’ve already experienced. A quick phone call and a few minutes reading labels should tell you all you need to know. If you’ve never had LED therapy, schedule an appointment with your dermatologist to talk about your options and her recommendations.

Laser Hair Removal – The laser hair removal therapy available at your doctor’s office basically works by heating up your hair follicles to the point that they are destroyed. There is some pain involved (many compare it to the sensation of having a rubber band snapped against your skin). With in-office visits, this treatment can eliminate 50 to 80% of the targeted hair follicles over six visits. Most re-growth can be prevented with follow-up maintenance sessions.

Many dermatologists have been surprisingly supportive of at-home treatments. Of course here again, the most effective units are near the upper end of the price range (in the $1000 neighborhood). These devices are shaped like a gun or small hair dryer and are made to be used specifically on the body (not the face). These devices have been shown to be nearly as effective as the in-office treatments. Depending on your hair removal needs, an investment in an at-home treatment may be a good financial move. Just remember that the at-home treatments take just as long as the in-office versions (up to an hour for one leg), so be sure you’ve got the time and the energy to invest.

Acne Light Therapy – Odds are good that your dermatologist has been prescribing light therapy for reducing acne recently. The blue light frequencies can penetrate deep into pores and kill acne-causing bacteria. Infra-red light can also be used to reduce inflammation. As with the other therapies, this one is available for at-home use as well. These treatments have received good reviews in the dermatological community and some studies have been published affirming their effectiveness. If you have a half-hour, $300 and some patience, you can zap your blemishes in the privacy of your own bathroom. Many at-home treatments include both blue and red lights for both blemish elimination and redness reduction.

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