Lumiderm IPL Treatments

Spending less than 2 minutes a day in front of a blinking monitor-size panel could be the next way to smoother skin. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) flash specific wavelengths of low-energy light (less energy than a 25-watt bulb emits) to simulate collagen-producing fibroblasts. (A household bulb produces multiple wavelengths, but not enough of the skin-changing ones, so you won't look younger after sitting under a desk lamp.)

The result, according to tests submitted to the FDA by GentleWaves, an LED manufacturer, is a decrease in lines of up to 62 percent. It takes eight treatments ($100.00 to $125.00 each) to see similiar results, but unlike lasers or other light therapies, LEDs don't generate much heat, so there's no risk of damaging skin. LEDs also don't cause irritation, setting them apart from collagen-buildin gtopicals like retinoids, which may increase sensitivity. Lumiderm, another LED option, and GentleWaves currently can be found in doctor's offices and salons. But look for home-use devices to hit the market in the next few years . . . acrticle and information provided by ELLE Magazine