Light BioScience, LLC, the maker of the GentleWaves® LED Photomodulation System, announced they are the first company to receive an over-the-counter clearance from the FDA to use a light system to treat wrinkles around the eyes.

The GentleWaves system reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with pulsating amber-colored light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are designed to stimulate collagen production in the skin. This system is currently used in physician offices for skin rejuvenation, but with this new FDA clearance, the company will start working on an at-home version that will not require a trip to the doctor’s office.

Studies have shown that exposing skin cells to certain wavelengths (colors) of LED light causes a small amount of damage to the cell. The skin cell responds by making more collagen to “repair” itself, which in turn can firm the skin up and reduce fine wrinkles. Because there is minimal damage to the cell, there is no immediate visible effect on the skin — no need to worry anyone will see you had a treatment.

A similar process goes on with other light therapies like lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL). However, lasers and IPL do cause enough damage to cells in the dermis that the skin can look red and peel.

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