The search for an effective solution for dark circles has been going on for what seems like forever. This quest hasn’t been in vain; an array of methods, from makeup to skincare, have been discovered to combat these annoying visitors on your face. One of the best of them is LED light therapy, which has garnered support from numerous celebrities and academic studies.
So, how do LED eye patches work for dark circles? Do they really deliver the promised results? Let’s explore why LED under eye patches have so many fans in the skincare community and how to decide if they’re the right choice for you.
What are Dark Circles?
To understand how LED under eye patches reduce dark circles, you must first understand what dark circles are. Dark circles appear as darkened-looking periorbital skin (the skin around your eyes). Many cases of dark circles involve the skin itself darkening. On the other hand, the appearance of dark circles could also be the result of puffiness, loose skin, hollowness under eyes, etc., which cast shadows and make your periorbital skin look darker than it is.
Dark circles have a variety of potential causes, including hyperpigmentation, thinning skin that allows the blood vessels underneath to peek through, other effects of ageing, and even genetics. While it is important to embrace the natural process of ageing or other factors out of your control, such as your genetics, it is often easier said than done. Reducing the appearance of dark circles can have a significant positive impact on your self-confidence.
What are LED Under Eye Patches?
Now that you know what dark circles are and how they are caused, let’s get into how LED eye patches work to reduce their appearance. LED under eye patches use the principles of LED light therapy to leverage your natural skin-repair mechanisms and rejuvenate your skin from the inside out.
While topical skincare products (applied externally to the skin) are often inefficiently absorbed through the skin barrier, light therapy works differently. The light that LEDs emit can easily penetrate skin without causing any damage to it and stimulate internal cellular reactions that support skin repair and revitalisation. Thus, LED under eye patches can target the root causes of skin concerns without causing harmful effects.
Note: As with any skincare product, it is important to ensure that your skin does not have a negative reaction to the product before adding it to your skincare routine.
The depth of penetration of the light, and its subsequent effect, also vary depending on its wavelength. Different wavelengths appear visually as different colours, each having its own application in skincare. This is why you might have seen different coloured LED under eye patches or facial masks available on the market, such as red LED eye patches or blue light LED facial masks. The wavelengths of light used in an LED light therapy device is analogous to the ingredient list in a topical skincare product.
How Do LED Eye Patches Work for Dark Circles?
LED under eye patches are manufactured carefully and precisely to repair the fragile and sensitive under eye skin without aggravating it. Depending on the skin concern you are attempting to resolve, the most effective wavelength of light varies. This is one of the most important factors to consider if you are learning how to choose the best LED mask that’s best suited to get rid of dark circles.
LED under eye patches designed to target visible signs of ageing around the eyes, including dark circles, often use a combination of wavelengths to resolve their underlying causes. The wavelengths of light with the most scientific evidence supporting their anti-ageing effects are 630 nm red light and 830 nm near infrared light, which explains the popularity of red and near infrared LED eye patches for dark circles, fine lines, and wrinkles. Green light has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots, including sun spots.
LED under eye patches reduce the appearance of dark circles by promoting circulation and accelerating the cellular reactions that produce collagen and elastin. Collagen and elastin are proteins in the skin that give it firmness and elasticity. By providing a spa-like relaxing experience from the comfort of your own home, LED under eye patches also support healthy stress management, which indirectly helps reduce dark circles.
Bonus Tips for Best Results Using LED Under Eye Patches
Here are some bonus tips and best practices when it comes to using LED under eye patches that will help you achieve the best results possible and significantly reduce the appearance of dark circles:
1. Consistency is key:
Be patient and use the LED under eye patch of your choice at its recommended frequency and duration for at least 1-3 months to see visible results.
2. LED under eye patches add to your skincare routine, not replace it:
While using LED under eye patches can be highly beneficial for the health of your under eye skin, do not skip the rest of your skincare, including a serum or moisturiser along with sun protection. It is recommended to use LED light devices on clean, dry skin before applying other products.
3. LED under eye patches can’t fix everything:
Any skincare product, including LED under eye patches, needs to be supported with healthy lifestyle practices, a balanced diet, and adequate water intake to achieve the best results.
4. Choose the right LED under eye patches for you:
Your skin type and concerns determine the best suited LED under eye patches for you. Research well prior to making a purchase or consult a professional to make sure the product is aligned with your skin’s needs.
5. Read the product description carefully:
LED under eye patches come with different directions for use depending on the brand you choose. Go through the product description and any contraindications to make sure you do not suffer from negative reactions to the product. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s usage instructions for optimal results.
LED Under Eye Patches for Dark Circles: Yay or Nay?
LED under eye patches that use the right combination of wavelengths (typically red and near infrared) can have a significant effect on the appearance of dark circles, helping you achieve healthier, brighter, and smoother under eye skin. By following the recommended best practices, you can use them to achieve optimal results and resolve your dark circle woes. Remember that safety comes first, and ensure that the device you purchase is suitable for you.
