A few of you have seen this nifty looking toy hanging around the clinic recently. This is a Celluma Pro LED light therapy machine. They were originally developed by NASA to increase the wound healing capabilities of their astronauts in space. Then they discovered that it also had fairly miraculous properties when used on earth too!
The Celluma Pro combines and emits 3 specific wavelengths – blue, red and infrared. These transmit in a safe, UV-free, low level light energy, which can be adjusted or tailored in order to treat a broad range of skin conditions. When these wavelengths are absorbed they increase the amount of energy each cell has to use (ATP) which can result in the repair and regeneration of cells and tissues.
The LED machine has 3 seperate settings –
Red Light – this setting provides extra energy to help compromised cells regenerate naturally, as well as stimulating the growth of new collagen and elastin. Think fine lines, wrinkles, increased skin plumpness as well as increasing circulation and lymphatic drainage to promote wound healing.
Blue Light – the blue light increases the oxygenation in cells as well as causing the destruction of acne forming bacteria (P.Acnes) which helps to treat acne at its root.
Near-Infrared Light – the final setting is used for pain relief, which sounds a little bit bananas but is actually super clever. The near-infrared light creates angiogenesis (growth + development of blood vessels) in muscle tissues. This allows inflammation to decrease and pain to reduce.
How often Is It needed?
This depends on what the Celluma is being used for. On it’s own the recommendation is a course of 8-10 weekly sessions. However, as we recommend combining it with acupuncture this time frame can be significantly reduced. Acupuncture stimulates both the nerves and the deeper muscle layers which invigorate blood flow and bring healing elements of the body such as oxygen, white and red blood cells to the area.
Treatments are 30 minutes and can be added on to your regular acupuncture session (using Blue or Near-Infrared light if you have pain relief or skin needs) or on to your cosmetic acupuncture session (Red light).
What is the evidence?
Celluma Light Therapy has been shown to effectively treat a wide variety of skin and musculoskeletal conditions. Celluma is FDA-cleared for wrinkles and acne as well as arthritic pain, muscle and joint pain, and muscle and joint stiffness. In addition, Celluma has clearances for muscle tissue tension and spasm, and is proven to decrease inflammation and increase micro-circulation.
TLDR: Celluma uses a light source to improve cellular health by accelerating the repair and replenishment of compromised tissue cells. Come in for a few treatments in a row (preferably with Acupuncture) and you should feel (and look) fantastic.