Is Red Light Therapy the Skincare Secret You've Been Missing? (Dermatologist)

In this video, I discuss what red light treatment for skincare is, what the scientifically proven benefits of it are, my thoughts on various commercially available red light devices (including the Solawave, the Omniwave Contour, and the SpectraLite Faceware Pro), and my concluding recommendations on which ones to use, if any.
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Intro
1:16 What Is Red Light?
2:13 Anti-Aging
3:31 Anti-Acne
4:54 Hair Loss
5:25 Solawave Device
7:08 Before and After Photos
12:06 Red Light Face Masks
13:38 My Overall Advice
Product Links:
SpectraLite FaceWare Pro (FDA Approved): geni.us/kNdyN
Omnibus Contour: omniluxled.com/products/omnil...
Note - this is not an endorsement of either of these products, simply a link to the ones mentioned in this video as examples of full face LED masks. There are many others available on the market and I encourage you to compare product specifications and user reviews before deciding which to purchase.
Social Media Links:
Instagram: / usamasyed
Twitter: / usamasyedmd

[@usamasyed]

I'm building an AI personal skincare assistant so that ANYONE can have a skincare expert in their pocket that knows their skin, helps them track it, and gives them unbiased advice on the best products/routines for them. If you're interested in this, sign up here for Early Access: og7lzb6tl1h.typeform.com/to/xVnXi5oc

[@roodietoodieshow6771]

Can people with rosacea use these light mask? I have rosacea and I feel like every anti aging device or serums I can’t use!

[@renataboyle3489]

@@roodietoodieshow6771- good question, I bought the Omnilux mask but not sure if I did the right thing as I suffer from telangiectasia.

[@olivern4784]

It would be great if it recommended a follow-up with a dermatologist when it found a suspect mole.

[@haifakhan976]

Hey Dr Syed, you're definitely one of the very few dermatologists online who are so honest and unbiased. Please do keep the videos coming !

[@usamasyed]

Very kind of you, thank you!

[@0205Bunny]

I've subcribed as you are the 1st dermatologist that raise this. Really appreciated the help.

[@Mari54161]

I love you! Thank you for being honest 😊 honesty is so refreshing

[@amirabechthold1976]

@usamasyed hey Dr. Syed, can you please do a video on neurodermatitis.

[@doloreshaefele7789]

Are you familiar with the Perfectio X? Would like to know your thoughts on it.

[@maribelcevallos9374]

You don’t only teach about skincare, you teach critical thinking applied to daily life and the world needs that…

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!!

[@KenzyBrownr]

*MR OBALAR* ON KZbin CURED ME TOTALLY❤

[@jaynegill7257]

It is crazy how many people believe influencers who work for companies and make a commission. It is nice to find someone who isn't trying to sell me products for once.

[@lisekrieger3468]

I’ve been using the Omniluxe mask on my face and neck for almost 2 years. It definitely works. But I purchased it knowing this is a long term game. That being said, I initially noticed results in a few months. And it is game changing for the neck area.

[@pjt3887]

I use it with vitamin C or other skin serums or oils for your face. I found it really helped to penetrate the skin.

[@naomihu9399]

@@pjt3887can you do that after applying vitamin C or retinol?

[@LJ-ub6bi]

​@naomihu9399 maysama green rooibos pressed serum has retinol and other ingredients. Its sold along with red lights. I bought a mitored light and it had a kit with the serum and the light. I may branch out to a cheaper serum,but figured I'd try this first.

[@jenniferpollard4466]

It works !!!

[@wquinonez1477]

True LED requires clean dry skin so the light can interact with the skin to create the changes. Serums aren’t used with true LED. Lightwave has developed a modality that is used in conjunction with specific products (ABI Dermaceuticals) that creates for the larger molecules to fold in on themselves so they can pass through the skin surface into the lower layers. Many ingredients have a Dalton size above 500/600 which means they can’t penetrate but sit on the skin. That’s ok for protective products. Treatment products to require absorption. LED can help with absorption. But unless the light has the Tooical Light Infusion modality, it should be used on clean skin - no serums. Serums are to be applied after. Be sure to apply a good antioxidant afterwards because ROS Reactive Oxidative Species (free radicals) are created and should be neutralized.

[@Lil-Be]

I've been using the Omnilux mask for two years, and my skin looks really good at 46. I maintain a very healthy lifestyle and follow a great skincare routine, so I'm not entirely sure how the mask contributes to my skin. However, even if it doesn't have a direct effect, I find it very relaxing to use, which at least benefits my nervous system. I use it every morning. Good skin results from a combination of factors, including adequate sleep, regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and effective stress management. It's a holistic approach, in my opinion.

[@michelles2299]

You are well educated it is many things I believe 90% of a good skin regime is based on diet nutrition.... Food is really important

[@Lil-Be]

I don't want to stop using it@@KtP370

[@Lil-Be]

Thank you :)@@michelles2299

[@youknow6607]

I tried this mask and it really hurt my eyes does it hurt yours?

[@Lil-Be]

@@youknow6607 Only the first few times but I got used to the light. It is also not dangerous for the eyes but takes a little bit to get used to. You can also cover your eyes with dark pads.

[@kd2533]

Thank you for zero fluff, talking at good speed without wasting time and presenting the science. Wish more of KZbin was like you.

[@meman6964]

I like straight up content presentations, thanks for that. You talk so fast I listened at 75% then I listened twice

[@baotranite2473]

Thanks for going into the deeper science of it all and explaining it to the rest of us.

[@naballav940]

Thank you for making this video! Neither biased, nor overly critisizing. Just the right tone backed by science. You got a new subscriber for sure! Please continue to make more videos!

[@inkerto]

i can't thank you enough for actually providing numbers and characteristics of the devices actually used in the studies, that's real talk here. Immediately subscribed, very impressed by the no-shit approach

[@bridony225]

Great breakdown! First time I’ve seen you’re videos. I love the scientific info. And I love that you get straight to the point and don’t ramble.

[@DiandraSays]

Love these informational breakdowns. I have consumerism overload and want to be intentional about making educational purchases. Appreciate your content 👏🏾

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!

[@ThisisShiraa]

Thank you so much for creating these videos, it's refreshing seeing a doctor who's not looking to sell me another skincare product. I am a medical student myself and I love the way you're explaining the subject, backing everything up with EBM :)

[@usamasyed]

Thank you! Although I have mentioned in my videos that I am working on a skincare product, so you may change your mind soon 😂

[@larkshairi5817]

Thank you for the honest videos. Much Respect 🙏 Please don’t ever stop doing what you’re doing. I wish there were more people like you.

[@usamasyed]

Thank you! Will keep it up as best I can 🙌🏼

[@samanthacarrick776]

Love your content!! Thank you, as always, for bringing the truth to the wild skincare world!!

[@usamasyed]

Thank you very much, Samantha!!

[@unidiotafeliz5579]

This is the video I need it, thanks for referencing the studies !

[@NIKKI.KO99]

I'm a licensed esthetician who watches dermatologists obsessively & this was the fastest I've ever subscribed to a channel! Knowledgable, unbiased, entertaining .... checks allll the boxes 😄🙌

[@Papapannekoek]

Licensed by?

[@NIKKI.KO99]

@@Papapannekoek …by the state board. Literally the only ones that can issue your license?

[@cheesecake4648]

@@Papapannekoek yeah.. they "study" for 2 months and get the "degree" xD

[@cathypautu6908]

The most realistic non sponsored one in utube ( skincare ) you and Dr Vanita Rattan are the best !!! Keep up the good work .

[@user-gv3du3iz2r]

I subscribed in the first 52 seconds..... that has never happened before. And at the end. I didn't regret my decision at all. Good work!

[@cherylvardy4073]

Thanks so much for the honest discussion. Totally agree with all your remarks regarding advertising photo shopped results. Even the shopping channels use the same tactics when selling skin care etc. After pics are always taken with different lighting & filters. What I find most infuriating is that we as the potential buyers are treated like fools. Anybody who uses that type of advertising looses my respect

[@user-xf5yh9ks9x]

loved your video on Red Light Therapy--timely as I'm looking into it. I also appreciate your sense of humor.

[@glendakeyes8251]

I’m 76 and I believe the routine use of Omnimask makes a difference in overall skin improvement!

[@liz9657]

As I was writing a comment about the solawave photos you brought up the lighting - this is my biggest frustration with before after pics!! It’s such a scam! The photo setting should always be identical for both. Thank you for this review and attention to detail!

[@glenbutler9611]

Dr Syed, thank you so much for debunking myths and clarifying the research! You've helped me save... I almost was persuaded to spend $1,000's at a spa...and now I can get my results at home!

[@lucasacord1537]

Love your videos man. As trendy as skincare is these days it's hard to find legit, unbiased information. Thanks for taking the time and energy to put these videos together and not selling out to sponsors.

[@usamasyed]

Very kind of you my bro! Really appreciate you taking the time to comment!

[@bridgettstephens5582]

Bravo and well said!!

[@Bibagodiva55]

And I agree too! I know how it is to leave the Hospital/Clinic oder Office after 12 or more Hours of Work and then after have a little Food to sit down and do something you do! It's not "only" to do this Video, you need to editing a bit (?) and than you will miss because of this also some hours Privacy and Sleep 🥰👏❣️ You are so strong and with so much Love and Power into your Profession, that I feel to you like "a Brother from another Mother" 😂💞! I was like that - and till now with 68 and in Pension - in my medical Professions, too ❣️ I'm very thankful for your great Informations and hope, that I can learn more to my own 50 Years Expierience : learning never Ends💖❣️ Have a nice Day and Week, best regards from Germany, Biggi 🥰🫶👍

[@kerristewart1171]

@@usamasyed enjoy your expertise

[@jcrider392]

@lucasacord1537. I agree, well said. As a name in mid 30s having been a competitive bodybuilder for 10 years, the tanning and no Skincare Routine started to catch up. So at 34 started Tretinoin, sunscreen, and considering red light. So far virtually ALL noticeable damage I've done has been reversed and beyond. NO ONE thinks I'm even 30, never believe (having to pull license out to prove). Very excited and considering this and nice to have a real dermatologist give this honesty.

[@zanzibarspice]

Great to hear. I’ve been using red and blue LED light for a while (2 different brands). I’ve noticed a subjective significant improvement in my acne and overall skin health.

[@georgeburns7251]

You should try yellow light too. They work great.

[@MarcKatzMD]

Continue to enjoy your content. Keep up the hard work doc!

[@usamasyed]

Thanks man!

[@anneliu694]

Thank for your honest education! Please keep up the great work!

[@KatyWithAWhyyy]

Watched this while wearing my full face led from Current Body. I absolutely love it...I've used it every single night since I got it in Dec and it's made a noticeable difference. ❤

[@thelastnashie8811]

I was hoping it didn’t do anything so I don’t feel like I should add something else to my routine 😂

[@aichaa444]

Great video! Love your clear scientific explanations and humour!

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!

[@ivinskio]

Just finished watching your video on red light therapy and wow, what a detailed explanation! I wanted to share my own story here because I've seen some really positive changes thanks to this therapy. A few months back, I started using a red light panel from Future Form Official, a company out of Norway. My joint pain has decreased significantly, and my skin feels healthier too. It's so convenient to manage this at home instead of taking loads of painkillers. Love your videos, keep them coming!

[@anshusingh7320]

Wow. Thanks for the detailed specs! Much appreciated 😊👍

[@user-by5dm1bh2i]

Love your sense of humor along with your informative guidance

[@fb8015]

Thanks so much for keeping it real!

[@susanwohl24]

Thank you for your great informative videos. Love the humor you add , it really puts a lot of of things in perspective!

[@faatimaevans2668]

Love your content! Educational & funny definitely keeps me engaged.

[@AamnaK-fq1ki]

I love your genuine content ❤

[@joanndelucia-curtis9443]

Enjoyed your take on red light therapy! It was the 1st at home modality I purchased for myself 7 years ago when I turned 50. I started with an Aduro mask, and when that gave up the ghost last November I purchased a Mojia mask. It has similar specs to the Omnilux (is Red LED and NIR) but a much more reasonable price point. I've used them consistently 4-5 times a week for the past 7 years and I do believe it helps my skin look fresh, plump and much younger than my age. I have never had any cosmetic procedures or treatments professionally. It does take commitment but I do feel relaxing with a red light each morning or evening which I hear can help you sleep better!) is pretty easy to fit into my schedule.

[@Nanna0708]

As much as I enjoy learning about skin care from you and enjoy every second of it ( i literally laughed out loud several times), I truly hope we see you behind a camera or editing room for a some big picture in the near future. Your editing. Timing. Humor. Everything is on a pro level. Absolutely perfect! 👏

[@usamasyed]

Ahh that's very kind of you to say! Will wait for a big studio to stumble across my KZbin channel and hopefully agree with you!

[@espirotadebretagne3533]

​@@usamasyedXLR

[@texasgirlhowdy]

First time watching you and it’s an instant sub. I appreciate your honesty. I’ve had great results from using my omnilux but I’m not consistent with it. I will get back at it now. Happy New Year!

[@siren888]

I’ve been using my Omnilux mask and I love it! My skin tone is so much more even, and my skin feels plump and tight. I use it every day and around 2-3 sessions each time. I want to stress that you MUST protect your results by using an SPF every day. Also if you have a crappy lifestyle (bad diet, poor sleep) no amount of topical face treatments will help until you fix that!

[@Benegesserite]

Really? 3 times a day, 7 days a week?

[@carmenroxanabarsan6240]

Too much. There aren t studies more than 18 months about red Light. You don t know the effect on a long run.

[@Rosie-fk9mb]

I totally agree with the deceptive after pictures a lot of the companies make to sell their products

[@atchoum1357]

Thanks for saying these pictures are not comparables. I can see an instant imporvement taking a selfie with and without the flash myself.

[@meutih]

Thank you! Love your videos and appreciate study reference and straight to the point explanation!

[@usamasyed]

My pleasure!

[@AlisaKight]

Awesome doctor! not to mention you have sense of humor I love watching your Chanel for skincare knowledge. Thank you so much🙏

[@Dog_in_a_hat]

Please don’t stop posting skincare content. I learn so much from your way of conveying information in a fun way

[@usamasyed]

Thank you! Will try my best 🙌🏼

[@diegotrazzi]

Thanks for spotting the lighting in these photos. I have been working in lighting for a long time and this also pisses me off. Changing the light changes the perception of the subject entirely.

[@sballantine8127]

Great video, thank you. Now i know what to look for in before & after pictures.

[@lianemichaud2631]

Hello Usama - I discovered your channel yesterday and subscribed 🎈 🎈 🎈I love your explanations and the fact you are not sponsored!!! Thanks for your excellent channel !!

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!!

[@swisskiwi1478]

Really helpful as my daughter is considering buying one and I wasn’t sure that they were worthwhile.

[@pedrok3381]

I have an Omnilux face mask and it definitely results. I'm using it for a few weeks and i already note that my skin is more firm and with less wrinkles. Off course it never have the same intensity than a clinical device, but is a good product.

[@usamasyed]

good to know your hands on experience!

[@Sheree_D_N]

I've been doing red light therapy (in a bed at a salon) since 2009 when I was diagnosed with pityriasis lichenoides chronica, it saved my skin! I'm skeptical the masks won't deliver the same benefits, but man would it be more convenient 🤔

[@Dominique_99]

@@Sheree_D_Nit may not be exactly the same but it will give some of the same results and it will save you a tonne of money. My mask cost about $100 but they go up from there and mine does different colours.

[@hoangthai3974]

@@Sheree_D_NDo you know if there is any risk or warning with using red light therapy

[@celestiabella]

Love your humor, subscribing!!

[@natashadelvillarr]

Thank you for this! Super informative 😊

[@seaglass.jen86]

This video deserves more likes.

[@Sonia-zq9ek]

Sooo interesting! I loved the (paraphrasing) “he must have found a ring light between the before and after picture” 🤣😂 I have been using the faceware pro for almost 2 years now: 3 min each night before bed, except when on holidays. I do not have before and after pictures, but I think it has greatly helped along with retinol. My skin texture looks its best since childhood 😄

[@garlicbread4792]

I really wanted your opinion on this before I decided to buy one because of how expensive these are but also because I wasn't sure if it worked. I find you more trustworthy so now that I know what you think someday I'll splurge on one!

[@sonjah1913]

Hooga actually has several handheld floodlight type devices for $39 + shipping and a small panel for less than $150. I have the redlight/infrared one and I am very happy. I don't have acne, botham getting pain relief from my basal thumb arthritis. It also worked great on an abscess on my dog, so much easier than soaking towel in hot water. Alex Fergus has tons of very helpful KZbin reviews.

[@tessacanzona610]

Have watched a ton of you tube videos trying to decide on which mask to get. This was probably the helpful, and definitely the most entertaining ☺️ thank you so much. Subscribed!

[@tessacanzona610]

( most )

[@van1651]

I love your content, so informative and funny. Have a nice day!

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!

[@bdrum2188]

This was the absolute best video and information I have found on this topic. Super helpful!! Thank you! You've definitely earned another subscriber. I am especially interested to hear your information about the LED treatment devices for hair loss like the iRestore. Thanks!

[@therealsandraweise]

Regions hospital BURN UNIT in Saint Paul Minnesota uses Celluma. I saw it myself visiting a friend recovering. Dr. Hawes said every burn unit uses medical grade red light therapy which increases cell turnover and faster healing for skin grafts and burns. Celluma is one of their trusted brands.

[@itsagoodday2165]

Yayyyyy another video!!!! ❤😂 Do a video on RF facial devices, please, does it cause facial fat loss and at what strength should you use these RF devices?

[@usamasyed]

Ohh good idea for a topic!

[@kathycorcoran1589]

I would love to know more about this too.

[@Lorennia]

Thank you Dr you helped me a lot! I have one of these devices at home and I really thought they didn’t do anything for real but I will use it more often. Very interesting to know that they work for acne and anti-aging purposes. You have a new subscriber ❤

[@lyndagabriel6539]

I just discovered you yesterday (like Columbus "discovered" America)... I watched this yesterday and I'm commenting today because I'm still thinking about and appreciating your picture critique. They are obviously not showing realistic results, but you described how they can use undoctored photos, yet still be playing fast and loose with the truth. Thank you for that. When I was in high school, back in the Dark Ages well before cellphones, there was a course that dealt with things like truth in advertising and the like. I've always wished everyone had such a course. Thanks for adding to "how to think" literacy!

[@allhimwithme5115]

Loving this first video I happened upon - you are such an authentic spirit, someone I'd hope to be friends with if that were possible!

[@peggysmyth6110]

Licensed esthetcian here and excited to have found your channel. At home I use the Spectralite Faceware Pro.

[@kathycorcoran1589]

Well does it work well? Details please.

[@denise2534]

Thanks for this informative review. I would really like it if you could also review the Nira and new (larger) Nira Pro.

[@lindat1317]

I do red light therapy for 30 minutes after my bi-weekly or monthly facial & I swear it makes a difference. Never had acne, but mild rosacea and only very fine bunny lines on my nose (at 61). Love good skin care! But it all starts from the inside, don’t forget. 😊

[@reneedavenport4322]

Thank you for getting to the point!

[@muskaninam]

Love love your content ❤

[@usamasyed]

Means a lot, thank you!

[@auntagatha2509]

Very informative video and your knowledge is obviously good but you’re funny too. I like that 😊

[@maeross]

Love how you analyze photos! Have the same feeling and thoughts when watching before and after photos/videos: why do they change lightning, how can they say it was a miracle of a device?? :/

[@gluckwunschwinston5618]

Thank you for taking the time to bring us this content! I was ready for you to say they don't work but I guess they can. Crazy to think some people use them all over their bodies like a solarium. I'm way too lazy for this though ✌🏼

[@usamasyed]

haha I do love debunking stuff, but sometimes the science is actually there!

[@CosmicMatcha]

Loving your videos! What are your thoughts on infrared light therapy? What do you feel about IR saunas?

[@troyescoda]

Thanks Dr.-You are certainly a breath of fresh air. Do you have an opinion of full body red light devices?

[@helenapong2702]

Really appreciate your honest and informational review on red light. I feel that I have dark spots after using red lights, could you tell us more abt that too?

[@NE_11111]

Excellent video! I didn’t know about output intensity. I have a red light Device, 12 x 12 inches 633/850 but they don’t state the output intensity. Now I think it must be too low. I appreciate your science and honesty! 😊

[@kkkkit]

I want to get one of those for winter!

[@Coconutmilk-Beans]

Thank you for explaining 🙌💝

[@missknight9]

I am blown away by your transparency. This is an amazing video. Consider me a fan for life💞

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!!

[@_Tressala_]

Whew...you just saved me so much money. Thank you so much for your time and effort.

[@jdc2126]

Don’t believe everything you watch

[@juliasugarbaker3859]

This was so helpful. Thank you!

[@usamasyed]

My pleasure!

[@ldlockhart-lutzow9421]

I really appreciate ur content-no bullshit reviews. Do u have a skincare routine & what products do u use?❤

[@BonJour007]

Dr Syed! How I went from comparing running shoes to discovering you I don’t know but you are very funny and I am glad I discovered you! Super video!

[@deepuls545]

Love this information rich unbiased fun to watch video. Intelligent doctor with great presentation.

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!!

[@jettespicks7121]

Hello! I was very satisfied with your video on red light devices and the two face mask types you recommended - my question is what is an equivalent handheld device (e.g. a wand) so that one can use it at home on neck, hands, chest, etc. there seem to be LED light “blankets” or screens - do you have research on these? Finally are there areas (eyes, thyroid?) that one should avoid the use of the at home LED? Many thanks. You’ve earned a new follower.

[@nolagross9036]

Thank you for your research and sharing.

[@tame77725]

Thank you for sharing the truth. It is much appreciated

[@usamasyed]

Thank you!!

[@paulaswann6990]

Great information. Thank you.

[@sheryllynmc]

Thanks for your insight!

[@jilli813]

Just subscribed and thankful I found it!

[@silviavillegas6189]

Hi Dr. Syed. I just ran into your video & I was so happy that I did! You're so funny! Loved it! Most importantly, you answered my questions about red light skin therapy. Now I really do need to save my $$ to buy the face mask I've been eyeing! 😊 Thank you very much for your informative & of so very funny & helpful videos! Please keep them coming! 😊☺️👍🏻👍🏻

[@domingosantiago4813]

My experience with red light +Infrared Red Celluma-powerful, anti aging , pain management and acne 30 min treatments Revive light therapy -economical with a lot of options Omnilux - good does work a lil weak but good the battery dies quick Platinum led powerful panel helps with pain management and actually helped heal a cut quicker from an accident injury

[@usamasyed]

Thanks for sharing!

[@j666f]

You are gonna have over 1 million subs. the quality of the content is so good!!

[@usamasyed]

Ahh love the vote of confidence!

[@increasingjoy1391]

Do you have thoughts on the TRIA LASER? Thank you so much for educating us and taking the time to entertain us, too!

[@shaesthakhan8800]

Thank you!! loved your vidio and really appreciate your content

[@usamasyed]

You're welcome!

[@theabispin8032]

I am dead😂 i’ve just come across your videos and they’re so bloody brilliant - have subscribed❤️

[@joymoody2372]

Yes, I've noticed on many of these product Before & After shots, the lighting is different. As you point out, that makes a big difference. Thanks for honest assessments. I can't afford to waste my $.

[@jdc2126]

Doesn’t mean it doesn’t work. These are people who depend on their content for monetization. You think they’ll wait weeks and months to produce their video for result? There are so many data on photobiomodulation studies with amazing results.

[@AliUguz]

Nothing but facts as always.

[@danielladanailova]

I highly appreciate your video Thank you from the buttom of my heart be alive and healthy!

[@usamasyed]

Ahh thank you!

[@jamesk8s1]

Thank you Dr. Usama Syed!! 🙌 You just saved me lots of money! Grateful🙆🏻!