The far-reaching skincare benefits of low-level laser therapy make it an ideal aesthetic treatment.
Medically approved by Dr Graeme E. Glass , MD PhD Plastic Surgeon, Associate Professor of Surgery and LYMA Aesthetic Director
As a light source, face masks can have a positive effect on skin by transferring energy, but only within the epidermis — the outermost layer. Anything deeper, and the small amount of light that penetrates dissipates quickly. “A superficial glow and unifying of tone can be achieved by applications of non-laser light in clinics, so for patients wishing to achieve temporary surface-level skin improvement, these have their place,” confirms Dr. Glass.
High-energy dermatological resurfacing lasers achieve big results fast — at the cost of significant skin trauma and substantial treatment expenses. By burning cores of vaporized tissue, they accelerate repair to improve dermal quality, but at high risk. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), however, causes no such destruction. Coined to distinguish it from high-level, destructive laser therapy, LLLT supports skin by energizing mitochondria, activating tissue repair, and naturally boosting collagen production.
This scientific process, termed Photobiomodulation, refers to the non-thermal conversion of a specific type of light energy into chemical energy within cells. This explains why low-level laser therapy is being widely adopted in aesthetic treatments worldwide. Using cold lasers to stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, while rebuilding tissue, offers proven long-term rejuvenation without pain or trauma. See also: how to prevent collagen decline.
LLLT vs LLLT: Same name, different technology
A frustrating misconception in the industry: Low-level Laser Therapy shares the same abbreviation as Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT). The former refers to powerful, straight-line laser beams, while the latter to light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
“When you're in an immature technological environment, different terms are bandied about because no one quite knows what to call everything yet,” says Dr Graeme Glass, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon and LYMA Aesthetic Director.
Originally, LLLT meant low-level laser therapy. More recently, LEDs were used as substitutes, making the term ubiquitous but misleading. Today, scientific literature prefers Photobiomodulation (PBM) or Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) to reduce confusion.
Acronyms aside, all these terms describe the sub-cellular process triggered by non-thermal irradiation of tissue with laser light.
LLLT: Zero damage skin transformation
The longer the wavelength, the deeper the penetration — with infrared reaching further than red light. But the true effectiveness depends on the light source.
“The important thing to know is that laser sets itself apart from every other light source,” explains Dr. Glass. “Everyone focuses on wavelength, assuming all products producing the same wavelength have equivalent effects. That’s a misunderstanding.”
Laser light’s unique construction allows it to travel through tissue without losing energy — a crucial feature of PBM that explains why lasers are superior for stimulating regenerative skin effects.
Laser light proven to treat skin concerns
The LYMA Laser stands in its own category as a cold, low-level near-infrared laser. It penetrates deep into the skin to remodel and rebuild tissue without damaging a single cell.
The LYMA Laser improves fine lines and wrinkles, smooths skin texture, and evens skin tone — all while strengthening skin from within. Unlike traditional clinic lasers, the LYMA Laser is safe for all skin tones. Its zero-heat, zero-damage design makes it the first clinical-grade laser safe for melanin-rich skin, with no risk of scarring. For the first time, patients of color have access to an inclusive, clinical-grade laser treatment.
