Collagen lamps vs. LED light therapy: what's actually better for your skin?
Updated: Oct 17
If you're exploring anti-aging treatments or looking for the best way to boost collagen naturally, you've likely come across LED Light Therapy and so-called "collagen lamps." Both promise to rejuvenate your skin, but they are not the same thing, and the difference between them is worth understanding.
What is LED light therapy?
LED light therapy is a non-invasive skincare treatment that uses different wavelengths of light to target various skin concerns. Unlike tanning beds or UV-based treatments, LED devices do not use ultraviolet radiation.
How LED light therapy works
LED light therapy works through a process called photobiomodulation. Specific wavelengths of light are absorbed by skin cells and are studied for their effect on collagen and elastin production. People mainly use it hoping to:
Improve the look of skin firmness
Soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles
Even out skin tone and texture
Calm skin that looks irritated
Results vary from person to person.
Types of light used in LED therapy
Different colors of light are usually chosen for different skin concerns:
Red light: usually chosen for skin ageing concerns.
Blue light: usually chosen for acne-prone skin.
Yellow light: usually chosen for sensitive or red-looking skin.
LED light therapy is available in professional LED beds and as at-home devices like LED masks and handheld tools. Whether it suits you depends on your skin and any medication you use, so ask before you book.
You can book a session on our full body LED therapy bed in Amsterdam.
Book your session here
What are collagen lamps or collagen banks?
Collagen lamps, sometimes referred to as collagen banks, are devices often found in tanning salons. They resemble tanning beds and use red light, often in combination with low levels of ultraviolet (UV) light.
These devices are marketed as a way to "bank collagen" or boost collagen production while giving your skin a healthy glow. If you are considering one, ask the provider what evidence supports these claims and whether the device uses UV light.
The key difference: UV exposure
While some collagen lamps do emit red light, many also expose the skin to UV radiation. UV exposure is a known risk factor for premature skin ageing, skin cancer and damage to the skin barrier.
The slight tan or glow you may notice after using these devices is not a sign of skin health. It is often the result of UV-induced skin stress.
Marketing vs evidence
The term "collagen bank" is not a medical or scientific term. It is primarily used for marketing purposes. Red light is studied for its effect on collagen, but adding UV exposure adds health risks.
LED light therapy vs collagen lamps: what differs?
When comparing LED light therapy vs collagen lamps, the main difference is UV: LED devices do not use UV radiation, collagen lamps may.
LED light therapy:
Non-invasive
No UV radiation
Studied for its effect on collagen; results vary
Suitability depends on your skin and medication: ask first
Collagen lamps:
May include harmful UV exposure
Ask what evidence supports the marketing claims
UV exposure can cause long-term skin damage
If your goal is to improve skin quality and you want to avoid UV exposure, LED light therapy is an option without UV. Ask any provider which device they use and what evidence supports it.
Our full body LED bed does not use UV light.
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Choosing the right skincare treatment can be overwhelming. At Light Angel, we offer a free skin consultation to help you understand your skin’s condition and determine the most effective treatment plan based on your goals.
Book your free skin analysis today.
Schedule your consultation
Conclusion
In the debate between collagen lamps vs LED light therapy, the key difference is UV exposure.
LED light therapy does not use UV radiation. That avoids the risks associated with UV exposure. How well it works for your skin varies from person to person.
If you want a UV-free option, ask the provider which device they use and what evidence supports it.
You can book full body LED light therapy at Light Angel in Amsterdam.
Curious about LED light therapy for your skin? Discover our anti-aging lifting facial in Amsterdam, or book a free 15-minute consultation.
Read also
Read also: see our non-surgical facelift guide or book a red light therapy session in Amsterdam.
