Pivot Point 102.4,102.5 Electricity

reflection (light tissue interaction)

photons hit the surface and bounce back

transmission (light tissue interaction)

photons penetrate the surface; skin color imoacts the transmission

absorption (light tissue interaction)

photons are absorbed by chromophores in the tissue this generates heat or stimulates cellular processes.

photosensitivity

a concern when using light therapy; medications, disease and topical products such as glycolic acid can cause the skin to be more sensitive to light.

electromagnetic spectrum

the range of all electromagnetic radiation, including light

visible light

400-700nm range that produces visible color, human eye sees colors, often used in therapeutic applications

invisible light

infrared (IR) or ultraviolet (UV), human eye cannot see, heat energy can be felt, can be very damaging, UVA, UBV, and UVC

salon/spa ideal light

a balance of LED, incandescent, and fluorescent lighting

fluorescent light

economical and long lasting, can create blue or cool casts.

incandescent light

commonly produces red or warmer tones. close substitute for natural light

LED

best used for efficiency and color accuracy. available in neutral, cool, or warm casts. come to full brightness with no need to warm up

infrared light

produces heat; increases circulation; increases skin gland secretions; relaxes muscles; stimulates cell and tissue activity. exposure time 5-15 minutes

ultraviolet light

shorter wavelength, positive and negative effects depending on exposure, small doses help produce vitamin D, germicidal and can kill skin infection causing bacteria.

UVC

(100-280nm) shortest length, absorbed by ozone

UVB

(280-315nm) "burn," shorter rays, stimulates melanin production, known as burning rays

UVA

(314-500nm) "age," longest ray of UV, used in tanning beds, destroys collagen and elastin, known as aging rays

light applications in esthetics

UVC: sterilization

UVA: sun lamps, wood's lamp

visible light: laser illumination lamp

IR: near - thermotherapy

what affects UV exposure?

altitude (high), latitude (in proximity to the equator), time of year (summer), time of day (10a-4p).