Amber Light for Pregnancy Melasma
590nm light is a promising addition to the world of light therapy. From improving skin health to supporting eye health and aiding in hair loss prevention, emerging research suggest amber light benefits are vast. While more research is needed, the current findings are encouraging.You may not know this but there are other wavelengths other than red and NIR that are beneficial for you. Let's explore what 590nm light is, its health effects, and why it’s a great addition to your wellness routine. One fascinating pilot study demonstrated that melasma can be improved without tissue damage by using pulsed photobiomodulation (no need for dermabrasion or harsh chemical peels). Interestingly the authors suggest there might be an additional advantage to using PBM, in that it might precondition the skin to build a resistance to future UV ray exposure. This is an important finding as the worst triggering factor in melasma is sun exposure. PBM may in fact act like sunscreen preventing future damage.
What Is 590nm Light?
You might see 590nm light described as "amber," but sometimes it's also called yellow or even green. For simplicity, we'll stick with calling it amber. The exact name isn't as important as understanding its unique benefits.
Health Benefits of 590nm Light
Let's break down the fascinating effects of 590nm light based on scientific research.
1. Boosts Recovery After Bone Fractures
A study combined 590nm and 830nm light to treat edema in people with bone fractures. The results were impressive, showing a significant reduction in swelling. This suggests that 590nm light can aid in recovery and skin rejuvenation.
2. Supports Energy Metabolism and Autophagy
Research shows that 590nm light doesn't significantly impact energy metabolism but may influence autophagy—the body's process of cleaning out damaged cells (think of them as little PacMan cells gobbling up damaged cells). This can help in maintaining healthy skin and reducing signs of aging.
3. Promotes Skin Rejuvenation and Health
590nm light has shown the following effects on skin health:
Reduces skin redness and inflammation.
May prevent melasma (hyperpigmentation).
Helps in wound healing and reduces scarring.
Slows skin aging and improves overall skin texture.
4. Enhances Eye Health
Studies have found that 590nm light can benefit eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and dry eyes. Regular treatments can slow the progression of AMD and improve visual acuity.
5. Aids in Hair Loss Prevention
Combining 590nm light with pharmaceutical treatments has shown better results in hair regrowth. It helps reduce scalp inflammation and boosts hair health. (Research hasn’t been done on pregnancy hair loss so watch this space).
Recommended Protocols and Wavelengths
To get the best results from 590nm light therapy, here are some recommended protocols:
Wavelength: 590nm light is often combined with other wavelengths like 630nm and 830nm for enhanced effects (recent research suggests the best combination is NIR and amber. (I use the Hooga Amber light for dark spots on the skin).
Intensity: Effective doses range from 1 to 20 J/cm², depending on the treatment area.
Frequency: For skin treatments, sessions twice a week for several weeks can yield significant improvements.
If you have any questions or want to share your experiences, leave a comment below. Until next time, take care!
Resources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38018017/
