The Caribbean Sun Box CSB-RB provides the exact wavelengths needed to clear most acne

The Caribbean Sun Box lamp has 144 LEDs (72 Blue and 72 Red) light emitting diodes. Treatment is based on the positive effect that light of certain wavelengths has on human skin. Blue light penetrates the skin to the bacteria (Proprionibacterium acnes) which causes pimples and blackheads. The blue light has an antibacterial effect and prevents the further development of pimples and blackheads. The red light soothes skin inflammations and relaxes and stimulates the skin in a positive way. The combination and the simultaneous application of both color types of light create the special effect of Caribbean Sun Box CSB-RB and it works without UV radiation.

BLUE LIGHT

It has long been known that sunlight (UV) can improve acne, although some of the effect is due to superficial camouflage. However, because of photo ageing and medical side effects, Generally UV radiation is not recommended as a safe treatment for acne.

More recently, a peak wavelength of 415nm, which is outside the UV range, has been found to be effective at treating acne (1). It is known that Propionibacterium acnes (P. acne) produce porphyrins during their normal life cycle (2). Porphyrins absorb light energy at the near UV and visible blue light spectrum. The irradiation of P. acnes with blue visible light (405nm) leads to photoexcitation of bacterial porphyrins, singlet oxygen production and eventually bacterial destruction (3).

RED LIGHT

It has been found that exposure to 660nm low-level wavelengths release cytokines. Cytokines stimulate fibroblast proliferation and the production of growth factors, thus influencing the inflammatory process, healing and ultimately wound repair (4, 5, 6, 7,) and has been found to significantly improve postoperative open wounds.

Red/Blue light treatment

In the first study of its kind, conducted at Hammersmith Hospital, Dr Chu et al evaluated the use of a mixed blue and red light (peaks at 405nm and 660nm) in the treatment of acne vulgaris. 107 subjects were randomized into four treatment groups. 1. Blue light. 2. Cool white light (placebo) 3. 5% benzoyl peroxide 4. Mixed blue and red light.

the researchers concluded

"We propose that blue light and red light acts synergistically in improving acne by combining anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory action, rendering phototherapy with blue-red light an effective and safe treatment for acne vulgaris".

References

1. M. Elman et al (2003). The effective treatment of acne vulgaris by a high-intensity, narrow band 405-420nm light source. Journal of Cosmetic & Laser Therapy; 5: 111-116.

2. Melo TB (1987). Uptake of protoporphyrinb and violet light photodestruction of Propionibacterium acnes. Z Naturforch C, 42: 123-128.

3. McGinley KJ et al (1980). Facial Follicular porphyrin flourescence. Correlation with age and density of propionibacterium acnes. British Journal of Dermatology; 102: 437-41

4. Yu W et al (1997). Effects of Photostimulation on wound healing in diabetic mice. Lasers Surgery med, 5: 31-9

5. Abergel et al (1987). Biostimulation of wound healing by lasers; experimental approaches in animal models and fibroblast cultures. Journal of Dermatol Surg Oncol, 13: 127-33

6. Iusium M et al (1992). Evaluation of the degree of effectiveness of biobeam (low level narrow band light) on the treatment of skin ulcers and delayed post-operative wound healing. Orthopedics; 15: 1023-6

7. P. Papageorgiou, A. Katsambas and A. Chu (2000). Phototherapy with blue (415nm) and red (660nm) light in the treatment of acne vulgaris. British Journal of Dermatology, 142: 5. Pp 973-978.