Manufacturer fights back over LED anti-ageing study

By Simon Pitman

- Last updated on GMT

Related tags Scientific method

UK-based LED anti-aging manufacturer Photo Theraputics has hit back over a recent study carried out by US consumer publication Good Housekeeping.

Photo Theraputics, which manufacturers the Omnilux range of LED handheld devices for use in the home, says that the magazine’s test results go against a body of peer-reviewed scientific evidence that indicates the technology is an effective means of treating wrinkles.

The Good Housekeeping Institute carried out tests on five different LED devices using volunteers at intervals ranging from weekly to daily for a period of four to six weeks.

The study found, that with only very few exceptions affecting the quality of the skin, there was no visible effect on fine lines and wrinkles from any of the devices after the testing was completed.

Study goes against other peer review trials

“I was disappointed at the findings of the Good Housekeeping experiment, especially when there have been so many other independent trials and studies over the years that have shown the relatively high efficacy of the Omnilux handheld,”​ said Dr. Colin Whitehurst, director of research and development at Phototheraputics.

“Perhaps Good Housekeeping were unlucky with the results, but it must be understood that the anecdotal evidence from its experiment was based on a small sample set, with very short follow-up, and no published experiment details and therefore impossible to comment on.”

Dr. Whitehurst went on to explain that formal trials for the Ominlux New-U were subject to international scientific guidelines, which meant that it was peer reviewed to prove the efficacy of the device.

Last year researchers at the University of Michigan published results of a study carried out using laser treatment on 47 patients between 1996 - 2004, finding lasers to be a 'highly effective anti-wrinkle treatment'.

However, the study also underlined the potential for skin complications such as acne and hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.

At home LED treatments spell growth

LED light therapies were originally developed to treat skin cancers, but have grown increasingly popular as an anti-aging treatment, which until the last year or so has always had to be administered by a trained beauty consultant or dermatologist.

However, approval by international authorities such as the FDA, combined with the fact that the devices now benefit from technology which has led to the development of an easy-to-use hand-held form, has all helped to bring the treatment into the home.

As a result, there has been a flurry of business activity in this area, highlighted by US company PhotoMedex announcing its acquisition of light-based treatment manufacturer Photo Therapeutics back in October last year.

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