Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

What color of LED light is primarily recommended for treating acne?

1. Red

2. Green

3. Blue

4. Yellow

The correct answer is: Blue

The use of blue LED light for treating acne is well-supported because it targets the specific bacteria responsible for acne, known as Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). When blue light penetrates the skin, it produces a type of energy that effectively kills these bacteria, thereby reducing inflammation and the number of breakouts. This targeted approach makes blue light particularly effective for those suffering from active acne lesions, leading to clearer skin over time. In contrast, red light is generally utilized for its anti-inflammatory properties and to promote healing, making it effective for overall skin rejuvenation but not specifically for acne. Green light is often used for hyperpigmentation and skin tone issues, while yellow light may help with conditions like redness and inflammation but does not target acne-causing bacteria as effectively as blue light does. This specificity to acne treatment is what makes blue LED light the primary recommendation for acne management.