Black light therapy

Market Insights on Black Light Therapy Devices

Market Size: The global skincare devices market, which includes black light therapy devices, was valued at approximately $15.87 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $57.29 billion by 2034, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.38% during the period from 2024 to 2034. The increase in skin-related disorders, such as acne and psoriasis, is a significant driver of this growth, as consumers seek effective treatments that these devices offer.

Consumer Insights: The target demographic for black light therapy devices primarily includes individuals aged 18-45, who are increasingly aware of the importance of skin health and aesthetics. Key purchasing drivers consist of the efficacy of the devices, the ingredients used in the therapy, and the certifications that validate their safety and effectiveness. Moreover, there is a notable unmet need for affordable, at-home treatment options that deliver clinical-like results, which is prompting innovation in this segment.

Top Brands Dynamics and Innovators: Leading brands are actively introducing advanced black light therapy devices that utilize innovative technology for enhanced user experience. For instance, recent product launches have highlighted the use of LED technology that targets skin concerns more effectively. As consumers continue to demand non-invasive and efficient skincare solutions, the market is witnessing a surge in the development of user-friendly devices designed for home use, further stimulating market growth.

Types of black light therapy

Black light therapy, or blue light therapy, is a skin treatment that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to address various skin conditions. There are different types of black light therapy units available that provide this treatment:

• Handheld devices

  Patients use handheld black light therapy devices at home. These devices are portable and easy to use. They are also compact, making them convenient for travel. Patients treat specific areas of their skin, like the face or scalp, with these handheld devices. Some models include timers and charging docks.

• Panel black light therapy

  Panel black light therapy units are larger than handheld models. They feature a flat panel with UV lights mounted on a stand. These devices treat specific areas of the skin. Patients or dermatologists move the panel over the treatment areas. The panel's size offers more coverage than handheld devices.

• Box or closet black light therapy

  Box or closet black light therapy units are larger devices that resemble cabinets or closets. Patients step inside the unit and close the doors. The black lights treat the entire body or large areas like the head and torso. The units are fitted with sensors that automatically turn on the lights when the doors are closed.

• Desk black light therapy

  Desk black light therapy units are smaller devices that sit on a desk. Patients sit in front of the device to receive light therapy. The units are commonly used to treat facial skin issues. Desk black light therapy devices are popular for treating conditions like acne.

• Combination therapy units

  Some manufacturers make black light therapy units that combine other treatment methods. For example, units that combine blue light therapy and red light therapy. Blue light therapy kills the bacteria that cause acne, while red light therapy promotes collagen production. Using both therapies provides quicker treatment for acne and enhances skin healing.

How to choose black light therapies

• FDA-Cleared/Approved: An FDA-cleared or approved device is a prescription device that has undergone clinical trials and is considered safe and effective by the FDA when used as directed. Devices that the FDA does not clear or approve may not be as safe or effective. The FDA requires manufacturers to prove that black light therapy devices are safe and effective for treating psoriasis, eczema, and other skin conditions.
• Device Type: The three main black light therapy device types include lamps/units, hand-held models, and dawn/dock alarm clock models. Lamps/units contain a panel or box containing UVB bulbs that emit light onto affected areas of the skin. This model is typically used to treat psoriasis and similar conditions. Hand-held models are portable and used to treat smaller affected areas of the skin. Dawn/dock alarm clock models expose the whole body to light while sleeping or at the beginning of the day and are used to treat SAD.
• UV Type: Be sure the device emits the required UVB wavelengths for black light therapy. Short-wave UVB therapy (311nm) is considered the best and most effective for treating skin conditions.
• Size: Consider the size of the black light therapy device. A lamp/unit model may have a large treatment area, which may be suitable for treating larger skin areas. On the other hand, a hand-held model is portable and easy to store.
• Features: Look for additional features that enhance the black light therapy experience. This may include a timer, adjustable brightness levels, a convenient power source, or portability.

How to use and product safety

An effective black light therapy treatment plan should be tailored to the user's needs. Consulting a healthcare professional before starting the treatment is essential to developing an appropriate plan. The therapy device should be placed at a specific distance from the skin, as indicated in the user manual. It usually ranges between 2 to 18 inches. The sessions should last around 15 minutes, depending on the severity of the condition, as instructed by the healthcare professional. The exposure time should gradually increase. The treated areas should be cleansed before the sessions. The device should not be used on open wounds.

It is vital to wear protective eyewear during the sessions to protect the eyes from UV radiation. The skin should also be protected from the light by wearing clothing. Other light sources in the room should be turned off during the sessions to avoid distractions. The therapy device should be turned on after the protective measures have been taken. It should be passed slowly over the targeted areas without direct contact. The user should be focused on the treatment and breathe deeply through the nose and exhale through the mouth.

After the session, the device should be turned off and cleaned. Any light-blocking items should be removed for the next session. The user should be notified of any adverse effects, such as headaches or skin irritation. The treatment plan should be followed for at least six weeks to see significant results. The benefits of black light therapy include improved mood, better sleep quality, and healthier skin. Protective measures should include wearing protective eyewear and applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to prevent sunburns.

Functions, features, and design of black light therapy

Functions

• Treating skin conditions:

  Black light therapy is mainly used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, jaundice, acne, and many more. Using this lamp helps reduce the symptoms of these skin conditions.

• Vitamin D deficiency:

  Black light therapy can treat vitamin D deficiency. When the skin is exposed to this light, it produces vitamin D, an essential vitamin for the body.

• Improving mood:

  Black light therapy can also improve one's mood. People suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) usually use light therapy to improve their condition. This disorder usually occurs during winter when sunlight is scarce. The absence of sunlight can make people feel moody, anxious, and sad. Exposing themselves to black light therapy can help ease their condition.

Features and design

• Types of lamps:

  There are different types of lamps used for black light therapy. They include fluorescent lamps, compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), light-emitting diodes (LED), and mercury vapor lamps.

• Portable:

  Black light therapy devices are made portable, allowing users to carry them and use them whenever needed. This is mainly seen in black light therapy pens and handheld devices.

• Size and shape:

  Black light therapy devices come in various sizes and shapes, from small handheld devices to table lamps and floor lamps. The size and shape determine the treatment area and how easily the device can be used or stored.

• Adjustable settings:

  Many black light therapy devices have adjustable settings that allow users to control the intensity and duration of the therapy sessions. This enables users to customize the treatment according to their needs and preferences.

Q&A

Q1. What is the average treatment time for black light therapy?

A1. The average treatment time depends on the skin condition being treated and its severity. For psoriasis, users may take 1 to 2 minutes and gradually increase to 5 to 10 minutes after 2 to 3 weeks. For eczema, users may take 5 to 10 minutes, and for jaundice, newborns may take 1 to 2 hours.

Q2. Can black light therapy cause cancer?

A2. There is a potential risk of developing skin cancer with excessive exposure to UV radiation. It is crucial to follow the recommended treatment times and guidelines provided by healthcare professionals.

Q3. How long do the effects of black light therapy last?

A3. The duration of the effects depends on the skin condition being treated. For psoriasis, the results can last for weeks or even months, while for eczema, it may flare up again after a few days.

Q4. Is black light therapy safe for the face?

A4. Black light therapy is considered safe for the face when used as directed. It effectively treats various skin conditions without causing significant harm to facial skin. Following recommended treatment times and guidelines ensures safe and effective therapy for skin healing and rejuvenation.