The Science Behind It

Wellness, with intention. And evidence to support it.

Beauty is better with understanding.

At SoLuxVera, we believe wellness should feel beautiful and approachable—but also informed.

Here, we explore the science behind the rituals, technologies, and ingredients we feature, drawing from published research and trusted health and scientific sources.

Wellness doesn't need to be complicated to be thoughtful. We look at the research behind the tools and rituals we recommend, translate relevant findings into accessible language, and distinguish established evidence from emerging research.

Because understanding why something may work makes a ritual more intentional.

Science should inform the ritual—not overshadow it.

Beauty + Longevity

Beauty + Longevity

Choose a ritual above to explore the science behind it.

Morning Glow

The Science Behind It

Lymphatic drainage and microcurrent both increase circulation to the skin's surface — paired with a brightening serum, that's what creates the "lit from within" look rather than just a topical glow.

Evening Glow

The Science Behind It

A few quiet minutes of light, followed by a softer, more rested-looking complexion.

Red and near-infrared light are used in photobiomodulation, a process in which specific wavelengths interact with cellular components involved in energy production. Red and near-infrared wavelengths are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase within mitochondria, supporting ATP production and cellular signaling.

For an evening skincare routine, red light is particularly important since studies have linked photobiomodulation to enhanced collagen production, skin rejuvenation, and the regulation of inflammatory responses. Near-infrared wavelengths can penetrate more deeply than red light, allowing the light to reach deeper layers of the skin. The outcome isn’t an instantaneous change; instead, regular exposure to light can be an integral part of a more comprehensive skincare regimen—promoting skin that appears smoother, calmer, and more radiant over time.

The SoLuxVera approach: light therapy becomes part of the ritual itself: a few uninterrupted minutes to care for your skin while creating space to slow down at the end of the day.

Science & Sources
  • Avci P, Gupta A, Sadasivam M, et al. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 2013;32(1):41–52.
  • Lee SY, Park KH, Choi JW, et al. A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, and split-face clinical study on LED phototherapy for skin rejuvenation. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. 2007;88(1):51–67.
  • Wunsch A, Matuschka K. A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2014;32(2):93–100.

Clear + Even Skin

The Science Behind It

Uneven Tone + Dark Spots

A more even-looking complexion begins with understanding why pigmentation appears.

Sun exposure, inflammation, hormonal changes, and marks left behind after blemishes can all contribute to visible discoloration. Over time, these changes can leave the complexion looking less uniform, with areas of uneven tone or dark spots.

Certain wavelengths of light are being studied for their potential role in the processes involved in pigmentation. Research has explored wavelengths including 585–590 nm and 660 nm for their effects on melanin production and the appearance of pigmentation. Red light may also support the skin’s natural cellular activity and recovery, making it a complementary part of a broader skin-renewal ritual.

Because pigmentation can have many different causes, light therapy is best considered one part of a thoughtful skincare routine—alongside daily broad-spectrum sun protection and, when appropriate, targeted topical products.

With consistent use, a science-informed light therapy ritual can become a simple way to support a brighter, more balanced-looking complexion and a more even appearance of skin tone.

Targeted light. A more luminous, balanced-looking complexion.

Clearer-looking skin begins with understanding what your skin needs.

Different wavelengths interact with skin differently. That’s why a thoughtfully designed LED ritual can use different colors of light for different concerns.

Blue light — for breakout-prone skin

Blue light in the approximately 415–480 nm range is used to target acne-associated bacteria. Certain bacteria contain light-sensitive porphyrins; when activated by blue light, these compounds can generate reactive oxygen species that damage the bacteria. Research has therefore investigated blue light as a non-invasive approach for acne.

Blue light therapy is designed to work primarily at the skin’s surface, where it can help address several factors associated with acne and blemishes:

  • Targets acne-associated bacteria
  • Helps manage excess oil
  • Soothes visible redness and inflammation

Blue light works through a process called photobiomodulation. Specific wavelengths can interact with naturally occurring compounds within acne-associated bacteria, triggering a reaction that helps neutralize them. This can help reduce the bacterial activity associated with breakouts without relying on harsh topical ingredients.

Blue light may also help calm the appearance of irritated, inflamed skin and support a more balanced complexion. When combined with red light, the two wavelengths can complement one another—blue light addressing surface-level acne concerns while red light supports the skin’s natural recovery process.

The result is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to supporting clearer, calmer-looking skin.

Red light — for calm and recovery

Red light, approximately 630–660 nm, can complement blue light by supporting skin repair and helping modulate inflammatory responses. This combination has been studied in people with acne and may help address both breakouts and the visible redness that can accompany them.

Green and yellow light — for the appearance of uneven tone

Research has investigated 585 nm yellow LED light for effects on melanin synthesis and pigmentation, while research involving approximately 590 nm light has examined erythema and pigmentation in melasma.

For SoLuxVera, the important distinction is that the evidence for these wavelengths is more limited than the evidence supporting red light for skin rejuvenation and blue/red combinations for acne. They are best described as emerging or complementary approaches, rather than established treatments for every pigmentation concern.

The SoLuxVera approach: rather than chasing perfect skin, create a consistent ritual designed around your particular concerns—clearer-looking, calmer, more even-looking skin over time.

Science & Sources
  • Hamblin, M. R. (2023). Photobiomodulation for Skin Pigmentation Disorders: A Dual-Function Treatment. Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1089/photob.2023.0040
  • Garg S, Vashisht KR, Makadia S. A prospective randomized comparative study on 60 Indian patients of melasma, comparing pixel Q-switched Nd:YAG (1064 nm), super skin rejuvenation (540 nm) and ablative pixel erbium YAG (2940 nm) lasers, with a review of the literature. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy. 2019;21(5):297–307.
  • Lai D, Zhou S, Cheng S, Liu H, Cui Y. Laser therapy in the treatment of melasma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lasers in Medical Science. 2022;37(4):2099–2110.
  • Dai X, Jin S, Xuan Y, et al. 590 nm LED Irradiation Improved Erythema through Inhibiting Angiogenesis of Human Microvascular Endothelial Cells and Ameliorated Pigmentation in Melasma. Cells. 2022;11(24):3949.
  • Chen L, Xu Z, Jiang M, et al. Light-emitting diode 585 nm photomodulation inhibiting melanin synthesis and inducing autophagy in human melanocytes. Journal of Dermatological Science. 2018;89(1):11–18.
  • Oh CT, Kwon TR, Choi EJ, et al. Inhibitory effect of 660-nm LED on melanin synthesis in in vitro and in vivo. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine. 2017;33(1):49–57.
  • Reis Fonseca, E., Pavani, C., Motta, L., & Motta, L. (2021). Effect of Blue Light on Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review. Sensors, 21(20), 6943.
  • Papageorgiou P, Katsambas A, Chu A. Phototherapy with blue (415 nm) and red (660 nm) light in the treatment of acne vulgaris. British Journal of Dermatology. 2000;142(5):973–978.
  • Ashkenazi H, Malik Z, Harth Y, Nitzan Y. Eradication of Propionibacterium acnes by its endogenic porphyrins after illumination with high-intensity blue light. FEMS Immunology & Medical Microbiology. 2003;35(1):17–24.
  • Kwon HH, Lee JB, Yoon JY, et al. The clinical and histological effect of home-use, combination blue-red LED phototherapy for mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris in Korean patients: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. British Journal of Dermatology. 2013;168(5):1088–1094.
  • Barbaric, J., Abbott, R., Posadzki, P., Car, M., Gunn, L., Layton, A., Majeed, A., & Car, J. (2017). Light therapies for acne: Abridged Cochrane systematic review including GRADE assessments. British Journal of Dermatology. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.15495
  • Scott AM, Stehlik P, Clark J, et al. Blue-Light Therapy for Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Annals of Family Medicine. 2019;17(6):545–553.
  • Nojek, P., Pawlik, W., Zimonczyk, M., Zawół, M., Błaszczyński, G., & Nowotarska, A. (2024). Effectiveness of different acne treatment methods: A comparison of pharmacological, procedural and natural therapies. https://core.ac.uk/download/636385987.pdf
  • Jin S, Chen L, Xu Z, et al. 585 nm light-emitting diodes inhibit melanogenesis through upregulating H19/miR-675 axis in LEDs-irradiated keratinocytes by paracrine effect. Journal of Dermatological Science. 2020;98(2):102–108.

Age-Defying Sculpt + Lift

The Science Behind It

Support the skin’s natural renewal process.

As skin ages, collagen production and the structural support that contribute to firmness and elasticity change. Red and near-infrared photobiomodulation have been studied as a non-invasive approach to supporting skin rejuvenation.

Research indicates that red light in the wavelength range of about 630–660 nm is linked to a rise in collagen density, enhancements in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improvements in skin texture. Near-infrared light, existing within the spectrum of about 830–880 nm, penetrates more deeply than red light and is currently under investigation for its potential impacts on cellular energy, inflammation, and tissue healing. One proposed mechanism is the interaction of light with mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, which aids in the generation of cellular energy. These cellular signals may significantly influence the processes associated with collagen production and tissue repair.

The science is therefore less about “turning back the clock” and more about consistently giving the skin a targeted stimulus that may support the biological processes associated with healthy-looking, resilient skin.

The SoLuxVera approach: make consistency the luxury. A simple light ritual, repeated regularly, can complement the fundamentals of good skincare—moisture, barrier support, and daily sun protection.

Science & Sources
  • Avci P, Gupta A, Sadasivam M, et al. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. 2013;32(1):41–52.
  • Lee SY, Park KH, Choi JW, et al. A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, and split-face clinical study on LED phototherapy for skin rejuvenation. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. 2007;88(1):51–67.
  • Nam CH, Park BC, Kim MH, et al. The Efficacy and Safety of 660 nm and 411 to 777 nm Light-Emitting Devices for Treating Wrinkles. Dermatologic Surgery. 2017;43(3):371–380.
  • Couturaud V, Le Fur M, Pelletier M, Granotier F. Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation. Skin Research and Technology. 2023;29(7):e13391.
  • Mineroff J, Austin E, Feit E, et al. Male facial rejuvenation using a combination 633, 830, and 1072 nm LED face mask. Archives of Dermatological Research. 2023;315(9):2605–2611.
  • Wunsch A, Matuschka K. A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2014;32(2):93–100.

Hair + Scalp

The Science Behind It

Support the roots. Care for the scalp. Make consistency part of the ritual.

Changes in hair density and thinning are common concerns, particularly with androgenetic alopecia. Red and near-infrared light therapy has been studied as a non-invasive approach to supporting hair follicles and maintaining healthy-looking hair density.

The proposed mechanism is known as photobiomodulation. Tissue components absorb specific wavelengths of light, which may stimulate cellular signaling and energy pathways. Researchers are currently examining these biological mechanisms within hair follicles to evaluate their ability to promote healthy follicle function and sustain the natural hair growth cycle.

According to clinical studies, low-level light therapy may help increase hair density in individuals with certain types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia. However, outcomes vary, so light therapy should be viewed as an integrative option rather than a one-size-fits-all treatment for hair loss.

Consistency matters. With regular use, targeted light can become part of a broader scalp-care ritual designed to support the follicles, care for the scalp, and maintain healthy-looking hair over time.

A quiet, non-invasive ritual for supporting healthier-looking hair from the root.

Science & Sources
  • Avci P, Gupta GK, Clark J, Wikonkal N, Hamblin MR. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) for treatment of hair loss. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2014;46(2):144–151.
  • Kim JH, Son HS, Yu DA, Choe YB, Lee YW. Assessment of Effects of Low-Level Light Therapy on Scalp Condition and Hair Growth. Indian Journal of Dermatology. 2023;68(4):487.
  • Pillai JK, Mysore V. Role of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) in Androgenetic Alopecia. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 2021;14(4):385–391.
  • Tantiyavarong J, Charoensuksira S, Meephansan J, et al. Red and Green LED Light Therapy: A Comparative Study in Androgenetic Alopecia. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine. 2024;40(6):e13004.
  • Afifi L, Maranda EL, Zarei M, et al. Low-level laser therapy as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2017;49(1):27–39.
  • Mai-Yi Fan S, Cheng YP, Lee MY, Lin SJ, Chiu HY. Efficacy and Safety of a Low-Level Light Therapy for Androgenetic Alopecia: A 24-Week, Randomized, Double-Blind, Self-Comparison, Sham Device-Controlled Trial. Dermatologic Surgery. 2018;44(11):1411–1420.

Calm + Relaxation

Calm + Relaxation

Choose a ritual above to explore the science behind it.

Relax + Unwind

The Science Behind It

Infrared heat and aromatherapy are commonly used to support muscle relaxation and a calmer nervous-system state after a stressful day, easing the shift from "on" to actual rest.

Sleep Sanctuary

The Science Behind It

Grounding

A grounded sleep system using a conductive sheet and reports that subjects sleeping grounded for eight weeks experienced changes in diurnal cortisol patterns, with most reporting improved sleep and reductions in pain and stress.

Light, Sleep + Mood

Light plays an important role in the body’s internal clock, helping regulate the daily rhythm that influences alertness, sleep, and wakefulness. When our exposure to light is poorly timed or inconsistent, it can become harder to maintain a healthy sleep-wake routine.

Light therapy uses carefully timed exposure to bright or targeted light to help reinforce the body’s natural circadian rhythm. Morning light, in particular, can signal that it is time to become more alert while helping establish a consistent pattern that supports nighttime sleep.

Consistent exposure to suitable light can help establish a more balanced daily rhythm and enhance overall energy levels and well-being. Light-oriented routines are particularly important during the darker months, when less daylight can influence circadian rhythms and affect mood.

For everyday wellness, the goal isn’t simply more light—it’s the right light at the right time.

A simple daily ritual designed to help align your environment with your natural rhythm.

Science & Sources
  • Oschman JL, Chevalier G, Brown R. The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. J Inflamm Res. 2015 Mar 24;8:83–96. doi: 10.2147/JIR.S69656. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4378297/
  • Tseng PT, Chen YW, Tu KY, Chung W, Wang HY, Wu CK, Lin PY. Light therapy in the treatment of patients with bipolar depression: A meta-analytic study. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2016 Jun;26(6):1037–47.
  • Lam RW, Teng MY, Jung YE, Evans VC, Gottlieb JF, Chakrabarty T, Michalak EE, Murphy JK, Yatham LN, Sit DK. Light Therapy for Patients With Bipolar Depression: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Can J Psychiatry. 2020 May;65(5):290–300.
  • Li X, Fang L, Guan L, Zhang J, Zheng M, Zhu D. The effects of light therapy on depression and sleep in women during pregnancy or the postpartum period: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Behav. 2023 Dec;13(12):e3339.
  • Aini N, Chen R, Chu H, Chang CY, Lin HC, Jen HJ, Liu D, Lee TY, Chou KR. The Effects of Light Therapy on Sleep, Depression, Neuropsychiatric Behaviors, and Cognition Among People Living With Dementia: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry. 2024 Jun;32(6):681–706.
  • Lin F, Su Y, Weng Y, Lin X, Weng H, Cai G, Cai G. The effects of bright light therapy on depression and sleep disturbances in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Sleep Med. 2021 Jul;83:280–289.
  • Costello A, Linning-Duffy K, Vandenbrook C, Donohue K, O’Hara BF, Kim A, Lonstein JS, Yan L. Effects of light therapy on sleep/wakefulness, daily rhythms, and the central orexin system in a diurnal rodent model of seasonal affective disorder. J Affect Disord. 2023 Jul 1;332:299–308.

Bath + Spa

The Science Behind It

Warm water immersion combined with mineral-rich salts is often used to ease physical tension and support a slower, calmer state in the body. The heat encourages surface circulation, while the combination of a soak, a warm towel, and reflexology work together to help shift the body out of an "on," activated state and into genuine rest — the same principle behind traditional thermal bathing rituals, just built for your own bathroom.

Recovery + Vitality

Recovery + Vitality

Choose a ritual above to explore the science behind it.

Post-Workout

The Science Behind It

Infrared heat and aromatherapy are commonly used to support muscle relaxation and a calmer nervous-system state after a stressful day, easing the shift from "on" to actual rest.

Legs Recovery

The Science Behind It

A gentle, non-invasive approach designed to support recovery, mobility, and everyday vitality — combining compression, rolling, and targeted light therapy to ease tension in the legs.

Circulation + Mobility

The Science Behind It

Gentle, rhythmic stimulation may help support local circulation and ease the feeling of stiffness after activity or periods of inactivity — a simple way to support the body's own circulatory processes.

Our Standards

Where We Look

Our educational content may draw from:

Peer-reviewed medical research

Published clinical and scientific literature.

Academic databases

Research indexed through established scientific and medical databases.

Professional medical organizations

Guidance from organizations such as the American Academy of Dermatology, National Institutes of Health, and others.

Manufacturer-provided research

When discussing a specific technology or product, manufacturer information may help explain specifications and intended use. Where possible, we look to the underlying published research rather than relying solely on manufacturer claims.

Knowledge Into Ritual.

Understanding the science is only the beginning. Explore the rituals designed to make thoughtful wellness easier to return to.