On January 25th, 2025, I had the amazing opportunity to speak at the Heartland Tanning VIBE Expo in Kansas City, Missouri. It was an inspiring and incredible experience to share the stage with industry leaders like Jerry Deveney from POLY.
I was eager to help the attendants dive into the fascinating world of photobiomodulation (PBM), or light therapy. The energy in the room, as well as the energy of the entire event, was incredible! It was clear that the interest in this light therapy is growing, and I was and am excited to help shed some light on it.
What Is Photobiomodulation?
I started my presentation by trying to explain photobiomodulation in the easiest way possible. Essentially, PBM uses specific wavelengths of light to recharge our cells’ “batteries,” helping them do their jobs better.
Cells are supposed to be pros at converting food into energy, but as we age, or face health challenges like disease, cancers, or even exhaustion, that process can slow down. Light therapy gives this process a boost, helping to revitalize cellular respiration and ATP (energy) production.
A concept I love to share is the “Halo Effect” or “Champagne Waterfall Effect,” where cells absorb all the light they need, then once they “fill up,” the cells place the energy overflows into the areas around the cells. Through this, benefits are carried through the bloodstream to other parts of the body that may need it.
The Cellular Benefits of Light Therapy
The mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells, play a key role in why we feel better when light therapy is used. They are also the reason why we feel not so amazing if they aren’t working properly. Mitochondria produce energy that is critical to our living functions but are also highly vulnerable to oxidative stress.
This stress can damage DNA and slow them down, and can eventually lead to abnormal growths or even tumors. Light therapy helps reduce free radicals, encouraging a cleanup process called apoptosis, which keeps our cells healthy, dying properly and working optimally.
The benefits I highlighted in the presentation included how light therapy…
- Increases Vasodilation by trapped Nitric Oxide releases into the bloodstream, causing blood vessels to relax, then circulation is boosted causing cells to get a nutrient boost.
- Increases ATP production, which means more energy for our cells, our body and our functions.
- Reduces Pain by blocking pain signals, reducing inflammatory cytokines, and the boost of circulation increases range of motions.
- Slows aging by increasing growth factors and protecting healthy cells from the oxidation process
- Reduces inflammation by blocking unstable cells.
- Boosts immune response by taking in repair materials and pushing out waste.
The Importance Of Dosage
Getting the right light therapy dose is crucial. Too much can lead to what’s called a Herx Reaction, where the body feels overwhelmed during detox. Here are some general guidelines I shared during the presentation:
- Skincare Dose: Around 5-15 joules
- Therapeutic Dose: Around 30-50 joules
- Maximum Dose: 100 joules per day
I also showed the audience how to calculate joules based on their devices. Once you get the hang of it, it’s actually quite simple! It is critical to know how much your device is putting out. Some may be putting out too much which can hinder results, or some may not be producing enough and clients won’t see results.
Device Regulations Matter
Another important topic I covered was the difference between FDA medical device classes and what each is allowed to claim in regards to light therapy devices. Here’s a quick breakdown by category…
510(k) Registered Devices
These are what I call the Golden Standard. These devices are proven safe and effective at helping a specific condition. Without this registration, devices don’t have much, or any, pre and post market regulations and testing. With a 510(k) registration you are able to make the medical claims of what that device is registered for.
General Wellness (ILY Category) Devices
These can only claim general wellness benefits, you cannot make medical claims with this. Simply because they have not been proven effective to help a specific ailment. These devices you can only say reduce pain/inflammation, increase circulation and stimulate cellular repair and regeneration.
Jerry Deveney made a great point comparing poorly made devices to “Christmas lights” that look nice but don’t do much. In contrast, Poly’s devices are FDA 510(k) registered and approved to be used over-the-counter to treat things like fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and pain, depending on the model. This is truly a game-changer for the industry to be able to have devices we can make medical claims about.
Building Connections
What really stood out to me at the expo was meeting so many salon owners who’ve already embraced light therapy. It’s inspiring to see how this technology is being used, but it’s clear there are still plenty of questions out there without a set standard for proper education.
That’s why I’m offering my presentation slides to anyone interested. You can grab them by filling out the contact form on my website: www.sunnyshorestanning.com/kristinsmithersclt.htm.
A Personal Note to Owners
There are moments in your life when you just begin to realize how important networking truly is. For me, the Heartland Tanning VIBE Expo was one of those moments. It was amazing to see how many people who were passionate about their salons were there. And you know what? We need to stick together!
I’m committed to making this column as valuable as possible for salon and spa owners. If you have any specific questions or topics you’d like me to cover in future columns, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at kristinleesmithers@gmail.com. I’m here to help and want to ensure that the content I share directly supports your business and success!
Lighting The Way Forward
The Heartland Tanning VIBE Expo was such an incredible experience for me. It reminded me of the power of education and the importance of continuing to share what we know. Light therapy has the potential to truly change lives, and by spreading awareness, we can help ensure it’s used safely and effectively.
A big thank you to everyone who attended and reached out afterward. Let’s keep the conversation going and work together to help our clients live their healthiest, happiest lives!
