From mitochondria to microcirculation: how LED supports your skin in every phase of your cycle

LED light does far more than illuminate your skin — it triggers measurable biochemical processes that align seamlessly with the hormonal peaks and dips of your cycle.

Red and Near-Infrared Light (630–850 nm) literally provide your skin cells with more energy: they activate the enzyme cytochrome-c-oxidase within the mitochondria, boosting ATP production. With this extra fuel, fibroblasts produce collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid at a faster rate, while inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB are downregulated — a mechanism confirmed in various clinical studies using red light (630–850 nm). The result? Reduced redness and a firmer, more resilient skin barrier — ideal during the menstrual and follicular phases when estrogen is lower and your skin needs enhanced repair.

Blue Light (415–450 nm) works through a different pathway. It activates porphyrins within Cutibacterium acnes, generating reactive oxygen species that kill the bacteria — without antibiotics. Especially during the luteal phase, when progesterone increases sebum production and the skin becomes more prone to congestion, blue LED offers highly targeted purification.

Yellow Light (570–590 nm) has a distinct profile: it penetrates less deeply but works intensively on lymphatic stimulation, microcirculation, and cellular metabolism. This makes it particularly suitable when your skin looks dull, tired, or slightly swollen — often just before or during menstruation. Yellow light promotes lymphatic drainage, calms redness, and supports a healthy glow without overstimulation. Studies show that wavelengths around 590 nm have a tangible impact on lymph flow and microcirculation — ideal for reducing fluid retention and brightening a dull complexion.

Meanwhile, estrogen and progesterone each influence skin condition in their own way. Estrogen naturally stimulates the expression of collagen-related genes (COL1A1, COL3A1), while progesterone increases sebum production and slightly thickens the skin’s surface. By aligning your choice of light color and serums with these hormonal shifts, you work with your body’s rhythm instead of against it.

• During the estrogen-dominant phase, combining red/nIR light with peptides or vitamin C reinforces skin structure and elasticity.

• During progesterone-dominant days, blue light paired with niacinamide or salicylic acid helps regulate sebum and inflammation.

• When your skin needs calm, balance, or a boost in microcirculation — such as around your period — yellow LED offers the perfect soothing support.

With the LUME+ LED mask and the right serums, you can harness each light color exactly when your skin needs it most. This is how science, cycle-awareness, and effective self-care come together — for skin that moves in harmony with you.