Frequently Asked Questions

Our Frequently Asked Questions provide clear answers about how Celluma devices work, treatment benefits, safety, usage, warranties, shipping, and more to help you make an informed decision.

Celluma V LED Devices from Other Brands

We believe most LED devices sold on eBay, Amazon and many more outlets are imports from undisclosed origins with no industry standard credentials, meaning they have not been reviewed by the FDA, TUV, UL, CE, ISO or any other agency that regulates the manufacture of medical devices for safety and efficacy. One serious red flag is that they are available under different names all over the internet as well on eBay, Amazon and many more outlets. The price range is from approx. $150-$320. In addition, they may purport to use green and yellow, or amber wavelengths which have no basis for treating skin conditions in scientific research.

As the manufacturer of Celluma, a Class II medical device, BioPhotas is registered and regulated by the FDA, ISO (International Standards Organization) and many other regulatory agencies. Celluma is also medially CE-Marked as a Class IIa device in Europe, and is the first device of its kind to receive this status. We cannot compare a medical device like Celluma to this kind contrivance and we would advise anyone who is considering purchasing this machine to be forewarned as it is certainly not proven to do anything. There are well-understood and proven parameters that affect the efficacy of a light therapy device, and no other device on the market meets these parameters like Celluma. We are happy to provide additional information on these parameters if you desire, just let us know.

Frequently Asked Questions

WE KNEW YOU WERE GOING TO ASK

Are there any direct benefits of LED Light Therapy for hyperpigmentation?

There is actually very little research on using LED therapy for hyperpigmentation but the available research points to red and near-infrared being beneficial. Here’s how it apparently works according to one study*: Near-infrared… “significantly reduced melanin production and tyrosinase expression, not only in a normal human melanocyte monoculture both with and without forskolin stimulation but also in a three-dimensional multiple cell type culture. It reduced melanin content via inactivation of the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 pathways. The level of phosphorylated cyclic AMP response element-binding protein was also decreased by LED irradiation. Moreover, LED irradiation reduced melanogenesis through decreased expression of tyrosinase family genes (tyrosinase-related protein-1 and 2, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor). These results indicate that LEDs could potentially be used to treat melanin-overproducing skin conditions.”* Light-emitting Diodes at 830 and 850 nm Inhibit Melanin Synthesis In vitro Jeong Mo Kim, Nan-Hyung Kim, Yu Shun Tian and Ai-Young Lee Dongguk University Research Institute of Biotechnology Medical Science Research Center, and Department of Dermatology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea.

Can I remove the stands on the ELITE?

The ELITE S2 features 5 separate FDA-cleared treatment modes addressing ageing skin, body contouring, hair growth, acne, and pain. Unlike other devices, the ELITE S2 is stand mounted and features a rolling base.

Can I use the Ageing mode on the Celluma PRO to restore hair?

The Hair mode found on the RESTORE, NOVA, ELITE, and CONTOUR PLUS are the only Celluma devices that are specifically designed for Hair Restoration and this is the only program that can claim FDA-clearance for this indication. Our before and after images are based on results using the Celluma RESTORE and the Celluma RESTORE protocol. The Wrinkle/Red Light program on other Celluma devices is NOT the same - even with the pulsing off. It is a different algorithm, emitting a different level of energy. Additionally, the Celluma RESTORE and the NOVA are smaller devices than the Celluma PRO and fits perfectly over the head.

Contour Mode - How long does the effect last?

Everybody is different, so results and treatment duration vary from person to person. The official protocol is 3x per week for 4 weeks. Most users report results after just one treatment, and you may need to continue to use the Contour mode regularly to maintain results.

Does Celluma treat eczema?

Neither Celluma, nor any other LED device, is FDA-cleared for the treatment of eczema, so there are no protocols in place, and we make no claims for treating this condition (protocols-for-use are derived from clinical trials). Not a lot of research has been conducted using LEDs to treat eczema, so the information available is mostly anecdotal. The wavelengths used in Celluma are strictly therapeutic and red and infrared are great at decreasing inflammation. They also increase micro-circulation and cause vasodilation which can result in healthier tissue as it brings more oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood into the area.

Does Celluma treat psoriasis?

Celluma is not FDA-cleared for the treatment of psoriasis, there are no protocols in place (protocols-for-use are derived from clinical trials). The truth is that not much study has been conducted using LEDs to treat psoriasis so all the information available is mostly anecdotal. The wavelengths used in Celluma are strictly therapeutic and red and infrared are great at decreasing inflammation. They are also going to increase micro-circulation and vasodilation which usually results in healthier tissue as it brings more oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood into the area.

Does Celluma treat rosacea?

As Celluma, or any other LED device, is not FDA-cleared for the treatment of rosacea, there are no protocols in place (protocols-for-use are derived from clinical trials). The truth is that not much study has been conducted using LEDs to treat rosacea so all the information available is mostly anecdotal. The wavelengths used in Celluma are strictly therapeutic and red and infrared are great at decreasing inflammation. They are also going to increase micro-circulation and vasodilation which usually results in healthier tissue as it brings more oxygenated and nutrient-rich blood into the area. The blue in the Acne and red-light (Wrinkle) programs will be antibacterial and help reduce any lesions and pimples. Many LED device users are confused about using infrared as they think that the infrared is heat producing when, in fact, it is not. The infrared wavelength used in Celluma increases mitochondrial function in compromised tissue located in the dermal and subcutaneous layer of the skin. It is not thermal in nature, so no heat is produced by the infrared wavelengths. However, with Celluma, the resistors on the circuit board produce a little warmth which may produce a temporary pinkish complexion, and this may not be desirable with a rosacea client however temporary.

Does the ELITE have the same lights as the RESTORE for hair growth?

Yes. The new ELITE S2 is the first 5-mode device FDA-cleared for body contouring, hair restoration, acne, ageing skin, and pain. The ELITE S2 features a modular design, powering up to three LED panels, offering three times the coverage during a single treatment. It also includes interchangeable large and small accessory panels for location-specific body applications.

Does the FACE / HOME / RESTORE / LITE / NOVA have the same power as the PRO?

All of Celluma's devices have the same light energy output per square cm and the same effectiveness per treatment mode. The PRO is a larger device, covering more surface area of the skin, and thus has more LED's than the standard sized HOME/FACE/RESTORE/LITE/NOVA. For example, using the WRINKLES treatment, the PRO and the FACE/HOME/RESTORE/LITE/NOVA deliver the same light energy output.

Does the LITE have the same power as the PRO?

All Celluma's devices have the same light energy output per square centimetre and the same effectiveness per treatment mode. The PRO is a larger device, covering more surface area of the skin, and thus has more LED's than the standard-sized LITE. For example, using the WRINKLES program, the PRO and the LITE emit the same light energy output per cm².

For what purpose is light therapy used?

Based on extensive research, low-level-light therapy devices have been cleared by the FDA, and shown to manage: Ageing skin and fine lines and wrinkles, Hair restoration, Body contouring, Muscle spasm, Minor muscle and joint aches, Minor muscle, joint and arthritic pain, Pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, Sub-optimal local blood flow and circulation, Superficial, benign vascular and pigment lesions, Minor chronic neck and shoulder pain of a musculoskeletal origin, Mild to moderate acne vulgaris, Reduction in acne breakouts

How does Celluma light therapy work for hair restoration?

The Celluma Hair program (used in the RESTORE, NOVA, ELITE, and CONTOUR PLUS) is the only Celluma program FDA-cleared to treat and restore thinning hair in those suffering from certain categories of androgenetic alopecia. Research has shown that red light energy delivered within specific parameters can prolong the anagen (growing) phase of the hair and prevent the onset of the catagen phase (death) of the hair.

How does light therapy affect pain and inflammation?

Poor circulation and the lack of oxygen and other essential molecules (i.e., glucose, Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)) in blood vessels can cause pain or a lack of sensation. Macrophages exposed to red light therapy release cytokines (over 100 proteins produced by white blood cells that signal immune response to inflammation) that stimulate the production of growth factors influencing the inflammatory process, healing, and wound repair.

How does light therapy help with lymphatic drainage?

Light Therapy stimulates lymph activity, helping to reduce edema, or fluid buildup. Increasing lymph activity also can help to quicken the healing process, because the lymph system is responsible for helping the body to eliminate waste products and bacteria. Macrophages are stimulated by LED light therapy. Within the lymph nodes, macrophages destroy microorganisms — this process is called phagocytosis — so that the lymph system can begin the process of removing them from the body.

How does the Celluma CONTOUR / CONTOUR PLUS work?

The Contour mode emits red and near infrared light energy. These proven wavelengths target and activate fat cells, creating temporary pores in fat cell membranes, allowing lipids to leak out and then be excreted through the body's normal metabolic processes. This results in smaller fat cells, and a slimmer you!

How often do I need to use the Hair mode to see results?

The optimal protocol for hair growth is using the RESTORE/NOVA/CONTOUR PLUS/ELITE device every other day for 16 weeks. For optimal results, consider our RESTORE Hair Serum, which is designed to be used in conjunction with your Celluma light therapy device.

How quickly will I see results using the CONTOUR mode?

The effect on the adipose cells is immediate. Results will vary by individual. Most people will experience results even after one session. Cumulative treatments will achieve the best results. In an observational study, participants experienced more than a 2” decrease in waist circumference over four weeks.

How safe is light therapy?

Low-level LED light therapy is a highly safe and non-invasive treatment, making it suitable for all skin types and ages. Unlike other light-based treatments, it doesn't use UV rays, so there's no risk of burning or skin damage. The light emitted by the LEDs penetrates the skin gently, promoting healing and rejuvenation without any discomfort or downtime. This therapy has been extensively studied and used in clinical settings for decades, with a strong track record of safety. Celluma follows the science of safety and efficacy very closely and that is why it has been FDA-cleared for various applications, including skin care, hair restoration, body contouring, and pain management. The vast majority of people experience no side effects, and the treatment is so gentle that it can be used regularly to maintain skin and hair health. However, there are some important contraindications to consider: All photo-sensitive drugs are a contraindication for Celluma. Allow 3-5 days before administering Celluma and consult your doctor if you have recently been taking photo-sensitive prescriptions. Do not use if you are on steroidal medication – injections only. Do not use it over a pregnant belly (but you can use it over the face).Do not use if you have a history of epilepsy or seizures. Do not use over any cancer or any known metastasis before getting clearance from your doctor(s). In all of the above, or with children under 12, always consult your primary care physician before using Celluma or any light therapy product.

Red Light vs. Blue Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is often used for various skin treatments and has been studied for its potential to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improve skin texture, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing. Its ability to reach deeper layers of the skin allows it to potentially affect cellular processes and stimulate beneficial changes within the skin’s structure and function. Blue light therapy is known for its effectiveness in treating acne by targeting the bacteria that contribute to breakouts within the skin’s superficial layers. Based on clinical research, Celluma devices use blue light at 465 nanometers.

What are the contraindications for LED light therapy, and do they apply to all LED devices?

The following contraindications apply to all LED devices but vary from country to country. Be sure to check the contraindications for the country in which you practice or reside. Do not use over the breast or stomach of a breast-feeding or pregnant person. Do not use on infants or children. Do not use if the patient or administrator has epilepsy or a history of seizures. Avoid using when the patient is taking cortisone injections or any other kind of steroid injection(s).Avoid use if the patient is using photosensitising drugs. Do not perform LED therapy over known cancer tumor or metastasis. Contraindications may vary by country.

What is low-level light therapy?

Low-level-light therapy or photobiomodulation is based on Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology and is the application of light energy to tissue to obtain therapeutic benefits for a variety of conditions including skin, pain, and hair restoration as well as body contouring. It promotes a natural photobiochemical reaction similar to the process of plant photosynthesis. Human cells absorb red and near-infrared (NIR) light energy in the mitochondria, transforming photons into cellular energy (ATP) that produces a cascade of metabolic effects and proven health benefits. Think of it as giving your skin, body, and hair a natural energy boost. By penetrating deep into the tissues, light therapy helps to increase cellular metabolism, improve blood circulation and enhance the activity of your cells, encouraging them to repair, regenerate, and function more effectively. This process can lead to healthier skin, reduced inflammation, relief from muscle and joint pain, and for your hair, it means stronger roots, less shedding, and even new growth.

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy is a term used to describe low-level light therapy (LLLT) using light emitting diodes (LED's) for the application of specific wavelengths of light energy to produce therapeutic benefits in humans. Red light therapy often describes the use of both red light and near-infrared light, which have been proven in clinical research as safe, effective, non-invasive treatments for skin conditions, muscle and joint pain, hair growth, and more. On the electromagnetic spectrum, red light is within the visible spectrum of light, ranging from 620 to 700 nanometer (nm) range. The middle range of these wavelengths are the most commonly researched and used in clinical applications. Red light can reach deep into the layers of skin, including the dermis, reaching approximately 5-10 millimeters below the skin surface. Based on clinical research, Celluma devices use red light at 640 nanometers. Near-infrared light (NIR) is outside the visible spectrum of light and invisible to the naked eye. NIR wavelengths range from 700 - 1,000 nanometers. NIR light can penetrate more deeply into the skin and tissues than red light, reaching even beyond the dermis into the subcutaneous tissue. This means light energy penetration of up to 25mm! This deeper penetration of near-infrared light is one reason why it’s utilised in therapeutic applications such as pain management, wound healing, muscle recovery, and skin rejuvenation. Based on clinical research, Celluma devices use NIR at 880 nanometers. Wavelengths

What is the delivery time?

Once your order has been processed, please allow 3-10 working days to receive your delivery. For more information read our shipping policy.

What is the difference between the PRO and the CONTOUR?

The PRO is FDA cleared to treat acne, ageing skin, & pain. The CONTOUR has a program FDA cleared for body contouring. The CONTOUR mode on the CONTOUR device is a totally different program and algorithm than any of our other treatment programs in other Celluma devices. It has the highest dose of red and near infrared light so that we can produce the same outcomes as the clinical research when targeting subcutaneous fat cells. It only emits red and near infrared light (blue light is turned off). Wrinkles or Pain would not meet the criteria of the clinical studies. On the CONTOUR/CONTOUR PLUS, POD, NOVA, PRO PLUS, or DELUX devices, use the contour mode.

What is the return & refund policy?

All Celluma Series devices are classified Class II medical devices and are not returnable if used. For more information please read our return & refund policy.

What makes Celluma unique compared to other devices on the market?

Celluma Light Therapy has the most medical credentials and clearances of any LED device on the market anywhere in the world. It is FDA-cleared and medically CE marked as well as ISO certified. The most significant differentiator of Celluma devices are our patented, flexible, shape-taking design, allowing the device to be contoured closely to the treatment area to deliver an effective, uniform, and optimal dose of light energy to a curved human body. It also eliminates the need to hold the device in place or the need to use a stand or cradle. Another unique aspect is most of our devices are lightweight and battery-powered, meaning they do not need to be plugged into a power outlet to be used, making them highly versatile and mobile. We offer over a wide range of device models that are multi-wavelength, and have multiple FDA cleared treatment modes in a single device. No other company offers the number of treatment options in one Celluma LED device. Our passion for innovation focuses on whole body wellness, offering different size options from handheld devices to large single LED panels, multi-panels, and full-body devices.

What program can I use in my current Celluma device for body contouring?

The CONTOUR, CONTOUR PLUS, PRO PLUS, NOVA, ELITE, DELUX and POD are the only Celluma devices with a program specifically designed and FDA-cleared for body contouring.

What's the difference between the Celluma PRO and....?

PRO vs HOME - The PRO is a larger device and treats acne, ageing skin, & pain. The HOME is 2-modes and treats ageing skin and pain.PRO vs FACE - The PRO is a larger device and treats acne, ageing skin, & pain. The FACE is 2-modes and treats acne and ageing skin.PRO vs RESTORE - The PRO is a larger device and treats acne, ageing skin, & pain. The RESTORE is FDA cleared to treat Hair Loss, Ageing Skin, and Pain.PRO vs LITE - The LITE is a more compact version of the PRO at a more compact price. They both treat acne, ageing skin, & pain.

What's the difference between the RESTORE, FACE, and HOME?

The RESTORE, FACE, and HOME are the same size with different treatment modes. The RESTORE is a 3-in-1 FDA cleared for the treatment of hair, ageing skin, and pain. Whereas the FACE and HOME are a 2-in-1 device. * FACE (2-modes) Treats Ageing Skin & Acne* HOME (2-modes) Treats Ageing Skin & Pain* RESTORE (3-modes) Treats Hair Growth, Ageing Skin, and Pain

Why do I have to wait to use Celluma following a steroidal injection?

It is recommended to wait one week following steroidal injections. Oral and topical steroidal meds and creams are not contraindicated. This contraindication and recommendation apply to all brands of LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) devices regardless of what another company may say. The reason not to use LLLT for patients on steroidal injections is that the steroid inhibits the healing process, so it basically renders the LLLT temporarily ineffective (waste of time).Oral and topicals are far less concentrated in the body so are a lot less likely to affect the response of the tissue to the light therapy. We have always said to wait a week to be on the safe side and this has not changed. Age, health status and different meds have different effects on different people.

The Science of Light Energy

Patented Shape-Taking Design

The distance between the light source and treatment area is critical for successful outcomes.

Human bodies are not flat. Thus, maintaining a consistent proximity between the body and the light source is crucial in delivering the optimal dose of light energy to our cells. Which is why we designed and patented our award-winning, flexible, shape-taking technology that allows anyone to contour Celluma LED panels as close as possible to the skin for getting just the right dose of uniform light energy for safe, effective results.

How It Works

  1. STEP 1

    Emitting Light Energy

    Light therapy emits particles of light called photons.

  2. STEP 2

    Absorption and Conversion to Energy

    These photons are absorbed by photoreceptors in the mitochondria of our cells, converting light into cellular energy (ATP).

  3. STEP 3

    Cellular Response

    Increased ATP boosts protein and enzyme production, promoting cell repair and regeneration.

Science-Backed LED Light Therapy

Thousands of studies over the last 50 years demonstrate clinical proof of an ever-growing number of biological effects and therapeutic benefits from the application of low-level LED light therapy and red light therapy to the human body.

Low-Level Light Therapy

The Nuts and Bolts of Low-level Laser (Light) Therapy, 2012

Photodynamic and photobiological effects of light-emitting diode (LED) therapy, 2018

Photobiomodulation: The Clinical Applications of Low-Level Light Therapy, 2021

Ageing Skin

Unlocking the Power of Light on the Skin: A Comprehensive Review on Photobiomodulation, NIH PubMed 2024

Low Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) for Cosmetic Medicine and Dermatology, Photobiology.info 2014

The efficacy of combination LED light therapy (red & infrared light) in facial skin rejuvenation, 2005

Body Contouring

Body Contouring Using Low Level Light Therapy, 2013

Efficacy of low-level laser therapy for body contouring and spot fat reduction, 2011

Photobiomodulation therapy with light-emitting diode in stimulating adipose tissue mitochondria, 2023

Hair Growth

Role of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) in Androgenetic Alopecia, 2021

Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) for Treatment of Hair Loss, 2014

Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenic alopecia: a review, 2021

Pain Management

The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) For Musculoskeletal Pain, 2015

Short-term therapeutic effects of 890 nm light therapy for chronic low back pain, 2014

Keys to Effective Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT), 2016

Acne

Self-diagnosis of Mild-to-Moderate Acne for Self Treatment with Blue Light Therapy, 2009

Clinical Efficacy of Self-applied Blue Light Therapy for Mild-to-Moderate Facial Acne, 2009

Blue and red light combination LED phototherapy for acne vulgaris in patients with skin phototype IV, 2007