Light waves travel at a tremendous speed of 1, 86,000 miles per second. There are many kinds of light waves but for beauty and skin care, only three types of rays are important.


These are known as ultra-violet rays, infra-red rays and visible lights. Ultra-violet rays stimulate germicidal and chemical reactions whereas infra-red rays produce heat.

Ultra-violet Rays Ultra-violet are invisible rays with both chemical and germicidal action. These rays stimulate the activity of body cells and increase the iron and vitamin 'D' content and the number of red and white cells in the blood. The slightest obstruction of any nature will hinder the ultraviolet rays from reaching the skin. So the skin must be entirely cleansed before being subjected to ultra-violet rays.

Lamps which emit ultra-violet rays are available in the market. If the lamp is placed 30 to 36 inches away, the reaction of the rays will be limited. When the lamp is placed near within 12 inches of the skin, the rays are not only destructive to bacteria but to the tissues also. Average exposure may produce redness of the skin and an overdose causes blistering. Always start with a short exposure of two to three minutes and then gradually increase the time to seven to eight minutes. Skin tanning may be the result of one or more exposures to Ultra-violet rays because they stimulate the production of pigment or coloring matter in the skin.

Sunburns may result in various degrees - the reddening of the skin are signs of first degree sunburn. Itching, burning or peelings are signs of second degree sunburns. Over exposure to ultra-violet rays produce third and fourth degree burns which are destructive to the tissues of the skin. Light ultra-violet rays are used for acne, and to combat hair dandruff. They also promote the healing of hair as well as their growth.

Infra-red Rays

Infra-red rays produce the soothing sign of first degree sunburn. These relax the skin without increasing the temperature of the body, dilate blood vessels in the skin and increase the production of perspiration and oil. When using infra-red rays, the lamp is operated at an average distance of 30 inches. In the beginning, the lamp is placed close to the skin then moved back gradually. Protect your eyes to direct exposure and do not permit the light rays to remain on body tissues for a long time. Move the hand carrying the lamp back and forth to break constant exposure. The length of exposure should not exceed five minutes.

Visible Lights

The lamp used to reproduce visible light is usually a dome shaped reflector with the lamp in various colors, the blue light has a tonic effect on the bare skin while the red light has strong heat rays which have a stimulating effect when used over the skin. It is recommended only for dry and scaly skins. Remember to protect your eyes from the glare and heat of light. Avoid cream, oil and powder to achieve best results.

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