I'm a Laser Dermatologist—Here’s What Most Individuals Often Overlook About LED Light Therapy for Skin.
(Image credit: Sephora; Nordstrom; MMSkincare; Saks Fifth Avenue; Jennifer Behr) The Lineup is a monthly series that offers an exclusive look into the beauty selections of the industry's most in-demand experts and tastemakers. Prepare for an insider glimpse at all the must-have products that keep their lives running smoothly.
With over 22 years of experience as a laser dermatologist specializing in laser and light-based therapies for skin issues such as rosacea, melasma, acne, scars, skin cancers, and signs of aging, Ellen Marmur, MD, is an expert on LED treatments. Every time I visit her office on the Upper East Side, I leave with no fewer than five transformative tips and seven insightful opinions. One of the most valuable insights I've gained? Don’t overlook green light.
"While red light has garnered significant attention on social media for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and various benefits, green light is often underestimated," Dr. Marmur, who also founded MMSkincare, explains to me. It is particularly beneficial for addressing hyperpigmentation and redness. In fact, Marmur conducted a clinical study demonstrating several skin benefits linked to green light: enhanced collagen, improved fat, increased effectiveness of retinoic acid (resulting in greater efficacy when using retinol), and reduced inflammation. Recognizing these scientific advantages, she ensured that her own LED device includes a full range of green light along with five colors and nine light settings total. She personally utilizes the green setting for 20 minutes, three times a week, declaring it as "her secret to maintaining youthful skin." After witnessing Marmur's smooth and radiant complexion firsthand, the only logical reaction is, "Count me in."
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(Image credit: Courtesy of Ellen Marmur, MD) For those seeking straightforward dermatological guidance on their skincare journey, Marmur is your go-to professional. In fact, when I ask her to dispel three common skincare myths, she responds with: "Only three?!" There are numerous TikTok-inspired ideas that make her cringe, particularly the notion of #FillerMigration; "Fillers do NOT last forever," she explains. She is also quick to highlight the harsh realities surrounding retinol and vitamin C. "It seems that almost everyone believes that the more you apply these two essential ingredients, the younger your skin appears," she states. However, using them together or excessively can lead to cosmeceutical contact dermatitis, characterized by red, peeling skin with inflamed pimples. "With these two ingredients, less truly is more," she emphasizes.
Regarding her personal beauty regimen? That “less is more” philosophy holds true, as evidenced by her curated selection of calming, smoothing serums, comprehensive makeup palettes, and versatile hair tools listed below—plus, of course, some high-quality LED devices.
"I use this on my face, neck, and chest with green light for 20 minutes, three times a week. It’s my secret to maintaining youthful skin."
"I adore this product for a polished, subtle, and natural eye appearance. The palette is also incredibly convenient if you're applying makeup while on the go."
Jennifer Behr
Maxine Barrette
"This stylish clip elevates my hairstyles for busy days and transitions a look from day to night. I love fun hair accessories, and this one is essential."
HOURGLASS
Scattered Light Glitter Eyeshadow
"If I want to enhance my eye makeup, I layer this over neutral shades for a more playful and sophisticated effect."
MMSkincare
MMRepose Serum
"This serum is perfect for nighttime use as it calms the skin and contains night-blooming cucumber, which helps regulate the skin’s circadian rhythm."
MMSkincare
MMRevive Serum
"I apply my Revive Serum in the morning to tackle wrinkles, aging, redness, and, most importantly, to hydrate my skin. It's also a favorite for post-treatment, following any lasers or peels in the office."
Sephora Collection
Colorful 8HR Longwear Transferproof Lip Liner
"I love this lip liner for its ideal neutral shade that pairs well with various glosses and lipsticks, along with its ability to stay put, resist smudging, and avoid transferring."
"I enjoy this gloss because it provides a sheer finish and keeps my lips hydrated. It works well for a subtle daytime look or a more sophisticated evening appearance."
Woosh Beauty
The Essential Makeup Brush Set
"These brushes always look and feel fantastic, and they've become my go-to. They really cover all the basics."
Dior
Diorshow 24H Buildable Volume Mascara
"This mascara is long-lasting and never clumps on my eyelashes."
Woosh Beauty
Fold Out Face Refillable Makeup Palette
"I own three of these: one for my office, one for my suitcase, and one for home. I can do my eyes, contouring, and
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I'm a Laser Dermatologist—Here’s What Most Individuals Often Overlook About LED Light Therapy for Skin.
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