| 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 produce germicidal and chemical reactions whereas infra-red
rays produce heat.
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.
Sunburns may result in various degrees - the
reddening of the skin are signs of first degree sunburn. Itching,
burning or peeling 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.
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 cause 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.
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 during 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.
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 obtain best results. |
