Light therapy system and method

Abstract

Described herein is a light therapy system comprising a face mask having a plurality of regions, wherein each of the plurality of regions correspond to an anatomical region of a user's face, and wherein the face mask further includes a plurality of light elements, wherein each of the plurality of light elements are configured to emit more than one wavelength, and wherein the plurality of light elements are positioned within each of the regions within the face mask; and a mobile application in electronic communication with the face mask, wherein the mobile application electronically controls the plurality of light elements within the face mask, and wherein the mobile application includes a treatment mode, wherein the treatment mode allows a user to select one or more regions of the face mask and one or more wavelengths for the plurality of light elements within the selected regions to emit a treatment.

Description

LIGHT THERAPY SYSTEM AND METHODFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for providing light therapy, and more particularly to a face mask apparatus that administers light therapy to a user.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Skin pigmentation issues like freckles and sunspots are well-known to be linked to skin damage and more importantly skin cancer. Therefore, a system that can treat such issues is desirable.

[0003] However, traditional light therapy systems are expensive and are inaccessible to the everyday consumer. These barriers prevent skin care from being accessible and affordable for everyday use. Therefore, a new light therapy system that is simple to use and is inexpensive is desired.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention provides a light therapy system including a face mask, a mobile application, and a control unit. In some embodiments, the face mask includes a plurality of regions and a plurality of light elements. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of regions correspond respective anatomical regions of a user’s face. In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements disposed within each of the regions. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of light elements are configured to selectively emit light at a plurality of different wavelengths.

[0005] In some embodiments, the mobile application is in electronic communication with the face mask. In some embodiments, the mobile application is configured to electronically control the plurality of light elements within the face mask. In some embodiments, the mobile application further includes a treatment mode having a plurality of preset light therapy options. In some embodiments, the treatment mode is configured to receive a selection of at least one of the preset light therapy options and control the light elements within at least one region of the face mask according to the selected light therapy option for a treatment duration.

[0006] In some embodiments, the plurality of regions of the face mask include a first region and a second region. In some embodiments, the first region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a first wavelength. In some embodiments, the second region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a second wavelength.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first wavelength is different than the second wavelength.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first wavelength is less than 780nm and the second wavelength is greater than 800nm.

[0009] In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements within each of the plurality of regions are configured to emit a wavelength that differs from the plurality of light elements within each of the other of the plurality of regions.

[0010] In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements are composed of a cluster of one or more LEDs. In some embodiments, each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a wavelength selected from the group consisting of 415nm - 492nm, 577nm - 597nm, 622nm - 780nm, and 830nm - 1072nm.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a different wavelength.

[0012] In some embodiments, the plurality of regions of the face mask are forehead, eyes, mouth, cheeks and nose regions. In some embodiments, the forehead and cheeks are treated with wavelengths between 415nm - 492 nm. In some embodiments, the eyes are treated with wavelengths between 622nm - 780nm. In some embodiments, the mouth, cheeks and nose are treated with wavelengths between 577nm - 597nm.

[0013] In some embodiments, further comprising a first light therapy option configured to control all of the light elements to administer a uniform wavelength.

[0014] In some embodiments, further comprising a second light therapy option configured to control light elements in a first region to administer a first wavelength, and a second region to administer a second wavelength.

[0015] In another embodiment, the face mask includes a plurality of regions. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of regions correspond to respective anatomical regions of a user’s face. In some embodiments, the face mask further includes a plurality of light elements disposed within each of the regions. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of light elements are configured to selectively emit light at a plurality of different wavelengths. In some embodiments, the control unit is in electronic communication with the face mask and including one or more preset light therapy options. In some embodiments, the control unit is configured to receive a selection of at least one of the preset light therapy options and control the light elements within at least one region of the face mask according to the selected light therapy option for a treatment duration.

[0016] In some embodiments, the plurality of regions of the face mask include a first region and a second region.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a first wavelength.

[0018] In some embodiments, the second region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a second wavelength.

[0019] In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements within each of the plurality of regions are configured to emit a wavelength that differs from the plurality of light elements within each of the other of the plurality of regions.

[0020] In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements are composed of a cluster of one or more LEDs.

[0021] In some embodiments, each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a wavelength selected from the group consisting of 415nm - 492nm, 577nm - 597nm, 622nm -780nm, and 830nm - 1072nm.

[0022] In some embodiments, each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a different wavelength.

[0023] In some embodiments, the plurality of regions of the face mask are forehead, eyes, mouth, cheeks and nose regions. In some embodiments, the forehead and cheeks are treated with wavelengths between 415nm - 492 nm. In some embodiments, the eyes are treated with wavelengths between 622nm - 780nm. In some embodiments, the mouth, cheeks and nose are treated with wavelengths between 577nm - 597nm.

[0024] In some embodiments, the face mask further comprises an electronic communication module. In some embodiments, the control unit further comprises an electronic communication module. In some embodiments, the electronic communication module of the face mask is in wireless communication with the electronic communication module of the control unit.

[0025] In some embodiments, the control unit is disposed on an exterior surface of the face mask.

[0026] In some embodiments, the one or more preset options include a first preset. In some embodiments, the first preset is configured to control the light elements within a first region to administer a first wavelength and a second region to administer a second wavelength.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The features of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, where like elements are labeled similarly, and in which:

[0028] FIG. 1 is a light therapy system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the face mask of FIG. 1 according to the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the inner surface of the face mask of FIG. 1 showing the light elements according to the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the face mask of FIG. 1 showing the fastening mechanisms according to the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the face mask of FIG. 1 showing the neck extension according to the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the user interface according to the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the preset module of the user interface according to the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the calendar format of the user interface according to the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 9 is schematic diagram of the progress module of the user interface according to the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a method of operating the light therapy system according to the present disclosure; and

[0038] FIG. 11 is an alternate embodiment of a light therapy system according to the present disclosure.

[0039] All drawings are schematic and not necessarily to scale. Parts given a reference numerical designation in one figure may be considered to be the same parts where they appear in other figures without a numerical designation for brevity unless specifically labeled with a different part number and described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0040] The features and benefits of the invention are illustrated and described herein by reference to exemplary embodiments. This description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. Accordingly, the disclosure expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features.

[0041] In the description of embodiments disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as "lower," "upper," “horizontal,” “vertical,”, “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.

[0042] Figure 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a light therapy system 100 according to the present disclosure. The light therapy system 100 allows a user to select one or more regions of a user’s face and one or more wavelengths they would like to administer to each of the selected regions. Unlike traditional methods and systems for light therapy, the present disclosure does not limit the number of wavelengths that can be emitted to a user at a time. For example, the light therapy system 100 of the present disclosure allows a user to emit red light, blue light, yellow light, and near-infrared light all simultaneously to a user to treat one or more skin issues that are currently present on the user’s skin. Furthermore, the light therapy system 100 allows a user to create a customized treatment that can include one or more wavelengths at a particular region of the user’s face, and a different set of one or more wavelengths at a different region of the user’s face. This allows a user to more efficiently treat their skin without having to perform multiple treatment cycles, such as one cycle per wavelength, and without requiring a user to treat their whole face with a particular wavelength. Instead, the present disclosure allows a user to target specific regions with specific treatments and to administer these treatments simultaneously. Further, the present disclosure allows for a user to deliver acustomized treatment plan from their own home or office through the use of the mobile application and face mask combination or control unit and face mask combination. Instead of requiring expensive equipment and a technician to operate the equipment, the present disclosure provides a user-friendly option of administering self-care treatment to their skin and hair through the use of the system 100.

[0043] As shown for example in FIG. 1, the light therapy system 100 includes a face mask 200 having a plurality of light elements 205 disposed along one or more regions 210 that correspond to anatomical regions of a user’s face, an electronic communication module 220, and a power source 230.

[0044] In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements 205 are light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements 205 are LEDs that are capable of emitting light between the range of 415nm to 1072nm. In some embodiments, the light elements are a cluster of one or more LEDs, where each of the one or more LEDs are set to emit a specific wavelength. For example, in some embodiments, the cluster of one or more LEDs may include four LEDs, one to emit red light (622nm - 780nm), one to emit yellow light (577nm - 597nm), one to emit blue light (415nm to 492nm), and one to emit near-infrared light (830nm-1072nm). However, in some embodiments, the cluster of LEDs are each capable of emitting a wavelength between the range of 415nm to 1072nm. In some embodiments, the cluster of LEDs may include any number of LEDs, which each correspond to a unique wavelength emittance. In some embodiments, the LEDs within the cluster may emit a uniform wavelength to increase limit therapy intensity. However, in other embodiments, the LEDs within the cluster may emit multiple different wavelengths such that one or more treatments may simultaneously be administered to a user during a treatment.

[0045] In some embodiments, the face mask 200 includes one or more regions 210 that correspond to anatomical regions of a user’s face. For example, in some embodiments, the face mask 200 may include four regions, the forehead 312, the eyes 314, the cheeks and nose 316, and the mouth 318 (as shown in FIG. 6). However, in some embodiments, the face mask 200 may include more than four regions. Within each of the one or more regions 210 are the plurality of light elements 205. The plurality of light elements are disposed on the interior surface of the face mask and as such are not visible when in use on the user. Further, when in-use, the plurality of light elements are in contact with a user’s skin and emit light at specified wavelengths directly to the user’s skin. In some embodiments, the light elements 205 are positioned in a grid-like manner along the interior of the face mask 200 and within each region 210. However, in some embodiments, each region 210 may vary in shape and include a varyingnumber of light elements 205. Further, in some embodiments, the light elements 205 may be uniquely positioned depending on the region 210 in which the light elements 205 are positioned within. For example, light elements within the eye region 314 may be more densely positioned around the area of the eye region 314 that is more likely to have wrinkles (e.g. the corner of the eyes). In some embodiments, the light elements 205 are removably secured to the face mask 200 such that a user can replace a damaged light element. However, in other embodiments, the light elements 205 are integral to the face mask 200 such that they are not removable.

[0046] In some embodiments, the face mask 200 further includes an electronic communication module 220 for communicating with a mobile device. In some embodiments, the electronic communication module 220 is a Bluetooth receiver, a WIFI receiver, or IR receiver. In some embodiments, the electronic communication module 220 receives control instructions for the face mask 200 to operate the face mask and to turn on / off specific light elements 205 within specific regions according to a user’s selections. In some embodiments, the intensity level of the light elements is adjusted according the user’s selection. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that while wavelength is one factor that determines how deep light can penetrate into a user’s skin and body, the intensity level of the wavelength is also a critical factor for achieving the desired penetration and effect. In some embodiments, the control instructions for the face mask include but are not limited to light emittance of each light element within each of the one or more regions, light intensity, treatment duration, and the like.

[0047] In some embodiments, the face mask 200 further includes a power source 230. In some embodiments, the face mask 200 includes a wireless power source, such as a power supply or battery, and the electronic communication module 220. In other embodiments, the face mask 200 includes a wired power source such as an external power pack or a handheld remote. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the power source 230 of the face mask 200 may be battery operated, wired, or a combination of the two.

[0048] In some embodiments, comfort lining pads extend along the interior surface of the face mask for improved fitting and comfort to the user’s face during use. In some embodiments, perspiration absorption pads are disposed on the interior surface of the face mask for absorbing perspiration from the user’s head and face which is a common side effect of administering light therapy through a device that covers the facial and cranial region for any extended period of time. In some embodiments, the perspiration absorption pads are removable and re-attachable for washing and cleaning the pads between light therapy sessions.

[0049] In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 1, the light therapy system 100 includes both a face mask 200 and a mobile application 300. In some embodiments, the mobileapplication 300 includes a user interface 305 which is configured to provide one or more layouts to a user to customize and select treatment options and to control the face mask 200. For example, in some embodiments, the mobile application can control each of the light elements within one or more selected regions, the light intensity for the light elements, and the duration of the treatment to be administered to a user. The mobile application 300 is in electronic communication with the face mask 200 such as through WIFI or Bluetooth.

[0050] In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIGS. 2-3 the face mask 200 includes mask apertures 250 which are designed to provide improved ventilation and breathability for a user during use. The mask apertures 250 promote airflow which prevents heat buildup and condensation. In some embodiments, the mask apertures 250 reduce facial perspiration and facilitate natural breathing. Further, in some embodiments, as shown for example in FIGS. 2-3, the shape of the face mask 200 is contoured to mimic the anatomical shape of a user’s face. As such, the unique shape of the face mask reduces light loss as scattered light would otherwise escape through air gaps dramatically reducing the light energy required to reach and penetrate the skin for effective treatment.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the face mask includes fastening mechanisms 260. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanisms 260 may include straps, draw strings, and other synch assemblies for securing and conforming the face mask to the unique facial anatomy of a user’s head and face. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanisms 260 are elastic and adjustable for maintaining tension and securing the face mask 200 to a user’s face and head. Such securement is critical for reducing light loss through air gaps which can dramatically reduce the light energy required to reach and penetrate the skin for effective treatment.

[0052] In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 5, the light therapy system 100 further includes a neck extension 270 configured to provide light therapy to the user’s neck region. In some embodiments, the face mask 200 includes a lower connection port to receive a detachable external neck extension 270. In such embodiments, the neck extension 270 is attachable to the face mask by magnetic, mechanical, or other attachment mechanisms. In other embodiments, the neck extension 270 is contiguous with the face mask, extending downwards from the lower region of the face mask. In some embodiments, the neck extension 270 is conformable to the user’s neck via straps, draw strings, synchs and other fastening mechanisms, similar to the fastening mechanisms 260 of the face mask 200. In some embodiments, the neck extension 270 includes ventilation apertures for improved ventilation similar to the mask apertures 250 of the face mask 200. Similar to the face mask, the neck extension includes aplurality of light elements each configured to emit one or more wavelengths to provide treatment to the skin in contact with the neck extension. In some embodiments, the plurality of light elements include one or more LED clusters, each designed to emit a unique wavelength relative to the other LED’s within the same cluster. As such, the neck extension can administer one or more treatments simultaneously to a user during use. A person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the mechanisms included in the face mask are also included in the neck extension member.

[0053] In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 6, the face mask and neck extension are controlled by a mobile application 300. In some embodiments, the mobile application 300 includes a user interface 305 that displays a diagram of the face mask 200 and / or the neck extension 270. A user can interact with the user interface 305 to select one or more regions 310 of the face mask 200 to configure a specified treatment. Further, in some embodiments, a user can interact with the user interface 305 to select the wavelengths that the light elements 205 will emit for each selected region 310. For example, a user can select the forehead region 312, the eye region 314, the cheeks and nose region 316, and the mouth region 318. Further, within in each selected region 310, a user can select one or more wavelengths for the light elements 205, such as but not limited to blue light 322, yellow light 324, red light 326, and near-infrared 328. Once selected, the mobile application 300 will communicate with the face mask 200 to administer the selected treatment specifications to the specified regions of the user’s face at the specified wavelengths.

[0054] For example, a user can select the forehead region 312, and the user can select blue light 322 and yellow light 324. Once selected, the mobile application 300 will communicate with the face mask 200 to operate the light elements 205 within the selected forehead region 312 to emit both blue light 322 and yellow light 324. In this example, only the light elements 205 of the face mask 200 within the forehead region 312 will illuminate and more specifically will only emit blue and yellow light. A person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that this process can be repeated for each region 210 of the face mask 200, such that a user can select the wavelengths for the light elements 205 to emit at within each selected region.

[0055] In some embodiments, the face mask includes alternative designs, attachments, and accessories for optimizing the light therapy effects and user experience. For example, the face mask 200 can extend beyond the front of the face to cover the sides and rear of a user’s head. In some embodiments, this extension enables the plurality of light elements 205 to be administered beyond facial regions and onto the hair or scalp of a user for hair growth purposes or reduced hair loss. The entire cranial and facial region can be covered including all externaland internal cranial and facial structures such as the skin, tissues, bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and connective elements. These regions, in addition the facial regions previously described, are treatable. In some embodiments, for example, the ears could be treated with near infrared light to improve damage from hearing loss. In some embodiments, the brain could be stimulated with light therapy as near infrared light can be applied to penetrate the skull and improve the general health of brain tissue or reduce the effects of brain diseases such as dementia.

[0056] In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 7, the mobile application 300 further includes one or more preset treatment options 330 that are configured to output specific treatments. For example, if a user would like to treat acne, a user can select an acne preset. Once selected, the preset will configure the regions and wavelengths that would be most beneficial to the user for the desired issue they would like to be treated. In this example, if the acne preset was selected, the mobile application 300 would configure each of the light elements 205 to emit blue light 322 and the user can select the regions which they would like to have treated for acne (forehead, eyes, cheeks and nose, and mouth). In another embodiment, a user may select a wrinkle preset and want to target wrinkles in the eyes. In this example, the mobile application configures each of the light elements 205 to emit red light 326 to treat wrinkles, and the eye region 314 will be selected. Presets can be configured to include one or more wavelengths at a particular region of the user’s face, a different set of one or more wavelengths at a different region of the user’ s face, and treat more than one region at a time. A person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the mobile application 300 can have any number of presets to provide treatment options to users for any of, but not limited to, the following skin issues: pigmentation problems, early signs of skin damage, vascular conditions such as redness, rosacea, broken capillaries, spider veins, and vascular lesions, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, freckles, melasma, aging spots, porphyrins, deep wrinkles, uneven skin tone areas, surface texture, pore size, fine lines, surface wrinkles, and oily areas on the skin. In some embodiments, the preset that is selected may require the light elements 205 to emit one or more wavelengths from the group consisting of blue light, yellow light, red light, and near-infrared light. Treatment options are not limited to skin issues. Users may administer treatment for general skin health, maintenance of skin health, or other purposes unrelated to the skin. In some embodiments, near infrared light or other wavelengths can be administered through the face mask to penetrate a user’s face and repair damage or improve conditions deeper than the user’s skin and for non-cosmetic purposes. For example, near infrared light therapy can be used for promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation of the muscles, tendons, andligaments of the user. In some embodiments, near infrared light or other wavelengths can be administered for purposes such as, for example, relieving jaw pain from bruxism, relieving sinus pain, improving eye-sight, reducing the consequences of an eye condition, healing gums and conditions inside the mouth, relieving headaches, improving hair growth and reducing hair loss.

[0057] In some embodiments, the mobile application 300 further includes a custom treatment mode which allows a user to customize their selections. The custom treatment mode allows a user to treat each region their face independent of the other regions. For example, a user can create a custom treatment that includes blue light in the forehead region to reduce acne, red light around the eyes to reduce wrinkles, and yellow light around the cheeks and nose and mouth for promoting brightening of the skin. Once selected, a user can save the custom treatment such that they can select that custom treatment mode again in the future for additional treatments. In some embodiments, custom treatment modes can be saved as a preset treatment option 330.

[0058] In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the mobile application 300 further includes a progress module 350. In some embodiments, the progress module tracks a user’s history of using the light therapy system. In some embodiments, the progress module is a calendar format 352 to display the days the light therapy system has been used. However, in other embodiments, the progress module 350 displays a counter 353 for tracking how many consecutive days the light therapy system 100 has been used by the user. In other embodiments, the progress module 350 is configured assess the user’s skin to track improvements in the condition of the user’s skin caused by the light therapy system 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the progress module allows a user to upload a before and after photograph to track visible improvements. Once uploaded, the progress module 350 displays a first half of the user’s face 360 using the before-treatment photograph and displays a second half of the user’s face 365 using the after-treatment photograph. In some embodiments, the user can alternate which photograph is used for each side of the face that makes up the user’s treatment photograph.

[0059] In some embodiments, the mobile application 300 further includes a reminder module. In some embodiments, the reminder module can be configured to send daily, weekly, or monthly alerts to notify a user that it is time to use the light therapy system. In other embodiments, the reminder module can be configured to act as a countdown timer to alert the user that the light therapy system has been in use for a specified amount of time. In some embodiments, the reminder module is automatically configured based on the selections by theuser for the treatment they are undergoing. For example, in one embodiment, if a user selects blue light in the forehead region, the reminder module will automatically configure to set a 10-minute timer to alert the user to stop use of the system after the specified time. In some embodiments, the amount of time configured by the reminder module is dependent on the wavelength selected. In some embodiments, the amount of time configured by the reminder module is dependent on the regions selected. However, in other embodiments, the amount of time configured by the reminder module is dependent on both the wavelength and the regions selected by the user. Further, in some embodiments, the amount of time configured by the reminder module is static, and independent of the configuration selected by the user.

[0060] In some embodiments, the mobile application 300 includes an LED usage-monitor which displays the historical lifetime usage of each of the plurality of light elements and a lifetime remaining indicator with estimated lifetime hours remaining for each of the plurality of light elements 205. This provides the user with an estimate for when each of the plurality of light elements 205 will need to be removed and replaced. Face masks are known to generally have shorter lifespans than traditional methods and systems for light therapy. The lifetime remaining indicator of the usage-monitor provides users with the confidence to use the face mask device without worrying that the face mask device will unexpectedly undergo failure of the light elements 205 and loss of functionality.

[0061] FIG. 10 displays an example of a user configuring an interaction with the light therapy system 100. As shown in FIG. 10, first, the user opens the mobile application (400). Then, the user selects one or more face regions and light element options to customize a treatment plan for the light therapy system (410). Once selected, the user can name and save the configured selection (420). After the mobile application is configured, the user then secures the face mask to the user’s face (430). Once the face mask is secured to the user’s face, the user may update the reminder module to configure a timer for the duration of the treatment that will notify the user when treatment is completed (440). Once fully configured, the mobile application will communicate with the face mask to operate the light elements according to the specified configuration (450). The user will then undergo the configured treatment and will continue the treatment until the timer configured in the reminder module concludes, thus alerting the user and sends a communication to the face mask to turn off the light elements to conclude treatment (460). Lastly, the information of the treatment, including the duration, regions and wavelengths selected, date and time the treatment was conducted, are all saved to the progress module to update the tracking information (470).

[0062] In an alternate embodiment, as shown for example in FIG. 11, a light therapy system 1000 includes a control unit 1240 for electronically controlling a face mask 1200 without the need of a mobile application. In some embodiments, the face mask 1200 includes an electronic communication module 1220 for communicating with a handheld embodiment of the control unit 1240. In some embodiments, the electronic communication module 1220 is a Bluetooth receiver, a WIFI receiver, or IR receiver which creates a wireless connection 1310 between the control unit 1240 and the face mask 1200. In some embodiments, the control unit 1240 includes a transmission module 1244, such as an IR lens, for sending optical signals to the electronic communication module 1220 which is disposed on the face mask 1200. In some embodiments, the face mask 1200 includes a power source 1230. In some embodiments, the power source 1230 is disposed on the face mask 1200, coupled to the electronic communication module 1220. In some embodiments, the face mask 1200 includes a wired power source such as an external power pack or a handheld remote, which powers the face mask 1200 and the control unit 1240. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that the power source 1230 may be battery operated, wired, or a combination of the two, and the power source 1230 of the facemask 1200 may be configured to also power the control unit 1240. In some embodiments, the control unit 1240 is disposed on the exterior surface of the face mask. In such embodiments, the user may, for example, quickly adjust settings of the light elements, such as light intensity or wavelength selection. In this example a user could make an adjustment without being required to operate a mobile phone interface while their vision is possibly encumbered by the face mask 1200.

[0063] In some embodiments, the control unit 1240 controls aspects of the face mask 1200 such as, but not limited to, light intensity, light color selection, presets, and timers. In some embodiments, these features are controlled on the control unit 1240 by tactile buttons 1242 disposed on the control unit. The advantages of a control unit compared to a mobile application may include no dependence on a mobile phone which may not be permitted in medical settings, no pairing issues, and more accessibility for elderly or disabled users having low-vision and trouble navigating mobile phone applications.

[0064] While the foregoing description and drawings represent exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be understood that various additions, modifications and substitutions may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope and range of equivalents of the accompanying claims. In particular, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other forms, structures, arrangements, proportions, sizes, and with other elements, materials, and components, without departing from the spirit or essentialcharacteristics thereof. In addition, numerous variations in the methods / processes described herein may be made within the scope of the present disclosure. One skilled in the art will further appreciate that the embodiments may be used with many modifications of structure, arrangement, proportions, sizes, materials, and components and otherwise, used in the practice of the disclosure, which are particularly adapted to specific environments and operative requirements without departing from the principles described herein. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The appended claims should be construed broadly, to include other variants and embodiments of the disclosure, which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A light therapy system comprising:a face mask having a plurality of regions, wherein each of the plurality of regions correspond to respective anatomical regions of a user’s face;wherein the face mask further includes a plurality of light elements disposed within each of the regions and wherein each of the plurality of light elements are configured to selectively emit light at a plurality of different wavelengths;a mobile application in electronic communication with the face mask, wherein the mobile application is configured to electronically control the plurality of light elements within the face mask; andwherein the mobile application further includes a treatment mode having a plurality of preset light therapy options and wherein the treatment mode is configured to receive a selection of at least one of the preset light therapy options and control the light elements within at least one region of the face mask according to the selected light therapy option for a treatment duration.

2. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of regions of the face mask include a first region and a second region, wherein the first region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a first wavelength, and wherein the second region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a second wavelength.

3. The light therapy system of claim 2, wherein the first wavelength is different than the second wavelength.

4. The light therapy system claim 3, wherein the first wavelength is less than 780nm, and wherein the second wavelength is greater than 800nm.

5. The light therapy system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of light elements within each of the plurality of regions are configured to emit a wavelength that differs from the plurality of light elements within each of the other of the plurality of regions.

6. The light therapy system claim 1, wherein the plurality of light elements are composed of a cluster of one or more LEDs, and wherein each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a wavelength selected from the group consisting of 415nm - 492nm, 577nm - 597nm, 622nm - 780nm, and 830nm - 1072nm.

7. The light therapy system of claim 6, wherein each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a different wavelength.

8. The light therapy system of claim 6, wherein the plurality of regions of the face mask are forehead, eyes, mouth, cheeks and nose regions, wherein the forehead and cheeks are treated with wavelengths between 415nm - 492 nm, wherein the eyes are treated with wavelengths between 622nm - 780nm, and wherein the mouth, cheeks and nose are treated with wavelengths between 577nm - 597nm.

9. The light therapy system of claim 1, further comprising a first light therapy option configured to control all of the light elements to administer a uniform wavelength.

10. The light therapy system of claim 1, further comprising a second light therapy option configured to control light elements in a first region to administer a first wavelength, and a second region to administer a second wavelength.IL A light therapy device comprising:a face mask having a plurality of regions, wherein each of the plurality of regions correspond to respective anatomical regions of a user’s face;wherein the face mask further includes a plurality of light elements disposed within each of the regions and wherein each of the plurality of light elements are configured to selectively emit light at a plurality of different wavelengths; anda control unit in electronic communication with the face mask and including one or more preset light therapy options, wherein the control unit is configured to receive a selection of at least one of the preset light therapy options and control the light elements within at least one region of the face mask according to the selected light therapy option for a treatment duration.

12. The light therapy device of claim 11, wherein the plurality of regions of the face mask include a first region and a second region, wherein the first region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a first wavelength, and wherein the second region includes a plurality of light elements that are configured to emit a second wavelength.

13. The light therapy device of claim 11, wherein the plurality of light elements within each of the plurality of regions are configured to emit a wavelength that differs from the plurality of light elements within each of the other of the plurality of regions.

14. The light therapy device of claim 11, wherein the plurality of light elements are composed of a cluster of one or more LEDs, and wherein each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a wavelength selected from the group consisting of 415nm - 492nm, 577nm - 597nm, 622nm - 780nm, and 830nm - 1072nm.

15. The light therapy device of claim 14, wherein each of the LEDs within the cluster are configured to emit a different wavelength.

16. The light therapy device of claim 14, wherein the plurality of regions of the face mask are forehead, eyes, mouth, cheeks and nose regions, wherein the forehead and cheeks are treated with wavelengths between 415nm - 492 nm, wherein the eyes are treated with wavelengths between 622nm - 780nm, and wherein the mouth, cheeks and nose are treated with wavelengths between 577nm - 597nm.

17. The light therapy device of claim 11, wherein the face mask further comprises an electronic communication module, wherein the control unit further comprises an electronic communication module, and wherein the electronic communication module of the face mask is in wireless communication with the electronic communication module of the control unit.

18. The light therapy device of claim 11, wherein the control unit is disposed on an exterior surface of the face mask.

19. The light therapy device of claim 11, wherein the one or more preset options include a first preset, and wherein the first preset is configured to control the light elements within a firstregion to administer a first wavelength and a second region to administer a second wavelength.

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