An apparatus is disclosed that uses at least one low power optical radiation source in a suitable head which can be held over a treatment area for a substantial period of time or can be moved over the treatment area a number of times during each treatment. The apparatus, a hand held light emitting applicator (LEA) or light emitting skin applicator (LESA), can be in the form of a brush or roller adapted to be moved over the patients skin surface as radiation is applied to the skin. The skin-contacting surface of the LEA or LESA can have protuberances such as projections or bristles that can massage the skin and deliver radiation. In addition, an apparatus which delivers optical radiation to a treatment area is disclosed that contains a retrofit housing adapted to be joined to a skin-contacting device.
