Red Light Therapy for Skin Health

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, is a growing area of research and application for a variety of skin conditions and cosmetic skin treatment goals.

RLT exposes the skin to wavelengths of natural red and near-infrared light to impart therapeutic benefits.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind RLT for skin health and review the evidence for its various applications.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light and near-infrared light can penetrate skin tissue more deeply than other wavelengths of light.

When absorbed by skin cells, red light, and infrared light interact with the mitochondria in cells to enhance cellular function and stimulate beneficial physiological changes.

Some of the ways RLT is theorized to improve skin health include:

• Increasing ATP production and blood flow
• Stimulating collagen and elastin production
• Reducing inflammation
• Promoting cell growth and regeneration

By enhancing cellular activity in the skin, RLT can impart benefits related to skin appearance, healing processes, and overall skin health.

Red Light Penetration Depth by Wavelength

• The depth of penetration into skin tissue depends on the wavelength used:

Longer wavelengths in the near-infrared range can penetrate more deeply than shorter red light wavelengths.

Using multiple wavelengths simultaneously may enable deeper and broader treatment.

RLT Research Review for Skin Health Applications

Red light therapy has been widely studied for applications related to wound healing and skin appearance with promising results. Some of the most well-researched areas include:

Wrinkles and Skin Aging

Multiple clinical studies demonstrate that RLT effectively improves facial skin complexion and reduces signs of skin aging.

In both men and women, consistent RLT use over 3-8 weeks led to significant improvements in skin roughness, fine lines/wrinkles, and overall skin appearance associated with intrinsic and photo-aging.

Researchers observe these effects are likely due to the stimulation of fibroblasts which increase collagen production.

Erica Barnes, Sr. Researcher

Acne

RLT may offer therapeutic effects for inflammatory acne. Initial research found that RLT decreases inflammation and sebum production in sebaceous glands while modulating hormones related to acne progression.

One clinical trial using blue & red LED light on mild to moderate acne saw significant improvements compared to placebo treatments.

Combination RLT treatments may also enhance the efficacy of acne therapy.

Wound Healing & Skin Repair

Healing skin damage related to wounds, burns, scars, and dermatitis can be facilitated by RLT by reducing inflammation and enhancing the skin’s natural regeneration processes.

Multiple systematic reviews aggregating RCT data confirm that RLT reliably assists the healing of burns, oral mucositis in cancer patients, skin tear injuries, diabetic skin damage, and surgical incisions.

Researchers recommend RLT as an adjuvant therapy for damaged skin and wounds.

Psoriasis & Vitiligo

Early research indicates RLT may offer therapeutic benefits for inflammatory skin disorders like psoriasis and vitiligo.

Small clinical studies find that RLT enhances skin clearance and reduces symptoms for psoriasis patients.

For vitiligo, one study showed stabilized re-pigmentation in nearly half of patients using high-intensity blue light. Larger trials are still needed to further evaluate efficacy.

Cellulite & Body Contouring

Using RLT may have modest effects for reducing the appearance of cellulite and improving body contours.

Some research detects measurable reductions in thigh circumference and improved skin texture and elasticity.

However, the body of evidence for RLT body contouring and cellulite improvement remains limited at this time.

Hair Growth

While often touted as a hair growth therapy, current research regarding RLT for stimulating hair follicles is mixed and limited.

Initial animal studies and very small human trials provide some histological and biochemical rationale for RLT as a treatment.

However, multiple randomized controlled trials find using RLT does not result in significant clinical improvements in hair density or growth rate.

Types of Red Light Therapy Devices

There are now many devices available offering red light therapy for at-home use:

Choosing RLT devices depends on treatment goals, budget, treatment areas, and convenience preferences.

Combining a handheld panel with a spot treatment device enables both full facial coverage and precise small-area treatments.

How to Use Red Light Therapy

Implementing RLT at home typically requires following these steps:

1. Cleanse and dry skin to remove dirt, oil, and creams that may block light penetration.
2. Position the light panel/device so it contacts the skin or hovers very close to it.
3. Turn on the RLT unit. Most devices automatically shut off after session lengths ranging 5-20 minutes.
4. Slowly move the RLT lamp around treatment areas in circular motions to distribute coverage evenly during the session.
5. Use RLT doses recommended for your condition. Start low (5 mins daily) and gradually increase duration and frequency if needed.
6. Consistently use RLT 3-5 times per week for at least 4 weeks to see results. Maintain periodic use for sustained benefits.

Monitor for skin irritation and avoid directing intense light on sensitive eye areas as general precautions. Consider wearing protective goggles.

Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

Yes, existing research overwhelmingly confirms that RLT is a safe, non-invasive treatment when used correctly.

Unlike UV lamps, RLT devices do not emit damaging radiation that accumulates over time.

The natural wavelengths of red and near-infrared light have excellent skin tissue penetration with no identified long-term side effects.

However, there are some general precautions to consider:

• Avoid directly shining bright light into the eyes. Wear protective goggles if needed.
• Monitor skin sensitivity and reduce exposure time if irritation develops.
• Ensure skin is clean before treatments to maximize light penetration. Oils and creams may absorb or block the red light wavelengths.

Talk to your doctor before starting RLT if you take light-sensitizing medications or have a pre-existing medical condition that therapy may affect.

Overall RLT therapy is well-tolerated with an exceptional safety profile for a wide range of skin health applications.

Conclusion: Should You Try Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is an emerging therapeutic tool supported by growing medical research for skin healing and cosmetic benefits.

RLT is clinically proven for anti-aging effects and skin complexion improvement in both men and women.

There is also promising, albeit early, research indicating that RLT may help treat acne, wounds/scars, and some dermatological conditions like psoriasis.

Devices using red and near-infrared wavelengths are generally affordable, safe, and easy to use at home.

While RLT shows positive skin treatment potential, efficacy can depend on factors like treatment parameters, device quality, consistency of use, skin condition, age, and genetics influencing treatment outcomes.

Nonetheless, red light therapy presents an accessible option to enhance your natural skin health worth exploring further. Incorporating regular RLT alongside other skin care fundamentals like SPF, gentle cleansing, and hydration may amplify and help maintain cosmetic results.

Try using medical-grade RLT technology for 30 days. If you don’t see pronounced improvements in your skin complexion and quality, most manufacturers offer satisfaction guarantees allowing you to return your device.

You have nothing to lose by putting red light therapy for your skin to the test yourself.

Linda Erickson, Sr. Researcher

References

1. Baker, A. (2016). Light-emitting diode red light therapy: evidence base for aesthetic indications. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing. This paper reviews the efficacy of LED red light therapy, focusing on clinical studies related to aesthetic skin improvements Link to the article.
2. DiBernardo, B. E., & Pozner, J. N. (2016). Intense pulsed light therapy for skin rejuvenation. Clinics in Plastic Surgery. This study discusses the use of intense pulsed light therapy for skin rejuvenation, including the importance of post-treatment care Link to the article.
3. De Freitas, L. F., & Hamblin, M. R. (2016). Proposed mechanisms of photobiomodulation or low-level light therapy. IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics. This article explores the mechanisms behind low-level light therapy, focusing on the use of red and near-infrared light Link to the article.
4. Wen, X., Li, Y., & Hamblin, M. R. (2017). Photodynamic therapy in dermatology beyond non-melanoma cancer: An update. Photodiagnosis and Photodynamic Therapy. This paper provides an update on the use of photodynamic therapy in dermatology, beyond its application for non-melanoma skin cancer Link to the article.