Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches, itching, and inflammation. It occurs when skin cells multiply too quickly, leading to plaque buildup on the surface of the skin. While there is no cure for psoriasis, many people seek complementary, non-drug therapies to help manage symptoms and improve skin comfort.
One approach gaining attention is red light therapy. But can red light therapy help psoriasis? Let’s explore how it works, what the research suggests, and how it may be used safely.
What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy—also known as photobiomodulation—uses low-level red and near-infrared wavelengths, typically between 630 nm and 880 nm, to stimulate cellular activity.
Unlike UV-based phototherapy commonly used in psoriasis treatment, red light therapy does not damage the skin or cause burns. Instead, it works at the cellular level to support skin repair, inflammation regulation, and overall skin health.
How Red Light Therapy May Help Psoriasis
Although red light therapy is not a cure, research suggests it may support psoriasis management in several ways:
1. Helps Reduce Skin Inflammation
Psoriasis involves chronic inflammation driven by immune system dysregulation. Red light therapy has been shown to help modulate inflammatory pathways and reduce oxidative stress, which may ease redness and swelling.
2. Supports Skin Cell Repair and Balance
Red light therapy can stimulate mitochondrial activity and ATP production, helping support normal skin cell function and repair processes that may be disrupted in psoriasis.
3. May Improve Skin Barrier Function
By supporting collagen production and tissue regeneration, red light therapy may help strengthen the skin barrier, reducing dryness, cracking, and discomfort.
4. Gentle and Non-UV Exposure
Unlike UV phototherapy, red light does not increase the risk of skin burns or UV-related skin damage, making it appealing for long-term supportive use.
What Does the Research Say?
Clinical and laboratory studies on photobiomodulation suggest positive effects for inflammatory skin conditions, wound healing, and immune modulation. Some small studies and case reports indicate that red and near-infrared light may help reduce plaque thickness, redness, and itching in psoriasis patients.
However, large-scale clinical trials are still limited. Red light therapy should be considered a complementary wellness approach, not a replacement for dermatologist-prescribed treatments.
How Red Light Therapy Is Used for Psoriasis
Red light therapy may be applied to affected skin areas using professional-grade panels, targeted devices, or full-body systems.
General wellness-oriented guidelines include:
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Wavelengths: 630–660 nm (red) and 830–850 nm (near-infrared)
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Session Time: 10–20 minutes per area
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Frequency: 3–5 times per week
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Application Area: Clean, uncovered psoriatic plaques
Consistency over several weeks is often needed to observe visible improvements.
Safety and Considerations
Red light therapy is generally well tolerated, but important precautions include:
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It should not replace prescribed topical or systemic psoriasis treatments
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Avoid use on open wounds unless advised by a healthcare professional
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Consult a dermatologist before beginning therapy, especially for moderate to severe psoriasis
Final Thoughts
So, can red light therapy help psoriasis? Current evidence suggests it may support symptom management by helping reduce inflammation, promote skin repair, and improve overall skin comfort. While not a cure, red light therapy offers a gentle, non-invasive option that may complement conventional psoriasis care.
For individuals seeking a non-UV, science-backed approach to skin wellness, red light therapy may be worth considering as part of a broader psoriasis management plan.
FAQ
Q: Is red light therapy better than UV light for psoriasis?
A: Red light does not replace UV phototherapy but offers a non-UV alternative that may help support skin health without UV-related risks.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Some users report improvement within 4–8 weeks of consistent use.
Q: Can red light therapy make psoriasis worse?
A: When used properly, it is generally safe, but individual responses vary. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.