Red light therapy for psoriasis: what does the research say about symptom support?
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Psoriasis is a common chronic skin condition caused by an overactive immune system. This leads to accelerated renewal of skin cells, causing thick, red, scaly patches to develop on the skin. The condition can cause physical discomfort and often negatively affects quality of life. In addition to the standard care recommended by your doctor or dermatologist, red light therapy is gaining ground as a non-invasive, natural complement for greater comfort when managing symptoms.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy (also known as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy) is a technique that uses visible red and near-infrared light to positively influence biological processes in the body. Unlike UV light, which can be harmful with prolonged exposure, red light is non-ionizing and is generally well tolerated in controlled applications.
The photons of the light are absorbed by an enzyme in the mitochondria of the cells: cytochrome c oxidase. This triggers a chain reaction in which:
- The production of ATP (cellular energy) increases
- Inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and IL-6 decrease
- Blood circulation and cellular metabolism improve
Together, these reactions support the skin’s natural recovery, a calmer course of the local inflammatory response, and therefore greater skin comfort.
Why are wavelengths between 630 and 660 nm being studied?
Red light with a wavelength between 630 and 660 nanometers is well absorbed by the skin and penetrates several millimeters deep. This is deep enough to reach the epidermis and superficial dermis, where most of the immune cells and keratinocytes involved in psoriasis are located.
The main effects of red light at this level are:
Increased ATP production
The extra energy supports the skin cells’ natural ability to recover. In psoriasis, the cell division process is accelerated. Research is examining how red light may support the skin in this process.
Reduced inflammation
Research has described that it may temper the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, which occur in high concentrations in people with psoriasis. This may help reduce redness, itching, and swelling.
Improved microcirculation
Red light stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which leads to blood vessel dilation and improved circulation. This supports the recovery process and improves the supply of oxygen and nutrients.
Modulation of the immune system
Research describes how red light may temper the local immune response without suppressing the entire immune system. This makes it interesting for a skin condition such as psoriasis, in which the immune system plays an important role.
Scientific evidence
-
Meffert, H. (1995). Light therapy for skin diseases.
This study describes how long-wavelength red light may have an anti-inflammatory effect on skin conditions such as psoriasis.
Read the publication via Springer -
Razoki & Brinkhuizen. Lasers in dermatology (NVDV).
Describes the effect of different wavelengths, including red light, on skin diseases.
View the PDF file -
Leiden University. Light therapy for plaque psoriasis.
Research report on red light therapy in participants with moderate to severe psoriasis.
Download publication
How do you apply red light therapy?
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Duration per session | 10 to 20 minutes |
| Frequency | 3 to 5 times per week, with regular use over several weeks |
| Device | LED panel or handheld device with a 630–660 nm wavelength |
| Application area | Affected skin areas such as the knees, elbows, back, or scalp |
| Precaution | Do not use on infected skin or in cases of medication-induced photosensitivity |
Always consult a doctor or dermatologist before starting red light therapy, especially if you use other medications or therapies.
Conclusion
Red light therapy is a promising, natural way to experience greater comfort with the symptoms of psoriasis. By tempering the inflammatory response and supporting skin cells in their natural recovery, this method may help relieve symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling, and is generally well tolerated. For many people, it is a valuable complement to care from their doctor. Results vary from person to person.
Red light therapy is a wellness application and not a replacement for medical care. Results vary from person to person; consult your doctor if you have symptoms.
