1) Skin improvement / Anti-Aging

1. Shurrab K, et al. Low-level laser therapy for skin rejuvenation: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38817003/

• Population: Aggregated clinical studies on skin elasticity, wrinkles, and melasma.
• Intervention: Various LLLT/LED protocols (red and near-infrared).
• Key findings:
  • Improved skin elasticity
  • Reduction in wrinkles
  • Considered well tolerated and a useful complementary application
• Study type: Systematic review (2024).
• Strengths/limitations: Recent meta-analysis; limitations due to varying doses and outcome measures.

2. Couturaud V, Le Fur M, Pelletier M, Granotier F. Reverse skin aging signs by red light photobiomodulation. 2023.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/372014314_Reverse_skin_aging_signs_by_red_light_photobiomodulation

• Population: 20 healthy white women with combination to oily skin; exact age not reported.
• Intervention: LED mask (~630 ±10 nm, ~15,6 J/cm²), 2 sessions per week for 3 months (12 min per session).
• Key findings:
  • Reduction in facial sagging
  • Increased dermal density
  • Decrease in pore diameter
  • Decrease in sebum production
  • Effects persisted for several weeks after discontinuation
• Study type: Clinical interventional study without a control group.
• Strengths/limitations: Small sample, no placebo group.

3. Mota LR, et al. Photobiomodulation reduces periocular wrinkle volume: a randomized controlled trial (2023)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36780572/

• Population: 137 women aged 40–65 years with Fitzpatrick skin phototypes II–IV.
• Intervention: 10 sessions over 4 weeks of red (660 nm) and amber (590 nm) light, split-face model.
• Key findings:
  • Wrinkle reduction with red light
  • Comparable wrinkle reduction with amber light
  • No significant improvement in hydration or viscoelasticity
• Study type: Randomized, controlled split-face study.
• Strengths/limitations: Focused on the periocular area, short follow-up.

4. Jagdeo J, et al. Light-emitting diodes in dermatology: A systematic review. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6099480/

• Population: Diverse clinical studies (photoaging, acne, skin recovery).
• Intervention: Red (630–660 nm) and NIR (830–880 nm) light in various protocols.
• Key findings:
  • Improved wrinkles
  • Increased skin elasticity
  • Collagen stimulation
  • Wrinkle reduction described in multiple studies
• Study type: Systematic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Wide variation in doses and devices.

5. Wunsch A & Matuschka K. A controlled trial… Photomed Laser Surg. 2014.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3926176/

• Population: Adults who received full-face PBM.
• Intervention: Polychromatic red/NIR light for several weeks.
• Key findings:
  • Higher participant satisfaction
  • Reduction of fine lines
  • Increased collagen density
• Study type: Controlled clinical study.
• Strengths/limitations: Device-dependent; standardized doses are needed.

6. Avci P, et al. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in skin. Lasers Surg Med. 2013.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4126803/

• Population: Clinical and preclinical data.
• Intervention: Red light (600–700 nm) and NIR (760–1100 nm).
• Key findings:
  • Increase in ATP production
  • Stimulation of collagen synthesis
  • Increased fibroblast activity
• Study type: Narrative/systematic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong mechanistic rationale.

2) Faster recovery, muscle recovery & sports performance

1. Luo WT, et al. Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Muscular Performance and Recovery: Systematic Review & Meta-analysis. Front Physiol. 2021.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9460079/

• Population: 24 clinical trials involving athletes and active adults.
• Intervention: LLLT/PBM before or after training, wavelengths 630–904 nm.
• Key findings:
  • Improved muscle strength when applied before exercise
  • Reduced muscle damage (lower CK levels)
  • Reduced muscle soreness
• Study type: Meta-analysis.
• Strengths/limitations: Many studies; variation in dosage and timing.

2. Tomazoni SS, et al. Infrared Low-Level Laser Therapy applied before running test. Lasers Med Sci. 2019.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6885272/

• Population: Healthy, active adults.
• Intervention: IR-LLLT (808–830 nm) applied before a progressive running test.
• Key findings:
  • Better performance during running
  • Lower fatigue indicators compared with placebo
• Study type: Randomized clinical trial.
• Strengths/limitations: Well controlled; one session, no long-term data.

3. Rossato M, et al. Dose-response effect of photobiomodulation on exercise performance. Lasers Surg Med. 2020.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33232629/

• Population: 18 physically active men.
• Intervention: PBM delivered at different energy doses to the quadriceps before exercise.
• Key findings:
  • Clear dose-response relationship
  • More repetitions possible before fatigue
  • Reduced muscle fatigue
• Study type: Randomized crossover study.
• Strengths/limitations: Small sample but excellent control.

4. Lanferdini FJ, et al. Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy on Performance in Sports: Randomized Trials & Mechanisms. Sports Med. 2023.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10594465/

• Population: Athletes and active adults.
• Intervention: PBM before or after exercise, usually 660–850 nm.
• Key findings:
  • Improved oxygen dynamics in muscles
  • Less muscle damage after exercise
  • Faster muscle recovery processes
• Study type: Systematic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Comprehensive overview; need for standardized dosages.

5. Ailioaie LM & Ailioaie C. Photobiomodulation and sports: a narrative review with an RCT example. 2021.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8706093/

• Population: Healthy men (RCT) + broader athletic population in the review.
• Intervention: PBM applied to the biceps before resistance exercise.
• Key findings:
  • Lower fatigue during testing
  • Longer time to muscle failure
• Study type: RCT + narrative review.
• Strengths/limitations: Focused on one muscle group; broader research is needed.

6. De Oliveira et al. Photobiomodulation preconditioning improves muscular performance: systematic review (2018).

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29090398/

• Population: Randomized studies with athletes/healthy participants.
• Intervention: PBM applied before training or exercise.
• Key findings:
  • Consistent reduction in muscle fatigue
  • Improved performance in various sports tests.
• Study type: Systematic review & meta-analysis.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong support; variation in protocols.

3) More energy & less fatigue

1. Salehpour F., et al. Transcranial PBM improves brain energy metabolism via cytochrome-c oxidase activation (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10552827/

• Population: Overview of animal and human studies on brain energy and mitochondria.
• Intervention: Red/NIR brain PBM (usually 630–1064 nm).
• Key findings:
  • Increased cytochrome-c oxidase activity
  • Increased ATP production in the brain
  • Better cognitive energy availability
• Study type: Systematic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong mechanistic basis; research parameters vary.

2. Naeser MA., et al. Transcranial PBM for chronic brain dysfunction: improved fatigue & cognition (2022)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9271305/

• Population: People with persistent cognitive complaints.
• Intervention: Red/NIR tPBM applied to the prefrontal cortex.
• Key findings:
  • Less mental fatigue
  • Improved attention and processing speed
  • Improved mood
• Study type: Clinical intervention study.
• Strengths/limitations: Promising; no placebo control.

3. Vargas E., et al. PBM increases cerebral oxygenation & alertness (NIR 1064 nm), randomized trial (2017)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5445709/

• Population: Healthy adults.
• Intervention: 1064 nm NIR applied to the forehead for 8 minutes.
• Key findings:
  • Increased oxygenation in the brain
  • Higher alertness
  • Potential increase in mental energy
• Study type: Randomized controlled trial.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong physiological measurements; short intervention duration.

4. Henderson TA, et al. Neuroenergetic benefits of PBM: review (2022)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35149652/

• Population: Human and animal models focused on neuronal energy supply.
• Intervention: Various PBM wavelengths from 630–1064 nm.
• Key findings:
  • Increased ATP synthesis
  • Lower oxidative stress
  • Improved mitochondrial function
• Study type: Mechanistic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong biological basis; variation between studies.

5. Darlot F, et al. PBM reshapes energy metabolism in neurons: experimental & translational evidence (2022)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35413191/

• Population: Animal and cell studies supplemented by early clinical data.
• Intervention: Red/NIR PBM for mitochondrial stimulation.
• Key findings:
  • Improved ATP production
  • Improved energy efficiency in neurons
  • Potential application for fatigue symptoms
• Study type: Translational research review.
• Strengths/limitations: Promising; limited large-scale human data.

6. Hwang J, et al. PBM for mental fatigue: randomized sham-controlled trial (2016)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27285902/

• Population: Healthy adults with mental fatigue.
• Intervention: 825 nm tPBM targeting frontal brain regions.
• Key findings:
  • Significant reduction in mental fatigue
  • Improved cognitive performance
• Study type: Double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong design; single session, long-term effects unknown.

4) Pain relief (muscle & joint pain)

1. González-Muñoz A, et al. Efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy for pain and inflammation: Systematic review (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10094541/

• Population: Clinical studies of acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain.
• Intervention: Local application of red and near-infrared PBM.
• Key findings:
  • Reduced pain scores in multiple RCTs
  • Reduced inflammatory markers
  • Improved tissue recovery
• Study type: Systematic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Good number of RCTs; variation in dosage and parameters.

2. Hamblin MR. Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation (2017)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Preclinical and clinical studies of inflammation and pain.
• Intervention: Red/NIR PBM applied to cells, animal models, and human tissues.
• Key findings:
  • Decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines
  • Increase in M2 macrophages (repair type)
  • Reduced oxidative stress
• Study type: Mechanistic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong biological basis; standardized research protocols are needed.

3. Tomazoni SS, et al. IR LLLT before exercise reduces post-exercise soreness and markers (2019)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6885272/

• Population: Healthy male athletes.
• Intervention: Infrared LLLT before intense exercise.
• Key findings:
  • Significant reduction in muscle soreness after exercise
  • Lower CK levels and oxidative stress
  • Better muscle recovery markers
• Study type: Randomized, placebo-controlled study.
• Strengths/limitations: Well controlled; short-term only and small group.

4. Tsou YA, et al. Effects of PBMT for delayed-onset muscle soreness: systematic review & meta-analysis (2025)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12286287/

• Population: Studies of muscle soreness (DOMS) in healthy adults.
• Intervention: PBM applied before or after exercise.
• Key findings:
  • Reduced DOMS intensity at different time points
  • Better muscle function during recovery
• Study type: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
• Strengths/limitations: Good number of trials; effectiveness depends on the timing of application.

5. González-Muñoz A, et al. PBM as adjunctive therapy for chronic musculoskeletal pain (2023)

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/8/4161

• Population: People with knee osteoarthritis, tendinopathy, and lower back pain.
• Intervention: PBM added to physiotherapy or standard care.
• Key findings:
  • Additional pain reduction on top of standard therapy
  • Improved functionality
• Study type: Systematic review and trial summary.
• Strengths/limitations: Positive findings; larger RCTs are needed.

5) Neurological benefits (focus, memory & cognition)

1. Naeser MA, et al. Improved cognitive function after transcranial LED sessions in chronic TBI (2011 / 2016)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3104287

• Population: Individuals with chronic traumatic brain injury (TBI) and cognitive impairments.
• Intervention: Repeated transcranial red/NIR LED sessions (633–870 nm).
• Key findings:
  • Improved attention
  • Improved memory
  • Improved executive function
• Study type: Pilot clinical reports.
• Strengths/limitations: Consistent improvements; larger controlled RCTs are needed.

2. Qu X, et al. Repeated transcranial photobiomodulation improves working memory in older adults (2022)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9514540/

• Population: Healthy older adults.
• Intervention: Seven-day series of NIR tPBM sessions.
• Key findings:
  • Working memory improved immediately after the sessions
  • The effect lasted several weeks
• Study type: Randomized controlled study.
• Strengths/limitations: Well controlled; limited sample size.

3. de Oliveira BH, et al. tPBM increases cognitive function & BDNF in adults with MCI (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39423445/

• Population: Adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
• Intervention: tPBM sessions vs placebo/sham.
• Key findings:
  • Improved cognitive performance
  • Increase in circulating BDNF levels (neurotrophic factor)
• Study type: RCT.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong design; long-term research is needed.

4. Urquhart EL, et al. Transcranial PBM-induced changes in EEG and cognition (2020)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7587286/

• Population: Healthy adults.
• Intervention: A single session of NIR tPBM (830 nm).
• Key findings:
  • Increase in delta and theta EEG activity (associated with relaxation and cognitive modulation)
  • Short-term cognitive improvements
• Study type: Controlled experimental study.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong neurophysiological data; small participant groups.

5. Pan W, et al. Advances in photobiomodulation for cognitive impairment (2023 review)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9945713/

• Population: Preclinical models and human studies in TBI, dementia, and cognitive decline.
• Intervention: Red/NIR tPBM.
• Key findings:
  • Improved cerebral blood flow
  • Mitochondrial support
  • Improvements in cognitive outcomes in multiple studies
• Study type: Review.
• Strengths/limitations: Very comprehensive; clinical protocols vary considerably.

6. Nizamutdinov D, et al. Transcranial Near-Infrared (tNIR) light in dementia: safety & cognitive effects (2021)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8219492/

• Population: People with dementia.
• Intervention: Repeated tNIR sessions at home.
• Key findings:
  • The application was well tolerated
  • Improvements in cognition in some participants
  • Improved sleep quality and mood reported
• Study type: Case series / research protocol.
• Strengths/limitations: Valuable real-world research; larger controlled RCTs are needed.

6) Hormonal balance

1. Hamblin MR. Mechanisms of PBM: mitochondrial & NO release affecting endocrine cells (2017)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Mechanistic studies + limited human data.
• Intervention: Red and Near-Infrared photobiomodulation.
• Key findings:
  • Increased ATP production
  • Nitric oxide (NO) release
  • Biological effects that may influence endocrine cell activity and stress responses
• Study type: Mechanistic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong biological rationale; few direct hormonal clinical RCTs.

2. Yosefov-Abramson / Hernández-Bule 2024: PBM effects on reproductive tissues

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11049838/

• Population: Animal models + small human pilot studies.
• Intervention: Local red/NIR PBM on reproductive tissues.
• Key findings:
  • Improved follicle activity and viability in animal models
  • Improved mitochondrial function
  • Improved blood flow in reproductive structures
• Study type: Preclinical review + pilot human data.
• Strengths/limitations: Promising, but limited human hormonal data.

3. Liebert A et al. PBM and systemic neuroimmune/endocrine modulation (2020)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7673843/

• Population: Preclinical and clinical studies involving various conditions.
• Intervention: Systemic PBM (transcranial and peripheral).
• Key findings:
  • Modulation of inflammatory markers
  • Influence on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis)
  • Potential role in stress regulation and hormonal balance
• Study type: Narrative review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong mechanistic support; lack of large human hormonal RCTs.

4. Laakso EL (2023): PBM effects on gut–brain–endocrine axes

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10216148/

• Population: Mechanistic studies and small human studies.
• Intervention: Transcranial and peripheral PBM.
• Key findings:
  • Modulation of mitochondria in hormonal and metabolic pathways
  • Influence on gut–brain–hormone communication
  • Potentially relevant to stress, energy, and hormonal regulation
• Study type: Review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong theoretical basis; few large human data studies.

5. Hernández-Bule et al. (2024): PBM & endocrine function review

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11049838/

• Population: Human clinical studies, small RCTs, animal models, and mechanistic studies.
• Intervention: PBM targeting endocrine-related areas (the brain and peripheral glandular tissues).
• Key findings:
  • Potential effects on cortisol, melatonin, and other hormones
  • Mechanistic links through mitochondrial stimulation and neuroendocrine signaling
• Study type: Systematic review.
• Limitations: Few large RCTs; hormonal outcomes are often secondary; substantial variation between protocols.

7) Better sleep

1. Saltmarche A et al. Significant improvements in cognition & sleep reported in people with dementia after PBM (2017)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28186867/

• Population: People with mild to moderate dementia.
• Intervention: Repeated photobiomodulation (transcranial/near-infrared).
• Key findings:
  • Improved sleep quality
  • Less nighttime agitation
  • Improvements in cognitive functions
• Study type: Case series.
• Strengths/limitations: Consistent caregiver reports, but no control group.

2. Nizamutdinov D et al. tNIR in dementia: improved sleep & mood (2021)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8219492/

• Population: People with dementia.
• Intervention: Repeated tNIR sessions at home.
• Key findings:
  • Improved sleep quality reported
  • Improved mood
• Study type: Case series / controlled protocol.
• Strengths/limitations: Real-world setting; no blinded RCT.

3. Gaggi NL et al. Enhancing sleep, wakefulness, and cognition with photobiomodulation (2025 review)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12350269/

• Population: Healthy volunteers and clinical groups.
• Intervention: Transcranial PBM, intranasal PBM, and bright-light therapy.
• Key findings:
  • Improved daytime alertness
  • Potential support for nighttime sleep
  • Effects via circadian and mitochondrial pathways
• Study type: Review (2025).
• Strengths/limitations: Mix of intervention methods; emerging field of research.

4. Urquhart EL, et al. tPBM changes EEG & cognition; sleep-related EEG changes noted (2020)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7587286/

• Population: 20 healthy adults.
• Intervention: One session of 830 nm transcranial PBM.
• Key findings:
  • Increase in delta and theta EEG activity (associated with relaxation & sleep pressure)
  • Short-term cognitive improvements
  • EEG profile showed similarities to early sleep cycles
• Study type: Experimental crossover study.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong neurophysiology, but sleep itself is not the primary outcome.

5. Bragato EF et al. (2023): LED Mask RCT protocol including sleep as outcome

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9902007/

• Population: 60 women between 35 and 60 years old.
• Intervention: 633 nm and 830 nm LED mask, 20 minutes per session, 3× per week for 8 weeks.
• Key findings: This is a protocol; sleep is measured using the PSQI, but no results have been published yet.
• Study type: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled protocol.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong design; results still pending.

6. Hamblin MR (2017) & Laakso EL (2023): PBM and melatonin/circadian mechanisms

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Animal models, cell studies, and indirect human data.
• Intervention: Red (630–660 nm) and near-infrared (800–850 nm) PBM.
• Key findings:
  • Increase in cytochrome c oxidase activity
  • Increase in ATP and nitric oxide
  • Possible influence on melatonin synthesis
  • Normalization of circadian rhythms in animals
• Study type: Mechanistic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong biological basis; few sleep-focused human RCTs.

8) Hair growth

1. Torres AE, et al. Photobiomodulation for the management of hair loss (2021)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33377535/

• Population: Overview of multiple RCTs in alopecia.
• Intervention: Red (630–660 nm) and near-infrared LED helmets/caps, 2–3× per week for 12–26 weeks.
• Key findings:
  • Several RCTs describe an increase in hair density
  • Improvements in hair growth and hair structure
• Study type: Narrative review + summary of RCTs.
• Strengths/limitations: Broad coverage; variation in protocols remains.

2. Hamblin MR. Photobiomodulation for alopecia (2019 review)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6737896/

• Population: Preclinical and clinical studies.
• Intervention: PBM between 630–830 nm in various devices.
• Key findings:
  • Stimulation of mitochondria in hair follicles
  • Support described for androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata
• Study type: Review.
• Strengths/limitations: Good mechanistic rationale; older review compared with the latest RCTs.

3. Wang YF, et al. Clinical trial comparing three wavelengths for hair growth (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40398915/

• Population: 68 adults (18–60 years) with hair loss.
• Intervention: PBM with three wavelengths:
  • 650 nm
  • 1550 nm
  • 14.000 nm
  compared with control, over 3 months plus 9 months of follow-up.
• Key findings:
  • Increased hair density in all PBM groups
  • Decreasing density in the control group
  • Reduced scalp sebum production
• Study type: Controlled clinical study.
• Strengths/limitations: Unique comparison between wavelengths; medium-sized sample.

4. Charoensuksira S, et al. Light-guiding microneedle patch + LED helmet (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39325239/

• Population: 16 participants with androgenetic alopecia.
• Intervention: Microneedle patch combined with LED helmet (522 nm + 633 nm), 50 mW/cm², 40 J/cm², weekly for 24 weeks.
• Key findings:
  • Increased hair density in the exposed area
  • Improved hair quality compared with control
• Study type: Small randomized split-area trial.
• Strengths/limitations: Innovative method; very small sample.

5. Yang K, et al. Hair growth promoting effects of 650 nm red light (ex vivo)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8577899/

• Population: Ex-vivo human hair follicle cultures.
• Intervention: Exposure to 650 nm red light.
• Key findings:
  • Stimulation of follicular activity
  • Upregulation of mitochondrial and growth-factor signaling
• Study type: Mechanistic ex-vivo study.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong biological support; no direct clinical application.

9) Metabolism & energy balance

1. Magalhães FC, et al. PBM and metabolic outcomes (2022 review)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36040371/

• Population: In-vitro, animal, and human studies.
• Intervention: PBM with various parameters.
• Key findings:
  • Improved mitochondrial function
  • Reduced inflammatory activity
  • Improved metabolic signaling in muscle and other tissue
• Study type: Narrative/systematic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong theoretical support; more RCTs in humans are needed.

10) Better mood / less low mood

1. Ji Q., et al. Photobiomodulation and mood symptoms: meta-analysis (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38356614/

• Population: RCTs and controlled studies in individuals with low mood.
• Intervention: Transcranial and peripheral PBM.
• Key findings:
  • Significant improvement in mood compared with placebo
  • Limited number of high-quality RCTs available
• Study type: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
• Strengths/limitations: Statistically significant effect in the analysis; heterogeneous protocols.

2. Cho Y., et al. Meta-analysis: tPBM and mood symptoms (2023)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37651208/

• Population: Randomized and sham-controlled trials.
• Intervention: Various transcranial PBM protocols.
• Key findings:
  • Support for a positive effect of tPBM on mood
  • Many studies underpowered due to small sample sizes
• Study type: Meta-analysis.
• Strengths/limitations: Thorough analysis, but limited by small trial sizes.

11) Reduction of inflammation (arthritis & autoimmune diseases)

1. Zhang R., et al. Mechanisms & efficacy of PBM in inflammatory disease (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10531845/

• Population: Human and animal studies focused on inflammatory diseases.
• Intervention: Various red and near-infrared PBM protocols.
• Key findings:
  • Decrease in inflammatory markers
  • Improved tissue repair mechanisms
  • Positive effects in joint diseases and autoimmune models
• Study type: Systematic review (2023).
• Strengths/limitations: Very comprehensive; variation in research protocols remains a limitation.

2. Hamblin MR. Anti-inflammatory effects of PBM: mechanistic review (2017)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5523874/

• Population: Cell, animal, and human studies.
• Intervention: Red and near-infrared light.
• Key findings:
  • Decrease in oxidative stress
  • Decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines
  • Increase in vasodilatory nitric oxide (NO)
  • Modulation of mitochondrial and immune activity
• Study type: Mechanistic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Strong biological foundation; clinical PBM protocols vary widely.

3. Oliveira S., et al. PBM for knee osteoarthritis: systematic review (2024)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38775202/

• Population: RCTs involving people with knee osteoarthritis.
• Intervention: Laser- or LED-based PBM with varying parameters.
• Key findings:
  • Pain reduction
  • Potential improvement in mobility and functioning
• Study type: Systematic review and meta-analysis (2024).
• Strengths/limitations: Aggregated data; low certainty due to heterogeneous protocols.

4. González-Muñoz A., et al. PBM for chronic pain & inflammation: systematic review (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10094541/

• Population: People with chronic pain and inflammatory conditions.
• Intervention: Laser- and LED-based PBM.
• Key findings:
  • PBM shows beneficial effects on pain and inflammation
  • Different indications benefit to varying degrees
• Study type: Systematic review.
• Strengths/limitations: Comprehensive overview; need for standardized RCTs.

5. Stausholm MB., et al. Efficacy of LLLT in knee osteoarthritis: BMJ Open (2019)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12326686/

• Population: Placebo-controlled LLLT studies in knee osteoarthritis.
• Intervention: Various dosing protocols for LLLT.
• Key findings:
  • Significant pain reduction
  • Improved joint function
• Study type: Systematic review and meta-analysis (2019).
• Strengths/limitations: Strong evidence base, but variation in dosages between studies limits comparability.

6. Lourinho I., et al. LLLT in adults with rheumatoid arthritis: systematic review & meta-analysis (2023)

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12326686/

• Population: Adults with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Intervention: Various LLLT/PBM protocols.
• Key findings:
  • Decrease in inflammatory markers
  • Pain reduction
  • Improvements in functioning (in some studies)
• Study type: Systematic review and meta-analysis (2023).
• Strengths/limitations: Promising, but small cohorts and varying methodology.

Red light therapy is a wellness application and not a substitute for medical care. Results vary by person; consult your doctor if you have symptoms.