What Dermatologists Say About Red Light Therapy?
iLUXRED Red Light Therapy Panel Pro
2025-06-04
In recent years, red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level laser therapy, has gained significant attention in the field of dermatology. Below is a summary of what dermatologists say about red light therapy:
Benefits of Red Light Therapy
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Anti-Aging Effects: Red light therapy can stimulate collagen and elastin production in the skin, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For example, a split-face, randomized clinical trial found a 30% reduction in periocular wrinkles (commonly known as crow's feet) after red light therapy. Additionally, it helps reverse some sun damage by boosting collagen and elastin production, thereby improving skin repair processes and giving the skin a more youthful appearance
- Acne Treatment: Red light can penetrate deeper into the skin, targeting the sebaceous glands' sebum production to address the root cause of acne. It also stimulates collagen production to enhance the skin's healing ability. Studies have shown improvement in acne lesions after 12 weeks of red light therapy. Furthermore, combining red light with blue light may achieve a synergistic effect, as blue light targets acne-causing bacteria, while red light is more effective at reducing residual redness
- Reduction of Inflammation: By triggering the formation of blood vessels and increasing collagen and fibroblast production, red light therapy reduces inflammation. It can also boost antioxidant production and decrease oxidative stress, further lowering inflammation levels. This makes it beneficial for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema. For instance, red light therapy can help reduce the redness associated with rosacea by alleviating inflammation
- Wound Healing: Red light therapy promotes wound healing by reducing inflammation and stimulating mitochondrial energy production in skin cells, which in turn accelerates cell turnover and tissue repair. A 2014 study suggested that scars and burns are particularly responsive to red light therapy
- Hair Growth Promotion: Research indicates that red light waves can stimulate hair follicles into production. While the exact mechanism is unclear, it may be related to the anti-inflammatory properties of RLT, increased blood flow, or heightened collagen production. Some dermatologists have reported success using red light therapy in conjunction with PRP (platelet-rich plasma) hair rejuvenation sessions to treat hair loss
Safety of Red Light Therapy
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Non-Invasive and Low-Risk: Unlike some other light therapies, red light therapy does not cause damage to the skin or require downtime. It is generally considered safe, non-invasive, and well-tolerated when used properly. Most forms of red light therapy are more effective when administered in a doctor's office rather than at home, as doctors can utilize stronger lights
- Mild Side Effects: Potential side effects of red light therapy are relatively rare and mild. They may include temporary scalp warmth or tingling, mild scalp redness or irritation (especially in sensitive individuals), dry skin, itching, mild or prolonged skin redness, skin crusting, and in rare cases, hyperpigmentation or blistering. Some individuals might also experience headaches or irritability. Red light therapy itself is not harmful to the eyes, but the brightness of certain devices may cause discomfort or sensitivity. Wearing eye protection is recommended
Limitations of Red Light Therapy
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Individual Variability: Individual responses to red light therapy can vary. Some users may notice improvements within four to six weeks, while others may require longer treatment periods. Additionally, the effectiveness of red light therapy for conditions like hyperpigmentation is still under research, and its impact on such conditions may be limited
- Device Limitations: At-home red light therapy devices may have weaker light intensity and shorter treatment durations compared to professional devices used in clinics, which could affect treatment outcomes. Moreover, the quality of devices on the market varies significantly. Some products do not meet FDA standards or are counterfeit, offering no real benefits
- Supplementary Treatment: While red light therapy shows promise, it is not a cure-all. For example, in hair loss treatment, it works best when combined with topical treatments or oral medications. Similarly, for skin conditions, it is often used as a supplementary treatment alongside other therapies
Dermatologists generally believe that red light therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for various skin conditions. However, individuals should consult with a dermatologist before starting treatment to determine the most suitable approach based on their specific condition and needs. Below are the views of some dermatologists on red light therapy:
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Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Shafer Clinic in New York City, states that red light therapy involves exposing the skin to safe wavelengths of light to address skin concerns such as signs of aging, stretch marks, scars, hyperpigmentation, and acne. Low-wavelength red light produces a biochemical effect in cells, enhancing energy production and enabling cells to work more efficiently to rejuvenate and repair damage
- Dr. Jessie Cheung, a board-certified dermatologist with practices in Illinois and New York City, notes that red light can penetrate up to five millimeters into the skin without causing thermal damage. It is effective without being invasive and is completely painless, unlike some other light therapies that cause skin damage or downtime
- Dr. Nazanin Saedi, a board-certified dermatologist in Philadelphia and clinical associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University, highlights that the biggest benefit of red light therapy lies in its ability to reduce inflammation. Red light triggers blood vessel formation, increases collagen and fibroblast production, and reduces inflammation. Additionally, RLT can boost antioxidant production and decrease oxidative stress, further lowering inflammation levels
- Dr. Dhaval G. Bhanusali, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and founder of Skin Medicinals, mentions that while red light may not be a magic solution for restoring hair to its original state, studies have shown that red light waves can stimulate hair follicles into production. The exact mechanism is unclear but may be related to RLT's anti-inflammatory properties, increased blood flow, or heightened collagen production. In his practice, Dr. Bhanusali often uses red light laser after PRP hair rejuvenation sessions to treat hair loss
In summary, dermatologists believe that red light therapy offers numerous benefits for skin health, including anti-aging effects, acne treatment, inflammation reduction, wound healing, and hair growth promotion. It is considered safe and low-risk, though individual responses may vary. When using red light therapy, especially at-home devices, it is essential to choose products that meet standards and follow proper usage guidelines. Consulting with a dermatologist before treatment can help ensure safety and effectiveness.
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