Scars can be tough to tackle. Research suggests that red and near-infrared light may help reduce their appearance, but more studies are needed to confirm. Understanding how to improve scar appearance could be key for those dealing with scarring from injuries or surgery.
SkinCareRadar tracks newly published skincare and dermatology research, then explains what the findings mean in plain language — with evidence labels, source links, and no hype.
Scars can be tough to tackle. Research suggests that red and near-infrared light may help reduce their appearance, but more studies are needed to confirm. Understanding how to improve scar appearance could be key for those dealing with scarring from injuries or surgery.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.HyperpigmentationPublished: April 24, 2026
Red and near-infrared light may help improve scar appearance
Researchers studied whether red and near-infrared light can help improve the appearance of burn, hypertrophic, and post-surgical scars. They found that in some cases, this type of light may help reduce the appearance of scars, but more research is needed to confirm these findings. The effects of this treatment were generally well-tolerated, with some minor side effects.
Why it matters: Understanding how to improve scar appearance could be important for people who experience scarring from injuries or surgery.
Seven small studies with a total of 297 participants were included in this review, and the results suggest that red and near-infrared light may be a safe and non-invasive adjunct to standard scar management, but larger controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings and define optimal treatment parameters.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: April 23, 2026
Researchers developed a new wound dressing for infected skin wounds
A team of researchers created a special sponge-like dressing with two layers that can help treat infected skin wounds. The top layer has silver nanoparticles to fight bacteria, while the bottom layer helps stop bleeding and promotes healing. In lab experiments and animal studies, this dressing showed promise in accelerating wound closure and promoting tissue repair.
Why it matters: This research may help improve wound care treatments for people with infected skin wounds.
This study was conducted in a rat model of full-thickness infected skin defects, and its results may not directly translate to human skin wounds. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: April 23, 2026
Hybrid Hydrogel May Help Diabetic Wound Healing
Researchers created a new hydrogel that combines two materials to help heal diabetic wounds. This hydrogel was tested in lab experiments and showed promise in reducing bacterial infection, oxidative stress, and promoting blood vessel growth. The results suggest that this hydrogel may be effective in accelerating wound closure.
Why it matters: This study may contribute to the development of new treatments for diabetic wounds, which can be challenging to heal.
This study was conducted in a lab setting using animal models and may not directly translate to human skin. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.
Ex VivoSkin model or tissue experiments. Not in living humans.AcnePublished: April 23, 2026
Delafloxacin-Loaded Ethosomal Gel May Help Treat Skin Infections
Researchers studied a new type of gel that contains an antibiotic called delafloxacin. They found that this gel may help deliver the antibiotic more effectively to the skin, which could improve its ability to fight bacterial infections. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This study may help us better understand how to treat skin infections, which can be painful and difficult to treat.
This study was conducted in a lab and used animal models, so its findings may not directly apply to humans. Further research is needed to confirm these results.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.AcnePublished: April 22, 2026
Combining lasers and platelet-rich plasma may help improve chronic scars
Researchers studied the combination of ablative fractional carbon dioxide lasers and platelet-rich plasma for treating chronic scars caused by acne, burns, and trauma. They found that this combination may improve scar texture, pigmentation, and depth, and increase patient satisfaction. However, the results varied across different studies.
Why it matters: Understanding how to effectively treat chronic scars can help individuals with these conditions manage their appearance and improve their quality of life.
The studies included in the review had varying laser settings, PRP preparation methods, and outcome measures, which limits direct comparison of the results. Robust multicentre randomised trials are needed to establish parameter-specific guidelines for this therapy.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Skin Barrier DamagePublished: April 21, 2026
Egg Protein Exposure May Affect Skin and Gut Health
Researchers studied how exposure to egg protein through the skin affects the immune system and gut health in mice. They found that this type of exposure may lead to an increased risk of food allergy and changes in the skin and gut. These changes were associated with altered immune responses and shifts in the types of bacteria present in the gut.
Why it matters: This study may help us understand how skin exposure to certain substances can impact overall health and potentially contribute to food allergies.
This study was conducted in mice and may not directly apply to humans. The findings are based on a controlled laboratory setting, and further research is needed to confirm these results in humans.
SkinCareRadar is a public research monitor focused on skincare ingredients, routines, devices, and skin conditions and concerns. It translates dermatology and cosmetic science research into plain language for the general public.
Every finding is linked to its original source. Evidence stages are labeled clearly. We do not diagnose, recommend treatment, or give medical advice. We distinguish cosmetic improvement from medically significant outcomes.