Photobiomodulation using red and near-infrared wavelengths. Studied for anti-aging effects and wound healing support.
◆Moderate evidence
The Idea
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, utilizes red and near-infrared wavelengths to stimulate cellular processes, potentially promoting anti-aging effects and wound healing support. This non-invasive treatment is thought to increase collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and enhance tissue repair. At-home devices and in-clinic professional versions differ in power and settings.
What the Evidence Shows
Research suggests that photobiomodulation may improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and enhance wound healing. Studies indicate that red light therapy can increase collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and reduce inflammation. However, the evidence is limited, and most studies have small sample sizes, short durations, or methodological flaws. More high-quality, randomized controlled trials are needed to fully understand the effects of red light therapy on skin health.
Verdict
The current state of evidence suggests that red light therapy may be a promising treatment for anti-aging and wound healing, but more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. At-home devices are available for consumer use, but it is essential to follow manufacturer guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional before starting treatment. In-clinic professional versions are typically more powerful and may offer more effective results.
Understanding evidence levels▼
In VitroCell or tissue culture experiments — no human or animal data.
Ex VivoSkin model or tissue experiments — not in living humans.
Animal StudyResults in animals only — may or may not translate to humans.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study — preliminary results.
Controlled TrialControlled human study (often randomized) — stronger evidence.
Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.
Meta-AnalysisStatistical pooling of results from multiple studies.
GuidelineProfessional guidance or consensus statement from a dermatology society.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.Published: June 6, 2026
Low-Level Light Therapy May Help with Postherpetic Neuralgia
Researchers studied low-level light therapy (LLLT) for treating postherpetic neuralgia, a complication of herpes zoster that causes long-term skin discomfort. They found that LLLT may reduce pain and inflammation, and promote nerve repair. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This study may help us understand how LLLT affects skin and nerve health, which could lead to new treatments for skin conditions.
The review synthesizes existing evidence, but the original studies may have limitations such as small sample sizes or short durations.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.Published: June 2, 2026
Photobiomodulation and electro-stimulation may help heal hard-to-heal wounds
Researchers studied whether photobiomodulation and electro-stimulation can help heal wounds that don't heal quickly. They found some promising results in lab experiments and small studies, but more research is needed to confirm these findings. It's unclear whether these treatments can be effective for everyone.
Why it matters: Understanding how to heal hard-to-heal wounds could lead to new treatments for skin conditions and improve wound care.
The review was based on a limited number of clinical studies with varying designs, treatment approaches, and outcome measures, making it difficult to draw conclusions. Most studies were not controlled trials, and the results may not be generalizable to all patients.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: June 2, 2026
Light Therapy May Help Regulate Skin Inflammation
Researchers studied how different wavelengths of light affect the way skin cells called macrophages behave. They found that specific wavelengths of light can influence how these cells work, which may help with wound healing and other skin issues. The study was done in lab experiments and animal models, so more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This research may help us understand how light therapy can be used to improve skin health and reduce inflammation.
This study was done in lab experiments and animal models, so the results may not directly apply to humans. More research is needed to confirm these findings and to see if they translate to real-world skin issues.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Hyaluronic AcidPublished: June 1, 2026
New Hydrogel May Help Treat Infected Diabetic Wounds
Researchers developed a special hydrogel that may help treat infected diabetic wounds by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. In lab experiments, the hydrogel was able to eliminate nearly all bacteria and promote healing in infected wounds. However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This research may help improve our understanding of how to treat complex skin infections and promote wound healing.
This study was conducted in lab experiments using animal models and may not directly translate to human skin. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the safety and efficacy of this hydrogel in humans.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: June 1, 2026
Chitosan bandages may help heal wounds faster
Researchers studied a new type of bandage made from chitosan and a special polymer that responds to laser light. They found that this bandage can quickly stop bleeding and kill bacteria that can cause infections. In lab experiments, it also helped destroy biofilms that can slow down healing.
Why it matters: This research may help improve wound healing treatments, which could be useful for people with chronic wounds or skin infections.
This study was conducted in a lab and involved animal experiments, so its results may not directly apply to humans. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: May 31, 2026
Researchers studied a new wound dressing for faster healing
A new hydrogel was created to help wounds heal faster. It has antibacterial properties and can be activated by a special light. In lab experiments, it showed promise in killing bacteria and promoting healing in mouse wounds.
Why it matters: This research may help us understand how to create better wound dressings for people with difficult-to-heal wounds.
This study was conducted in mice and in lab experiments, so its results may not apply to humans. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in people.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: May 30, 2026
New Wound Healing Scaffold May Help Infected Wounds Heal Faster
Researchers developed a new scaffold for wound healing using a combination of silk fibroin, Sepia-derived melanin, and a temperature-sensitive material. This scaffold was created using a precise 3D printing technique and was tested in lab experiments. The results showed that the scaffold was effective in controlling infection, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting wound closure.
Why it matters: This research may help improve our understanding of how to develop effective treatments for chronic infected wounds.
This study was conducted in lab experiments and animal models, and its findings may not directly translate to human skin. Further research is needed to confirm these results in humans.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Hyaluronic AcidPublished: May 29, 2026
Sprayable Nanoplatform May Help Diabetic Wounds Heal Faster
Researchers developed a sprayable nanoplatform that combines a hyaluronic acid hydrogel with a near-infrared light-activated system. This system may help clear oxidative stress, promote blood vessel growth, and fight infection in diabetic wounds. In lab experiments and animal studies, the nanoplatform showed promise in accelerating wound healing.
Why it matters: This research may contribute to the development of new treatments for diabetic wounds, which can be challenging to heal.
This study was conducted in lab experiments and animal models, and its findings may not directly apply to human skin. Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of this nanoplatform in humans.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: May 27, 2026
New Skin Cancer Treatment May Help Target Tumors More Effectively
Researchers developed a new treatment that combines a skin cancer antibody with a light-sensitive dye. In lab experiments, this treatment selectively targeted and killed skin cancer cells in mice. It also allowed for real-time imaging of the tumors.
Why it matters: This study may help improve our understanding of how to target and treat skin cancer more effectively.
This study was conducted in mice and has not been tested in humans. The effectiveness and safety of this treatment in humans is unknown.
In VitroCell or tissue culture experiments. No human or animal data.Published: May 27, 2026
405 nm Low-Level Laser May Help Reduce Bacterial Growth in Wounds
Researchers studied how a specific type of low-level laser, 405 nm, affects the growth of bacteria that can cause wound infections. They found that this laser may help reduce the growth of certain types of bacteria, but not all. The study was done in a lab and more research is needed to understand its effects.
Why it matters: This study may help us understand new ways to prevent wound infections, which could be important for skincare and wound healing.
This study was done in a lab and only looked at a small number of bacteria strains. More research is needed to understand how this laser affects different types of bacteria and how it works in real-world situations.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: May 25, 2026
New Skin Patch May Help Deliver Medication More Effectively
Researchers created a new type of skin patch that combines a medication called allantoin with a pigment called melanin. When exposed to near-infrared light, the patch releases the medication more quickly. In lab experiments, the patch showed promise for delivering medication and reducing inflammation.
Why it matters: This study may help improve our understanding of how to deliver medications through the skin, which could lead to new treatments for various skin conditions.
This study was conducted in a lab setting using artificial and porcine skin models, and its results may not translate directly to human skin. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
In VitroCell or tissue culture experiments. No human or animal data.Published: May 25, 2026
Red LED Light May Help Regulate Bone Cell Metabolism
Researchers studied how red LED light affects human bone cells in a lab. They found that the light may help increase protein and collagen production, but its effects on bone cell activity varied depending on the light dose. The study suggests that red LED light could be useful for bone repair, but more research is needed.
Why it matters: This study may help us understand how light therapy could be used to promote bone health, which could have implications for skincare and wound healing.
This study was conducted in a lab using human bone cells, and its findings may not translate to real-world applications. Further research is needed to confirm these results and explore their potential benefits for skincare and bone health.