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.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.Published: June 12, 2026
Methotrexate-induced oral mucositis affects quality of life in pediatric leukemia patients
Researchers studied how methotrexate-induced oral mucositis affects the quality of life in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. They found that higher mucositis severity and longer wound healing time were associated with worse quality of life. However, the study did not establish a causal link between photobiomodulation and its independent effect on quality of life.
Why it matters: Understanding the impact of oral mucositis on quality of life may help dermatologists and skincare professionals develop more effective treatment plans for patients with similar conditions.
The study had a small sample size of 113 pediatric patients, and the results may not be generalizable to other populations. Photobiomodulation was systematically applied as part of the institutional care protocol, but its independent effect on quality of life could not be established.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: June 12, 2026
New Hydrogel May Help Manage Melanoma After Surgery
Researchers created a special hydrogel that can be injected into skin after melanoma surgery. When exposed to light, it heats up and kills cancer cells. It also helps the skin heal by promoting blood vessel growth and collagen production.
Why it matters: This study may help us better understand how to manage melanoma after surgery and promote skin healing.
This study was conducted in lab experiments and animal models, and its results may not translate directly to human skin. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in people.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: June 11, 2026
Hydrogel May Help Treat Infected Wounds with Antibacterial and Regenerative Effects
Researchers developed a hydrogel that may help treat infected wounds by releasing antibacterial agents and promoting tissue repair. In lab experiments, the hydrogel showed promise in killing bacteria and reducing inflammation. A small study in rats suggests that the hydrogel may also help wounds heal faster.
Why it matters: This research may help improve our understanding of how to treat infected wounds, which can be difficult to heal.
This study was conducted in a lab and in rats, so it's unclear if the results will translate to humans. Further research is needed to confirm the findings.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.Published: June 10, 2026
Simulated daylight PDT may be a less painful option for actinic keratoses
Researchers studied whether simulated daylight photodynamic therapy (PDT) is as effective as conventional PDT for treating mild to moderate actinic keratoses. They found that conventional PDT was more effective, but also more painful. A small study suggests that simulated daylight PDT may be a good option for patients who prioritize treatment tolerability.
Why it matters: This study may help dermatologists and patients understand the trade-offs between effectiveness and tolerability in treating actinic keratoses.
This study had a small sample size and only included patients with mild to moderate actinic keratoses. The results may not be generalizable to other skin conditions or patient populations.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Controlled TrialControlled human study, often randomized. Stronger evidence.Published: June 9, 2026
New imaging technique may help identify target ganglion during surgery for facial blushing and hyperhidrosis
Researchers studied a new imaging technique called near-infrared fluorescence imaging to see if it helps surgeons identify the correct ganglion during surgery for facial blushing and hyperhidrosis. The study found that this technique improved the identification of the ganglion in most patients. However, the study was not designed to test the effectiveness of the technique in improving symptoms.
Why it matters: This research may help improve surgical outcomes for people with facial blushing and hyperhidrosis, which are conditions that can be related to skin health.
The study was not powered to test the clinical superiority of the imaging technique, and the sample size was relatively small. The study only looked at short-term outcomes, and longer-term studies are needed to confirm the findings.
In VitroCell or tissue culture experiments. No human or animal data.Published: June 8, 2026
Hydrogel May Help Treat Wound Infections and Reduce Antibiotic Pollution
Researchers created a special hydrogel that can absorb antibiotics from wastewater and release them in a controlled way when exposed to near-infrared light. In lab experiments, this hydrogel showed promise in treating wound infections by killing bacteria and promoting healing. The hydrogel's effects were seen in experiments with two types of bacteria.
Why it matters: This research may help us better understand how to treat wound infections and reduce the environmental impact of antibiotic pollution.
This study was conducted in a lab and only tested the hydrogel's effects on bacteria in a controlled environment. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in real-world settings.
◆ 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.
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.
◆ 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.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.