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.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: April 6, 2026
New Material May Help Regulate Wound Healing by Controlling Reactive Oxygen Species
Researchers studied a new material called GO-FePPOP, which is made from a combination of graphene oxide and iron phosphate. In lab experiments, they found that this material can help control the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in wounds, which can be beneficial for healing. The material works by generating ROS when exposed to near-infrared light and then reducing it when the light is turned off. This process may help promote wound healing by reducing bacterial infections.
Why it matters: This research may provide insights into developing new materials to treat infected wounds, which can be challenging to heal.
This study was conducted in lab experiments and animal studies, and its findings may not directly translate to human skin. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in humans.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Published: April 6, 2026
New Imaging Technique May Help Predict Skin Healing After Amputation
Researchers studied a new imaging technique called indocyanine green fluorescence to see if it could predict how well skin would heal after amputation surgery. They found that in a small group of patients, the technique was able to predict which patients were at risk of skin necrosis. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: This research may help doctors make more informed decisions about amputation surgery and reduce the risk of complications.
This study had a small sample size of 10 patients and only looked at patients who were already scheduled for amputation surgery. More research is needed to confirm these findings and see if the technique is effective in a larger group of patients.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Published: April 1, 2026
Skin Tone Affects AI Classifications in Hyperspectral Imaging
Researchers studied how skin tone affects how well artificial intelligence (AI) can classify skin images. They used hyperspectral imaging to collect data from 45 healthy women and found that skin tone influences the data. This may affect how well AI models work for people with different skin tones.
Why it matters: This study highlights the importance of diverse datasets to ensure equitable performance in AI models used for skincare or dermatology.
This study was conducted on a small group of 45 healthy women, and the results may not be generalizable to other populations. The study was limited to hyperspectral imaging data and did not investigate other types of imaging or AI models.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Published: March 31, 2026
Managing Skin Injuries from New Cancer Treatment
Researchers studied a new cancer treatment called near-infrared photoimmunotherapy (NIR-PIT) and its potential to cause skin injuries. They found that a patient with a severe skin ulcer was successfully treated using a pedicled flap transfer after NIR-PIT. More studies are needed to improve the management of severe skin complications from this treatment.
Why it matters: This study may help us better understand how to manage skin injuries from NIR-PIT, which could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients.
This study involved a single case and further research is necessary to establish the effectiveness of pedicled flap transfer for NIR-PIT-induced skin injuries.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: March 12, 2026
Researchers studied a new way to treat psoriasis using nanoparticles and light
A small study suggests that using nanoparticles and near-infrared light may help treat psoriasis by reducing inflammation in the skin. In lab experiments, researchers found that this method could potentially switch the type of immune cells involved in psoriasis from those that cause inflammation to those that reduce it. This could lead to improved symptoms without the side effects of other treatments.
Why it matters: This research may help us better understand how to treat psoriasis and reduce its impact on patients' quality of life.
This study was conducted in a lab using animal cells and has not been tested in humans. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in people with psoriasis.
Small Human StudySmall or uncontrolled human study. Results are preliminary.Published: March 10, 2026
Combination Therapy May Help Treat Cutaneous Mycobacterium marinum Infection
Researchers studied a treatment combining oral clarithromycin, red-light photobiomodulation, and microwave therapy for cutaneous Mycobacterium marinum infection. A small group of patients showed improvement, but more research is needed to confirm these findings. The treatment was generally well-tolerated and showed no clinical recurrence in follow-up.
Why it matters: Understanding effective treatments for cutaneous Mycobacterium marinum infection may help improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
This study had a small sample size (14 patients) and was conducted retrospectively, which may limit the reliability of the findings. Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of this treatment combination.
Researchers Developed Microneedles to Help Heal Infected Wounds
Scientists created a new type of microneedle that can be activated by near-infrared light. This microneedle has two main functions: it can kill bacteria and also help repair damaged tissue. In lab experiments, it showed promise in treating infected wounds.
Why it matters: This research may help improve treatments for infected wounds, which can be a serious skin condition.
This study was conducted in a lab setting and involved animal models, so its effectiveness in humans is unknown. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.Published: January 1, 2026
Regenerative Therapies May Help Musculoskeletal and Hair Restoration
Researchers studied how certain treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma and low-level laser therapy, might help with musculoskeletal and hair restoration. They found that these treatments may modulate stem cell activity and tissue repair through shared molecular pathways. However, more research is needed to understand their effectiveness.
Why it matters: This study may help skincare professionals understand how regenerative therapies could be applied to hair restoration and musculoskeletal disorders, potentially leading to new treatment approaches.
The review synthesized evidence from various studies, but the authors also highlighted gaps in standardization, dosing, and outcome measures, and noted that more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of these regenerative therapies.
Animal StudyResults in animals only. May or may not translate to humans.Published: September 10, 2025
LED Light Therapy May Help Skin Wounds Heal Faster
Researchers studied the effect of a special LED light on skin wounds in mice. They found that the light may help wounds heal faster by promoting skin cell growth and improving skin structure. The study suggests that this light therapy could be a useful treatment for skin wounds, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Why it matters: This study may help us understand how to improve skin wound healing and potentially develop new treatments for skin injuries.
This study was conducted in mice and only in a lab setting, so its findings may not apply to humans. More research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of this treatment in people.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.AcnePublished: September 1, 2025
LED Light Therapy May Help Improve Skin Appearance
Researchers studied the use of light-emitting diode (LED) therapy in dermatology and found that it may help improve skin appearance by reducing acne, melasma, and photoaging, and promoting skin rejuvenation. LED light interacts with skin cells to regulate their function and induce beneficial changes. The therapy was found to be safe and non-invasive.
Why it matters: Understanding the potential benefits and limitations of LED light therapy may help individuals make informed decisions about their skincare routines.
The review assessed existing literature and did not include new, original research. The effectiveness of LED light therapy may vary depending on individual skin conditions and treatment protocols.
◆ 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 26, 2025
Short-contact red light PDT may help reduce pain and clear actinic keratoses
A small study looked at a new way to do photodynamic therapy for actinic keratoses (sun damage spots) using a gel and red light. Researchers found that this method caused less pain and was just as effective as a longer treatment. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
Why it matters: Understanding how to reduce pain and improve treatment outcomes for actinic keratoses may help people with sun damage get better care.
This study had a small sample size of 30 patients and only looked at two treatment visits spaced 8 weeks apart. The long-term effects of this treatment are not yet known.
◆ Notable findingA finding from a controlled trial, systematic review, or meta-analysis with noteworthy results.Systematic ReviewSummary and analysis of existing published studies.AcnePublished: June 20, 2025
Violet Light May Help with Wound Healing and Skin Issues
Researchers studied the effects of violet light photobiomodulation on various medical conditions, including wound healing, acne, and myopia correction. They found that violet light may be effective in microbial eradication and has potential for several medical applications. However, more research is needed to establish standardized protocols and ensure consistent outcomes.
Why it matters: This research may help us better understand how violet light affects the skin and potentially lead to new treatments for certain skin issues.
The existing body of research is predominantly composed of in vitro studies, highlighting the necessity for more robust pre-clinical and clinical investigations.