What effect red light has on our skin?

How red light therapy can promote skin renewal and regeneration?

Many studies, including the 2019 study cited in this article, suggest that red/NIR light therapy promotes skin regeneration and rejuvenation by increasing collagen and elastin synthesis. Collagen and elastin are two proteins that are responsible for healthy and supple skin.

A 2013 study reported that red light activates stem cells, the body's "master cells" that are essential for healing. This discovery potentially makes red light therapy an important application in dermatology.

An interesting finding from a 2017 study was that atopic dermatitis may have a genetic cause, specifically a deficiency of a skin protein called filaggrin, which helps shape individual skin cells and forms part of the skin barrier. A lack of filaggrin can mean bacteria can more easily access and leak too much moisture, leading to dry, itchy skin.

Although there are currently no studies on the effects of red/NIR wavelengths on filaggrin synthesis, red light is known to stimulate the synthesis of other skin proteins. This holds promise for future studies in which red light could potentially be used to restore a healthy skin barrier.

How red light therapy promotes cellular metabolism

Numerous studies have shown that red/NIR light stimulates mitochondria, which are small organelles inside cells that produce a fuel known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP). One of these, a groundbreaking study co-authored by Hamblin, revealed that when red/NIR light is applied to the skin, "a cascade of events occurs in the mitochondria that leads to the biostimulation of various processes."

When cells cannot produce enough ATP, it can lead to a condition called mitochondrial dysfunction, which often contributes to chronic disease.

Conversely, cells that can efficiently convert raw materials into fuel are better able to perform their specialized functions. Thus, the cells can defend against bacterial infections that contribute to rashes and other symptoms of eczema.

How red light therapy boosts the immune system?

A strong immune system can fight bacteria that can cause numerous disorders, including eczema. However, in people who suffer from autoimmune disorders, the immune system attacks its own healthy tissue, which can lead to cell death.

In a 2009 study, researchers from the United States and China found that LLLT can reduce premature cell death. As a result, more cells are available to "educate" immune cells in the thymus and bone marrow, effectively teaching immune cells to distinguish between "own" and foreign bodies. This study finding means that red light therapy can potentially help in the treatment of autoimmune disorders.

How red light therapy leads to reduced skin inflammation?

Chronic inflammation is a known cause or contributing factor in many chronic disorders. In a 2017 article published in the scientific journal AIMS Biophysics, Hamblin discusses in detail the anti-inflammatory effects of red/NIR light therapy.

Although the article doesn't specifically mention eczema, it does mention psoriasis, an autoimmune skin disease that causes the accumulation of dead cells (called plaques) on the surface of the skin. Both psoriasis and eczema are chronic inflammatory skin diseases.

Treatment for both psoriasis and eczema usually focuses on reducing inflammation, which is why red/NIR light therapy can be very effective. Hamblin explains in his 2017 article that red/NIR light can "stimulate healing, relieve pain, and reduce inflammation." Once inflammation is reduced, the body responds with better functioning cells and faster healing.

How red light therapy increases microcirculation?

Hamblin was also involved in a 2013 study that focused on red light therapy for the skin. The study found that red wavelengths increase blood flow by stimulating the formation of new capillaries, improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Similarly, red/NIR light affects endothelial cells (which form capillaries) in the lymphatic system, which removes toxins and waste products that could contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction.

Scientists from Genoa, Italy, conducted a study in 2019 that confirmed how NIR light protects the body from inflammation-induced endothelial dysfunction.

How red light can relieve eczema symptoms?

How about quick and effective relief from constant itching, scaly patches and pain?

In combination with conventional treatment, the soothing effect of red light therapy has been shown in many studies.

A 2013 study on mice affected by atopic dermatitis revealed that red light therapy combined with an immunosuppressive drug reduced inflammation, reduced the severity of skin lesions and restored the skin barrier.

According to a 2015 study on mice specially bred to develop skin lesions very similar to human atopic dermatitis, combining red light therapy with hot baths also reduced the development of inflamed, itchy skin.

Further research into the effects of red/NIR light on eczema is needed. However, existing studies show promise in reducing itching and inflammation in people who suffer from this condition.