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skinGrade B

Red Light Therapy for Psoriasis

Published: Last updated:
Updated Mar 2026Evidence: Grade B
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Written by RedLightOS Research Team · Photobiomodulation Research, Clinical Protocol Development

Last updated March 1, 2026Medical information reviewed for accuracy

The Bottom Line

Red light therapy at 633-660nm may reduce psoriatic plaque severity by modulating T-cell inflammation and keratinocyte proliferation. Dose: 4-15 J/cm², 10-20 minutes, 3-5x/week for 4-12 weeks. Not the same as UV phototherapy (311nm). Evidence grade: B (moderate — limited but positive clinical data).

How Does Red Light Therapy Help Psoriasis?

Red wavelengths modulate immune cell activity in psoriatic plaques, reduce T-cell-mediated inflammation, decrease keratinocyte hyperproliferation, and promote normal skin cell differentiation.

Recommended wavelengths: 633nm, 660nm, 830nm

What Does the Research Say?

Research for this specific application is limited. The mechanisms described above are supported by the broader photobiomodulation literature, but dedicated randomized controlled trials for psoriasis are still needed.

Recommended Protocol

Wavelengths633nm, 660nm, 830nm
Dose Range4-15 J/cm²
Session Duration10-20 min
Frequency3-5x/week
Time to Results4-12 weeks
Evidence GradeGrade B

Contraindications & Cautions

  • !Do not replace prescribed psoriasis medication without medical guidance
  • !Photosensitizing psoriasis medications may increase skin sensitivity

What We Don't Know Yet

Evidence is moderate — based on limited randomized controlled trials. Larger, more rigorous studies are needed. Optimal dosing parameters are not yet standardized across research groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. UV phototherapy (narrowband UVB at 311nm) works through different mechanisms and carries risks like skin damage. Red light therapy (630-660nm) has no UV component and does not carry UV-related risks.

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Research Basis

This content is informed by 47+ published peer-reviewed studies on photobiomodulation.

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