Red Light Therapy for Psoriasis: What You Need to Know

If you’re on social media, you may have seen some of the hype about red light therapy—a type of light therapy that can be done at home or in a medical setting. Some claim that red light therapy can treat all kinds of conditions, including acne, rosacea, cancer, and psoriasis. But does red light therapy for psoriasis actually work?

“The excitement over red light therapy is understandable, because at the end of the day, patients with psoriasis just want to find ways to alleviate their symptoms. But it's important to understand whether the hype is coming ahead of the science,” says Nadia Esmaeili, PA-C, Zest Health dermatology provider.

With that in mind, here’s what is currently understood about red light therapy for psoriasis. 

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT) uses light-emitting diodes (LED) at a specific wavelength to treat wrinkles, scars, redness, acne, and other imperfections of the skin. It's become popular as a non-invasive, drug-free, anti-inflammatory skincare solution. RLT is heat-free and doesn’t cause a burning sensation.

How red light therapy works

RLT triggers cellular processes within the skin. More specifically, it helps mitochondria—the energy centers of cells—produce more adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the molecule that powers most cellular functions, including those involved in healing and regeneration.

“When this happens, it enhances cellular repair, which could reduce inflammation,” says Esmaeili. For people with psoriasis, this may mean fewer flare-ups, reduced plaque thickness, and overall improvement in skin texture and tone.

Notably, red light also has a longer wavelength than other colors, like blue light. This allows more time for it to penetrate the skin’s layers. This matters for psoriasis because skin disruptions tend to occur in deeper layers. 

Is red light therapy FDA-approved?

Yes, RLT is FDA-approved for certain conditions like wrinkle reduction and general skin rejuvenation.

You might see claims like “FDA-cleared” or “FDA-approved” on at-home RLT devices, but it’s important to note that this designation only ensures the product is safe—not necessarily that it's effective for treating psoriasis.

Red light vs. other light therapies (UVB, PUVA)

RLT isn’t the only light therapy for psoriasis. In fact, based on a large body of evidence proving their effectiveness, other light therapies are more commonly recommended by dermatology providers, including UVB or PUVA therapy. 

• UVB therapy, commonly referred to as phototherapy, exposes the skin to ultraviolet B (UVB) light in order to slow the rapid division of skin cells. In turn, this can help reduce the development of psoriasis plaques. 
• PUVA therapy combines ultraviolet A (UVA) therapy with a medication called psoralen, which makes the skin more responsive to light. This treatment is typically used only in severe cases of psoriasis because of the increased risk of side effects, such as burning, nausea, and skin cancer.

RLT is considered gentler than UVB and PUVA therapies, but its efficacy is unproven and long-term safety for psoriasis is less established, with limited research on potential side effects. 

Red light therapy as treatment for psoriasis

RLT may help manage psoriasis symptoms by reducing inflammation, calming overactive immune responses, and supporting healthy skin regeneration.

“I do think red light therapy is promising,” says Esmaeili. 

However, larger, more rigorous trials are needed before RLT can be recommended as a treatment for psoriasis. Though the current research is promising, it’s based on small sample sizes. 

One 2010 study that found psoriasis patients who were treated with a combination of red light and near-infrared light achieved 60%-100% clearance rates, but there were only 9 participants.

In a 2012 study with just 20 participants, researchers found psoriasis symptoms improved with both red light and blue light—although blue light did a better job of reducing long-term redness.

That said, many dermatology providers consider it a safe complementary option with ample potential, especially for patients who want drug-free treatments.

How to use red light therapy for psoriasis

Before incorporating RLT into your treatment plan, it’s recommended to consult with your dermatology provider. While RLT is considered safe, some people may be more sensitive to it or less likely to experience positive results.

At-home devices vs. clinical treatments

There’s a wide range of RLT devices available, from handheld wands to full-body panels. Prices can range from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on the size, strength, and features.

At-home devices usually emit a lower intensity of light than those found in dermatology or wellness clinics. This means they may require longer treatment times or more frequent sessions to see results.

In-office treatments, on the other hand, are typically more powerful and administered by trained professionals. These sessions cost between $75 and $100 each and are usually not covered by insurance. It’s important to note that in-office treatments are typically not administered by medical provider so it is important to ensure that you’ve discussed this treatment with your medical provider and feel comfortable with the treatment plan and expectations.  

Treatment frequency and duration

Everyone’s psoriasis is different, so treatment schedules can vary. Some providers recommend starting with 2–3 sessions per week for the first month, followed by weekly maintenance sessions.

It may take 4–8 weeks before you notice significant changes. Be patient and consistent, and always check in with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Safety tips and precautions

RLT is considered safe for most people and has fewer side effects than other light therapies, but there are still a few precautions you should take:

• Protect your eyes: Always wear certified red light eye protection, especially during full-body or facial treatments.
• Watch for mild reactions: Some people may experience redness, dryness, or slight irritation. These side effects are usually temporary. However, further research is needed to understand the full range of side effects.
• Be mindful of your medications: Certain medications can increase light sensitivity. If you’re taking any of these, consult your doctor before starting RLT:
  
  • Antibiotics like tetracycline
  • NSAIDs like ibuprofen
  • Retinoids
  • Antidepressants like Zoloft or Elavil
  • Antihistamines like Claritin
  • Statins and some diuretics

Who should avoid red light therapy?

You should avoid RLT or consult your provider first if you:

• Are on medications that increase light sensitivity
• Are pregnant (safety hasn’t been fully studied in pregnancy)
• Have epilepsy or other conditions triggered by light exposure

Additionally, people with very sensitive skin or certain autoimmune disorders should proceed with caution.

What results can you expect?

Many people report smoother skin, reduced redness, and smaller psoriasis plaques after regular RLT sessions. However, results can vary based on factors like the severity of your psoriasis, the type of device used, and how often you receive treatment. Some people may not notice a difference in their psoriasis symptoms.

RLT may not cure psoriasis, but it can help manage symptoms for some, especially when paired with other treatment strategies.

Alternatives and complementary treatments for psoriasis

For best results, RLT should be part of a multidisciplinary psoriasis management plan. Other important parts of treatment include:

Lifestyle and diet considerations

• Reduce stress
• Cut back on alcohol 
• Quit smoking
• Get better sleep
• Eat more anti-inflammatory foods

Topical, oral, and other treatments

• Topical medications like corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, and coal tar
• Oral medications like methotrexate, cyclosporine, and retinoids
• Other types of light therapy, such as UVB therapy
• Biologics are immune-targeting injections that can help in moderate to severe cases

The final verdict on red light therapy for psoriasis?

“Since the large-scale clinical trials are still lacking, we can’t quite make that stamp of approval and recommend patients go ahead and try this. I do think people should always be a little bit cautious when they are exploring alternative options like red light therapy, and I would rely more on medical guidance versus what you're seeing on social media,” Esmaeaili explains.

Interested in giving it a try? Consult with your dermatology provider for personalized guidance.