Written by Anika Goel,MD; Board-Certified Dermatologist Published on May 01, 2024
Red Light Therapy: Revolutionizing Eczema Treatment
Red Light Therapy: Eczema Treatment
Red-light treatment is an alternative way of treating eczema and has gained much popularity in recent days. It provides some relief to the people looking for different options for eczema control.
Eczema is a long-lasting skin disease in which the skin itches, becomes inflamed, and sometimes develops blisters. The process often utilizes common moisturizing cream and anti-inflammatory ointment, with Red Light Therapy tried when other common treatments do not work.
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Red Light Therapy & Eczema
Red light therapy uses certain wavelengths to reduce inflammation in skin conditions like eczema. It uses precise wavelengths of red light to penetrate the skin, potentially reducing inflammation and soothing irritation. [1]
Red Light Therapy & Eczema
Red light therapy uses certain wavelengths to reduce inflammation in skin conditions like eczema. It uses precise wavelengths of red light to penetrate the skin, potentially reducing inflammation and soothing irritation. [1]
Understanding the Root Cause of Eczema
Eczema does not have a sole root cause. It is a complex condition with numerous types and triggers. The following can be potential causes for it:
Immune System: It is an immune system-mediated disease, with atopic dermatitis compromising the skin barrier such that it becomes dry, itchy, and inflamed. [2]
Genetics: The skin tends to be drier and more delicate because of filaggrin protein deficiency. A family history of eczema or any family members’ history of ever having related conditions increases the risk.
Stress: It can flare up symptoms of eczema or exacerbate them.
Environmental Factors: Every external stimulus can provoke or trigger eczema. [3] The most common of them are:
- Harsh soaps, shampoos, and laundry deter
- Dust mites, high temperatures, and low humidity levels in the air
- Fragrance in personal care and candle
- Some fabrics like wool and polyester
- Information, National Center for Biotechnology, et al. Eczema: Light Therapy and Oral Medications. Www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG), 20 Mar. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK424892/.
- National Eczema Association. “Eczema Symptoms & Causes.” National Eczema Association, 2017, nationaleczema.org/eczema/.
- Cleveland clinic. “Eczema in Adults and Children.” Cleveland Clinic, 25 Oct. 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9998-eczema.
- Begum, Rana, et al. “Near-Infrared Light Increases ATP, Extends Lifespan and Improves Mobility in Aged Drosophila Melanogaster.” Biology Letters, vol. 11, no. 3, 1 Mar. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4387504/, https://doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2015.0073.
- Cafasso, Jacquelyn. “Red Light Therapy Benefits.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 11 May 2018, www.healthline.com/health/red-light-therapy.
- Musters, Annelie H., et al. “Phototherapy for Atopic Eczema.” The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, vol. 10, 28 Oct. 2021, p. CD013870, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34709669/, https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD013870.pub2.
- Buys, Lucinda M. “Treatment Options for Atopic Dermatitis.” American Family Physician, vol. 75, no. 4, 15 Feb. 2007, pp. 523–528, www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2007/0215/p523.html.
- Morshead, Dani. “Eczema Answered: “How Can I Use Light Therapy to Treat My Eczema at Home?” — Dr. Raj Chovatiya.” National Eczema Association, 7 Aug. 2023, nationaleczema.org/blog/podcast-eczema-answered-phototherapy/. Accessed 3 May 2024.
- Neumann, Kimberly Dawn . “Red Light Therapy: Benefits, Side Effects and Uses.” Forbes Health, 12 Jan. 2024, www.forbes.com/health/wellness/red-light-therapy/.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK424892/
- https://www.health.com/condition/eczema/light-therapy-atopic-dermatitis
- https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/treatment/phototherapy/