At-Home Red Light Therapy for Psoriasis Relief and Skin Health

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Lisa Hartford, MD

Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects millions of people globally. It produces itchy, red, and scaly patches on the skin, causing physical discomfort and emotional distress. Although there is no known cure for psoriasis, there are various treatments available to manage its symptoms and promote healthier skin. One approach that comes up often in that conversation is at-home red light therapy. In this guide we look at what red light therapy is, what the published research does and does not show about it in relation to psoriasis, and what to keep in mind if you are considering using a light device at home.

This article is general information about red light therapy and psoriasis. It is not medical advice and it is not a treatment recommendation. EvenSkyn devices are cosmetic skincare devices intended to support the appearance and comfort of skin. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent psoriasis or any other medical condition. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated disease, and decisions about treating it belong with a dermatologist.

Introduction to Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy is a fast growing field in skincare and in research on how light interacts with skin. Also known as photobiomodulation, it uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light delivered at the skin surface. It has been examined in a range of dermatological contexts, psoriasis among them, and it is that research interest, rather than any settled conclusion, that explains why the term now appears so often in skincare conversations.

The proposed mechanism is that red and near-infrared wavelengths penetrate the skin surface and are absorbed by mitochondria, the energy generating structures inside cells. Laboratory work suggests this absorption can increase production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecule cells use to carry energy. Researchers have also examined effects on inflammatory signalling and on collagen synthesis. Most of that evidence is preclinical or comes from small clinical studies, which means it describes a plausible mechanism rather than a proven clinical outcome.

The sections below go through those mechanisms in more detail, what the research base actually looks like, and the practical questions people ask when they are thinking about using a light device at home.

What is Psoriasis and How Does it Affect the Skin?

Psoriasis is a widespread and persistent skin condition that affects numerous individuals worldwide. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets healthy skin cells, resulting in an excessive growth and buildup of these cells on the surface. As a result, thickened patches with redness and silver scales form, causing discomfort and irritation.

The cause of psoriasis is still uncertain, although it is thought to be a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers. Various factors such as stress, infections, specific medications, and even changes in weather conditions can worsen the symptoms.

Psoriasis not only causes physical discomfort but also takes a toll on individuals emotionally. The visible nature of psoriatic lesions can lead to self-consciousness and a diminished quality of life.

In addition, individuals with psoriasis have an elevated risk for other conditions such as cardiovascular disease and arthritis. The ongoing inflammation linked to psoriasis can impact the entire body systemically.

To effectively manage this condition, it's important to understand how it impacts your skin. By addressing both internal factors, such as immune dysfunction, and external triggers like stress or certain medications, you can potentially alleviate symptoms and enhance your overall skin health.

Red Light Therapy and Psoriasis: What the Research Shows

Red light therapy is being studied across a range of dermatological conditions. It is non-invasive and uses specific wavelengths of red light delivered at the skin surface. What follows summarises what researchers have looked at, with one important caveat stated up front: the phototherapy for psoriasis that does have an established evidence base is narrowband UVB or PUVA, delivered at prescribed doses under medical supervision. That is a different technology at a different wavelength from red light.

Inflammation is the mechanism most often discussed. Psoriasis involves chronic inflammation driven by an overactive immune response, which produces the thickened, scaly plaques the condition is known for. Small studies have examined whether red and near-infrared light modulate inflammatory signalling in skin. Results have been mixed and sample sizes small, so this remains an area of investigation rather than an established treatment effect.

Wound healing and tissue repair make up the other area with a meaningful research literature behind it, mostly in contexts unrelated to psoriasis. That work is why the modality drew attention in dermatology in the first place, but evidence in one context does not transfer automatically to another.

Collagen is the third area commonly cited. Collagen is the protein that gives skin its structure and elasticity, and it declines with age. Cosmetic LED devices are generally marketed around this appearance-related effect rather than around any disease, and that is the claim area where the evidence for consumer devices is strongest.

Red light devices are also generally well tolerated. They involve no topical chemicals, which is part of why people with reactive skin are drawn to them. That is a tolerability point rather than an efficacy one, and it is not a reason to substitute a light device for something a dermatologist has prescribed.

The short version: the mechanistic rationale is real and the research is ongoing, but red light therapy is not an established psoriasis treatment, and no consumer LED device should be positioned as one. If you have psoriasis, the phototherapy options with clinical evidence behind them are prescribed and supervised, and that conversation belongs with your dermatologist.

How to Use Red Light Therapy at Home?

If you are considering an at-home red light device as part of a general skincare routine, here is how these devices are typically used. None of this is a treatment protocol for psoriasis:

Choose the right device: Selecting the appropriate device for red light therapy is crucial. There are various options to choose from, including handheld devices and full-body panels. Take into account which part of your body is affected by psoriasis and select a device that best aligns with your specific requirements.

Create a cozy atmosphere: Locate a peaceful and soothing area where you can sit or lie down comfortably during the session. Ensure that there is ample space for the device to be positioned at an appropriate distance from your skin.

Prepare your skin: Before the therapy session, delicately cleanse your skin using a gentle cleanser and gently dry it. To prevent potential dryness from the therapy, apply a thin layer of moisturizer as protection for your skin.

Position yourself correctly: Proper positioning is essential for effective red light therapy. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions provided with your specific device to ensure that it is positioned correctly about the areas of skin you are targeting.

Start with short sessions: To start, it's best to ease into red light therapy with shorter sessions. A typical session can last around 10 minutes, especially if you're new to this type of therapy. As you become more accustomed to it, you can gradually increase the duration of your sessions. It's important to always follow any recommended guidelines for maximum exposure times.

Be consistent: Any effect from a light device depends on regular use rather than occasional sessions. Most manufacturers suggest starting with a regular schedule and adjusting based on how your skin responds.

If you have psoriasis, check with your dermatologist before adding a light device to your routine, particularly if you are already on phototherapy or taking any medication that increases photosensitivity.

At-Home Red Light Therapy Devices: What to Look For

At-home red light devices vary widely in wavelength, output, coverage area and build quality, and those specifications are what actually separate one from another. The questions worth asking are which wavelengths a device emits, how much of the treatment area it covers, whether it is comfortable enough that you will use it consistently, and what eye protection it comes with. One example of a consumer LED mask is the EvenSkyn Mirage Pro LED Phototherapy Face Mask, described below in terms of what the hardware does rather than what it treats.

EvenSkyn Mirage Pro LED Phototherapy Face Mask: A Closer Look

The EvenSkyn Mirage Pro LED Phototherapy Face Mask is a cosmetic LED mask that delivers red and near-infrared light at home. It is a general skincare device, not a psoriasis treatment. Here is what the hardware actually does.

Dual wavelength output: The Mirage Pro emits both red and near-infrared light. The two wavelength ranges penetrate to different depths, which is why consumer masks increasingly combine them rather than using red alone.

Adjustable sessions: Session length and intensity can be adjusted. In practice that matters most for comfort and for building a routine you will actually keep to.

Full-face coverage: The mask form factor covers the whole face at once, so light reaches the cheeks, forehead, chin and the area around the nose in a single session rather than requiring you to move a handheld device from spot to spot.

Hands-free design: Because it is worn rather than held, you can move around during a session. This is usually the feature that decides whether a device gets used regularly or ends up in a drawer.

Materials: The mask is made from hypoallergenic materials chosen to reduce the chance of contact irritation, which matters if your skin reacts easily.

What a Cosmetic LED Mask Can and Cannot Do

This is the part most product pages skip, so it is worth being direct about it.

What these devices are for: Consumer LED masks are cosmetic devices. They are made and sold around the appearance of skin, things like tone, texture and the look of fine lines, and around the habit of a consistent routine. That is the claim area where the evidence for consumer-grade output levels is strongest, and it is the honest description of what the Mirage Pro is.

What they are not: They are not psoriasis treatments. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated disease, and treating it is a medical matter. The phototherapy used for psoriasis in clinical practice is narrowband UVB or PUVA, delivered at prescribed doses under supervision. A red light mask is a different technology at a different wavelength and a different output level, and it is not a substitute for either.

Where the two overlap: People with psoriasis still have ordinary skincare needs, and many are looking for routines that do not put more actives on already reactive skin. A light device adds no fragrance, no acids and no occlusive product, which makes it straightforward to fit around a prescribed regimen. That is a compatibility point, not an efficacy one.

What to do if you have psoriasis: Talk to your dermatologist before adding any light device, especially if you are on phototherapy or taking anything that increases photosensitivity. Ask specifically whether it is compatible with what you are already doing, and be cautious of any product marketed to you as something that treats or clears psoriasis.

Other Tips for Managing Psoriasis Symptoms

Moisturize regularly: Keep your skin hydrated by moisturizing regularly. It is important to apply moisturizers or emollients after bathing to lock in moisture and prevent dryness, especially when managing psoriasis symptoms.

Avoid triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers is key in managing psoriasis symptoms. Factors such as stress, specific foods, or environmental conditions like cold weather can worsen flare-ups. Taking proactive measures to avoid these triggers can help minimize the frequency and severity of symptoms.

Manage stress through relaxation techniques: Since stress can worsen psoriasis symptoms, it's important to find healthy strategies to cope with stress. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine. These practices can help alleviate stress and potentially improve your psoriasis symptoms.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Taking care of your skin involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a well-rounded diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support overall skin health and reduce inflammation related to psoriasis. Regular exercise also plays a role in promoting good blood circulation and managing stress levels, which can benefit your skin.

Choose gentle skincare products: Opt for skincare products that are gentle and specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options to prevent any further irritation.

Seek medical advice: If your psoriasis symptoms continue to persist or worsen despite attempting self-care measures at home, it's important to seek medical advice. Consult with a dermatologist who specializes in treating skin conditions like psoriasis. They have the expertise to provide additional treatment options that are tailored to address your specific needs.

Managing psoriasis takes patience and consistency over time. The habits above are the ones dermatologists most often reinforce, and they work alongside whatever treatment you have been prescribed rather than in place of it.

Precautions and Safety Measures for Using At-Home Red Light Therapy

Like any treatment, there are important precautions to consider when using red light therapy at home. While generally safe, it's essential to keep a few things in mind to ensure your safety and get the most out of the treatment.

To ensure safety and effective use, it is important to carefully adhere to the manufacturer's instructions. Every device may have specific guidelines regarding therapy duration, recommended distances from the skin, and any necessary precautions. Following these instructions diligently will help prevent overexposure or potential side effects.

To ensure your safety during red light therapy sessions, it is crucial to protect your eyes. The intense light emitted by these devices can be harmful if directly exposed. To prevent any potential damage, it is recommended to wear specially designed protective goggles that effectively block out red or infrared light.

Before beginning red light therapy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any preexisting medical conditions or are currently taking medications that may be affected by the treatment. They can offer personalized guidance based on your specific situation.

Pregnant women should approach red light therapy with caution. While there has not been enough research conducted on its effects during pregnancy, it is always better to prioritize safety and consult with a medical professional beforehand.

If you have sensitive skin, it's recommended to do a patch test before undergoing full-body red light therapy. This can help identify any possible adverse reactions like irritation or itching.

To ensure you enjoy the benefits of at-home red light therapy while minimizing any risks or discomfort, it's important to follow these precautions and safety measures.

Conclusion

Red light therapy is an active research area and it is also a well established category of cosmetic device. Those two things are not the same thing, and the difference matters. The EvenSkyn Mirage Pro sits in the second category: a hands-free LED mask with red and near-infrared output, built for general skincare routines. It is not a psoriasis treatment and is not offered as one.

If you do use a light device, start with short sessions and build up as tolerated, use the eye protection supplied with it, and speak to a healthcare professional before adding anything new to a routine you are managing a skin condition around.

Managing psoriasis well generally means a combination of things: a consistent and gentle skincare routine, attention to the triggers that affect you personally, stress management, a balanced diet, and the prescribed treatments your doctor has put you on, taken consistently. That combination is what the clinical guidance supports.

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that needs ongoing care, and the people best placed to direct that care are the clinicians treating you. Everything else, cosmetic devices included, sits around that rather than in place of it.

It's important to remember that every person's experience with psoriasis is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Finding the right combination of treatments that bring you comfort and confidence in your skin requires patience and persistence.

If you are looking at LED masks for general skincare reasons, the full specifications for the EvenSkyn Mirage Pro are on its product page. If you are looking for something to manage psoriasis, start with your dermatologist instead.

References:

1. Diana Schoutsen. "Psoriasis And Red Light Therapy: An Incredibly Easy To Use, At-Home Treatment" 2023 Jun 09

2. Debra Sullivan. "How Does Red Light Therapy for Psoriasis Work?" 2020 Apr 17

3. Reema Patel. "Illuminate Me: What’s Up with Red Light Therapy for Psoriasis?" 2022 Mar 31

4. Kaleigh Fasanella. "Does Red Light Therapy Work for Psoriasis?" 2023 Sep 29

5. "Light Therapy For Psoriasis: Soothing Skin With Red Light" 2021 Jun