How Red Light Therapy Helps Treat Psoriasis?

1. Introduction

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks healthy skin by mistake. It causes skin cells to grow too fast. Instead of shedding naturally, these cells pile up. These extra cells build up and create plaques. Common symptoms include redness, dryness, itching, and sometimes pain. Psoriasis can appear on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, and other areas. It can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful.

Managing psoriasis takes time, consistency, and help from a healthcare professional. Some studies suggest red light therapy may help calm skin inflammation and thus can be a complement to psoriasis care.

In certain cases of applying red light therapy to Psoriasis, people saw less redness, scaling, and discomfort. Researchers believe red light’s gentle wavelengths can soothe irritation and support skin repair. However, most proven psoriasis treatments still rely on medical UVB or PUVA therapy under professional care.

The takeaway is clear. Red light therapy looks promising for easing inflammation and supporting overall skin health. But it is not a replacement for medical phototherapy, it is more like a complementary treatment. So, if you have psoriasis, use red light therapy as a complement, not as your only treatment.

Read this blog to discover how red light therapy helps in treating psoriasis.

 

 

2. Types of Psoriasis

There are different types of psoriasis:

• Plaque psoriasis – The most common type, with thick, scaly patches.
• Guttate psoriasis – Small, drop-shaped spots on the skin.
• Pustular psoriasis – White blisters filled with pus.
• Inverse psoriasis – Red, smooth patches in skin folds, like under the arms or around the groin.

Each type can look and feel different, but all need proper care.

 

 

3. How Light Therapy Works for Psoriasis

Medical phototherapy for psoriasis uses ultraviolet (UV) light under a doctor’s supervision. UVB light slows down the rapid growth of skin cells that causes plaques. This treatment is strong, targeted, and only done in a medical setting.

Red light therapy is different. It uses safe wavelengths of visible red light (around 600–700nm) and near-infrared light (around 800–900nm). These wavelengths do not damage the skin. Instead, they reach deeper layers to support skin health and calm irritation.

When red light reaches your skin cells, it interacts with the mitochondria — the cell’s “energy center.” This helps the cells make more ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy they use to repair themselves. More ATP means better healing and less inflammation. Over time, this can help the skin feel calmer and look healthier. For someone with psoriasis, this may mean less redness, better skin comfort, and stronger overall skin health when used as part of a complete care routine.

 

 

4. Potential Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Psoriasis-Prone Skin

• Gentle skin support – Helps reduce visible redness and calm irritated areas.
• Boosts cell energy – Supports skin barrier repair after a flare-up.
• Strengthens resilience – Keeps skin stronger and healthier over time.
• Works with moisturizers/serums – May ease itchiness and dryness.
• Maintains skin health between treatments – Helps make flare-ups feel less intense.
• Supportive skincare step – Improves how skin looks and feels day by day.

 

 

 

5. Choosing the Right Device

When you’re looking for a red light therapy device, focus on a few key features:

1. Choose one that uses the right wavelengths, around 630–660nm for red light and about 850nm for near-infrared. Why? Because these ranges help support skin repair and reduce irritation without exposing you to UV light.
   
2. Also, pick a device that’s dermatologist-tested and proven safe for sensitive or psoriasis-prone skin.
   
   
3. It’s even better if the device is travel-friendly. Travel often disrupts skincare routines, but a compact RLT wand makes it easy to stay consistent.
   
   
4. Some multi-function devices offer even more flexibility, combining red light therapy with other skin-supportive features in one small, easy-to-carry tool. 

The Kallinz Anti-Aging Wand is a good example of a device that fits all these criteria. It offers the ideal red and near-infrared wavelengths, is dermatologist-tested, and is completely UV-free. Its compact, travel-ready design makes it easy to take anywhere, while its 4-in-1 technology combines red light therapy with other skin-enhancing features like microcurrent, sonic vibration, and heat therapy.

If you’re curious about using red light therapy for other skincare needs, such as after Botox, you can learn more in our full guide on doing red light therapy after Botox.

 

 

6. Using Red Light Therapy Safely with Psoriasis

Everyone’s skin reacts differently, so getting expert advice first is important.

• When you start, keep the settings low to moderate. This prevents overheating or irritating plaques.
• Use short sessions and see how your skin responds.
• Avoid using red light therapy on broken or bleeding skin unless your doctor says it’s safe.
• Gentle care is key.
• Pair your sessions with fragrance-free, hydrating skincare. A soothing serum or moisturizer can lock in hydration after treatment.
• Track your progress with photos every week or two to track the changes over time.

 

Not sure how often to use your device? See our detailed guide on how often you should do red light therapy for the best results.

 

7. Realistic Expectations

It is very important to remind that Red light therapy is not a cure for psoriasis. But as a complement, it certainly can help your skin look and feel healthier.

Also, remember that changes will not happen overnight. You may notice small improvements in redness, comfort, or texture over time. Be patient and use the therapy regularly for the best chance of results.

You’ll get the most benefit when red light therapy is part of a bigger plan. Follow your doctor’s advice, use gentle skincare, and take care of your overall health. Together, these steps can help you manage psoriasis more effectively.

 

8. How Long Before You May Notice Changes

Most people start to notice small changes in their skin within 3 to 4 weeks of regular RLT sessions. Improvements may be subtle at first, like softer skin or less redness. For some, it can take 8 to 12 weeks to see bigger changes in the look of plaques. Consistency is key for results to build over time.

Even before plaques shrink, you might notice other signs that RLT is helping. Your skin may feel calmer, less itchy, or more hydrated. Flare-ups may feel less intense or last for a shorter time. These early changes mean your skin is responding well, even if the visible results are still on the way.

 

9. When to See a Dermatologist

See a dermatologist if

• plaques spread, redness increases, or itch and pain become hard to manage.
• there is joint pain, swelling, or stiffness.
• new or unusual skin or nail changes appear.

If you’re expecting, you might wonder if this treatment is safe. We cover everything you need to know in our article on red light therapy during pregnancy.

 

 

10. How to Combine Red Light Therapy with Other At-Home Tools

You can make red light therapy more effective by pairing it with other gentle at-home tools. A soft exfoliation brush can remove dead skin cells and help light reach deeper layers. Always exfoliate gently to avoid scratching plaques. A cool mist humidifier can keep indoor air moist, which helps prevent dryness and flaking. Moist skin responds better to RLT and feels more comfortable during treatment.

If your wand has extra functions, you can combine them for better results. Microcurrent can help tone skin and improve circulation. Massage can relax facial muscles and boost blood flow. Gentle warmth can open pores so serums sink in faster. Use RLT with a calming, hydrating serum for maximum benefit. These steps together can help soothe irritation and support overall skin health.

 

 

11. Psoriasis Triggers & How They Affect Red Light Therapy Results

Psoriasis often have clear triggers:

• Stress – Can trigger an immune overreaction, speeding up skin cell turnover and causing flare-ups.
• Weather changes – Cold, dry air can make skin itchy and flaky, while hot weather and sunburn can irritate plaques.
• Certain foods – Processed snacks, alcohol, and dairy may cause inflammation in some people with psoriasis.
• Infections – Illnesses like strep throat can trigger sudden psoriasis flare-ups.
• Medications – Drugs such as beta-blockers or lithium may worsen psoriasis symptoms.

 

 

12. How to Clean and Maintain Your Wand for Sensitive Skin

• Always clean the RLT wand after each use.
• Use a soft, damp cloth with mild, fragrance-free soap.
• Avoid harsh cleaners or alcohol that can leave residue and irritate sensitive skin.
• Dry the wand with a clean, lint-free cloth before storing it.
• If there are open plaques or cracked skin, sanitize the wand more often.
• Use a gentle, skin-safe disinfectant recommended by a dermatologist.
• This helps prevent bacteria from spreading and keeps the device safe for regular use.

 

13. Final Words

Red light therapy can be a gentle way to care for your skin at home. It helps calm redness, supports repair, and keeps your skin feeling comfortable. For many people with psoriasis-prone skin, it can be a relaxing part of their self-care routine. However, it is not a cure for psoriasis. When you use it regularly, it can help maintain skin health between medical appointments.

 

 

FAQ

1. Does red light therapy actually work for psoriasis?

Red light therapy may help calm redness and reduce inflammation in psoriasis-prone skin. It is not a cure and does not replace medical treatments like UVB phototherapy.

2. Which therapy is best for psoriasis?

The gold standard for many cases is dermatologist-supervised narrowband UVB phototherapy or prescription medications. The best choice depends on your symptoms and health history.

3. How often should you do red light therapy for psoriasis?

Most at-home devices recommend 3–5 sessions per week, about 10–20 minutes each, on low to moderate settings. Always follow device guidelines and your doctor’s advice.

4. What is the latest cure for psoriasis?

There is no cure yet. New biologic medications can bring long-term remission for many, but ongoing management is still necessary.

5. Does light therapy help psoriasis?

Yes — medical light therapy (UVB or PUVA) slows excess skin cell growth. Red light therapy can support skin comfort but is not an approved medical treatment for psoriasis.

6. How to stop psoriasis from spreading?

Manage triggers, follow your prescribed treatment, keep skin moisturized, and address flare-ups early with your dermatologist.

7. What color light is best for psoriasis?

For medical treatment, UVB is most effective. Red and blue light may help reduce inflammation but are considered supportive, not primary, treatments.

8. How often should I do red light therapy?

Typically 3–5 times per week for consistent results. Avoid daily overuse to prevent skin irritation.

9. How to treat psoriasis with light therapy?

For medical treatment, use dermatologist-prescribed UVB phototherapy. At home, red light therapy can be used alongside your medical plan to soothe and support skin health