How Red light therapy (RLT) Helps Heal Scars

1. Stimulates Collagen Production:
   • RLT enhances collagen synthesis by stimulating fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen. Proper collagen remodeling reduces excessive scar tissue formation (e.g., hypertrophic or keloid scars) and improves scar texture.
   • By promoting balanced collagen production, RLT helps scars appear smoother and less raised over time.
2. Reduces Inflammation:
   • Surgical incisions trigger an inflammatory response, which can lead to excessive scar tissue if prolonged. RLT reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines and increases anti-inflammatory markers, calming the inflammatory phase of wound healing.
   • This results in less redness, swelling, and irritation around the scar, contributing to a less pronounced appearance.
3. Enhances Tissue Repair and Regeneration:
   • RLT increases mitochondrial ATP production, boosting cellular energy for skin cell repair and regeneration. This accelerates wound closure and supports the formation of healthy tissue around surgical incisions.
   • Improved cellular activity helps replace damaged tissue with new, healthy skin, reducing scar visibility.
4. Improves Blood Circulation:
   • RLT enhances microcirculation, increasing blood flow to the scar site. This delivers oxygen and nutrients essential for tissue repair, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of thick, fibrotic scars.
   • Better circulation also helps break down excess scar tissue over time.
5. Reduces Scar Thickness and Rigidity:
   • RLT modulates the extracellular matrix, helping to reorganize collagen fibers in a more uniform structure. This reduces the thickness and hardness of hypertrophic or keloid scars, making them less noticeable.
   • It may also prevent excessive scar formation by regulating fibroblast activity during the healing process.
6. Minimizes Pigmentation and Discoloration:
   • RLT can improve skin tone around scars by promoting even melanin distribution, reducing hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation often seen in surgical scars.
   • This leads to scars blending more naturally with surrounding skin.

Research Evidence

• A study by Barolet et al. (2016) found that 660 nm red light therapy increased collagen production and improved skin texture in a clinical study, suggesting benefits for scar remodeling.
• Avci et al. (2013) reviewed RLT’s role in skin repair, noting its ability to enhance wound healing and reduce scar formation by modulating inflammation and collagen synthesis.
• Whelan et al. (2001) demonstrated that LED-based RLT (670 nm) accelerated wound healing and reduced scar tissue in animal models, with implications for human surgical scars.
• A clinical trial by Calderhead et al. (2008) showed that RLT reduced hypertrophic scar formation post-surgery, improving scar appearance and elasticity when applied early in the healing process.

Practical Application for Surgical Scars

• Timing: RLT is most effective when started early in the healing process (e.g., after sutures are removed and the wound is closed), as it supports the proliferative and remodeling phases of wound healing. However, it can also improve older scars.
• Wavelength: Devices using 630–660 nm (red light) or 800–850 nm (near-infrared) are commonly used for scar treatment, as these wavelengths penetrate skin effectively.
• Safety: RLT is non-invasive and safe for most patients, with minimal risk of side effects like mild redness if overused. Avoid RLT on open wounds or infected incisions.

Considerations and Limitations

• Scar Type: RLT is most effective for hypertrophic scars and early keloids. Mature keloids or very old scars may respond less dramatically but can still improve in appearance.
• Consistency: Regular treatments are crucial for noticeable results. Improvements in scar appearance may take weeks to months.
• Adjunct Therapy: RLT is often used alongside other treatments (e.g., essential oils, vit. E, omega 3s, massage and more that I will discuss in an upcoming article) for optimal scar management.

REFERENCES

1. Avci, P., et al. (2013). “Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring.” Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 32(1), 41–52. [PubMed: 24049929]
2. Barolet, D., et al. (2016). “Regulation of skin collagen metabolism in vitro using a pulsed 660 nm LED light source: clinical correlation with a single-blinded study.” Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 136(8), S165. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2016.05.103]
3. Calderhead, R. G., et al. (2008). “The photobiological basics behind light-emitting diode (LED) phototherapy.” Laser Therapy, 17(4), 183–192. [DOI: 10.5978/islsm.17.183]
4. Whelan, H. T., et al. (2001). “Effect of NASA light-emitting diode irradiation on wound healing.” Journal of Clinical Laser Medicine & Surgery, 19(6), 305–314. [DOI: 10.1089/104454701753342758]

Go here for red light therapy products.

Use my code TNHL20 for an extra 20% off
https://www.pjtra.com/t/TUJGR0lOSkJHSEVNTk5CR0ZNRUVO?url=https%3A%2F%2Flifeprofitness.com%2Fcollections%2Flight-therapy

Disclaimer: I get credit when my links are used to buy products. I thank you very much for the support and I am always here to support you before and after any purchases made.