This study identified 25 trials (694 patients), 13 of light therapy and 12 of light therapy plus light-activated topical cream (photodynamic therapy, PDT). Overall, the trials of blue light, blue-red light and infrared radiation were more successful, particularly those using multiple skin disease treatments. Red-blue light was more effective than topical 5% benzoyl peroxide cream in the short term. Most trials of PDT showed some benefit, which was greater with multiple treatments, and better for noninflammatory acne lesions. However, the improvements in inflammatory acne lesions were not better than with topical 1% adapalene gel, and the side-effects of therapy were unacceptable to many participants. This study confirmed that some forms of laser therapy were of short-term benefit.
Photomed Laser Surg. 2010 Aug 25
Many LLLT practitioners ask about treating skin diseases with a laser. Here is an interesting study that confirms previous studies showing anecdotal evidence that patients with Oral Lichen Planus may benefit from LLLT.
To date, the most commonly used and useful agents for the treatment of Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) are topical corticosteroids. The investigators studied a prospective cohort of 13 patients affected by OLP, who received biostimulation.
About this study
This study suggests that LLLT could be a possible treatment for patients with unresponsive OLP. These results are a step forward for enhanced management of this quite common condition; however, it would be interesting to see if the results would be the same with a greater number of skin disease patients or in a different clinical setting.
Thirty patients with the skin disease oral lichen planus, a serious chronic skin disorder, were randomly allocated into two groups. The experimental group consisted of patients treated with low-level laser therapy (LLLT). This study demonstrated that LLLT was as effective as topical steroids, but without any adverse effects! They suggested that LLLT should be considered as an alternative treatment for lichen planus in the future.
End of Skin Disease Research Data
SKIN DISEASE & LLLT
FAQ & ANSWERS FROM GOOGLE
Does LLLT really work on skin?
In dermatology, LLLT has beneficial effects on wrinkles, acne scars, hypertrophic scars, and healing of burns. LLLT can reduce UV damage both as a treatment and as a prophylaxis.
Which skin diseases can be treated by laser therapy?
Laser treatments are effective at reducing rosacea, red birthmarks, broken blood vessels, and other red spots on the skin. “Lasers are safe for targeting blood vessels in all skin types, but often require several treatments,” explains Lisa Chipps, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. Aug 31, 2021
Can you use LLLT too much?
The only negative consequence of undertaking too much low level laser therapy is the potential stalling of the benefits you seek to achieve. Too much LLLT can have a bio-suppressive effect.
When should you not use laser therapy?
Contraindications. Cold laser therapy should not be used over any suspicious cancerous lesions, or carcinoma, over the thyroid, on pregnant patients, and there should not be direct irradiation of the eyes, as the laser can cause permanent damage to the eyes.
How long does it take to see results from LLLT?
Once you start treatment, results typically first begin to appear after two months and continue to gradually improve over the months following. If treatment is interrupted, the hair loss will resume again over the course of several months and hair will gradually return to its initial state. Nov 17, 2017
Can laser repair damaged skin?
Typically those who are looking to repair damaged skin and who have not had any luck with topical and over-the-counter products are ideal candidates. Laser resurfacing can help with a large number of issues, including:age spots. acne scars.
Can laser treatment be cancerous?
Laser therapy does not use the same ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths as those found in sunlight (i.e. UVA and UVB), which are known to damage the DNA in cells and cause skin cancer. Non-ionising radiation is also different to ionising radiation (e.g. nuclear radiation, x-rays), which is also known to cause cancer.
Does laser therapy work for inflammation?
Effective in acute and chronic conditions
For those who have chronic conditions, laser therapy can help address persistent pain and inflammation associated with them. May 22, 2020
How often should you use low level laser therapy?
Acute conditions may require daily treatment, in particular if they are accompanied by significant pain. Chronic problems typically respond better when the treatments are received 2-3 times per week.
How much does low-level laser therapy cost?
The fee for a first consultation and a full therapeutic laser treatment at the Laser Medicine Harley Street clinic is £280. For patients who are recommended to take a course of treatments: £750 for a course of 3 treatments or £1,400 for a course of 6 treatments (payable in advance).
Do home LLLT devices work?
Studies have shown that LLLT stimulated hair growth in both men and women. Studies with largest randomized controlled trials demonstrated statistically significant hair regrowth by terminal hair count in both males and females.
What are the white spots after laser treatment?
Milia, which are small, white bumps, may appear in the laser-treated areas during healing (up to a month after treatment). These may be removed by gentle cleansing with a washcloth. Hyperpigmentation, and more rarely, hypopigmentation, may result in the laser-treated areas. Mar 22, 2021
What should I avoid after laser treatment?
Actions To Avoid Following Laser Resurfacing Potential Skin Irritants. After the procedure, the skin will be sensitive and might feel somewhat irritated. … Picking Or Rubbing Impacted Areas. … Avoid Strenuous Activities. … Schedule a Consultation. Jan 13, 2020
Is laser treatment good for your face?
The short answer is, yes. Laser skin treatments can help refresh the skin and improve many skin conditions, including age spots, veins, wrinkles, scars, sagging skin, unwanted hair and tattoos. Lasers can target different structures in the skin. Jan 31, 2020
What cancers does laser therapy treat?
Lasers can be used to treat certain skin pre-cancers and cancers, as well as pre-cancers or very early cancers of the cervix and surrounding areas. Lasers can sometimes be used to treat cancer that has spread to the lungs from other areas, as well as cancer that is causing a blockage in the airway. May 4, 2020
Does laser therapy speed up tissue healing process?
As a result of exposure to laser light, the cells of tendons, ligaments, nerves and muscles are repaired faster.” Improved Vascular Activity: “Laser light increases the formation of new capillaries in damaged tissue, which speeds up the healing process, and closes wounds quickly.” Jan 23, 2018
Should you ice after laser therapy?
Manage discomfort
You can ice your treatment area up to 10 minutes at a time because icing the area any longer can interfere with healing. If you still feel uncomfortable, you can wait an hour and reapply the ice pack or cold compress, repeating this process no more than two to three times a day. Sep 22, 2020
What is the fastest way to heal skin after laser treatment?
Apply a generous amount of moisturizer to your skin each day to facilitate the healing process and to reduce the dryness and itching. Keeping your skin hydrated helps it to heal faster. May 2, 2022
What happens to skin after laser treatment?
Five to seven days after laser resurfacing, your skin will become dry and peel. Depending on the problem that was treated, healing typically takes 10 to 21 days. Once the skin heals, you can wear oil-free makeup to minimize redness, which usually fades in two to three months. Jun 12, 2023
