SHINING LIGHT ON SKIN CONDITIONS –
Exploring the Potential of PBM Light Therapy for Psoriasis & Eczema.
Skin is our body’s largest organ and our first line of defense for our immune system. Skin conditions can greatly affect one’s quality of life and self esteem.
For those living with the relentless cycle of psoriasis or eczema flare-ups and remissions, the search for effective treatment options can be a daunting journey. While conventional therapies have their merits, many people are seeking alternative approaches that are non-invasive, safe, and offer relief without the potential side effects of medications. Enter Photobiomodulation (PBM) also known as Red Light Therapy (RLT), a promising modality that harnesses the power of light to alleviate the symptoms of these conditions.
Definitions:
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and dry skin. It often begins in childhood but can affect people of all ages.
Psoriasis is defined as a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, leading to the buildup of thick, scaly plaques on the skin. It can occur at any age but commonly begins in adulthood.
Although these conditions are different in nature, Photobiomodulation (PBM) also known as Red Light Therapy (RLT) works in similar ways to treat each one.
PBM is a very effective, natural way to accelerate healing and minimize long term effects of skin conditions by using wavelengths of lights that are absorbed by the skin. The skin leverages the light photons at specific wavelengths as a source of energy to fuel the repair and rejuvenation of damaged cells. PBM reduces inflammation, promotes cellular healing and enhances the skin barrier.
HOW IT WORKS:
Detailed Explanation of the many mechanisms of action with PBM to heal skin conditions.
1.Reduction of Inflammation:
– Inhibiting Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines: RLT reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-17, which are elevated in psoriatic skin and often in eczema as well.
– Enhancing Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines: It increases the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines, helping to balance the immune response.
- Regulation of Immune System:
– T-Cell Modulation: RLT can modulate the activity of T-cells, particularly T-helper cells, which play a critical role in the autoimmune aspect of psoriasis. This helps in reducing the hyperactivity of the immune system that leads to the rapid skin cell turnover in psoriasis.
- Promotion of Skin Cell Health:
– Cellular Energy Production: RLT stimulates the mitochondria in skin cells to produce more ATP, the energy currency of cells. This increased energy promotes cell repair and regeneration.
– Keratinocyte Regulation: It helps normalize the function and proliferation of keratinocytes, the predominant cell type in the outer layer of the skin, which can be dysfunctional / accelerated in psoriasis and eczema.
- Improvement of Skin Barrier Function:
– Collagen Production: RLT stimulates collagen production, improving the structural integrity and resilience of the skin barrier.
– Enhanced Hydration and Texture: Regular treatments can improve skin hydration and texture, making the skin more supple and reducing scaling.
- Pain and Itch Relief:
– Along with the reduction of pain and itching due to the healing processes highlighted above, PBM also promotes the release of endorphins, providing pain relief and reducing the itching commonly associated with eczema and psoriasis.
– Nerve Modulation: PBM can also modulate nerve activity, helping to alleviate discomfort.
Safety and Side Effects:
Clinical RLT / PBM administered by trained practitioners is very safe and well-tolerated. Minimal side effects may occur such as a slight flare up of symptoms during the first few sessions. This resolves quickly and then the benefits begin as sessions continue.
RLT is a non-invasive therapy, making it a great option for those seeking alternatives to topical steroids or other medications.
CONCLUSION:
PBM/ Red light therapy offers a promising, non-invasive treatment option for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis by:
- Reducing inflammation,
- Promoting long term skin cell health,
- Enhancing the skin barrier,
- Alleviating itching, pain and discomfort.
For people seeking natural or adjunct therapies, PBM offers a non-invasive and potentially effective option, especially for those who cannot tolerate or do not respond to conventional treatments. By harnessing the power of light, this innovative modality may provide a ray of hope for psoriasis and eczema sufferers.
Regular sessions can lead to significant improvements in skin condition and overall quality of life for people living with psoriasis and eczema.
Clinical Evidence
Various clinical studies have shown that RLT can significantly reduce the severity of eczema and psoriasis symptoms, including redness, itching, and swelling. Patients often report improvements in the appearance and feel of their skin after regular RLT sessions. Wavelengths of Red and Near Infrared are most commonly used but there are studies showing the benefits using wavelengths in the Green and Blue spectrums along with red for maximum benefits. (Click here for information on various wavelengths)
Studies and Clinical Trials:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756569/
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1744666X.2020.1672537