Can Red Light Therapy Help Reduce Surgical Scars? Study Shows Wavelength-Specific Benefits

This clinical study looked at whether red light therapy could improve the appearance of hypertrophic (raised) scars—an important consideration for many clients recovering from surgery or skin injury. Researchers tested three types of light: green, red, and infrared. The results? Red (632.8 nm) and infrared (1064 nm) wavelengths showed visible improvements in scar texture and tissue structure, while green light had little effect. These findings suggest that with the right wavelength, red light therapy may be a helpful, non-invasive option for supporting scar recovery.

Study Overview

• Title: Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Hypertrophic Scars: A Clinical and Histological Study

• Quick Summary: This study tested three light wavelengths to see which worked best for improving raised scars. Red and infrared light showed the strongest results, both in how the scars looked and how the tissue healed under the surface.

  
  

• Key Findings:

  • Red and infrared wavelengths led to noticeable scar improvement in appearance and tissue structure.

  • Green light (532 nm) was less effective, with minimal visible changes.

  • Tissue samples showed better collagen organization and reduced inflammation in the red and infrared groups.

  • No side effects were reported from any of the light treatments.

    
    

• Study Details:

  • Wavelengths Tested: 532 nm (green), 632.8 nm (red), 1064 nm (infrared)

  • Most Effective Wavelengths: Red and infrared

  • Evaluation Methods: Visual improvement + before-and-after tissue samples (biopsies)

  • Participants: Human clinical study

    
    

• Year Published: 2022

• Where Published: Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology

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