Does infrared red light therapy at 850 nanometers (nm) help with skin aging?

Infrared Red Light Therapy for Skin Aging at 850nm

Infrared red light therapy at 850nm wavelength is effective for skin aging, showing approximately 30% reduction in wrinkle volume and increased collagen and elastin production, which can improve skin texture and appearance.

Mechanism of Action

Infrared red light therapy, particularly at wavelengths around 850nm, works through photobiomodulation (PBM) by:

• Stimulating fibroblasts to increase collagen and elastin production 1
• Enhancing ATP production in dermal fibroblasts 2
• Promoting tissue repair and regeneration through non-thermal photobiomodulation 3
• Improving skin texture and reducing roughness 1

Evidence for Efficacy

The scientific evidence supporting infrared light therapy for skin aging is substantial:

• A 2006 study demonstrated that infrared radiation increased collagen and elastin production in dermal fibroblasts, with improvements proportional to exposure duration 1
• After 6 months of far infrared radiation treatment, patients reported 51-75% improvements in skin texture and roughness 1
• A 2023 randomized controlled trial showed that red light therapy reduced periocular wrinkle volume by approximately 30% 4
• Low-level red plus near infrared light combination significantly increased gene expressions related to collagen and elastin production 2
• A controlled trial with 136 participants demonstrated that polychromatic light treatment improved skin complexion, reduced roughness, and increased collagen density 3

Optimal Treatment Parameters

For best results with infrared light therapy at 850nm:

• Wavelength: 850nm falls within the near-infrared spectrum (830-850nm) shown to be effective for skin rejuvenation 2, 3
• Treatment protocol: Regular sessions (typically 10 minutes per session) 2
• Treatment course: Multiple sessions over 4-6 weeks show better results than single treatments 4
• Energy density: Low-level treatments (around 0.3 J/cm²) have shown efficacy 2

Limitations and Considerations

While infrared light therapy shows promise, there are important limitations to consider:

• Results develop gradually over time, typically requiring multiple sessions
• Improvements in skin texture and wrinkles are more significant than effects on hyperpigmentation 1
• Individual response may vary based on skin type and condition
• Quality of devices and treatment protocols significantly impact results
• The British Photodermatology Group guidelines note that light penetration depth varies by wavelength, with red light (630nm) penetrating 1-3mm in skin 5

Comparison with Other Treatments

Infrared light therapy offers several advantages compared to other skin rejuvenation methods:

• Less invasive than procedures like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections 6
• Generally better tolerated than retinoids, though results may develop more slowly 6
• May be particularly beneficial for patients with diabetes or those prone to keloids, for whom more inflammatory procedures are contraindicated 4

In conclusion, infrared red light therapy at 850nm represents an effective, non-invasive approach to addressing skin aging with demonstrated improvements in collagen and elastin production, skin texture, and wrinkle reduction. The treatment is supported by multiple clinical studies showing approximately 30% reduction in wrinkle volume and significant improvements in skin quality.