A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase

Objective

Researchers investigated whether red and near-infrared light therapy could safely improve skin appearance, reduce visible signs of aging, and increase collagen density without invasive procedures.

Study Design

• 136 volunteers participated in the randomized controlled trial.
• Participants received treatments twice weekly.
• Researchers tested polychromatic red and near-infrared light wavelengths ranging from approximately 611–650 nm and 570–850 nm.
• Results were compared against a control group.

What Researchers Evaluated

The study measured:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Skin roughness
• Skin complexion
• Intradermal collagen density
• Patient satisfaction
• Overall skin appearance

Assessments included photography, skin profiling, collagen ultrasonography, and participant questionnaires.

Results

Researchers found statistically significant improvements in:

• Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
• Smoother skin texture
• Better skin complexion
• Increased collagen density within the skin
• Higher patient satisfaction scores

Blinded clinical evaluations confirmed visible improvements compared with the control group.

Key Finding

The study concluded that both red-light-only and combined red/near-infrared photobiomodulation treatments were effective and safe for skin rejuvenation. The broader spectrum did not outperform red light alone, but both approaches increased collagen and improved visible skin-aging markers.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24286286/