Red Light Therapy Improves Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness and Collagen Production

A controlled clinical trial explained how Red Light Therapy Improves Fine Lines, Wrinkles and Collagen Production, which is published in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery (NIH, 2014) explored how red and near-infrared (NIR) light therapy can improve skin,

The Red Light Therapy Improves Fine Lines, Wrinkles and Collagen Production study, led by Alexander Wunsch and Karsten Matuschka, examined whether broad-spectrum, non-thermal photobiomodulation (PBM) could enhance skin rejuvenation more effectively than narrowband LED or laser treatments.

A total of 136 volunteers took part, with treatments conducted twice weekly over several months. Participants received either red light (611–650 nm) or broadband light (570–850 nm) exposure, at energy levels of roughly 9 J/cm² per session.

Treatment Methods and Parameters of Red Light Therapy Improves Fine Lines, Wrinkles and Collagen Production

• Light types:
  • Red Light Technology (RLT): 611–650 nm
  • Energizing Light Technology (ELT): 570–850 nm
• Session frequency: 2 sessions weekly
• Total treatments: 30 sessions (with some extended to 45–60)
• Treatment area: Full-body exposure
• Energy dose: Approx. 9 J/cm² within the 611–650 nm wavelength range

Both systems provided non-thermal, atraumatic PBM, stimulating skin tissues without heat or damage. The broadband approach aimed to test if a wider spectrum covering red to NIR wavelengths would enhance collagen production and skin repair more than red light alone.

Key Findings of Red Light Therapy Improves Fine Lines, Wrinkles and Collagen Production

The results were impressive across both light types:

• Improved skin complexion and enhanced skin feeling were reported by participants.
  
  
• Ultrasound imaging showed a measurable increase in intradermal collagen density.
  
  
• Digital profilometry confirmed smoother skin texture and reduced fine lines.
  
  
• Blinded photographic evaluations validated visible wrinkle reduction compared to controls.
  
  
• No severe side effects were reported, and even sensitive skin types tolerated treatment well.

Interestingly, the study found no significant performance difference between red light and broadband (red + NIR) exposure. Both delivered strong improvements in collagen stimulation, skin smoothness, and patient satisfaction.

Scientific Light Therapy Insights

LED light therapy triggers photobiomodulation, a process where light energy influences cellular activity—enhancing ATP production, metabolic exchange, and collagen synthesis.

Wavelengths between 600–850 nm penetrate deeply into the skin, reaching fibroblasts responsible for tissue repair and elasticity.

This non-invasive mechanism contrasts strongly with more aggressive methods like lasers or chemical peels, providing anti-ageing benefits without pain or downtime. The study confirmed that repeated low-level exposures created sustainable improvements in skin density and appearance, lasting up to six months post-treatment.

Conclusion of Red Light Therapy Improves Fine Lines, Wrinkles and Collagen Production

This NIH-backed research confirms that red and near-infrared light therapy—whether single-spectrum or broadband—effectively improves collagen density, skin texture, and overall appearance. Both forms of PBM offer safe, gentle, and clinically supported pathways to healthier, radiant skin.

I found the results impressive, you can read the full study and view the before and after skin improvement images by visiting the original publication here:
👉 NIH Study Referrence – PubMed 3926176