Red Light Therapy For Wound Healing: What Does the Science Say?

The processes involved in wound healing are what help your body when it comes to recovering from injuries, surgeries, or even just everyday accidents. In recent years, there has been growing interest in Red Light Therapy to support wound healing, with many people curious about whether this innovative approach can support the body’s natural recovery process. Let's talk about how wound healing actually works, then we'll move onto what the research has to say about whether or not Red Light Therapy can support these processes.

How Does Wound Healing Work?

Wound healing is a complex, multi-stage process that your body initiates immediately after an injury.

The Stages of Wound Healing

1. Hemostasis: This is the body’s immediate response to injury. Blood vessels constrict to reduce bleeding, and platelets gather to form a clot, sealing the wound and preventing further blood loss. This clot acts as a temporary barrier, protecting the wound from external contaminants and providing the foundation for the next stages of healing. The process of hemostasis typically occurs within minutes after the injury.

2. Inflammation: Once bleeding is controlled, the body sends white blood cells to the wound site to fight off bacteria and clear away debris. This stage often causes redness, warmth, swelling, and sometimes pain. Inflammation is a natural and necessary part of the healing process, as it helps prevent infection and sets the stage for tissue repair. The inflammatory phase usually lasts a few days, during which the body works to clean the wound and prepare it for new tissue growth.

3. Proliferation: During this phase, new tissue begins to form. The body produces collagen, a protein that provides structure and strength to the new tissue. Blood vessels also regenerate, supplying essential nutrients and oxygen to the healing area, while the wound starts to contract as new skin cells cover the area. This stage is crucial for rebuilding the wound site and can last from several days to a few weeks, depending on the size and severity of the wound.

4. Maturation (Remodeling): In the final stage, the newly formed tissue gradually strengthens and becomes more flexible. Collagen fibers reorganize, aligning along tension lines to improve the durability of the healed tissue, and the wound continues to contract, sometimes leaving a scar. This remodeling phase can last for months or even years, as the tissue slowly regains as much normal function and appearance as possible.

How Do You Help a Wound Heal?

Proper wound care is essential for preventing infection, minimizing scarring, and promoting faster healing. Effective wound care typically begins with gently cleaning the wound using mild soap and water or a saline solution to remove dirt and bacteria. Keeping the wound covered with a sterile dressing helps protect it from infection and supports a moist environment, which can speed up the healing process. In situations where there is a high risk of infection, a healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics. 

It’s also important to regularly monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus, so that any complications can be addressed promptly. For complex or slow-healing wounds, advanced therapies may be recommended, including negative pressure wound therapy (also known as vacuum-assisted closure), skin grafts, or specialized dressings that promote tissue regeneration.

Several factors can influence how quickly and effectively your wound heals. Age can play a role, as older adults often experience slower healing due to reduced skin elasticity and circulation. Nutrition is also a factor, as your body needs enough protein, vitamins (especially C and A), and minerals like zinc to support tissue repair. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, vascular disease, and immune disorders can impair the healing process, making wounds more difficult to manage. Infection is another major concern, as bacterial contamination can delay healing and increase the risk of complications. Certain medications, including steroids and chemotherapy, may also slow down your body’s natural repair mechanisms. Additionally, lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol use, and poor hygiene can negatively impact wound recovery.

Medical Treatments To Help with Wound Healing

Medical professionals rely on a range of evidence-based treatments to support wound healing and promote the best possible outcomes. One common approach is debridement, which involves removing dead or infected tissue to encourage healthy tissue growth. Moisture-retentive dressings, such as hydrocolloid, hydrogel, or foam dressings, are often used to maintain a moist environment that supports faster and more effective healing. For certain types of leg ulcers, compression therapy can be beneficial by improving blood flow to the affected area. In more severe cases, surgical interventions like skin grafts or flap surgery may be necessary to close wounds and restore function. These treatments are tailored to the specific needs of each patient and are guided by the latest clinical research and best practices in wound care.

What Is Light Therapy?

Light Therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with your body at a cellular level. This process helps energize cells and supports natural biological functions, such as renewal, repair, and restoration. Light Therapy has gained popularity in both health and wellness circles for its non-invasive approach and its ability to target a variety of concerns, from skin health to muscle recovery.

There are several forms of Light Therapy, each using different wavelengths to achieve unique effects:

Red Light Therapy: This form uses wavelengths between 630 and 700 nanometers to penetrate the skin and stimulate biological processes. Red Light Therapy is widely used for skincare, where it can help support healthy collagen production, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin texture. It’s also used in other areas, such as wound healing, muscle recovery, and reducing inflammation. However, it’s important to note that the benefits you receive from a Red Light Therapy session depend entirely on the type of device and its intended use. For example, devices designed for skincare are not made to deliver the deeper therapeutic benefits needed for wound healing or muscle recovery.

Near-Infrared Light Therapy: This type of Light Therapy uses wavelengths that penetrate even deeper than red light, making it particularly effective for addressing muscle and joint issues. Near-Infrared Light Therapy is often used by athletes and physical therapists to support muscle recovery, reduce pain, and promote healing in deeper tissues.

Blue Light Therapy: Blue Light Therapy is commonly used for acne and certain skin conditions. It works by targeting the surface layers of the skin, helping to reduce bacteria and inflammation that contribute to breakouts.

Amber Light Therapy: Amber Light Therapy is sometimes used to address skin tone and inflammation. Its wavelengths are believed to help calm sensitive skin and promote a more even complexion.

All of that said, not all Light Therapy devices are created equal. The benefits you experience will depend on the specific wavelength, intensity, and design of the device you use. For instance, Red Light Therapy devices intended for skincare are not designed to provide medical benefits such as wound healing or pain relief. Only devices that are clinically validated and FDA-cleared for those specific uses can deliver those results. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using Light Therapy for any medical or therapeutic purpose, and choose devices that are appropriate for your specific needs.

Red Light Therapy for Wound Healing: What Does the Science Say?

A growing body of scientific research has explored the potential of Red Light Therapy for wound healing, with studies ranging from laboratory experiments to clinical trials on live human subjects. These studies generally focus on how specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light can influence the body’s natural healing processes.

One comprehensive review, published in 2023, examined the effects of Red Light Therapy — also referred to in the study as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) — on wound healing in both animal models and human subjects. The review found that Red Light Therapy could accelerate wound closure, enhance collagen production, and reduce inflammation, all of which are key for effective healing. The authors emphasized that the therapy’s effectiveness depends on factors such as wavelength, dosage, and treatment duration, and that more standardized clinical trials are needed to optimize protocols for human use.

Another study focused specifically on the use of Red Light Therapy in chronic wound management. This research, which included both animal and human studies, found that Red Light Therapy can improve healing rates in chronic wounds by stimulating cellular regeneration and modulating inflammatory responses. The study highlighted that Red Light Therapy appears to promote the proliferation of fibroblasts (cells essential for tissue repair) and increase blood flow to the wound area, both of which are vital for recovery.

A 2016 randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of Red Light Therapy on wound healing in live human subjects. Participants with chronic wounds received regular Red Light Therapy sessions, and the results showed a notable improvement in wound closure rates compared to the control group. The study concluded that Red Light Therapy could be a valuable adjunct to standard wound care, particularly for wounds that are slow to heal with conventional treatments.

More recently, a 2023 review analyzed the mechanisms by which Red Light Therapy supports wound healing. The authors discussed how red and near-infrared wavelengths can penetrate tissue to stimulate mitochondrial activity, leading to increased cellular energy production, reduced inflammation, and enhanced tissue regeneration. This review also reinforced the importance of using clinically validated devices and protocols to ensure safety and efficacy.

It’s important to note that the Red Light Therapy devices used in these studies are typically medical-grade and specifically designed for therapeutic applications. Devices intended for skincare or cosmetic use are not validated for wound healing and should not be relied upon for this purpose. If you are considering Red Light Therapy for wound healing, always consult with a healthcare professional and ensure that any device you use is clinically validated and appropriate for medical use.

How To Get Red Light Therapy for Wound Healing

If you’re interested in Red Light Therapy for wound healing, there are several ways to access this treatment, but it’s essential to approach it with guidance from a healthcare professional and to use the right type of device for your needs.

Medical clinics and hospitals are often the most reliable places to receive Red Light Therapy for wound healing. Many wound care centers and dermatology clinics offer this therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, using medical-grade devices that are specifically designed and clinically validated for therapeutic use. These settings ensure that your treatment is supervised by trained professionals who can tailor the therapy to your specific condition and monitor your progress for safety and effectiveness.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation centers may also provide Red Light Therapy, especially for patients recovering from injuries or surgeries. In these environments, therapists use specialized equipment to help promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and support overall recovery. Again, the devices used in these settings are typically FDA-cleared and intended for medical use, ensuring a higher standard of care.

At-home devices for Red Light Therapy have become increasingly popular and accessible. However, it’s crucial to understand that not all devices are created equal. Most at-home devices marketed for skincare are not designed or validated for wound healing or other medical applications. If you are considering an at-home device, you should always consult with a healthcare professional first. They can help you determine whether Red Light Therapy is appropriate for your situation and guide you in selecting a device that meets clinical standards for safety and effectiveness.

No matter which route you choose, professional guidance is key. Only clinically validated, medical-grade Red Light Therapy devices have been shown to provide benefits for wound healing. Using the wrong type of device, or using it without proper supervision, may not only be ineffective but could also delay your recovery. Always prioritize your health by seeking expert advice and choosing the right equipment for your needs.

Conclusion

Wound healing is a vital process that requires careful management and evidence-based treatments to ensure the best possible outcome for your health. While traditional approaches like proper cleaning, dressings, and advanced medical interventions remain the cornerstone of effective wound care, research has shown that Red Light Therapy — when delivered with clinically validated, medical-grade devices — can play a supportive role in promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and accelerating recovery. However, it’s important to recognize that not all Red Light Therapy devices are created equal. Devices designed for skincare or cosmetic use are not intended to treat wounds or any medical condition, and relying on them for such purposes may delay proper healing.

If you’re considering Red Light Therapy for wound healing, consult with a healthcare professional first. They can help you determine whether this therapy is appropriate for your specific situation and guide you toward safe, effective options. 

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or guidance. Always seek medical advice and care from a trusted healthcare professional. 

Sources:

1. Physiology, Hemostasis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf 

2. Wound Healing or Infected? OSF Healthcare

3. Debridement | UCSF Surgical Oncology 

4. The effects of low power laser light at 661 nm on wound healing in a scratch assay fibroblast model - PMC 

5. Effects of low-power light therapy on wound healing: LASER x LED - PMC 

6. Noninvasive red and near-infrared wavelength-induced photobiomodulation: promoting impaired cutaneous wound healing - PubMed 

7. Red LED light therapy associated with epidermal growth factor on wound repair process in rats - PubMed