Red Light Therapy for Psoriasis: Clearing Plaques at Home
Psoriasis is autoimmune. Your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, accelerating their turnover from the normal 28-day cycle to as fast as 3–4 days. The result is the thick, scaly, often itchy or painful plaques that affect about 7.5 million Americans.
Standard treatment ladders up from moisturizers and topical steroids to systemic immunosuppressants and biologics—each step bringing real side effects. That's why a growing number of dermatologists are recommending light-based therapies, including red and near-infrared light, as a low-risk complement to conventional care.
Here's what the science says, plus how to use red light therapy for psoriasis at home.
How red light therapy works for psoriasis
Red light (660nm) and near-infrared (850nm) wavelengths penetrate skin and reach the inflamed dermis where psoriatic plaques form. Once there, they:
- Reduce inflammation by lowering pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-17)
- Modulate immune cell activity in the skin, particularly T-cells
- Improve barrier function by stimulating fibroblast activity and collagen
- Reduce visible redness and scaling over weeks of consistent use
Unlike UVB phototherapy (the gold standard in clinic), red light therapy doesn't carry UV cancer risk—making it safer for daily long-term use.
What the research shows
A 2010 study in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery followed 9 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis treated with combined 830nm and 630nm light. After 4–5 weeks of twice-weekly sessions, all patients showed clearance rates between 60% and 100%—with no side effects.
A 2017 review concluded that photobiomodulation is a promising adjunct treatment for mild-to-moderate plaque psoriasis, particularly when topical treatments aren't tolerated.
The catch: red light therapy isn't a cure. Psoriasis is a chronic immune disorder, and plaques can return. Consistent use produces consistent improvement.
Where to treat
Red light therapy works on:
- Plaque psoriasis on the body (knees, elbows, scalp, back)
- Facial psoriasis (mild forms, around eyes and hairline)
- Scalp psoriasis (with care—part hair and treat directly)
- Hand and foot psoriasis (small plaques respond well)
Avoid the eyes themselves—wear protective goggles when treating the face.
Best AWA devices for psoriasis
AWA FX500 Red Light Therapy Panel — The most versatile option for body plaques. Treat large surface areas (back, chest, legs) in one session. Clinical 660nm + 850nm wavelengths. FSA/HSA eligible.
AWA LX300 LED Face Mask — FDA-cleared LED mask designed for facial and neck skin conditions. Comfortable to wear, 7 light modes including red and near-infrared.
Many psoriasis users combine both: panel for body plaques, mask for face.
Protocol
- Frequency: Daily for the first 4 weeks, then 3–4 times per week for maintenance
- Duration: 10–20 minutes per plaque area
- Distance: 6–12 inches from skin (panel)
- Bare skin: Always. Light is attenuated by fabric and moisturizer.
- Pair with: emollients applied after sessions to maintain barrier function
What to expect
Improvement is gradual:
- Week 1–2: Some itching may temporarily increase before subsiding
- Week 3–4: Reduced redness and scaling become visible
- Week 6–8: Significant plaque thinning in most users
Results vary based on plaque thickness, immune triggers, and consistency of use.
FAQ
Can red light therapy replace my biologic?
No. If you're on a biologic, talk to your dermatologist before adjusting any treatment. Red light therapy is a complement, not a replacement for prescribed immune therapies.
Will it work for guttate or inverse psoriasis?
Most research focuses on plaque psoriasis. Anecdotal reports suggest other forms may respond, but evidence is limited. Talk to your doctor.
Is the LX300 mask safe for facial psoriasis?
Yes. The LX300 uses cleared LED wavelengths designed for sensitive skin. Avoid the eye area and follow the included instructions.
Will my plaques come back?
Psoriasis is chronic—plaques can return when triggers (stress, infection, weather) flare up. Consistent use of red light therapy can reduce flare frequency and severity.
Is it FSA/HSA eligible?
Yes. The AWA FX500 and LX300 are both FSA/HSA eligible. Learn how to use HSA/FSA funds.
The bottom line
Psoriasis is one of the most well-researched applications of red light therapy. It's not a cure, but for many users it meaningfully reduces plaques, redness, and inflammation—safely, at home, without UV or systemic side effects.
Start with the AWA FX500 for body plaques or the LX300 mask for facial psoriasis. Both are FSA/HSA eligible with 60-day risk-free returns.