Exploring Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy for Skin Rejuvenation
October 21, 2026
This randomized, double-blinded clinical study explored how red and near-infrared LED light therapy may support skin rejuvenation, including improvements in the appearance of wrinkles, skin elasticity, and underlying collagen and elastin.
Seventy-six participants with facial wrinkles received LED treatments twice per week for four weeks using either 633 nm red light, 830 nm near-infrared light, a combination of both wavelengths, or a sham treatment. Researchers evaluated visible skin changes as well as changes within the skin tissue itself.
The results showed significant improvements in the LED treatment groups, including reductions in wrinkles of up to 36% and increases in skin elasticity of up to 19% compared with baseline. Tissue analysis also revealed increased collagen and elastic fibers, along with signs of increased fibroblast activity — cells that play an important role in supporting the skin’s structure and connective tissue.
The researchers concluded that both 633 nm red light and 830 nm near-infrared light may provide an effective, non-invasive approach to skin rejuvenation. Treatments were well tolerated, with no adverse effects reported during the study.
In other words, red and near-infrared light therapy may help support smoother, more elastic-looking skin by encouraging processes involved in collagen and elastin production.
