Does it actually work?
We’ve been hearing a lot about red light therapy lately, with devices popping up everywhere from Instagram feeds to local gyms. Red light has been promoted across the internet to help heal wounds, boost collagen production, and smooth out wrinkles. But can red light therapy actually clear sun damage or treat early-stage skin cancer?
The answer is yes, with one caveat.
Red light therapy is FDA-approved to treat precancerous skin cells caused by sun damage (actinic keratoses) and early-stage basal cell carcinoma, which is the most common form of skin cancer. However, it only works when it is used as part of a specialized medical procedure called Red Light Photodynamic Therapy (PDT).
What is Red Light Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)?
Red Light PDT is a targeted medical procedure performed right in your dermatologist’s office. The process involves three key steps:
Incubation
- A specialized topical medication is applied to the treatment area. It absorbs selectively into damaged and precancerous skin cells, which usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
Illumination
- A medical-grade light source activates the medication. Red light works especially well because its wavelength reaches deep into the layers of your skin.
Repeat Treatment
- For best results, the procedure is repeated. The standard schedule calls for a second session 1 month later for actinic keratoses, or 1 to 2 weeks later for superficial basal cell carcinoma.
Are At-Home Red Light Devices the Same as Medical-Grade PDT?
No, absolutely not.
Medical-grade LED red lights emit significantly more energy than retail devices you can buy for home use. For photodynamic therapy to work properly, the light source has to deliver a precise dose of energy to activate the topical medication.
Over-the-counter red light devices are unregulated for medical treatment and simply do not have the power needed to destroy precancerous or cancerous cells.
What to Expect After a PDT Treatment
After your session, you can expect a reaction similar to a sunburn. This usually lasts about a week.
- Common Symptoms: Mild discomfort, redness, itching, swelling, scabbing, or crusting.
- Healing Time: People with more extensive sun damage might have a stronger reaction that takes up to 4 weeks to clear up, but most people feel back to normal within 5 to 7 days.
Important Post-Treatment Precautions
- Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: Sunlight contains rays that will keep activating the medication in your skin. You need to completely avoid direct sunlight for at least 48 hours after the procedure. Make sure to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and protective clothing.
- Who Should Avoid It: Stay away from PDT if you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to light, or if you take medications that increase sun sensitivity.
How Effective Is Red Light PDT for Skin Cancer and Precancers?
Clinical research shows strong results for both precancers and early skin cancers:
Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma: PDT achieves an 81% clearance rate for superficial basal cell carcinoma after two treatments spaced 1 to 2 weeks apart.
Actinic Keratosis: Studies show a 91% reduction in precancerous spots 12 weeks after finishing treatment.
Is Red Light PDT Covered by Insurance?
Because PDT is a medically necessary procedure that targets precancerous cells and skin cancer, rather than a purely cosmetic treatment, most major health insurance plans cover the cost. As a nice bonus, clearing out sun-damaged cells often noticeably improves the overall texture and appearance of your skin.
What’s the Vista View?
Red Light Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is a highly effective, FDA-approved medical procedure designed to clear precancerous cells and superficial basal cell carcinoma. It is well-tolerated by patients, offers skin rejuvenation as a extra benefit, and is typically covered by insurance.
Contact your dermatologist today to find out if Red Light PDT is the right treatment option for your skin!
about the author
Dr. amy ney
Dr. Amy Ney, MD is a board-certified dermatologist providing expert medical and cosmetic dermatology services in St. Louis, MO.
She is a Castle Connolly Top Doctor.
