Photobiomodulation for Skin Pigmentation Disorders: A Dual-Function Treatment
May 2023
in “
Photobiomodulation, photomedicine, and laser surgery
”
Studysummary This editorial reviews how photobiomodulation therapy might effectively treat both hyperpigmentation and depigmentation skin disorders, but reports no new clinical results.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is a growing approach to treating skin pigmentation disorders, including vitiligo and hyperpigmentation conditions like solar lentigenes and melasma. PBMT uses low levels of visible and/or near-infrared light applied to the skin and has been found to be effective, safe, noninvasive, and relatively cost-effective. For vitiligo, an autoimmune disease affecting 0.1% to 2% of various populations, PBMT using a He–Ne laser (632.8 nm) has been shown to stimulate melanocyte stem cells, leading to repigmentation. For hyperpigmentation, PBMT using 660-nm LEDs has been found to inhibit melanin production. Further research is needed to identify the best wavelengths and dosimetric parameters for these treatments.
