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NIR For Psoriasis

Near Infrared Light Therapy for Psoriasis: Current Evidence and Clinical Potential

Near infrared (NIR) light therapy shows promising potential for psoriasis treatment, though it remains an emerging approach with limited clinical studies compared to established UV phototherapy treatments.

Evidence for Efficacy

Clinical Trial Results

The most significant clinical evidence comes from a preliminary study that investigated combination LED therapy using both 830 nm near infrared and 633 nm red light wavelengths12. When patients with plaque psoriasis were treated sequentially with these wavelengths in two 20-minute sessions over 4-5 weeks, 60-100% clearance rates were achieved without any significant side effects1. Nine patients participated in this study, with all completing their LED regimens and showing clearance rates ranging from 60% to 100% at follow-up periods of 3-8 months2.

A London dermatology clinic reports seeing results in half the time compared to traditional phototherapy and without UV exposure when using tri-wave LED phototherapy that includes near infrared wavelengths for psoriasis treatment3.

Comparative Studies

Research comparing different light wavelengths has shown that both red and near infrared light can be effective. A study comparing blue and red light found clinical improvement with both wavelengths, though blue light showed particular benefit for reducing erythema4. The 830 nm near infrared wavelength has been specifically noted for its ability to penetrate deeper into tissue, increase local blood flow, and stimulate the release of endogenous healing factors5.

Mechanisms of Action

**Photobiomodulation Effects mechanisms that address the underlying pathophysiology of psoriasis16:

Mitochondrial Enhancement: NIR light, particularly at wavelengths of 830 nm, activates cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, which has strong absorption at wavelengths ranging from 670-830 nm1. This leads to:

Anti-inflammatory Effects: NIR irradiation induces significant anti-inflammatory effects through decreased inflammatory markers like TNF-α and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines7. This addresses psoriasis's core inflammatory component.

Cellular Regeneration: Near infrared light promotes healing and enhances cellular regeneration by stimulating collagen production and modulating cytokine release from macrophages to reduce inflammation3.

Gene Expression Modulation: Laser irradiation at infrared wavelengths can change gene expression and release of various mediators in human and animal cells, potentially helping to normalize the aberrant cellular processes in psoriasis1.

Treatment Characteristics

Wavelengths and Parameters

The most studied near infrared wavelength for psoriasis is 830 nm, often used in combination with visible red light at 630-633 nm12. Treatment protocols typically involve:

Safety Profile

Near infrared light therapy offers several safety advantages over traditional UV phototherapy3:

Clinical Availability and Access

Professional Treatment

NIR light therapy is available through specialized dermatology clinics and medical spas in the UK. Professional LED phototherapy devices capable of delivering multiple wavelengths, including near infrared, are used by trained practitioners3. Treatment costs range from £50-150 per session8.

NHS Availability

While traditional narrowband UVB phototherapy is widely available through the NHS910, near infrared light therapy is not yet a standard NHS treatment. Patients typically access this treatment through private clinics or as part of combination therapies.

Home Devices

Various consumer devices are available for home use, though their effectiveness may be limited compared to professional-grade equipment. The FDA has approved some red light therapy devices, and patients should ensure any home device meets safety standards8.

Limitations and Considerations

Research Status

The clinical evidence for NIR light therapy in psoriasis remains limited, with most studies being small preliminary investigations111. Researchers note that "the trails of low-level light/laser therapy (LLLT) are still small" and more controlled double-blind studies with larger patient populations are needed2.

Treatment Integration

NIR light therapy is typically considered as:

Current Clinical Position

While promising, NIR light therapy currently occupies a third-line treatment position compared to established first-line therapies like narrowband UVB and topical treatments1. However, its strong penetration and encouraging photobiomodulation effects suggest significant potential for future development1.

Near infrared light therapy represents an emerging treatment modality that shows promise for psoriasis management through its unique photobiomodulation mechanisms and excellent safety profile. While more research is needed to fully establish its clinical efficacy, early results suggest it could become a valuable addition to the psoriasis treatment arsenal, particularly for patients seeking non-UV light-based alternatives.

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  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19764893/
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  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21435024/
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