Can Red Light Therapy Improve Scars? A Beginner’s Guide

Yes, red light therapy can reduce the appearance of many types of scars by stimulating the skin’s healing and remodeling processes, especially when used regularly and as directed.

While it won’t erase scars completely, it is non-invasive, generally safe for most people, and supported by emerging scientific research.

This article explains how it works, summarizes the latest findings, and provides clear, actionable tips for beginners.

Table of Contents

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT) exposes your skin to low-level red or near-infrared light, usually from LED panels or handheld devices. Wavelengths commonly used for scar care range from 630 to 660 nanometers, although some devices include near-infrared light for deeper penetration[4][5]. The light energy does not burn or damage skin—instead, it’s absorbed by cells to promote healing and rejuvenation[1][6].

How Does Red Light Therapy Support Scar Healing?

Boosts Collagen Production: Red light stimulates fibroblasts, the skin cells that create collagen and elastin. These proteins help soften and remodel scar tissue, making scars less noticeable over time[5][7].
Reduces Local Inflammation: RLT calms ongoing inflammation, which can otherwise delay healing and contribute to raised or pigmented scars[6][8].
Improves Blood Flow: The treatment increases circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to the wound and speeding up tissue repair[9][5].
Promotes Healthy Cellular Activity: By boosting the cells’ energy (ATP) production, RLT accelerates repair and normal skin renewal[2][6].

Which Types of Scars Can Be Treated?

Scar Type	How RLT Can Help
Surgical scars	Softens, flattens, and improves pliability[3][10]
Acne and atrophic	Fills in indented scars via collagen boost[11][5]
Hypertrophic/keloids	Calms inflammation, helps shrink size, regulates collagen[12][5]
Burn/stretch marks	Improves flexibility, reduces discoloration, supports remodeling[5][2]

Recent Research and Emerging Trends (2024–2025)

Safety and Efficacy: Recent clinical trials confirm that RLT is safe when started soon after wound closure, with only mild, short-lived side effects like redness or swelling. Some studies report measurable improvements in scar pliability and appearance over six months compared to untreated areas[3][10].
Optimal Dosing: Evidence suggests that low–to–medium doses (e.g., 160–320 J/cm²) given 3–6 times per week promote the best results while minimizing irritation[3][5].
Sequential Light Strategies: New animal research shows that starting with red light in the early days post-injury speeds up healing, while following with blue light may further minimize scar thickness and improve tissue quality[13][14]. However, more human research is needed before this becomes a mainstream recommendation.
Device Differences: Professional clinic machines deliver higher energy and more consistent results, but many at-home FDA-cleared devices also produce benefits for mild to moderate scars[15][4][5].
Expert Perspectives & Misconceptions: Some users expect instant or total scar removal—experts caution that while RLT often blends, softens, and flattens scars, results are gradual and vary by scar type and age. RLT is best used as part of a larger regimen for skin healing[5][7].

How to Use Red Light Therapy for Scars

Start When Wounds Are Closed: Wait until the skin is intact before beginning treatment—do not use on open wounds[1].
Session Frequency: Most evidence supports sessions of 10–20 minutes, 3–6 times per week, for at least 4–12 weeks[5][3].
Eye Protection: Always wear protective goggles and shield your eyes from direct light exposure[1][8].
Monitor for Side Effects: Mild redness or tightness is common, but stop if you experience blistering or sustained discomfort[3][5].
Combine Approaches: For optimal results, pair RLT with good skincare—hydration, sun protection, and gentle exfoliation to maintain a healthy, healing environment[5][6].

Key Tips for Beginners

Set Realistic Expectations: Red light therapy will not fully erase scars but can significantly reduce their visibility and texture[7][2].
Be Consistent: Regular sessions over many weeks produce far better results than infrequent use[5].
Choose Quality Devices: Opt for devices specifying red/NIR wavelengths around 630–660 nm and FDA clearance for home use[15][4].
Consult a Professional: If you have complex medical conditions, keloid tendencies, or take photosensitizing medications, consult a healthcare provider before starting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question	Brief Answer
Can RLT remove scars completely?	No, but it can make scars less visible and softer[2][7][3]
Is it suitable for old scars?	Yes, though newer scars may respond more quickly[2][5]
Is it painful?	No—treatments are gentle and non-invasive[2][1]
How soon till results appear?	Noticeable improvement in 4–12 weeks with regular use[5][3][2]

Final Thoughts

Red light therapy offers a practical, evidence-informed option for minimizing various types of scars.

By encouraging collagen production, reducing inflammation, and stimulating cellular repair, it addresses key factors in scar appearance—whether from surgery, acne, or injury.

You can get the most out of this therapy by choosing FDA-cleared devices that match effective wavelengths, using eye protection, and maintaining consistency in their sessions.

Combining RLT with smart skincare habits—like moisturizing and sun protection—helps support healthy skin renewal and boosts overall results.

While red light therapy won’t erase scars, it empowers you to take an active role in softening their texture and blending them into the surrounding skin. The process may be gradual, but regular, thoughtful use brings steady improvement.

References

[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22114-red-light-therapy
[2] https://newhealthjournal.org/news/does-red-light-therapy-work-research/
[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8919713/
[4] https://nypost.com/shopping/best-red-light-therapy-devices/
[5] https://maysama.com/blogs/news/light-therapy-for-scars
[6] https://platinumtherapylights.com/blogs/news/red-light-therapy-for-scars
[7] https://www.news-medical.net/health/Can-Red-Light-Therapy-Improve-Sleep-Skin-and-Recovery.aspx
[8] https://drposten.com/the-power-of-red-light-therapy-for-healthier-skin/
[9] https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2025/02/red-light-therapy-skin-hair-medical-clinics.html
[10] https://www.currentbody.com/blogs/editorial/led-light-therapy-acne-scarring-treatment
[11] https://www.schweigerderm.com/medical-dermatology/acne-treatment/blue-light-red-light/
[12] https://www.solawave.co/blogs/red-light-therapy/the-different-types-of-scars-improved-by-red-light-therapy
[13] https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-024-06973-1
[14] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22081819/
[15] https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-red-light-therapy-skin-care-device/
[16] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3926176/
[17] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0365059624002010
[18] https://www.mydcsi.com/2023/02/24/benefits-of-red-and-blue-light-therapy/
[19] https://lagunaheightsdental.com/infrared-therapy-for-scars-healing-with-advanced-technology/
[20] https://healthcare.utah.edu/the-scope/mens-health/all/2024/06/176-red-light-therapy-just-fad