Free Shipping in 3-5 Days & No Import Duty in the US
Red Light Therapy for Lichen Planus Relief
Lichen Planus is a long-term autoimmune inflammatory disease that results in itchy, reddish-purple bumps on the skin, mucous membranes, scalp, and nails. On the mucous membranes of the mouth and genitals, lacy white lesions with sore, painful spots form. It requires treatment since the disease can cause several complications. Red light therapy offers a satisfactory remedy, not only to bring relief but also to address the etiological cause of the disease. Let's discuss how red light therapy is beneficial in healing Lichen Planus by facilitating tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and calming irritation.
Table of Contents
Understanding Lichen Planus: Causes, Symptoms, and Triggers
Lichen Planus is an itching autoimmune disease that results in reddish-purple bumps on the skin, mucous membranes, nails, and the scalp. It is not understood exactly what triggers it. However, research indicates its cause could involve immune system defects, stress, medications, or infections. Symptoms are frequent and include itchy bumps, lacy white lesions in the mouth, sore ulcers, and hair loss and nail damage for some.
Challenges with Traditional Treatments for Lichen Planus
Individuals prefer using traditional Lichen Planus treatments first as their physicians advised. But when the disease is not fully treated, they get frustrated. These treatments just temporarily cure the symptoms without eradicating the disease's cause. Typically prescribed drugs are corticosteroids, antihistamines, and immunosuppressants, but they too have side effects like thinning of the skin, susceptibility to infections, and gastrointestinal abnormalities.
How Red Light Therapy Supports Skin Healing and Inflammation Reduction
The Science Behind Red Light Therapy for Lichen Planus Relief
Red light therapy can treat these annoying and itchy bumps by emitting specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light that stimulate mitochondria, enhancing ATP production to facilitate cellular repair. This allows injured skin and mucous membranes to recover faster. In addition, red light therapy discourages inflammation by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oxidative stress, promoting faster recovery. With frequent use, at-home red light therapy can also reduce symptoms and promote long-term healing for those afflicted with Lichen Planus.
Does Red Light Therapy Work for Lichen Planus? What Research Says
Research indicates red light therapy is a safe and side-effect-free way to soothe Lichen Planus and heal skin. Studies show that RLT induces cell repair, suppresses inflammation, and boosts circulation to the infected area, assisting in the recovery of damaged tissue. Clinical cases have reported relief in itch, pain, and appearance of lesions with frequent red light therapy sessions.
Clinical Studies on Red Light Therapy for Lichen Planus Patients
Study 1: Photobiomodulation vs. Steroid Therapy for Erosive Oral Lichen Planus
This research contrasted photobiomodulation (PBM) with a 980 nm diode laser versus topical steroid on treating erosive oral lichen planus (OLP). Both PBM and steroid therapy lowered pain and lesion size significantly. The conclusion was that photobiomodulation is a potential steroid-free treatment option, providing efficacy without the disadvantages of corticosteroid adverse effects.
Study 2: Effect of 660 nm Photobiomodulation vs. Corticosteroids on Quality of Life
This study compared PBM at 660 nm with corticosteroid treatment. Both treatments significantly improved the quality of life of the patients, especially in alleviating physical pain. Corticosteroids were found to be more cost-effective.
Study 3: Effectiveness of 810 nm Low-Level Laser Therapy for Pain and Lesion Improvement
This study looked at the relief caused by 810 nm low-level laser treatment (LLLT) in individuals with lichen planus. Patients experienced a significant reduction in pain and a noticeable improvement in clinical signs, making it a promising non-surgical therapy.
Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device for Lichen Planus
Key Features to Look for in an Effective Device
When you're selecting a red light therapy device to achieve optimal results, these are the most important things to consider:
- Wavelengths: You need a device that emits red light (approximately 660 nanometers) for the surface of your skin and near-infrared light (approximately 810 nanometers) to penetrate deeper.
- Light Intensity: Ensure it is intense enough (at least 30-100 milliwatts per square centimeter) so your body can utilize it. Learn more about power density (irradiance).
- Coverage Area: Consider whether you want a small, portable device for a minor area or a bigger panel for a larger area of your body.
- Safety and Certifications: Ensure the device is certified by the relevant authorities (like the FDA) and has safety features, primarily to protect your eyes.
Total Spectrum Devices: Tailored Red Light Therapy for Skin Health
The Total Spectrum Series contains products with all the features necessary to successfully deliver red light therapy to treat Lichen Planus. These products have 660 nm red light and 810 nm near-infrared light that help to heal lesions and bumps. They are safe and easy to use, with adjustable intensity and hands-free operation.
Best Practices for Using Red Light Therapy for Lichen Planus
Finding the Right Dosage: Frequency, Session Length, and Distance
To achieve optimal results, you must apply red light therapy correctly. Specialists recommend applying red light (660 nm) and near-infrared light (810 nm) for 10–20 minutes at a time, 3–5 times a week. Hold the device 6–12 inches from your skin. For a complete set of protocols, please see our detailed instructions on usage. Consistency is key—regular sessions can calm irritation, decrease inflammation, and aid skin healing in the long run.
Conclusion: The Role of Red Light Therapy in Lichen Planus Management
More and more individuals are resorting to red light therapy to manage Lichen Planus because, unlike other treatments with side effects such as thinning of the skin, RLT is a non-surgical, drug-free treatment. It effectively alleviates pain, heals tissue, and reduces inflammation without adverse side effects. You can perform red light therapy at home for Lichen Planus using the right device.
FAQS: Addressing Common Questions
How to Stop Lichen Planus from Spreading?
To prevent lichen planus from worsening, try to identify and steer clear of things that could trigger it, such as stress or certain medications. It's also crucial to maintain clean skin and use mild skincare products.
How I Cured My Lichen Planus?
Managing lichen planus involves a combination of treatments. In my experience, taking prescribed medications, keeping my skin clean, managing stress, and using red light therapy worked wonders in dealing with the symptoms.
What is the Best Ointment for Lichen Planus?
Clobetasol propionate 0.05% ointment is commonly used for lichen planus, but tacrolimus may be preferred for sensitive areas.
References
- Photobiomodulation versus corticosteroid in the management of erosive oral lichen planus...
- Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Erosive-atrophic Oral Lichen Planus
- Bhatt G, Mehta B, Patel P, et al. "Comparative efficacy of topical aloe vera and low-level laser therapy in the management of oral lichen planus..." Lasers in Medical Science. 2022;37(3):2063–2070.
