Collagen, measured: the full-body red light trial

A lot of red light skin claims rest on small studies with face masks. One of the most cited trials did something different.

The trial

Alexander Wunsch and Karsten Matuschka published a randomised controlled study in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery in 2014.

They enrolled 136 volunteers. 113 were assigned to one of four treatment groups using large, full-body light devices, and 23 served as controls.

Treatment groups received either red light (611 to 650 nm) or a broader spectrum (570 to 850 nm), twice a week, for 30 sessions.

How they measured

• Blinded assessment of clinical photographs
• Ultrasound measurement of collagen density in the skin
• Computerised measurement of skin roughness
• Participant satisfaction

What they found

Treated participants showed improvements in skin complexion and feel, reduced roughness, and increased collagen density compared with controls.

The broader spectrum light showed no advantage over red light alone.

How to read it

This is cosmetic research, and the results are about skin appearance and texture. Treatment settings varied between groups, and results depend on consistent use over months.

With Norge

The Norge Red Light Bed uses the same full-body format as the devices in this trial. Used with eye protection and a consistent routine, it is designed as a skin and wellbeing ritual.

Free: The Norge Longevity Guide. Heat, cold and light after 50, with the evidence and the safety rules in one place. Get the guide.

Sources

1. Wunsch and Matuschka, A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment, 2014

This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have a heart condition, low blood pressure or are pregnant, speak with your GP before using heat or cold.