Light-emitting diodes in dermatology: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review of 31 randomized controlled trials
PubMed 29356026 · doi:10.1002/lsm.22791
What was done
A systematic review of published literature on light-emitting diode (LED) treatments in dermatology was conducted (search date September 13, 2017). Authors critically analyzed 31 original randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess safety, clinical efficacy, and formulate evidence-based recommendation grades.
What was found
No quantitative aggregate effect sizes were reported in the abstract. Qualitatively, acne vulgaris, herpes simplex and zoster, and acute wound healing achieved a grade of recommendation B. Other evaluated dermatologic conditions received recommendation grades of C or D. Few adverse events were reported across studies.
Why it matters
This review identifies the dermatologic indications with the strongest randomized evidence for LED therapy—specifically acne, acute wounds, and herpes viral infections—while highlighting an overall favorable safety profile.
Limits
The abstract reports significant methodological limitations in the included studies: several had very small sample sizes (n < 20), lacked participant or investigator blinding, lacked sham placebo controls, and used heterogeneous treatment parameters. Aggregate patient numbers and detailed condition-specific outcomes were not provided in the abstract.
Cited by
- supports Red light and near-infrared light improve muscle recovery, skin health, wound healing, acne, pain, inflammation, mitochondrial function, and visual acuity.