Eczema in Children — Is Red Light Therapy Safe?

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis (AD), is one of the most common skin diseases in children — it affects up to 20% of toddlers in Poland. Itching, redness, dryness, and cracking of the skin are daily challenges for children and their parents. Conventional treatment mainly relies on corticosteroids and emollients. More and more parents are asking about natural supportive methods — one of which is red light therapy (photobiomodulation). In this article, we present educational information about this method and available scientific research.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin disease with an immunological basis. In children, it most often appears before the age of 5 and can persist throughout childhood. It is characterized by:

• Intense itching, especially at night

• Dry, flaky patches on the skin

• Redness and swelling

• Cracked skin and susceptibility to infections

• Sleep disturbances in children and parents

Treatment is long-term and requires a comprehensive approach under the supervision of a doctor. This is why parents are increasingly asking about complementary methods — always in consultation with a specialist.

Red Light Therapy (RLT) uses light waves with wavelengths of 630–850 nm, which penetrate deep into the skin and can stimulate natural processes at the cellular level. According to available scientific literature, researchers observe, among other things:

• Mitochondrial stimulation — potentially increased ATP (cellular energy) production

• Modulation of the inflammatory response — changes in cytokine levels observed under laboratory conditions

• Impact on the skin barrier — studies indicate possible stimulation of collagen production

• Regenerative processes — observed in skin tissue studies

More about the photobiomodulation mechanism: What is photobiomodulation? Lumaflex Complete Guide 2025.

Red light therapy does not emit UV radiation and does not cause thermal burns. Devices such as Lumaflex can be used in direct contact with the skin thanks to their flexible design. The decision to apply any therapy to a child should always be made by a doctor.

• Consultation with a dermatologist or pediatrician — essential before starting any complementary therapy

• Shorter sessions — in studies, children had 5–10 minute sessions per area

• Direct skin contact — Lumaflex can be applied to the skin due to its flexible design

• Eye protection — protective goggles recommended during sessions

• Avoid use on the face in infants under 12 months of age

• Observe the skin after each session and report any changes to the doctor

Research on the use of RLT in skin diseases has been ongoing for years. Most studies concern adults or laboratory conditions — results cannot be directly transferred to children. Nevertheless, researchers observe:

• Changes in inflammatory marker levels (including IL-6, TNF-α) under laboratory conditions — according to the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology

• Potential impact on the perception of skin discomfort in some patient groups

• The need for further clinical studies involving children with AD

Red light therapy is not a recognized treatment for AD and does not replace therapy prescribed by a doctor.

• Session time: 5–10 minutes per body area

• Can be used in direct contact with skin

• Recommended for use on clean, dry skin

• Do not use on skin with open wounds or active infection

• Always under adult supervision

Check out Lumaflex devices available in Poland.

Red light therapy does not replace dermatological treatment. AD treatment in children should always be conducted under medical supervision and include:

• Regular emollients care

• Avoiding allergens and irritants

• Diet adjusted to the child's needs (in consultation with a doctor)

• Pharmacological treatment prescribed by a dermatologist or pediatrician

Also read: How to use red light therapy for eczema treatment at home.

Red light therapy is the subject of growing scientific interest in the context of skin diseases. If you are considering this method as a complement to your child's therapy, talk to a dermatologist or pediatrician who will assess its appropriateness in your specific case.

Information about Lumaflex devices: lumaflexpolska.com.