Eczema affects millions
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is one of the most prevalent skin conditions globally and can affect individuals of all ages. The National Eczema Association estimates that as many as 31 million Americans currently have some form of eczema.
According to the Global Atopic Dermatitis Atlas, 43 million of the 223 million people living with the condition are aged between 1 and 4. Eczema has become even more common in the last few decades. Urbanization, greater exposure to environmental toxins, and even changing diets are partially responsible for this increase.
For instance, eczema is more common in urban than rural areas, potentially due to higher rates of exposure to synthetic textiles, air pollution, and allergenic chemicals in urban environments.
Eczema can reduce the quality of life of patients, especially in more severe cases. People with eczema experience persistent itching, discomfort, and flare-ups that interfere with daily activities, work performance, and overall mental health.
What are the symptoms of eczema? What factors can affect it?
The symptoms of eczema may come and go but typically appear as dry, itchy patches of skin that are small and inflamed (usually red or darker than the surrounding skin).
For some, the symptoms are subtle and mild; for others, these can turn into much greater flare-ups that crack and ooze. The constant itching, especially at night, can disturb sleep and leave people fatigued.
The skin lesions can be detrimental to self-image and consequently lead to emotional problems, especially in children and teens if left untreated.
Eczema is multifactorial, meaning it has many potential triggers, and different people may experience breakouts due to completely different reasons.
Some of the most common reasons for eczema flair-ups are:
- Seasons:Eczema is often worse during cold, dry weather, as dry air can cause the skin to lose moisture.
- Diet: Some foods, particularly those more prone to inducing allergic reactions, could trigger or aggravate eczema flare-ups. Dairy, eggs, nuts, andseafood are among the most common ones.
- Stress: Psychological components like stress and anxiety arescientifically connected to eczema outbreaks. When your body responds to stress, its inflammatory response may trigger a flare-up.
- Environmental Triggers: Common substances, including soaps, laundry detergents,cigarette smoke, and pollution can worsen eczema. Certain fabrics, such as wool or some synthetic materials, can also worsen eczema symptoms.
What is red light therapy?
Red light therapy uses visible red and near-infrared red light sources between 660 and 850 nm wavelengths to stimulate biological benefits. High-tech LEDs use RLT to penetrate 10–15 mm below the surface of human skin. It irradiates the body from within by injecting energy into the cells and generating a series of biochemical reactions that improve overall health.
How does red light therapy impact the management of eczema?
Due to its anti-inflammatory qualities and healing capabilities at the cellular level, red light therapy is an innovative eczema treatment.
Here is how red light therapy works:
- Reduces Inflammation:Red light helps reduce inflammation, a hallmark of eczema. Studies show that it modulates the inflammatory markers in the skin to reduce proinflammatory cytokines. Over time, it reduces flare-ups, soothing the skin and offering relief.
- Improves Tissue Healing: Red light therapyincreases ATP generation in the skin cells, resulting in faster healing of tissues. This increase in cellular metabolism is beneficial for skin repair during eczema flare-ups.
- Treats Itching and Swelling:Red light therapy has been found to treat itching and swelling symptoms. It promotes microcirculation and reduces fluid buildup — both of which help reduce swelling. Reduced inflammation and swelling break the itch-scratch cycle and minimizes further skin damage.
Red light therapy is a multi-faceted approach that deals with immediate discomfort and improves skin conditions in the long term.
What does the scientific literature say?
Here are some studies that support the use of red light therapy in managing eczema:
- A study published inPhotodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine identified the integrated therapy of low-dose LED light and water baths as an effective method for reducing the chronic inflammatory signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis in NC/Nga mice. The treatment enhanced the skin barrier and minimized inflammatory markers, indicating a potential therapeutic strategy for eczema.
- Another study published in theJournal of Dermatological Science showed that simultaneous treatment of NC/Nga mice with 850nm LED phototherapy and low-dose tacrolimus markedly alleviated atopic dermatitis.
How do you use the Lifezoom red light therapy wand for eczema treatment?
The Lifezoom Red Light Therapy Wand is an ultra-portable plug-and-play device that uses red light therapy to target small areas. This makes it ideal for treating small patches of eczema.
Here’s how you can use it:
- Select Pattern: The Lifezoom pen allows you to adjust the wavelength of light. To treat eczema, the wavelength can be set to 470nm. Light at this wavelength can penetrate the skin to the best depth to reduce inflammation and itching and repair skin cells.
- Session time: It’s recommended to use the red light wandfor 3 to 5 minutes per eczema patch to begin with. As your skin adjusts to the treatment, you can extend the duration to 10 minutes, dividing it into two 5-minute sessions per area.
- Frequency of usage: For best results, start with one session a day for the first week. As your skin gets used to the treatment, you can opt for two daily sessions, with a gap of 8 to 12 hours in between.
- Maintenance:After symptoms are under control, reduce the treatment to 3 times a week to maintain healthy skin and decrease symptoms
Always consult your dermatologist to ensure this treatment meets your specific skin needs to get the maximum benefit.
Conclusion
Eczema affects millions globally and is increasing in prevalence due to environmental factors, urbanization, and lifestyle changes. This persistent condition impacts quality of life, underscoring the importance of effective management options like red light therapy.
Devices such as Lifezoom's Red Light Therapy Wand offer promising relief. They can help reduce inflammation and itching, benefiting eczema patients over time.
Consult your dermatologist to tailor a treatment plan that maximizes results and supports long-term skin health.
References
- Shirinde, J., Wichmann, J., & Voyi, K. (2015). Environmental tobacco smoke and the risk of eczema symptoms among school children in South Africa: a cross-sectional study. BMJ open, 5(8), e008234. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2015-008234
- Tafur, J., & Mills, P. J. (2008). Low-intensity light therapy: exploring the role of redox mechanisms. Photomedicine and laser surgery, 26(4), 323–328. https://doi.org/10.1089/pho.2007.2184
- Kim, C. H., Cheong, K. A., Lim, W. S., Park, H. M., & Lee, A. Y. (2016). Effects of low-dose light-emitting-diode therapy in combination with water bath for atopic dermatitis in NC/Nga mice. Photodermatology, photoimmunology & photomedicine, 32(1), 34–43. https://doi.org/10.1111/phpp.12220
- Kim, C. H., Cheong, K. A., & Lee, A. Y. (2013). 850nm light-emitting-diode phototherapy plus low-dose tacrolimus (FK-506) as combination therapy in the treatment of Dermatophagoides farinae-induced atopic dermatitis-like skin lesions in NC/Nga mice. Journal of dermatological science, 72(2), 142–148. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdermsci.2013.06.002
