Therapeutic Efficacy of Home-Use Photobiomodulation Devices: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Objective: Perform systematic literature review on photobiomodulation (PBM) devices used at home for nonesthetic applications. Background: Home-use PBM devices have been marketed for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. This is the first systematic literature review for nonesthetic applications. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted for PBM devices self-applied at home at least thrice a week. Two independent reviewers screened the articles and extracted the data. Treatment dosage appropriateness was compared to the World Association for Laser Therapy (WALT) recommendations. The efficacy was evaluated according to the relevant primary end-point for the specific indication. Results: Eleven studies were suitable. Devices were applied for a range of indications, including pain, cognitive dysfunction, wound healing, diabetic macular edema, and postprocedural side effects, and were mostly based on near-infrared, pulsed light-emitting diodes with dosages within WALT recommendations. Regarding efficacy, studies reported mostly positive results. Conclusions: Home-use PBM devices appear to mediate effective, safe treatments in a variety of conditions that require frequent applications. Conclusive evaluation of their efficacy requires additional, randomized controlled studies.

The Use of a Light-Emitting Diode Device for Neck Rejuvenation and Its Safety on Thyroid Glands

“…Although the efficacy and safety of many home-use LED devices have been examined in a wide range of applications, including anti-aging and reduction in facial wrinkles, most studies reported positive results without any adverse events [5,17]. Nevertheless, a recent case study reported retinal damage due to prolonged exposure to a blue light home-use LED face mask [17].…”

Low‐Intensity Photobiomodulation Decreases Neuropathic Pain in Paw Ischemia‐Reperfusion and Spared Nervus Ischiadicus Injury Experimental Models

“…In photobiomodulation, larger wavelengths are associated with greater penetration depths of the beam in the tissues, while the irradiance is essentially the energy emitted by the light beam per unit area . Growing evidence suggests that the effects of photobiomodulation particularly benefit neural stimulation.…”

Understanding COVID-19 Pandemic: Molecular Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Strategies. An Evidence-Based Review

“…Laser-PBMT Anti-inflammatory: attenuates cytokine storm at multiple levels and reduces the major inflammatory metabolites [189][190][191][192][193][194] Increases collagen and protein production, cell proliferation, normalized of impaired circulation, decreases edema and swelling, and improves quality and tensile strength of tissue [189][190][191][192][193][194] PBMT reduces pulmonary microvascular leakage, IL-1β, IL-6, and intracellular ROS. On this note, PBMT as a single or adjunct treatment modality can modulate the cytokine storm and ARDS via its anti-inflammatory action [196][197][198][199] Reduces inflammation and promotes lung healing 199,205,206 and minimizes the scarring process [189][190][191][192][193][194] Has an immunomodulator effect in improving immune functional and modulating the cellular and molecular activities of the cytokine storm of SARS-CoV-2 200,203,206 It is a safe, effective, low-cost modality without any side effects that may be combined with conventional treatment of ARDS [196][197][198][199] Minimizes the length of time needed on a ventilator, enhance the healing process, and shorten recovery time in COVID-19 patients 199,200 PBMT as a single or adjunct treatment modality can modulate the cytokine storm and ARDS via its anti-inflammatory action [196][197][198]…”

“…187,188 It is welldocumented in the scientific literature that phototherapy presents a promising noninvasive treatment modality in tissue healing and regeneration, as well in pain management. [189][190][191][192][193][194] The Rationale for Use of PBMT (Laser and LEDs) in COVID-19…”