Red and near-infrared photobiomodulation for burn, hypertrophic, and post-surgical scars: a scoping review of clinical trials.

PURPOSE: Scars may lead to pain, pruritus, functional impairment, and cosmetic concern despite standard therapies. Photobiomodulation (PBM) delivered by light-emitting-diode (LED) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has emerged as a non-invasive option to modulate scar remodeling. However, available data derives from small, heterogenous studies. This scoping review evaluates whether red and near-infrared PBM improves clinical outcomes in burn, hypertrophic, and post-surgical scars and summarizes treatment parameters used.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and MEDLINE were searched through October 2025 for randomized or prospective clinical studies in which red (633-670nm) or near-infrared (808-830nm) LED or LLLT was used as monotherapy or where its contribution could be independently assessed. Seven studies (n=297) met inclusion criteria. Data on scar type, wavelength, fluence, regimen, outcomes, and adverse events were extracted.

RESULTS

Red LED improved VSS scores, pigmentation, and thickness in pediatric and adult burn scars, with greater benefits observed in scars < 12 months. In post-surgical scars, red LED reduced induration and improved POSAS scores, with a biphasic dose-response favoring moderate fluence levels. Near-infrared PBM improved color and elasticity in hypertrophic scars and reduced thickness, malleability, pain, and pruritus following hernia repair, thyroidectomy, and blepharoplasty. Across studies, PBM was well tolerated; transient erythema and warmth were most common, with rare blistering at higher fluences.

CONCLUSION

Red and near-infrared PBM appears to be a safe, non-invasive adjunct to standard scar management, particularly for early burn and post-operative scars. Larger controlled trials are needed to define optimal wavelength, fluence, timing, and treatment parameters across diverse scar phenotypes and skin phototypes.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.