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BIOHACKING ECZEMA WITH RED LIGHT THERAPY: A MOM'S GUIDE TO GLOWING SKIN

ANA-MARIA TEMPLE

2025

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If you’ve spent any time Googling “eczema cures,” you’ve probably seen everything from oatmeal baths to moon dust. But what if I told you there’s a high-tech way to soothe your child’s itchy, inflamed skin that doesn’t involve smearing food on their body or sacrificing sleep to an endless cycle of creams and ointments? Enter red light therapy—the sci-fi-esque, glow-inducing biohack you never knew you needed.


Let’s dive into why this therapy is more than just an Instagram-worthy glow session and how it might help your little one’s skin feel better than ever.


What Is Red Light Therapy?


Red light therapy (RLT) is like a magic wand for your cells. Using low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, it penetrates deep into the skin to stimulate cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. Think of it as a warm hug for your cells—but high-tech.


Red light therapy has been used for years to treat everything from acne to wrinkles, but it’s gaining traction in the eczema world because of its ability to calm inflammation, reduce itchiness, and repair the skin barrier—all things we moms dream about at night (besides eight hours of uninterrupted sleep).

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The Science Behind Red Light Therapy and Eczema


While there’s still plenty of research to be done, early studies on red light therapy for eczema are promising. Here are three you should know about:

  1. Inflammation Reduction: A 1993 study by Morita H, Kohno J, et al., published in Laser Therapy, explored the use of an 830 nm diode laser for atopic dermatitis. The study demonstrated significant reductions in itching and inflammation, showcasing the potential of red light therapy for managing eczema symptoms. Translation? Less redness, less itching, and fewer tears—for both your kid and you.

  2. Skin Barrier Repair: Research in Journal of American Academy of Dermatology (2019) showed that RLT can enhance collagen production and support the repair of the skin barrier. Since eczema-prone skin often has a compromised barrier, this could be a game-changer.

  3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: A study published in Mediators of Inflammation (2015) demonstrated that low-level laser therapy (including red light) reduces oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in the skin. These effects are particularly beneficial for managing chronic inflammatory conditions like eczema, where reducing inflammation is key to improving skin health.

Red Ligh Therapy

Dr. Ana-Maria Temple

What to Look for in a Red Light Therapy Device


Before you run out and buy the first glowing gadget you see on Amazon, let’s chat about what actually matters when choosing a red light therapy device. Because not all light panels are created equal, my friend.

  1. Wavelength Matters: Look for a device that offers wavelengths between 630-850 nanometers. This range has been shown to penetrate the skin effectively and trigger the cellular responses you’re after.

  2. Power Density: Check the device’s power output, measured in milliwatts per square centimeter (mW/cm²). You’re aiming for at least 20-40 mW/cm² for effective results without turning your child’s room into a tanning bed.

  3. Size and Coverage: If you’re treating a child’s eczema, a handheld device might work for small patches, but for larger areas, you’ll want a panel that can cover more ground. Bonus points if it’s portable because, let’s face it, you’ll probably be chasing your toddler around with it.

  4. Safety First: Make sure the device is FDA-cleared and has protective measures like a built-in timer or automatic shut-off. You’re biohacking, not barbequing.

  5. Ease of Use: Choose something user-friendly. Between soccer practice and school lunches, you don’t have time to decipher a complicated manual.

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How to Use Red Light Therapy for Eczema


Once you’ve picked the perfect device, here’s how to use it effectively:

  1. Start Slow: Begin with short sessions (see my age based guidelines below) a few times a week. Increase the duration gradually as your child’s skin adjusts.

  2. Consistency is Key: Like anything in life (including potty training and hiding veggies in mac and cheese), persistence pays off. Stick with it for at least 4-8 weeks to see results.

  3. Hydrate and Protect: Use a gentle, eczema-friendly moisturizer after sessions to lock in hydration and support the healing process.

  4. Monitor Progress: Keep a diary of flare-ups and improvements. If you’re not seeing changes or if symptoms worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Eczema-friendly Moisturizer

Dr. Ana-Maria Temple

Dr Temple’s Red Light Therapy Protocol for Eczema


Babies 0- 23 months:

Use red light therapy for 2 minutes three times a week. Place device at least 6 inches away and place over the affected area.  Manually turn off the device, it automatically turns off at 12 minutes.

Kids >24 months- 4 years old:

Use red light therapy for 5 minutes three times a week. Place device 6 inches away and place over affected area. Manually turn off the device, it automatically turns off at 12 minutes.

Kids 5-12yrs old:

Use red light therapy for 12 minutes three times a week. Place device 6 inches away and place over affected area. It will turn off automatically at 12 minutes.

Kids 12yrs +:

Use red light therapy for 12 minutes six times a week. Place device 6 inches away and place over affected area. It will turn off automatically at 12 minutes.


The Bottom Line


Red light therapy might not be the cure-all we’re all desperately Googling for, but it’s a promising tool in the eczema-fighting arsenal. With the right device and a little patience, you could help your child’s skin feel better, look healthier, and most importantly—stop itching.


Remember, you’re not just a mom. You’re a biohacking warrior armed with wavelengths, science, and a determination to raise healthy kids in an unhealthy world. Now go forth and glow!

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