Softlaser and Psoriasis – What You Should Know?
If you live with psoriasis, you’ve probably heard of light therapy as a treatment option. It’s important to clarify: medical laser treatment for psoriasis and home softlaser therapy are not the same. In this article I explain the differences and what someone can realistically expect if they want to treat their psoriasis with a home softlaser device.
Important preliminary note: When people refer to laser treatment for psoriasis they usually mean the 308 nm excimer laser, which is completely different from home softlaser devices (660–808 nm). The excimer laser is a medical device used in dermatology clinics. There is on the effect of home softlaser devices for psoriasis.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune inflammatory skin condition. The immune system mistakenly attacks skin cells, causing accelerated cell proliferation. The result: thick, scaly, red plaques on the skin.
Most common locations:
- Elbows, knees
- Scalp
- Lower back, over the sacrum
- Nails
Psoriasis is not curable, but it can be controlled with proper treatment. Symptoms flare and improve periodically — this is the natural course of the disease.
What types of light therapy exist for psoriasis?
Light therapy is one of the oldest and most respected treatments for psoriasis. But it’s important to understand the different types:
1. Medical phototherapies (proven effectiveness)
| Type | Wavelength | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Excimer laser | 308 nm (UVB) | Targeted UVB, used in clinics. Considered a "gold standard" laser treatment for psoriasis. |
| Narrowband UVB | 311 nm (UVB) | Widely used with proven effectiveness. |
| PUVA | UVA + psoralen | Drug-induced photosensitization plus UVA light. |
2. Home softlaser (LLLT) – limited evidence
Home softlaser devices (660–808 nm, red and near-infrared range) operate at completely different wavelengths than medical phototherapies. There is very little scientific data on their effect on psoriasis.
In one preliminary study a combined 830 nm and 630 nm LED treatment was used for therapy-resistant psoriasis. Plaques improved after treatment without side effects — but this was a single, small study.
What can you realistically expect from a home softlaser?
Frankly: the use of home softlaser devices for psoriasis is unproven. If you’re considering this treatment, here’s what you should know:
Possible benefits (theoretical):
- Anti-inflammatory effect — psoriasis is an inflammatory condition
- Relief of itching
- Support for skin regeneration
- Painless, generally without side effects
Limitations:
- Insufficient scientific evidence of effectiveness
- Medical phototherapies (excimer, UVB) are much better documented
- Impractical for extensive psoriasis (many plaques = long treatment time)
- Does not replace medical treatment
“If you have psoriasis, the first step is always to see a dermatologist. A proper diagnosis and treatment plan are essential. Home softlaser should only be considered as an adjunct therapy.”
Who might consider trying it?
The use of a home softlaser for psoriasis is only appropriate as an adjunct therapy, and may be considered in the following cases:
- Mild, localized psoriasis (1–2 small plaques)
- Someone who already owns a softlaser device for other purposes (e.g., joint pain)
- Someone seeking a complementary method alongside medical treatment
- Someone who understands the limited evidence and has realistic expectations
How to use it (if you want to try)?
If, after considering the above, you want to try softlaser on a psoriatic area:
| Parameter | Suggested value |
|---|---|
| Wavelength | 660 nm (red) |
| Target area | Directly over the plaque |
| Energy | 4–6 J/cm² |
| Frequency | Daily or every other day |
| Evaluation | Assess after 4–6 weeks to see if there is meaningful improvement |
When NOT to use it?
- If you take photosensitizing medication
- On infected or secondarily infected plaques
- If you don’t know the diagnosis (it could be another skin disease!)
- For extensive psoriasis — it’s impractical and does not replace medical phototherapy
Detailed information on contraindications: Softlaser therapy contraindications
Alternatives: What to consider instead?
If you’re looking for phototherapy for psoriasis:
- Dermatology excimer laser treatment – this is the proven laser therapy for psoriasis
- Home UVB device – after medical consultation, devices specifically developed for psoriasis
- Natural sunlight – moderate sun exposure can help (but be careful to avoid burning!)
Other softlaser applications
Softlaser therapy can support the treatment of many other conditions and complaints. For a full overview of home applications read the Softlaser therapy at home – Treatable conditions article.
If you’re not familiar with the basics of softlaser therapy, start with the Comprehensive guide to softlaser therapy.
Summary – Quick overview
What is this article? An honest briefing on what to expect if you want to treat your psoriasis with a home softlaser.
Who is it for? People living with psoriasis who are seeking phototherapy options.
Main message: Medical laser treatment for psoriasis (excimer laser, 308 nm) and home softlaser (660–808 nm) are not the same. There is very little scientific evidence for the effectiveness of home softlaser on psoriasis. If you try it, use it only as an adjunct therapy and have realistic expectations.
Frequently asked questions:
Is the softlaser the same as the excimer laser?
No. The excimer laser is 308 nm UVB, while home softlasers are 660–808 nm red/near-infrared. They have completely different mechanisms of action.
Is softlaser effective for psoriasis?
There is not enough evidence. Medical phototherapies (excimer, UVB) are much better documented.
Is it worth trying?
At best as an adjunct therapy, if you already own a softlaser device and have mild, localized psoriasis. It does not replace medical treatment.
Sources
- Avci P, et al. (2013). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Semin Cutan Med Surg. PubMed: 24049929
- Almutawa F, et al. (2015). Lasers for the treatment of psoriasis: a systematic review. Expert Opin Drug Deliv. PubMed: 37079360
- Gattu S, et al. (2009). Excimer laser therapy for the treatment of psoriasis. Semin Cutan Med Surg.
The information in this article is for guidance only. Psoriasis is a chronic condition that requires medical care. Home therapeutic devices may complement medical treatment but do not replace specialist care. Always consult a dermatologist for psoriasis.
