Many people living with vitiligo are on a continual journey to find treatments that are safe, non-invasive and effective in supporting their skin’s health. 

Red light therapy has grown in popularity as a solution for skin rejuvenation – but could it offer something more for those with pigment disorders like vitiligo?

The short answer is: possibly. 

While research is still ongoing, there’s encouraging evidence that red and near-infrared light, particularly when delivered through pulsed LED devices like those from Maysama, may help reduce inflammation, stimulate melanocyte activity, and gently support repigmentation over time.

In this article, we break down what science says, how pulsed LED light works, and how antioxidant-rich skincare like Maysama’s Green Rooibos Pressed Serum can enhance these benefits.

Understanding Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an autoimmune skin condition that causes the body to mistakenly attack melanocytes – the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its colour. 

The result? Patches of depigmented skin that can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, hands, scalp, and even mucous membranes.

The condition isn’t contagious or physically harmful, but for many, it deeply affects confidence and quality of life. 

Factors such as oxidative stress, genetics, or even trauma to the skin can contribute to its onset or progression. Treatments vary widely in effectiveness and may include corticosteroids, topical immunomodulators, UV therapy, or even depigmentation for widespread vitiligo.

Yet, many people with vitiligo are now exploring gentler options that support the body’s natural processes – and red light therapy is among them.

How Red Light Therapy Works

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as photobiomodulation, uses visible red (around 630–660nm) and near-infrared (810–850nm) wavelengths to energise cells at a mitochondrial level. This light energy boosts the production of ATP – essentially the fuel your cells need to repair and regenerate.

When applied consistently, red light therapy is known to:

• Reduce oxidative stress
• Stimulate fibroblast and keratinocyte activity
• Calm local inflammation
• Increase microcirculation
• Support tissue repair

For skin concerns like ageing, acne, and even melasma, these effects have been widely reported. 

But in vitiligo, it’s the potential to regulate immune response and encourage melanocyte health that makes red light therapy especially promising.

Will Red Light Therapy Help with Vitiligo?

Red light therapy is becoming increasingly popular among those with vitiligo who are seeking non-invasive, supportive treatments.

While there’s no definitive cure for vitiligo, many people have started incorporating red light therapy into their skincare routines — and some report visible improvements in skin tone and texture over time.

What draws people to red light therapy is its ability to calm inflammation, stimulate cellular repair, and potentially encourage the activity of melanocytes — the cells responsible for producing pigment. 

These mechanisms are particularly relevant for vitiligo, which is thought to be driven in part by autoimmune inflammation and oxidative stress.

Though large-scale clinical trials are still limited, early-stage research and personal accounts suggest that regular, consistent use of red or near-infrared light may help:

• Slow the spread of depigmented patches
• Improve the appearance of the skin surrounding vitiligo lesions
• Support partial repigmentation in some cases

Users who see results often note that improvements happen gradually — usually after several weeks or months of daily sessions. Those with newer or more localised patches often respond more noticeably than individuals with long-standing, widespread vitiligo.

What Science Says

While red light therapy is widely recognised for its benefits in skin rejuvenation and wound healing, its application in vitiligo treatment is still under investigation. 

Current research suggests that RLT may stimulate melanocyte activity and promote repigmentation in vitiligo-affected areas, but more extensive clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy.

For instance, a clinical trial registered under NCT01787708 aimed to assess the efficacy of red light in treating vitiligo. 

The study proposed that visible red light could stimulate melanocyte migration and proliferation, potentially leading to repigmentation of vitiligo patches. However, the results of this trial have not been published, and its current status is unknown.

Another study explored the use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with red light for pigmentary disorders, including vitiligo. 

This prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the efficacy of LLLT in treating conditions like melasma, lichen planus pigmentosus, and vitiligo. 

While the study's outcomes are not yet available, it highlights the ongoing interest in RLT as a potential treatment for vitiligo.

It's important to note that while these studies indicate potential benefits, the scientific community has not reached a consensus on the effectiveness of RLT for vitiligo. 

Patients interested in exploring RLT should consult with a dermatologist to discuss its suitability and consider it as a complementary approach alongside established treatments.

Which Light Is Best for Vitiligo?

Not all light therapies are suitable for vitiligo. UVB (narrow-band) is often prescribed in dermatology clinics but comes with associated risks such as UV-induced ageing and skin cancer concerns.

In contrast, red and near-infrared light offer a non-UV, non-invasive alternative. These wavelengths penetrate the skin more deeply without triggering harmful side effects. 

For vitiligo, the best results appear to come from red light in the 630–660 nm range, and near-infrared around 850 nm.

But just as important as wavelength is the delivery method. This is where pulsed LED light – as used in Maysama’s LED masks – stands out.

Why Pulsed LED Light Makes a Difference

Maysama is one of the few skincare-led brands pioneering pulsed LED technology. Rather than emitting a constant beam, pulsed LED devices emit light in intervals. This allows for:

• Deeper skin penetration without generating excessive heat
• Greater cellular stimulation, boosting ATP production
• Reduced risk of irritation, which is essential for autoimmune conditions

Research has shown that pulsed light may improve cellular outcomes by preventing desensitisation and allowing tissues to recover between pulses. This is particularly important for those with sensitive or compromised skin.

When you’re managing a condition like vitiligo, every edge counts – and this delivery method could be a crucial factor in achieving better skin support outcomes.

Supporting Red Light Therapy with Antioxidant Skincare

For maximum results, red light therapy should be part of a holistic skin health routine – and this is where Maysama’s Green Rooibos Pressed Serum comes in.

This award-winning formula features:

• Aspalathin-enriched Green Rooibos Extract – a unique antioxidant that helps fight oxidative stress, which is heavily implicated in vitiligo progression.
• Polyphenols and flavonoids – which soothe inflammation and support healthy cell signalling.
• Clinically proven synergy with LED therapy – studies show the serum enhances ingredient penetration and improves antioxidant absorption post-treatment.

Using the serum before or immediately after red light sessions can help calm inflammation, protect cells from oxidative stress, and support the skin’s ability to heal itself – key goals for anyone living with vitiligo.

What Results Can You Expect?

While red light therapy isn’t a cure for vitiligo, it may help slow progression, reduce inflammation, and support partial repigmentation – especially when used early and consistently.

Many users report:

• Softer, calmer skin tone around affected areas
• Reduced flare-ups or patch expansion
• Gradual return of pigment in small patches

However, patience is key. Most clinical results are measured after 3–6 months of regular use. Red light therapy is a marathon, not a sprint – but it’s one that many find worthwhile, especially when combined with soothing skincare and mindful sun protection.

Safety and Best Practices

Red light therapy is generally considered very safe and well tolerated, even for long-term use. Still, a few tips will help ensure the best experience:

• Use a trusted device – Maysama’s CHIN2CHEST LED Light Therapy Device uses medical-grade LEDs and is designed for flexible use across the face, neck and chest.
• Stick to a schedule – Daily use (10–20 minutes) is ideal for consistent results.
• Prep your skin – Apply Maysama’s Green Rooibos Pressed Serum before your session to enhance benefits.
• Avoid sun exposure post-treatment – Newly energised skin may be more photosensitive.

As always, check in with your dermatologist before beginning any new therapy – especially if you’re already on prescription treatments or managing other autoimmune conditions.

Holistic Support: Lifestyle Tips to Complement Red Light Therapy

Supporting skin health from within can help enhance your results. A few simple lifestyle shifts may offer added benefit alongside red light therapy:

• Eat an antioxidant-rich diet: Focus on foods high in vitamin C, vitamin E, polyphenols, and zinc – such as berries, dark leafy greens, seeds, and rooibos tea.
• Manage stress proactively: Chronic stress can be a trigger for vitiligo flares. Mindfulness, yoga, journalling or deep breathing can all make a difference.
• Limit sun exposure: Depigmented skin is especially prone to sunburn. Always wear SPF 30+ on exposed areas.
• Be gentle with your skin: Use fragrance-free, alcohol-free products and avoid physical exfoliants or harsh treatments that can irritate or damage the skin barrier.
• Supplement wisely: Speak to your healthcare provider about supplementing with vitamin B12, folic acid, and copper – all shown to be helpful in some cases of vitiligo.
• Get quality sleep: Cellular repair occurs overnight, and red light therapy may also support circadian rhythm regulation when used in the evening.
  
  

These changes, paired with consistent LED use and nourishing skincare, can help create an environment where your skin can thrive.

Combining Red Light Therapy with Your Current Routine

Many people ask whether red light therapy can be combined with conventional treatments. The answer is yes – often very successfully.

For example:

• Those on topical corticosteroids may use red light therapy to reduce dependency and enhance recovery
• People undergoing UVB therapy may use red light in off-cycles to minimise inflammation
• Antioxidant-rich skincare like Maysama’s serum offers added protection between dermatology appointments

It’s all about building a routine that’s tailored to your skin and lifestyle.

Why Maysama Is a Natural Fit for Vitiligo Support

For anyone exploring red light therapy as part of their vitiligo management routine, choosing the right technology and skincare is essential. Maysama stands out by offering both: advanced LED devices and antioxidant-rich formulations designed to complement light-based treatments.

What makes Maysama especially suitable is its focus on pulsed LED light, which allows for deeper skin stimulation without overheating or irritation — something that’s especially valuable for sensitive or autoimmune-prone skin.

Pair that with the brand’s signature Green Rooibos Pressed Serum, packed with potent antioxidants like aspalathin, and you’ve got a solution that helps defend the skin against oxidative stress — one of the underlying drivers of vitiligo.

By combining scientific innovation with skin-nurturing ingredients, Maysama provides a thoughtful, well-rounded approach to skin health, making it a smart choice for those looking to support vitiligo naturally and effectively.

Final Thoughts on Red Light Therapy and Vitiligo

Red light therapy won’t be a miracle cure for vitiligo – but it may be a meaningful, supportive step in managing the condition. By calming inflammation, stimulating melanocyte function, and working alongside antioxidant skincare, red light may gently restore balance to your skin.

With pulsed LED light and the added power of Green Rooibos Extract, Maysama provides tools for those looking to invest in long-term skin health.

Ready to take the next step? Discover Maysama’s LED devices and skincare range today and start building a gentler, smarter routine for managing vitiligo.