A self-reported clinical trial investigates the efficacy of 1072 nm light as an anti-ageing agent.
BACKGROUND
Previous laboratory research has shown that human lymphocytes pre-irradiated with 1072 nm light are afforded some protection against subsequent ultraviolet light toxicity.


OBJECTIVE
To investigate the possibility that 1072 nm light can prevent or reverse skin ageing which itself is known to be accelerated by ultraviolet light.


METHODS
A randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled, self-reporting study was performed to assess the effect of one daily treatment episode for a period of between 6 and 8 weeks on wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes as well as the appearance of bags under the eyes.


RESULTS
Between 52% and 57% of volunteers were able to accurately identify an improvement in the fine lines and wrinkles of the treated areas of skin. Fewer volunteers, between 37% and 46%, observed an improvement in the bags under the treated eye or eyes, albeit with an emphatic statistical significance.


CONCLUSIONS
Regular application of a non-thermal quantity of 1072nm light around the eyes demonstrated efficacy as an anti-ageing agent.
Stirling
Richard J
RJ
Department of Ophthalmology, Darlington Memorial Hospital, County Durham, UK.
Haslam
James D
JD
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000328:Adult; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000379:methods*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012646:Self Administration; D012867:Skin / Q000528:radiation effects; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000473:pathology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D016896:Treatment Outcome