Green light therapy, with wavelengths typically ranging from 510 to 530 nanometers, has become an emerging tool in cosmetic dermatology. Unlike red or blue light, which are more commonly used for anti-aging and acne treatment respectively, green light is primarily used for addressing hyperpigmentation, calming irritated skin, and evening out skin tone. Its action on melanocytes and pigment production pathways provides a gentle, non-invasive way to improve skin clarity and radiance.
This article explores what green light therapy does for the skin and delves into the scientific mechanisms explaining how it slows tyrosinase activity—the key enzyme involved in melanin production.

What Green Light Can Do for the Skin

Green light therapy is most widely recognized for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone. It targets melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells, to suppress the formation of excess melanin. This makes it particularly useful in treating sunspots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). Over time, users report brighter, clearer, and more radiant skin.

In addition to its pigmentation benefits, green light can help calm irritated or sensitive skin. It is known to reduce facial redness, especially when caused by environmental stress or cosmetic treatments, and may also contribute to reducing visible capillaries.

Though not typically used to treat acne or wrinkles, green light complements other wavelengths by enhancing overall skin tone and aiding in recovery. It is often used in combination with red or yellow light to provide a more holistic skincare routine.

How Green Light Reduce Melanin

Green light slows tyrosinase activity primarily through a process called photobiomodulation. Tyrosinase is the enzyme responsible for converting tyrosine into melanin, and it plays a central role in skin pigmentation.
When green light penetrates the epidermis and upper dermis, it interacts with melanocytes and alters their behavior—without causing damage.

1. Inhibiting the MITF Pathway

One key mechanism involves modulation of the MITF (Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor) pathway. MITF is a protein that regulates the expression of the TYR gene, which encodes tyrosinase.

Green light has been shown to downregulate MITF, thereby reducing both the production and activity of tyrosinase. This leads to a gradual decrease in melanin synthesis, contributing to the fading of dark spots and a more even complexion.

2. Influencing Mitochondrial and Oxidative Balance

Additionally, green light influences mitochondrial activity and the skin's cellular redox state. It subtly enhances ATP production and alters reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, creating an intracellular environment that suppresses excessive pigment formation.

While this effect is less intense than red or near-infrared light, it is still biologically relevant. Crucially, green light achieves this without inducing inflammation, tissue damage, or rebound pigmentation.

Scientific Support

Several studies have confirmed the pigment-regulating and soothing effects of green light therapy.

Mima et al. (2025)

In a combined cellular and human clinical study, Mima and colleagues examined the inhibitory effects of 505 nm green LED light on melanin synthesis.

Key findings included:

In cell cultures, green LED light significantly reduced melanin synthesis and tyrosinase activity

Gene expression of MITF, TYR, and TYRP1 was markedly downregulated

In a human intervention study, daily facial exposure to green light over several weeks led to a notable reduction in facial pigmentation and improved skin tone uniformity

No adverse effects were observed, confirming its safety and tolerability

This study offers both molecular and clinical evidence for the efficacy of green light therapy in reducing hyperpigmentation and improving skin brightness.

Barolet et al. (2009)

Barolet and colleagues discussed the use of green and yellow light in calming skin post-procedure and balancing skin tone.
They emphasized:

Improvement in vascular tone

Reduction in irritation and inflammation

Benefits for patients with sensitive or post-laser skin

Barolet D. Light-emitting diode therapy in the clinical practice of dermatology. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2009;28(3):203–14.

Summary and Best Uses

Green light therapy offers a unique approach to pigmentation correction, brightening, and post-procedure care. By modulating key enzymes and pathways in melanin production—particularly tyrosinase via MITF suppression—it provides a gentle and effective way to reduce dark spots and even skin tone.

It is especially beneficial for:

Melasma

Sunspots and age spots

Post-acne pigmentation

Skin calming after aggressive treatments

✅ Best Practices:

Frequency: 3–5 times per week

Duration: 10–20 minutes per session

Best used on clean skin

Can be combined with vitamin C, niacinamide, or tranexamic acid for added effect

Works well in synergy with red or yellow light 

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Conclusion

Green light therapy is a gentle, non-invasive, and scientifically backed approach to improve skin tone and clarity. It works not by bleaching the skin or causing trauma, but by naturally rebalancing the skin’s pigment production at the cellular level. With consistent use and proper pairing with topical treatments, green light therapy can be a powerful addition to any modern skincare routine.

References:

Mima Y, Yamada T, Omatsu J, Yamashita T, Suzuki S, Takechi T, Ichikawa M, Yamazaki K, Sato S, Yoshizaki A. Inhibitory Effect of 505 nm Green Light Emitting Diode on Melanin Synthesis in Cellular Experiments and a Human Intervention Study. Acta Derm Venereol. 2025 May 15;105:adv43441. doi: 10.2340/actadv.v105.43441. PMID: 40375536; PMCID: PMC12105538.

Barolet D. Light-emitting diode therapy in the clinical practice of dermatology. Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2009;28(3):203–14.