Photobiomodulation as an Adjuvant Approach in the Management of Seborrheic Psoriasis

Seborrheic psoriasis involving the scalp is a clinically significant form of psoriasis because even limited lesions may be associated with marked pruritus, scaling, cosmetic discomfort, and a substantial reduction in quality of life. Management of this localization is complicated by the anatomical features of the affected area, reduced convenience of topical treatment, and limitations associated with prolonged use of topical agents. In this context, photobiomodulation, a noninvasive low-intensity light-based intervention using red and near-infrared wavelengths outside the ultraviolet spectrum, has attracted increasing interest. The aim of this review was to analyze current data on the role of photobiomodulation in the comprehensive management of scalp involvement in psoriasis. The review was based on publications from 2020 to 2026 identified through Russian- and English-language search queries. Clinical guidelines, review articles, as well as experimental and clinical studies addressing photobiomodulation and other light-based methods in dermatology were included. The analysis showed that treatment response in this localization should be assessed not only with PASI, but also with the local Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index (PSSI) combined with patient-reported outcomes, including itch intensity measured by VAS/NRS and quality of life assessed by DLQI. Experimental evidence suggests that photobiomodulation may influence inflammatory signaling pathways, microcirculation, and keratinocyte hyperproliferation. However, the clinical evidence remains limited because of heterogeneity in irradiation parameters, differences in study design, and insufficient standardization of endpoints. Photobiomodulation may be considered a potential adjuvant option for localized forms of psoriasis, but its clinical role requires further validation in controlled studies.