Half the time, same effect? new study tests shorter light therapy for scalp lesions

NCT ID NCT07290959

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a 1-hour indoor light treatment works as well as the standard 2-hour version for actinic keratosis (scaly sun-damaged spots) on the scalp. Fifty-five adults with multiple lesions received both durations on different sides of their scalp. Researchers measured how many spots cleared up after 3 and 6 months, along with pain and skin reactions.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) cream with white LED light
What this could lead to
If successful, this could make indoor daylight PDT more convenient by halving the treatment time, potentially improving patient comfort and clinic efficiency.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed study with only 55 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Shorter exposure might be less effective for some lesions, and individual responses can vary.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Ospedale San Salvatore

    L’Aquila, 67100, Italy

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