Philips' device treats psoriasis with blue light therapy

Philips has launched its BlueControl 2.0. This device is the second generation of Philips’ wearable medical device that uses UV-free blue LED light to control symptoms of mild to moderate cases of plaque psoriasis

Psoriasis affects around 125 million people worldwide of which 80% suffer from psoriasis vulgaris (plaque psoriasis). This condition is caused by the overly rapid division of skin cells accompanied by painful inflammation.

Philips BlueControl is a phototherapy device that uses blue light to address plaque psoriasis symptoms by slowing the accelerated production of skin cells associated with the condition and allowing skin to renew itself properly.

The device is worn on areas affected by the condition and the blue LED light therapy is focused through tailored light settings.

Philips conducted two clinical trials in partnership with the University Hospital of Aachen to investigate the efficacy and safety of Philips BlueControl to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis vulgaris.

In the second long-term trial patients were treated for twelve weeks and 84% of patients showed an improvement in plaque symptoms compared to the beginning of the trial. In some cases complete clearance of the plaque was observed.