Psoriasis is a skin condition that results in itchy, scaly patches that can be difficult to treat. It affects as many as 125 million people worldwide. Philips has announced a new wearable Health Tech product — the BlueControl — that helps relieve the symptoms of this chronic condition.
The device contains 40 high-intensity blue LEDs, which the patient straps onto the affected area. The light does not contain any ultraviolet (UV) emissions that are potentially harmful to the skin. In clinical trials, the device has been shown to reduce symptoms by an average of 50% for patients with mild to moderate cases, and with no negative side effects. The battery-powered device is expected to be available by prescription in the Netherlands, Germany, and the U.K. later this month.