Physician, Light Medicine / Photobiologist
Wismar University of Applied Sciences (Germany)
Practitioner in Heidelberg, Germany
About Dr. Wunsch
Dr. Alexander Wunsch is a German physician and internationally recognized expert in photobiology and light medicine. Based in Heidelberg, Germany, he explores the intricate relationship between light exposure and human physiology, with a particular focus on photo biomodulation, circadian biology, and the therapeutic use of light for preventive and regenerative medicine.
His multidisciplinary work bridges clinical practice, biophysics, and chronobiology, examining how different wavelengths, ultraviolet (UV), visible, and near-infrared (NIR), influence cellular repair mechanisms, mitochondrial function, and hormonal regulation. Dr. Wunsch also advocates for a deeper understanding of natural sunlight as a biological regulator, while highlighting the health risks of poorly designed artificial lighting systems.
He frequently lectures internationally, providing scientific insight into the biological importance of full-spectrum light, non-visual photoreception, and human adaptation to modern lighting environments.
Key Research Contributions
- Photo biomodulation and Skin Health:
Dr. Wunsch led one of the most cited clinical studies on red and near-infrared light therapy for skin rejuvenation. His research demonstrated that low-level light exposure significantly improves collagen density, skin elasticity, and overall dermal health without adverse effects. - Light and Circadian Regulation:
His research explores the biological effects of different light spectra on circadian rhythm, hormonal balance, and mitochondrial signaling. He has emphasized the physiological necessity of full-spectrum light for optimal human health and performance. - Public Health and Sunlight Education:
Dr. Wunsch is an advocate for sunlight awareness as a cornerstone of preventive medicine, promoting responsible exposure for vitamin D production and metabolic regulation. He regularly collaborates with health education initiatives and scientific organizations to advance the study of photobiology in public health.
Awards and Recognition
- Professional Lighting Design Recognition Award, 2015
Dr. Wunsch was acknowledged with the Professional Lighting Design Recognition Award in 2015 for his contributions to lighting design and photobiological awareness. - Featured Speaker at Light Symposium Wismar, 2008
In November 2008, he delivered a keynote (“The Past, Present and Future of Light in Medicine”) at the Light Symposium in Wismar, Germany, where his expertise in holistic photobiology was highlighted.
Top Publications
- Wunsch, A., & Matuschka, K. (2014).
A controlled trial to determine the efficacy of red and near-infrared light treatment in patient satisfaction, reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, skin roughness, and intradermal collagen density increase.
Photomedicine and Laser Surgery, 32(2), 93–100. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3926176/ - Wunsch, A. (2017).
Light: A Forgotten Nutrient.
Presented at the International Day of Light Symposium, emphasizing the systemic role of natural sunlight in health and disease prevention. https://www.lightcoloursound.org/event/idl-2018/presenter/alexander-wunsch - Wunsch, A. (2019).
Healthy Lighting Environments: Integrating Natural and Artificial Light for Human Well-Being.
Published as part of an expert panel report on photobiological safety and light hygiene. https://raoptics.com/blogs/news/interview-with-dr-alexander-wunsch-on-international-day-of-light
