Introduction to Hair Loss
More than 80% of men and almost half of women in the US will experience some form of hair loss during their lifetime. Thousands of companies offer expensive products that promise to restore hair, but it’s not always clear whether they really work. When it comes to newer at-home hair restoration treatments, experts say the answer is more complicated.
Does Red Light Therapy Work for Hair Loss?
Red light therapy is a scientifically proven technology whose effectiveness has been proven in relevant studies. In a study, dermatologists found that low-level laser red light therapy was as effective at regrowing hair as minoxidil, a drug commonly used to treat pattern hair loss. Another study found that women with androgenetic alopecia experienced a 37% increase in hair count after using the treatment compared to a placebo group.
How Does Red Light Therapy Support Hair Growth?
Red light therapy works through a process known as photobiomodulation. The red light stimulates the mitochondria in the cells of the hair follicles to produce more energy molecules, which can reactivate dormant follicles and extend the growth phase of the hair cycle. This results in more effective and faster hair growth in each hair follicle. Additionally, LED reduces inflammation and stimulates blood circulation at the level of the scalp and hair follicles to further support a healthier scalp and improved hair growth.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Using Red Light Therapy for Hair Loss?
As far as side effects go, red light therapy is generally very safe. You may feel a slight warming or tingling sensation on your scalp, but that’s about it. The bigger concern is the cost and time required to maintain results. Good devices are expensive, and if you stop using them, all the benefits gained can be lost. It is also not a stand-alone cure; for most people, it works best as part of a comprehensive plan that may include topical or oral medications.
What is Most Important When Choosing a Red Light Device?
The two most important things are wavelength and power density. You want a device that uses clinically studied wavelengths, typically around 650 nanometers, and delivers sufficient energy to the scalp. The number of bulbs is another important factor. Look for devices with a high number of bulbs, as they provide more robust treatment with a shorter treatment time.
Is FDA Approval Important for Red Light Therapy Devices?
FDA approval is important for red light therapy devices. It ensures the device meets certain safety and manufacturing standards. While it doesn’t guarantee results, it’s a good indicator of the device’s quality. Be wary of cheap LED devices, as they may not deliver the correct wavelength or performance and could be a complete waste of money.
How Can You Increase the Effectiveness of Your Red Light Device?
To further increase the effectiveness of red light hair and scalp treatment, there are certain scalp serums that contain growth factors and other active ingredients that can further improve results. Look for products that contain plenty of follicle-stimulating growth factors and scalp-supporting peptides, as well as active ingredients like PDRN, which promotes cell renewal and regeneration, and nanofluorosomes, which provide both anti-inflammatory and anti-androgenic benefits.
Conclusion
Red light therapy can be a helpful tool for hair loss, but it’s not a miracle cure. It can be a good option if you can’t take hair loss medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you want to add something non-invasive to your routine. However, the price can be high, protocols vary widely, and compliance is everything – and this is where most patients fail. Ultimately, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific hair loss needs.
