-By Thaw Htoo, Hair Technician
There are many modalities available to help stimulate hair growth, both surgical and non-surgical, including medication, hair transplant surgery, and platelet-rich plasma. Another non-surgical option is the use of various at-home laser therapies.
What is Laser Hair Growth?
Laser hair growth is light therapy that uses low-level lasers to stimulate the scalp and the hair follicles, which in turn helps reduce hair loss and promote hair growth. Also referred to as red light therapy and cold laser therapy, these options irradiate protons into scalp tissues. (Healthline)
What Can Low-Level Laser Therapy Do?
Low-level laser therapy can:
- prolong the growth phase (called anagen) of the hair cycle
- stimulate hair follicles in the resting phase (or telogen) to transition to the growth phase
- slow down the transition of hair follicles to the regression phase (called catagen)
Clinical studies have shown:
- an increase of blood supply to the scalp
- fuller, shinier, softer, thicker hair
- increased hair elasticity and strength
- a reduction of damage to hair caused by chemical services
- laser treatments to be beneficial for post-operative hair transplant patients by helping newly transplanted hair thrive and shortening the healing process
Currently, the FDA clears laser devices to treat male and female pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia). Most studies have found they are most effective when used in combination with certain topical hair treatment products such as Finasteride and related medications classified as 5-alpha reductase inhibitors.
Pros and Cons of Laser Therapy
| Pros | Cons |
| -Non-invasive -Painless -No side effects -Increased hair strength and growth | -Time consuming -Expensive -May only work for some people -Can interact with certain medication -Multiple treatments needed |
Recommended 6 Best Laser Treatment Products
According to an article by Medical News Today, these are the six best home-use laser treatment options. Criteria used to choose these products included FDA clearance, reputation, and warranties.
| Hairmax PowerFlex Laser Cap 272 | iRestore Essential | Hairmax Ultimate 12 LaserComb | CapillusOne | Illumiflow 272 Pro Laser Cap | |
| Pros *Based on reviews | Noticed less hair shedding when used alongside other treatments such as minoxidil. | Noticed new hair growth after using for several weeks, but many users also use other treatments such as hair growth shampoo and vitamins. | Noticed hair growth around sides of the head after several months, but some users also use other therapies. | Noticed an increase in hair thickness. Experienced less hair shedding when combing their hair. | Noticed an increase in hair thickness and strength. Rechargeable battery pack. |
| Cons *Based on reviews | Battery did not last long. Hat did not fit head well. | Uncomfortable to wear. Still noticing hair loss. | Noticed no growth. Some noticed even more hair loss. | Did not notice any difference in hair. Some noticed increased hair loss. | No reviews below 5-stars shown. |
| Warranty | 2 Years | 1 Year | 2 Years | 1 Year | 5 Years |
Additional Laser Treatments
Another laser treatment that is available is KeraLase, which utilizes the synergy of Lutronic’s LaseMD Ultra™ and KeraFactor serum. This in an in-office laser treatment offered for both men and women, and it is available at Q the Medical Spa.
For more information about treatment options for your thinning hair or loss, call our office at 585.244.0323 or contact us online.
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