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Does The Red Light Therapy Treat Hair Loss? Doctor’s Review
Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your thinning hair? Hair loss affects both men and women and can take a toll on their confidence and quality of life. While there are several hair loss treatments available, an innovative option gaining popularity is red light therapy. But is it too good to be true?
In this comprehensive article, we'll uncover the science behind red light therapy for hair loss and reveal its true potential. Get ready to discover the proven benefits, real-world experiences, and stunning before-and-after photos that showcase the effectiveness of this treatment.
Looking for an effective machine? Take a look at our list, where you will find a range of popular red light therapy devices for thicker hair growth.
What Is Red Light Therapy For Hair Growth?
Red light therapy (RLT) has become an increasingly popular therapeutic option for individuals struggling with hair loss, as it can effectively improve its growth and reduce thinning.
So, how does it work?
Generally, red light is biologically active, which means that it affects our bodies in the same way that sunlight affects plants. So, it impacts our cellular level, creating more energy. It boosts the production of elastin and collagen, thereby strengthening the hair follicles. In addition, the performance of increases in the treatment area with red light radiation, which significantly stimulates local blood circulation.
Light, penetrating into tissues to a depth of 10-30 mm, has a number of effects there:
- Anti-inflammatory;
- Stimulating various cellular processes (for example, production of
Cells are saturated with light energy, which has a positive effect on the condition of the skin and hairy structures.
Also, compared to conventional hair restoration procedures such as medications, hairpieces, and transplants, red light therapy stands out as a promising and safer alternative, as it lacks the associated adverse effects, risks, and complications.
Proven Red Light Therapy Benefits For Hair
As we have already learned, red light therapy has a positive effect on our body, stimulating cells with energy. Below are some proven benefits [1, 2] of RLT and how it can help you achieve fuller, healthier-looking hair.
Increases blood flow to the scalp
Red light therapy has been shown to increase blood circulation in the scalp. This makes it easier to transport more oxygen and vital nutrients to the follicles, thus stimulating hair growth. In addition, it helps to remove waste products and toxins from the scalp, which creates a more favorable environment for healthy hair growth.
Stimulates hair follicles
Red light therapy can stimulate hair follicles by increasing the production of — energy in cells. It is necessary for cellular metabolism and the stimulation of hair growth.
- Improves hair strength and elasticity
Red light therapy can boost the production of collagen and elastin in your scalp. These essential proteins help to fortify your hair follicles and make them more resilient.
- Reduces inflammation
Did you know that inflammation can damage your hair follicles and slow down hair growth? However, red light therapy can handle it. By doing so, it creates an ideal environment for hair growth to flourish — it can also help to address other hair concerns such as dandruff, dryness, and itchiness.
Before And After Results
If you're considering trying red light therapy for hair loss, you may be wondering what kind of results you can expect. Below you'll find before and after photos of individuals who have undergone this treatment.
Don't let hair loss get in the way of your confidence and self-esteem. Explore our list and find a red light therapy device that fits you best.
Customer Reviews
Red light therapy has gained popularity in recent years as a non-invasive and drug-free way to combat hair loss. However, some people may be hesitant to try this treatment out of fear that it may not work or could potentially harm their hair or scalp.
One way to alleviate these concerns is to read customer reviews. We have collected some of them so that you can familiarize yourself with the technology and understand how this method can be advantageous for you.
“Over the course of four months, I've made it a habit to use red light therapy every other day. To my great pleasure, my hair has grown back in most of the areas where it was thinning, and overall, it appears to be stronger and darker than before.
Additionally, the therapy has been very easy to incorporate into my daily routine and has not caused any discomfort or side effects.”
— Juan, CA
“I have been struggling with hair loss for some time, and I have tried various treatments without much success. However, since starting light therapy, I have noticed a marked reduction in hair shedding and an increase in density.
The therapy is painless and easy to use, and I have been able to incorporate it into my daily routine without any disruption. I simply sit under the light for a few minutes each day, and the therapy does the rest.
While I'm still early in the treatment process, I am hopeful that the results will continue to improve over time.”
— Kristy, AZ
“As a middle-aged woman with thinning blond hair, I have been experiencing hair loss for a few years. My problem intensified due to added stress in the last six months. I invested in a laser light helmet, which emits low-level laser therapy to stimulate hair growth.
After six weeks of consistent use, I am thrilled to report that I have noticed significant hair regrowth all over the top of my head, where my hair was thinning the most. The laser light helmet has exceeded my expectations, and I am excited to continue using it to see even more improvements.”
— Sherry, CO
Red Light Therapy For Hair Loss Treatment: Scientific Research
Hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, drug side effects, and health conditions.
Despite limited research on the effectiveness of RLT for hair loss, existing studies indicate that it may be a promising treatment option. Below we will look at some of them.
This study [3] aimed to determine the safety and efficacy of red light therapy in men with .
The research included 44 participants who were randomly assigned to either an active group that received 655 nm light or a placebo. In total, there were 60 treatment sessions lasting 25 minutes each. As a result, a 39% increase in hair was demonstrated compared to the placebo; no side effects or negative reactions were observed.
The next study [4] enrolled 40 individuals, including 20 men and 20 women with . These participants were randomly assigned to use either a laser helmet or a sham device for 24 weeks.
At the end of the treatment period, the laser helmet was found to be significantly more effective than the sham device in increasing hair density and diameter, achieving a 2.5 times greater improvement. On average, the hair density of the laser group was 10.21 cm², compared to only 3.95 cm² in the sham group. However, some individuals reported temporary hair loss and an itchy scalp as potential side effects.
This study [5] in question aimed to assess the effectiveness of a laser comb for improving hair density in individuals with typical baldness, and featured a larger sample size than previous studies.
Specifically, 146 men and 188 women were included, randomized to receive either a laser comb (one of three Hairmax models) or a simulator, and treated three times a week for 26 weeks across their entire scalp. Results showed that the treatment led to an average increase of 21.16 cm² in hair density, regardless of age or gender. It is a significant improvement and is considered a positive outcome for people seeking hair growth treatment. Moreover, no serious side effects were observed in any of the individuals treated with the laser comb.
Hair loss is a complex issue that can be caused by various factors. However, recent research suggests that red light therapy may be a promising treatment option. While these studies have shown significant improvements in hair density and diameter, it is important to note that some individuals may experience temporary hair loss and an itchy scalp.
How Long Does Red Light Therapy Take For Hair Loss Treatment?
Red light therapy can help treat hair loss, but the time it takes to see results can vary depending on many factors, such as the severity of the problem, individual body characteristics, and treatment regimen.
In most cases, it takes 12 to 26 weeks of regular treatments to see significant results from red light therapy for hair loss.
During this time, people typically have treatments once or twice a week, with each session lasting 10 to 30 minutes.
📌 Consistency is key when it comes to red light therapy for hair loss, so it's important to stick to a regular treatment schedule to see the best results.
Summary
Red light therapy is a promising treatment option for anyone experiencing hair loss. The science behind the therapy is sound, with studies showing that it can stimulate hair growth, increase blood flow to the scalp, and even improve hair thickness and density.
Of course, every person's experience with red light therapy will be different, and it's important to consult with a doctor before starting any new treatment. But with its non-invasive, natural approach, red light therapy is certainly worth considering if you're looking for a safe and effective way to combat hair loss.
Are you still hesitating to invest in light therapy? Check out a range of top devices that can suit any hair loss solution. Reviews included.
FAQ
🤔 Is red light therapy effective for all types of hair loss?
While red light therapy can be effective for many types of hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness), it may not be a suitable treatment for all cases. For example, individuals with total baldness or after chemotherapy, are unlikely to see significant results from red light therapy.
🦱 Can red light therapy be used for other hair-related issues besides hair loss?
Yes, red light therapy can be used to address other hair-related issues such as dandruff, dry scalp, or thinning hair.
🌚 Can red light therapy be used with other hair loss treatments?
Red light therapy can be used in combination with other hair loss treatments such as topical or oral medications, hair transplant surgery, or hair growth supplements. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before combining treatments.
🔍 Is red light therapy safe for hair loss?
Red light therapy doesn't use and is non-invasive, making it a low-risk option for those seeking treatment for hair loss. Additionally, it has been approved by the as a safe and effective treatment for , the most common form of hair loss.
References
- Kai Yang, Yulong Tang, Yanyun Ma, Qingmei Liu, Yan Huang, Yuting Zhang, Xiangguang Shi, Li Zhang, Yue Zhang, Ji’an Wang, Yifei Zhu, Wei Liu, Yimei Tan, Jinran Lin, and Wenyu Wucorresponding. Hair Growth Promoting Effects of 650 nm Red Light Stimulation on Human Hair Follicles and Study of Its Mechanisms via RNA Sequencing Transcriptome Analysis. — Ann Dermatol. 2021 Dec; 33(6): 553–561. Published online 2021 Nov 4. DOI: 10.5021/ad.2021.33.6.553.
- Ladan Afifi, Eric L Maranda, Mina Zarei, Gina M Delcanto, Leyre Falto-Aizpurua, Wouter P Kluijfhout, Joaquin J Jimenez. Low-level laser therapy as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia. — Lasers Surg Med. 2017 Jan;49(1):27-39. DOI: 10.1002/lsm.22512. Epub 2016 Apr 25.
- Raymond J Lanzafame, Raymond R Blanche, Adam B Bodian, Richard P Chiacchierini, Adolfo Fernandez-Obregon, Eric R Kazmirek. The growth of human scalp hair mediated by visible red light laser and LED sources in males. — Lasers Surg Med. 2013 Oct;45(8):487-95. DOI: 10.1002/lsm.22173.
- Poonkiat Suchonwanit, Noppanun Chalermroj, Saranya Khunkhet. Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in Thai men and women: a 24-week, randomized, double-blind, sham device-controlled trial. — Lasers Med Sci. 2019 Aug;34(6):1107-1114. DOI: 10.1007/s10103-018-02699-9. Epub 2018 Dec 19.
- Joaquin J Jimenez, Tongyu C Wikramanayake, Wilma Bergfeld, Maria Hordinsky, Janet G Hickman, Michael R Hamblin, Lawrence A Schachner. Efficacy and safety of a low-level laser device in the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss: a multicenter, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind study. — Am J Clin Dermatol. 2014 Apr;15(2):115-27. DOI: 10.1007/s40257-013-0060-6.
Jose Diego Mier
Dermatology Expert
Dr. Jose Diego Mier is a board-certified dermatologist with over a decade of experience in light therapy, dermatology, and skin care. As the founder of the Heliotherapy Research Institute, Dr. Mier has dedicated his career to the study and application of light-based therapies for various skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, eczema, and skin aging. He is renowned for his extensive research contributions, numerous publications in leading dermatology journals, and his work has been recognized with awards for excellence in research and innovation. He has been invited to speak at national and international conferences, sharing his expertise and insights on light therapy and skin care.
