PEMF Treatment – Everything You Need to Know

What is PEMF treatment?

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy uses low-frequency electromagnetic fields to encourage healing in tissues. PEMF treatment is used to help manage pain, stimulate healing and promote hair growth. The precise pulses of low-level electromagnetic fields have been shown to have a regenerative effect on the body’s cells. 

PEMF therapy has been proven to help in the treatment of hair thinning and hair shedding in many forms of hair loss making it a highly versatile treatment. PEMF stimulates the flow of blood to the head to promote cellular activity in the hair follicles to encourage regrowth. 

We’ll break down all aspects of PEMF therapy but check out the FAQs below if you have any specific questions. Similarly, if you’re looking to compare PEMF therapy to other hair loss treatments take a look at how it differentiates from Laser Therapy or PRP Treatment.

Highlights

• PEMF prolongs the growth phase of the hair growth cycle to prevent hair shedding
• It stimulates the flow of blood to the scalp to promote hair regrowth
• Can be used by a wide variety of people suffering from hair loss

Core Sections

PEMF therapy effectiveness

Results can vary in patients and can depend on the hair growth cycle of the individual. After around 3-4 months of use, you can expect to see improvements like boosted hair growth and a reduction in hair shedding according to studies. The effects of long-term use are also promising with studies showing hair regrowth continuing even after 16 months of treatment. 

Success rates in studies have been quite high in stopping hair loss in almost all users from pattern baldness to chemotherapy-related hair loss. One study saw over 96% of patients did not experience any further hair loss after 6 months of PEMF therapy. 

In chemotherapy-related hair loss in particular, 92% of participants in one study were able to prevent hair loss when it was used before, during, and after chemotherapy. PEMF therapy is less researched compared to low-level light therapy (LLLT) and is not certified by medical boards like the FDA. 

PEMF therapy cost

PEMF treatments can be done at home or in a medical clinic. The at-home device may end up being a less costly option compared to long-term clinic visits to benefit from the treatment. Devices have a vast price range anywhere from $250 USD to $50,000 USD. 

The smaller devices are typically cheaper which would be more applicable for treating hair loss such as PEMF headbands and pads. Larger devices will typically be more expensive in the 4 figure range such as PEMF mats or beds which can be used to treat a greater number of issues. 

PEMF therapy devices for hair regrowth are a relatively new development with StimuField offering a PEMF hat for around $900 USD. If you submit before and after photos you can reimburse a third of this cost, however. Unfortunately, the device is only shipping within the EU and the USA. 

It may be possible to purchase a PEMF device from a dermatologist or aesthetician but the cost can vary. A few visits to a clinic for PEMF therapy could help with hair loss but sustained use is encouraged for long-lasting results so an at-home device can be a significant commitment.

PEMF treatment duration 

PEMF therapy should be performed fairly regularly with treatments in a clinic starting at once or twice a week and then reducing over time. If using a PEMF device in a clinic this could be a time commitment to consider. The clinical-grade PEMF device will be more powerful than an at-home device but will still require frequent visits to maintain results. 

Home-use PEMF treatments are performed more often. StimuField advises using the PEMF device for 30 minutes every day for best results. The wearable device is a wireless PEMF hat that has been specifically designed to improve the health of your hair and provide scalp therapy. 

At-home PEMF devices are more likely to be used to prevent hair thinning and shedding while clinical-grade PEMF treatments are designed to treat androgenetic alopecia and prevent hair loss from chemotherapy. In the long term, PEMF therapy is performed for around 6 months but studies have extended this to 15 months so the total treatment period may vary depending on the person.

PEMF therapy safety

PEMF treatments are considered to be safe. When used on its own to treat androgenetic alopecia or chemotherapy-associated hair loss, no side effects have been reported concerning PEMF therapy for hair loss. If combined with other treatments however such as LLLT or topical solutions you will still experience the side effects related to those treatments. 

Reported side effects when combined with other treatments included skin sensitivity, redness, and itchiness. These side effects are more likely to be linked to LLLT or the topical solution instead of the electromagnetic pulses that are used with PEMF therapy. 

PEMF treatments are also considered to be safe for long-term use. While most treatments last around 6 months, studies have shown no side effects when used for over a year. PEMF therapy has not been approved by medical boards like the FDA for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia as not as much research has been conducted into this treatment. LLLT comparatively has been cleared by the FDA as the sole non-pharmaceutical option for treating pattern hair loss.

PEMF treatment ease of use

If seeking PEMF treatment at a clinic it can be a significant time commitment, with treatments taking place once or even twice a week to begin with and then reducing over time. In comparison, at-home PEMF devices require much more frequent use as they are less powerful than clinical-grade PEMF treatments. 

To enjoy PEMF treatment benefits at home it is intended to be incorporated into your daily routine. StimuField advises that users should use the PEMF device for 30 minutes during a treatment session every day. This can also be a significant time commitment to maintain daily. While at-home devices are easy to use, clinical grease PEMF devices need to be administered under the supervision of experienced clinicians. 

If used in a clinic, it may be combined with other hair loss treatments like LLLT. Whether you opt for a clinical treatment or an at-home device will likely depend on the extent of your hair loss.

PEMF treatment accessibility

PEMF is a relatively new treatment so finding a clinic that supports the therapy may be difficult. As a specialised device that requires trained clinicians to operate in a clinical context, you may have to travel to find a clinic that supports PEMF therapy. At-home PEMF devices can be expensive to purchase and are not as effective at treating more extensive hair loss compared to clinical-grade devices. 

PEMF devices are currently only shipping to the EU and the USA meaning they are not an option for Australian buyers. However as more research is conducted into this promising treatment, further at-home options may become available to a global audience at lower prices. 

You may be able to purchase an at-home PEMF device through your dermatologist or aesthetician but prices can vary. The semi-regular sessions required for the treatment over between 3 and 6 months means that regular clinical visits may become costly which may prevent some from accessing PEMF therapy.

PEMF therapy sustainability of results

PEMF therapy requires semi-regular sessions to enjoy the benefits. There should be a reduction in hair shedding and an improvement in hair growth after around 3-4 months of regular sessions. After 6 months major improvements can be observed. PEMF therapy is safe for use in longer-term contexts, with continuous improvements in hair regrowth being noted after as long as 16 months. 

However, over time the results may diminish without top-up treatments meaning it may not be suitable as a long-term solution to dealing with hair loss. The lack of reported side effects when used as a stand-alone treatment means it can be appealing for a short-term solution. 

For improved results, however, PEMF treatment is often combined with other treatments like LLLT or a topical solution like minoxidil which can cause side effects. While reported side effects when combined with other treatments were mild, it may be an issue for long-term use.

PEMF therapy compatibility with other treatments

PEMF treatment is often combined with other treatments like laser hair therapy and topical nutraceuticals to positive results. The unique mechanism of action of PEMF therapy means that it tends to work in sync with other hair loss treatments. This can maximise hair growth when combined with other hair loss treatments as they can target different biological pathways. 

Men and women saw positive results in both studies that focused on PEMF-LLLT and PEMF-nutraceutical combined treatments. Hair regrowth was promoted for those who used the combined treatments to tackle androgenetic alopecia. 

An increase of 25 hairs per cm2 was observed in the PEMF-LLLT study over 23 weeks. This was an 18 hairs per cm2 improvement compared to the control group. Similarly, the PEMF-nutraceutical study saw an increase of 34 hairs per cm2 over 6 months compared to the control group which has an increase of 9 hairs per cm2.

PEMF treatment emotional appeal

There aren’t many online reviews of PEMF treatment for hair loss as it is a relatively new therapy. The results of the studies when combined with other hair loss treatments like LLLT and topical nutraceuticals showed a positive impact on hair growth. The lack of reported side effects also makes it an appealing choice for hair loss treatment meaning it can fit into your life without too much disruption to your body. 

PEMF therapy is also used for treatment in other areas of the body. Reviews of PEMF mats for broader treatment of the body have been generally positive. The treatment has previously become a trend on TikTok with HigherDOSE’s mat receiving more than 146 million views in a video explaining the technology. 

HigherDOSE offers a 30-day money-back guarantee meaning that the significant price investment can be reversed if the product is not working for you. With PEMF therapy for hair loss becoming more popular, more testimonials will show the public opinion on the treatment but for now, you will likely have to take a leap of faith and find out if it’s right for you.

PEMF treatment health benefits beyond hair loss

In addition to treating hair loss, PEMF therapy is also used to support pain management, healing wounds and treating bone fractures or other musculoskeletal issues. The treatment promotes healing and supports tissue regeneration meaning it has a broad application in treating different conditions. 

Its original purpose as a support for orthopedic and musculoskeletal issues means that it is ideal for encouraging bone healing, managing pain and reducing inflammation in conditions like arthritis. PEMF therapy application has also been explored in other fields such as oncology, plastic surgery and dermatology. 

The different Delta Brain Wave hertz levels mean that the treatment can be applied for various purposes from relaxation to boosting focus and reducing the mental and physical manifestations of stress. PEMF therapy mats come in different sizes depending on the area you wish to treat. The systemic benefits that come with using a pad or mat may be beneficial in reducing hair loss but without targeted treatment, it may not be noticeable.

PEMF therapy’s environmental impact

PEMF therapy can be ethically sourced since it only requires specialised equipment, either at home or in a clinic. On the other hand, this specialised equipment, particularly clinical grade devices, can consume a lot of energy to perform PEMF treatment. At-home devices are at a lower power level compared to clinical-grade PEMF devices so they use less electricity. 

The environmental impact of frequent clinical visits, sometimes up to twice a week, if opting for professional treatment should also be considered. If you have to travel to a clinic regularly, the carbon footprint of your trips should be factored into the eco-consciousness of PEMF therapy. 

The high power consumption of clinical-grade PEMF devices may decrease over time with advancements in technology as more research is conducted into the treatment. Since PEMF therapy only involves specialised equipment, medical waste is not a concern so there is less of a risk to environmental contamination.

Treatment Method

PEMF therapy is a topical treatment that can be performed at home with a low-level device or in a clinic that operates on a higher power level. For both treatments, the method is the same.

• The PEMF device is placed on the head to target the affected area of the scalp.

If seeking treatment at a clinic, sessions will be once or twice a week, to begin with and decrease over time for between 3-6 months typically. It’s recommended to use at-home PEMF devices for 30 minutes daily. PEMF therapy may be combined with other treatments such as topical solutions or LLLT.

FAQs

How can I get the most out of the PEMF hair loss solution?

There are lifestyle adjustments you can make to supplement and encourage hair growth alongside PEMF treatment. These include making sure you have enough magnesium (through leafy vegetables and whole grains or supplements), staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet and exercising. 

Can using PEMF treatments too often be dangerous?

Since there aren’t any known side effects of using PEMF therapy, it’s not possible to use PEMF devices too much. However, your clinician will advise you on how often visits are required if seeking professional PEMF treatment. If using an at-home device, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Are PEMF devices safe for everybody?

Since there have not been any side effects reported in studies, PEMF therapy is considered safe. The only exception is for people who have pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices since PEMF therapy could interfere with them. It’s also advised to be cautious if using PEMFs during pregnancy since their safety during this state has not been established.

Will I experience any sensations during PEMF therapy?

You will normally not feel any sensations during PEMF therapy and devices are pain-free. Patients have reported feeling relaxed and content during PEMF treatments. Small magnets or magnetic field detectors are installed in many PEMF devices to ensure that they are in working order.

Is PEMF therapy different to EMFs?

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) have much higher frequencies and lower wavelengths compared to PEMFs according to the research studies. As opposed to intense, lethal radiation, PEMF releases small amounts of pulsed electromagnetic energy (less than 10 Hz) in order to stimulate cells.

Are higher frequencies better for PEMF therapy?

Frequencies used in PEMF therapy are quite low, from 1 to 30 Hz. However, higher frequencies are not always better. Different frequencies are used for different purposes so lower frequencies can be just as beneficial such as for relaxation or improving sleep.

How does PEMF therapy improve blood flow to the scalp?

PEMF therapy improves microcirculation. This increases the flow of blood through the smallest vessels throughout the body. In increasing microcirculatory perfusion, PEMF treatments are able to improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the treated areas. When hair follicles receive more oxygen and nutrients they are better able to grow healthy hair.

How is PEMF therapy beneficial?

PEMF treatments have been shown to have a number of positive effects including reducing pain and inflammation, improving circulation, increasing energy, improving sleep quality, promoting wound healing, improving bone density and reducing stress and anxiety.

What can I expect to feel after a PEMF treatment session?

Following a PEMF treatment session you may feel a warmth or tingling sensation in the treated area. Benefits include a possible boost to energy levels, better sleep that night, feeling less swollen or bloated and feeling warmer in the treated area particularly if you have circulatory issues.

Is PEMF therapy covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage for PEMF therapy can vary. You should check with your insurance provider to see if it is covered. In treating hair loss, since PEMF therapy is targeting an aesthetic problem, it is unlikely insurance providers would cover this under standard plans.

What should I look for in a PEMF therapy provider?

When researching clinics that offer PEMF therapy you should look for providers who have a strong background in PEMF treatments. Check patient testimonials to see how effective the treatment was and how satisfied the patient was. Additionally, a provider who offers a range of complementary treatments can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.

Do studies support PEMF treatment?

While PEMF treatment for hair loss is still a relatively new field of research, previous studies indicate that PEMF benefits include helping fight hair loss. A 2019 study saw a 20% increase in blood flow after each PEMF treatment session compared to the control group which can help promote hair growth.

Are there any things I should avoid when using a PEMF device?

Alcohol and caffeine can affect the healing properties of PEMF devices. Therefore you should avoid drinking alcoholic or caffeinated beverages 24 hours before a PEMF treatment session.

How should I use a PEMF device safely?

Some advice for at-home PEMF device use aside from following the manufacturer’s instructions includes starting with a low setting to allow your body to adjust, set the correct duration and listen to your body. If you feel any discomfort it’s important to discontinue use and talk to your doctor.

How long do PEMF devices usually last?

PEMF devices for hair loss are still relatively new so their longevity is not known but most PEMF devices will typically last for five years or longer if properly maintained. Wearables tend to have a shorter lifespan however as with hair loss devices such as hats. 

Will my hair density increase by using a PEMF device?

A 2024 study showed that over 24 weeks the StimuField PEMF cap saw an average improvement of 47% in hair density. Users reported thicker, fuller hair along with a reduction in shedding, more volume and overall more confidence in their appearance.

How does PEMF therapy interact with your cellular functions?

PEMF treatments have been shown to interact with an array of cellular functions including activating enzymes and gene expressions. These, along with reducing stress and inflammation, can affect hair stem cells in order to influence the health of your hair and skin. 

How do I know if a PEMF wearable device is right for me?

A wearable at-home PEMF device is likely to be suitable for you if you are experiencing the first signs of hair thinning, want to encourage more natural hair growth and can commit to regularly using the device for 30 minutes a day. 

If you have any medical conditions you should consult your physician before using a PEMF wearable device. If you’re suffering from pattern baldness it is more likely that you will be referred for clinical-grade PEMF treatment, but it may not be enough to tackle the issue without other solutions.