Does Laser Hair Treatment Work on Dark Skin?

Low-level laser treatment (LLLT) is a treatment that may be used to heal pain, promote healing, reduce inflammation and promote hair growth. It may be an appealing option for one who wants to have a clinical solution to support hair growth as an alternative to having a hair transplant.

Perhaps you’ve considered LLLT and wondered whether or not you’re a good candidate for the treatment. As the therapy directly targets your skin, its effectiveness across skin tones can be a question you have before starting LLLT. Here, we will look at whether LLLT will work on dark skin as well as the applications of LLLT devices and how Hairy Hair may help you with your hair loss.

The Fitzpatrick scale

The Fitzpatrick scale was developed by Harvard dermatologist Thomas B. Fitzpatrick in 1975. This scale is used in dermatology today to help classify skin type according to pigmentation level.

It is used to understand your skin’s reaction to ultraviolet sun rays and can help people to better protect their skin against cancer and other types of sun damage, as different skin types require different considerations.

The numerical scale classifies skin type from type I to type VI. Paler skin tones correspond to types I, II, and III. Type IV relates to a Mediterranean complexion, while types V and VI are used for dark brown skin.

How does the Fitzpatrick scale relate to LLLT studies?

Further systemic assessment is needed to see how skin colour can impact laser therapy for hair growth. A review of current literature published in the journal Skin Appendage Disorders found that almost half of the studies only reviewed the impacts of LLLT on types I-IV.

One study indicated that there was a significant positive effect on dark skin types, where an increased rate of hair growth was reported. However, more research is needed to determine whether skin type can impact the efficacy of LLLT.

At-home and medical-grade devices often receive clearance from regulatory bodies like the FDA for skin types I- IV only, as there weren’t enough test subjects during trials for skin types V and VI.

While people may think that means that LLLT only works on lighter skin tones, in reality, there is further research required to determine the effect on dark skin tones.

LLLT on dark skin

LLLT gives your hair follicles an intense dose of energy to their mitochondria. Hair follicles die as they lose energy, and LLLT can act to grow hair from these dying follicles. The particular wavelength of light used by LLLT can act to re-supply the follicles with energy and potentially restore hair growth.

Dark colours have a greater light and energy absorption, which implies that LLLT can trigger more bio-stimulation on a mitochondrial level. This may result in improved hair growth in those with dark skin tones.

Choosing the right treatment

LLLT can be conducted in a clinic or at home. Clinical sessions can be more expensive in the long run, as consistency is key to seeing results. Clinical-grade devices are more powerful than at-home LLLT devices, so they may be more suitable for those with further advanced hair loss. 

At-home LLLT devices, such as hats, can be a considerable up-front investment but may pay off in the long term if you’re able to use them regularly. The prices of these devices can vary depending on a range of factors.

Laser diodes are more efficient than LEDs, which are widely used in home devices. Device lasers should be in a wavelength of 650 nm or above, the Dermatology Times recommends, so that your hair follicle cells will be stimulated optimally. The device should also have a pulsating feature to maintain the energy level output constant without overheating during your session.

How can Hairy Hair help with my hair loss?

LLLT may be an effective treatment to promote hair growth in patients who experience thinning hair. However, as a standalone treatment, it may be inadequate to prevent hair loss or restore development.

The impact of LLLT can be significantly enhanced when combined with additional treatments that promote a more conducive environment for hair development.

Having other beneficial elements included in your LLLT protocol might lead to improved outcomes, especially during the early stages of treatment.

Hairy Hair has a proprietary daily supplement that is specifically designed to address a number of hair loss disorders.

This supplement is a dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blocker. DHT is a hormone that leads to hair follicle miniaturisation, which ultimately ends in the halting of hair growth. By preventing testosterone from being converted to DHT, you may induce hair growth from previously dormant follicles.

It is also a vasodilator, or it widens the blood vessels in the scalp to allow greater delivery of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles. With such nourishment, these follicles are likely to grow strong and healthy hair shafts that have fewer chances to break.

The treatment is also infused with natural ingredients that could possibly trigger keratin production, the essential protein needed for hair strand growth. It contains a natural DHT blocker and is also anti-inflammatory, which means it fosters a healthy scalp environment that promotes growth.

By taking a single daily supplement, you may effectively tackle various hair loss concerns through a comprehensive treatment approach, thereby increasing the likelihood of stimulating hair growth compared to relying solely on one medication.

LLLT for dark skin and other treatment options

LLLT is a non-invasive treatment alternative that may attract individuals experiencing hair loss who are interested in exploring clinical solutions. Due to its generally low risk of adverse side effects, it can be seamlessly integrated into one’s daily routine.

While further research is required to determine the effectiveness of LLLT on dark skin tones, initial results from studies indicate it can have a positive impact on hair growth.

Effective hair growth treatment requires a combination of essential nutrients and conducive conditions, which LLLT alone may not sufficiently provide. A holistic treatment strategy that addresses various aspects of hair loss may significantly reduce hair shedding while fortifying new hair, thereby enhancing its durability against future loss.

If you are experiencing hair loss and are eager to take proactive measures, we invite you to reach out to Hairy Hair today. Starting your treatment is simple; just complete a brief online questionnaire regarding your hair loss concerns. A qualified Australian GP will then contact you to discuss a personalised treatment plan and address any inquiries you may have.

Your prescription will be conveniently sent to your home, eliminating the need for in-clinic visits. Our dedicated team will be available to assist you throughout your journey towards potentially restoring your hair and enhancing your self-confidence.