Laser Therapy Hair Treatment – Everything You Need to Know

What is laser therapy hair treatment?

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as low-level light therapy or photobiomodulation, exposes the skin tissue to wavelengths of light in the “near-infrared” and red side of the visible light spectrum. The term “low-level” is used because the energy density of the laser is relatively lower than that of lasers used to cut tissue and coagulate blood. 

LLLT is also known as “cooled laser therapy” because the power intensity of these lasers is not strong enough to heat skin tissue. LLLT is constantly being researched to discover its benefits. Still, it has been used for many applications ranging from pain management to wound healing to hair growth. Explore people’s FAQs about LLLT or see how it compares to PEMF therapy or PRP treatment.

Highlights

• LLLT stimulates the stem cells that cause hair to grow.
• It can be performed at home or in a clinic.
• Users tend not to report side effects or if they do they are mild.

Core evaluation criteria

Laser therapy hair treatment effectiveness

In 1967, scientists found that the use of light resulted in faster hair growth in shaved mice than in mice that were not exposed to laser light. A 2018 study on the treatment of male pattern baldness reviewed the efficacy of low-level laser therapy. Their review showed significant improvements in hair growth in 10 of 11 clinical trials conducted on people. 

The researchers stated that “LLLT appears to be a safe alternative treatment for patients with male pattern baldness.” A 2013 study used a 655-nanometer low-level laser, which corresponds to the red region of the visible spectrum, to examine hair growth in men with male pattern baldness. 

The male patients had their scalp hair trimmed to 3 millimetres and were divided into two groups. One group underwent LLLT using a helmet-like device with 21 lasers and 30 LEDs, against a placebo control group that used an identical device with an incandescent bulb and red light. 

The hair count in the control group changed little but in the LLLT group, the count increased by 39 per cent. This study demonstrated the potential of red light therapy to stimulate hair growth in patients with male pattern baldness.

Laser therapy hair treatment cost

The cost of laser therapy hair restoration varies depending on your location, the type of laser hair growth equipment used, and the extent of hair loss. At-home devices typically have a high initial cost ranging from hundreds to thousands but can be a better investment in the long term. On average, each low-level laser therapy (LLLT) session will cost between $100 and $200. 

This can add up significantly over time, especially since LLLT needs to be performed every few days and can take months to see results. However, in-office laser therapy for hair loss can be worth the cost, especially for those looking to maximize hair growth. They offer access to individualised treatments from trained professionals, more powerful medical-grade lasers, and customised combination therapies that incorporate prescription medications. 

This is especially helpful for people with severe hair loss. At-home laser hair growth treatment devices are significantly cheaper than long-term in-office treatments. However, some devices can be quite expensive. Prices range from $200 to $3,000. Generally, devices with LEDs are less expensive because the LEDs themselves cost significantly less than lasers.

Laser therapy hair treatment duration

LLLT has been studied for varying lengths of time. Researchers are still trying to figure out what makes a laser hair therapy session most effective. There are many factors to consider, including the wavelength of light, the duration of the session, the number of sessions per week, and how long it will take to expect laser regrowth results. It is also important to note that LLLT may need to be continued indefinitely. 

Clinical trials testing the hair growth effects of LLLT last from 14 weeks to over 6 months. Based on these studies, the recommended treatment period is 6 to 12 months. At this point, you may see improvements in hair density, hair count, and hair thickness. For those wondering, “Does laser hair regrowth work?”, the question is not only its effectiveness but also whether the improved hair regrowth is permanent. 

Laser hair therapy is like exercising or brushing your teeth: it will work as long as you do it regularly. The changes that laser hair therapy causes at the cellular level are reversible, meaning that the desired effects will disappear when the stimuli causing these changes stop. Laser hair therapy can regrow hair without medication or surgery, but consistency is key.

Laser therapy hair treatment safety

All treatments have their benefits alongside possible negative side effects. Low-level laser treatments are attractive to users because they are effective and have few side effects. In studies of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for hair loss, most patients reported no problems or only mild side effects. 

These included itching, acne, and scalp sensitivity. These side effects were not severe enough to require patients to discontinue treatment and usually went away within two weeks. In a 2003 study of the HairMax® LaserComb, a few patients experienced a rare side effect known as telogen effluvium (TE). This occurs when a stressor causes hair to enter the telogen (resting) phase, resulting in significant but temporary hair loss. 

This usually resolves after continued use of the device as your body adjusts to the new routine. Similar effects are common with other treatments; for example, minoxidil causes hair loss when you first start using it, but hair loss stops with continued use. 

In general, LLLT offers an effective and safe treatment option for people dealing with hair loss. Although long-term effects and ideal treatment protocols are still being researched, existing evidence indicates that the use of LLLT is safe.

Laser therapy hair treatment ease of use

Laser therapy hair treatments can be done at home, in a salon, or at a clinic with a trained professional, such as a dermatologist. Treatments at salons and clinics are done using a large “hood” device that the patient sits on, while at-home treatments are done using a laser helmet device, laser cap, laser headband, or even a laser brush. 

These devices work by emitting a weak light from a laser diode or LED inside the device. The device is used for between 15 and 20 minutes, allowing enough time for the laser light to penetrate the skin. Repeat this process about three times a week for six months and the results will become visible. 

Laser hair therapy (LLLT) can be performed by professionals in salons, dermatology clinics, etc. Most in-office LLLT sessions are performed using a hooded device. These sessions usually last around 10-15 minutes, depending on the type of device used and the extent of hair loss being treated.

Laser therapy hair treatment accessibility

Laser hair treatment devices come in many shapes and sizes. Available devices include laser hair caps or helmets, combs or brushes, headbands, and “hoods”. As of 2020, 29 LLLT devices are FDA-approved for the treatment of genetic hair loss. Hood-style devices are primarily found in salons and clinics. 

They look very similar to the drying hoods commonly used in hair salons. Other devices can be used at home, providing a portable and discreet method of hair loss treatment. Laser hair caps are a laser hair therapy option that offers patients mobility and discretion. These are baseball caps with a rechargeable battery that powers a row of laser diodes or LEDs inside the cap. Laser treatment caps are especially suitable for those who want a hands-free hair loss treatment. 

They can be worn virtually anywhere, which is less common compared to other treatment options. However, versions with more diodes output significantly more energy and usually require a doctor’s prescription. Typically, the more advanced the hair loss, the higher the recommended “intensity” of the LLLT device.

Laser therapy hair treatment sustainability of results

Laser therapy hair treatments do not have to be done in a clinic or salon. There are laser therapy hair treatment devices that can be used at home, allowing patients to benefit from low-level light therapy without visiting a doctor regularly. These devices include products such as laser hair growth caps, laser combs, laser hair bands, and laser hair growth helmets. 

People with more severe hair loss may benefit from seeing a trained professional at a clinic to explore options that combine LLLT with other treatments for the best results. However, these devices are generally a good alternative to medications and surgery as a non-invasive hair therapy that can be used from the comfort of your own home. 

Home devices are effective as long as you use them regularly. If you stop using the device, the increase in hair growth may decrease. Therefore, it is important to maintain a consistent hair care routine. Committing to regular visits to a clinic can be difficult to keep up financially so that is a factor to consider in weighing up the pros and cons of long-term benefits versus short-term gains.

Laser therapy hair treatment compatibility with other treatments

Laser hair growth therapy is painless, non-invasive, and has few side effects. This makes it a great solution to use alone or in combination with other hair loss treatments. Your doctor may recommend combining LLLT with topical minoxidil, which improves blood flow to the scalp. They may also consider prescribing finasteride, which blocks the production of hormones that lead to hereditary hair loss.

Research shows that minoxidil and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) are both effective in treating hair loss while combining them can produce even better results. A 2020 study split 90 women with hereditary hair loss into three different groups. One group was treated with topical 5% minoxidil, one group was treated with LLLT and one group was treated with both. 

The combination group saw a significant improvement in hair diameter. Hair density was improved compared to the two single-treatment groups. Other hair loss treatments may also benefit from the additional use of LLLT.

Laser therapy hair treatment emotional appeal

Patient satisfaction surveys show positive responses from those who chose this treatment, with around two-thirds saying they were satisfied after treatment. The main reason is that they felt their self-esteem improved as they saw new hair that wasn’t there before. Patient reports and case studies provide ample evidence for low-level laser therapy (LLLT) as an effective treatment for hair loss. 

This non-invasive clinical procedure has reversed the effects of alopecia and helped many people regain their self-confidence. After six months of consistent use, patients noticed significant regrowth in areas where there had previously been only sparse hair. Patients have been able to see the visible changes monthly, by documenting the treatment with photographs showing the progressive improvement. 

Another patient who had been suffering from severe hair loss after menopause, causing her great mental and social distress, found LLLT solutions online and decided to give it a try. Within four months, she saw a significant improvement in not only density but also quality, and her hair looked healthier.

Laser therapy hair treatment health benefits beyond hair loss

Interest in LLLT as a way to promote healing, relieve pain, improve mobility, and improve overall health is growing rapidly. LLLT is being studied for a wide range of applications. In a 2016 review of 15 studies, researchers concluded that LLLT, used alone or in combination with other methods, can reduce nonspecific low back pain for up to three months with few side effects. 

A 2019 analysis of six studies found that LLLT significantly reduced plantar fasciitis, with the benefits lasting for three months after treatment. According to a 2018 review article, although there is some evidence that LLLT may be harmful in animal studies for cancer treatment, there are also several studies suggesting the opposite, that light may directly damage tumours, improve other cancer treatments, and stimulate the immune system. 

A 2018 study on cyclists found that LLLT minimized muscle fatigue. Research has shown that treatment with low-level lasers such as Lunula may be effective in healing toenails affected by fungal infections. LLLT is also being studied for male infertility, traumatic brain injury, weight loss, wound healing from diabetic ulcers, and to treat psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Laser therapy hair treatment environmental impact

LLLT can be ethically sourced since it only requires specialised equipment, either at home or in a clinic. Unlike other hair growth treatments, laser hair growth treatment does not use needles or chemicals meaning there is no risk of biological contamination of waste materials. It is non-invasive and has a favourable side effect profile compared to other treatment options. 

It is very rare for laser hair growth treatment to cause serious problems. At home, LLLT devices are typically low-power meaning they don’t consume a lot of electricity. Clinical-grade devices consume more electricity which can have a higher environmental impact along with the carbon footprint of travelling often for regular visits to the clinic. 

If you have to travel to a clinic multiple times a week the environmental impact of your trips should be factored into the eco-consciousness of PEMF therapy. The high power consumption of clinical-grade LLLT devices may decrease over time with advancements in technology as more research is conducted into the treatment. 

Laser therapy hair treatment method

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive hair therapy solution. Typically, experts recommend 15-30 minute sessions, two to three times a week, depending on your personal needs and the extent of your hair loss.

Before starting a low-level laser treatment session for hair loss:

• It is recommended that you consult with a trichologist or dermatologist who specializes in treating scalp disorders such as alopecia.
• Proceed with the purchase of FDA-approved home devices such as laser caps and combs specifically for low-level laser treatment only after verification.

The treatment process is similar whether you are at home or in a clinic:

• Be sure to position the device correctly with clean hands and a dry scalp.
• Newer models are equipped with sensors that automatically turn off after a specified time (usually 20 to 40 minutes).

Regular exercise also increases blood flow throughout the body, which may lead to better results from LLLT treatment.

FAQs

What is cold laser therapy hair treatment?

Unlike other lasers that heat, cut or burn tissue, the lasers used in low-level laser therapy (LLLT) are of a lower intensity so they can penetrate the skin without heating or damaging it. Therefore, LLLT is also known as cold laser therapy. With cold laser treatments, patients do not feel heat, vibration or pain. 

These procedures are non-invasive and are a possible alternative or complement for alopecia patients who do not respond to standard treatments and do not wish to undergo hair transplants.

What is red light therapy hair treatment?

Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is also known as red light therapy because the lasers used operate on the low energy, long wavelength side of the visible spectrum. Lasers operating on the opposite side of the spectrum (shorter wavelengths, higher energy) produce much more energy. These are used to cut or coagulate tissue.

What’s the difference between laser therapy hair treatment and laser hair removal?

Depending on the type of laser used and its power, light therapy can stimulate hair growth or remove unwanted hair. The main differences between these lasers are the wavelength of light used, the power level at which the laser operates, and the length of the treatment session. 

The goal of laser treatment for hair growth is to stimulate the hair follicles to enter the anagen phase without damaging the skin or underlying structures. Laser hair removal, on the other hand, directly targets hair pigment and heats the skin, damaging the hair follicles, which may be painful for some people.

What factors should I consider when looking for a laser therapy hair treatment device?

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right low-level laser therapy (LLLT) device for hair growth. These range from technical aspects, such as the number of diodes and type of light source, to practical elements such as comfort, ease of use, and warranties. FDA-approved devices are generally a safe choice as they have been tested for safety and effectiveness.

What’s the difference between LED and laser vs laser-only devices?

It’s important to understand the differences between LEDs and lasers, as this can affect cost and effectiveness. Some devices use a combination of LED and laser light, while others only use lasers. 

Both types of light can stimulate hair follicles, but lasers are more precise, as they deliver light directly to the hair follicle without too much scattering. LEDs are cheaper and can cover a larger area, but may be less effective because the light is spread over a wider area.

Who is suitable for laser therapy hair treatment?

People who suffer from hair loss due to genetic factors or hereditary baldness are good candidates for LLLT. Doctors use special classification systems to determine the extent of hair loss. These systems include the Norwood-Hamilton classification for men. LLLT is usually recommended for male patients who are classified as Norwood-Hamilton IIa-V.

Who is laser therapy hair treatment not recommended for?

LLLT is not recommended for people taking medications that increase sensitivity to light. People with completely bald scalps may not benefit from LLLT because there is no hair to be stimulated by light. People with light allergies should avoid LLLT treatment. LLLT is not suitable for people with active skin cancer or infections, as these may interfere with treatment or worsen symptoms.

When can I take a shower after LLLT?

To ensure proper hair care after your laser treatment, it’s recommended to wait approximately 6-8 hours after your low-level laser hair therapy session before showering. It’s also recommended to choose cold water or a gentle shower during this time to cool the skin and minimise the chance of redness or swelling. These precautions will allow for optimal recovery and care after your low-level laser hair growth treatment.

Can LLLT prevent hair loss?

Low-level light therapy reverses hair miniaturization by stimulating ATP production, returning hair to the anagen (growth) phase, extending the anagen phase, increasing the size and strength of hair follicles, and reducing DHT levels.

LLLT also strengthens hair by increasing the production of collagen and elastin proteins important for healthy hair growth. By reducing inflammation, improving blood flow and nutrients to hair follicles, and lowering DHT levels, LLLT can reduce hair loss.

Are all LLLT devices safe to use after a hair transplant?

No. After grafts are implanted, it is important to avoid direct contact of your scalp with any foreign object. Many devices use laser-spiked teeth or spikes. Do not use such devices as they may damage the grafts. Instead, use a device that covers the entire scalp and does not come into direct contact with the scalp.

What is the difference between LLLT devices?

The main differences in LLLT devices lie in performance and energy output. Some devices only cover certain areas of the scalp. Others require you to manually comb or brush your hair for 15-30 minutes, meaning your scalp isn’t evenly exposed to the light. Others are automated, hands-free, and easy to use, but can be costly. It covers the scalp and provides an even light.

Can low-level lasers cause damage to your eyes?

Yes, low-level lasers can be harmful to your eyes if proper precautions are not taken. Prolonged exposure to laser light can damage and cause injury to the retina. To ensure safety and prevent accidental exposure, doctors and patients should wear safety glasses at all times during treatment when using clinical-grade devices. At-home devices are less likely to cause damage to your eyes.

What are the biological effects of LLLT?

Clinical studies have noted several biological effects following LLLT. These include anti-inflammation, pain relief, accelerated tissue repair and cell growth, improved vascular activity, increased metabolic activity, reduced fibrous tissue formation, improved nerve function, immunoregulation and faster wound healing.

What is the success rate of laser therapy hair treatment?

Studies have shown that LLLT can effectively promote hair growth in patients with male pattern baldness. For example, one study reported that the use of an LLLT device significantly increased terminal hair density, up to an increase of 9.61/cm2. Similarly, another study found that LLLT increased terminal hair count by 51% and significantly improved hair diameter, confirming the effectiveness of LLLT in increasing hair density in both male and female patients.