If you have been dealing with thinning hair or hair loss, then you have probably been through several websites that claim they have treatments to regrow your hair. You have probably come across information that talked about treatments that can reverse hair loss, while others offer less inviting side effects or have ingredients that can irritate the scalp. It is our opinion that laser hair therapy is not only an effective non-surgical hair loss treatment, but it is also backed by the FDA.
Laser hair therapy is recognized as an option for both men and women with certain types of hair loss. Usually, this treatment works best for those who are seeking to grow hair and slow the hair loss process. Laser hair treatment is often referred to as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), a soft laser, red light therapy, cold laser, and bio-stimulation.
This type of hair therapy is a potential hair replacement strategy for those who suffer from male pattern baldness. If you are a man one sign of this could be that you notice a receding hairline or vertex baldness. If you are a woman then you may experience hair loss that is diffused or thinning of hair all over the scalp.
Not everyone with hair loss can benefit from laser hair therapy. It is important to consult with a hair loss professional before you spend money on a treatment or a home-use device.
Any goal of a hair loss professional is to make sure that at the end of the day, you are happy with your hair. One reason to illustrate the importance of speaking to a hair loss consultant would be if you suffer from a thyroid issue or iron deficiency which is the root of your hair loss. Laser hair treatments won’t be able to combat this and therefore, it wouldn’t be able to restore your hair. Laser hair therapy is mainly used as a treatment for those with hair loss that is caused by genetics (ie: male/female pattern baldness also known as androgenetic/androgenic alopecia).
LLLT (low-level laser therapy) is most effective for individuals in the early stages of hair loss, particularly those experiencing thinning rather than complete baldness. The treatment works best for people who still have active hair follicles, as laser therapy can stimulate them to produce stronger, thicker hair. It is commonly used to treat androgenetic alopecia, the most common type of hair loss, which affects both men and women.
Individuals with severe hair loss or fully bald areas may not see significant results from laser therapy, as the treatment cannot revive completely dead follicles.
Laser therapy is typically performed over several months, and it requires consistency. Patients are usually advised to undergo treatments two to three times per week for a period of several months to see noticeable results. Patience is key, as it can take up to six months to notice visible improvements in hair thickness and growth.
Unlike surgical hair restoration methods, such as hair transplants, LLLT is non-invasive, requires no recovery time, and involves minimal risk of side effects. However, the results of laser therapy are usually subtle and gradual.
The effectiveness of laser hair loss treatment can vary depending on the individual. Some people experience significant improvements in hair thickness, while others may see little to no change. Clinical studies have shown that LLLT can increase hair density and slow down the progression of hair loss in some patients, but it is not a guaranteed solution for everyone.
Success also depends on the underlying cause of hair loss. For example, LLLT is generally more effective for those experiencing genetic hair loss than for individuals whose hair loss is caused by medical conditions or medications.
Studies have shown that laser hair therapy treatments show results after different periods of time. This time differs for each individual. On average, patients can see results around 20 to 26 weeks after starting treatments. With that being said, the results on varying areas of the scalp can also differ. A treatment might work will in one area of the scalp but not as much in another. This highlights the importance of undergoing routine treatments.
When using laser hair therapy for hair loss or scalp treatments, it’s very important that you stay on top of your laser therapy sessions. This treatment can be performed at a salon by a professional trained in its application or at home with a home device. It is recommended you have treatments 2-3 times a week which exposes the scalp to light-emitting diodes under a head cap. The earlier you begin therapy the greater the chances are for success. To get the results you want, talk to a hair loss professional to learn the cause of your hair loss, the type of hair loss, and the best methods for restoring your hair which may include laser hair therapy. This treatment method is not a one-size-fits all, so knowing from a professional is best so you know exactly what you can expect.