Red Light Therapy and Hair Loss

Red Light Therapy and Hair Loss

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment method recognized for its effectiveness in addressing certain medical and cosmetic conditions, such as hair loss. This therapy uses low-level light at different wavelengths to stimulate cellular functions, thereby accelerating the healing and regeneration process. For hair loss, red light therapy has been studied for years and is considered a viable treatment option for conditions like androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness).
 

How Did Red Light Therapy Begin?

The use of light for healing purposes began in the early 20th century. Red light therapy for hair loss was accidentally discovered in the 1960s by Hungarian scientist Endre Mester. While studying the effects of laser radiation on cancer in mice, Mester observed that fur on areas exposed to low-level laser light grew faster. This sparked significant interest in the connection between low-level light and hair growth.

20. By the early 21st century, evolving laser and LED devices were developed specifically to target hair loss. Advanced research has demonstrated the effectiveness of red light therapy in preventing hereditary hair loss in both men and women.

Is It FDA Approved?

The FDA has approved the use of red light therapy for treating hair loss, with the first approval granted in 2007 for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. This approval was for a “laser comb” that delivers low-level lasers directly to the scalp. Since then, FDA-approved low-level laser therapy devices, such as laser caps, helmets, and combs, have been made available for convenient use at home.

Please note that “FDA clearance” is different from “FDA approval.” Medical devices with FDA clearance are deemed safe and effective for general use after comprehensive evaluation. However, they do not undergo the rigorous scrutiny required for investigational drugs seeking full FDA approval. Nonetheless, FDA clearance indicates that red light therapy has shown effectiveness in clinical trials for treating hair loss.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red light therapy uses wavelengths of light within the red or near-infrared spectrum (typically between 630 and 660 nanometers) to penetrate the scalp tissue.

The mechanism works as follows:

• Cellular Energy Production (ATP): Red light therapy positively impacts the function of mitochondria, where cellular energy is produced. The mitochondria absorb the light and subsequently produce more Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which powers living cells. This increase in energy production can repair, grow, and sustain cells, stimulating hair follicles in the process.
• Reducing Inflammation: In conditions like androgenetic alopecia, hair follicle function is often hindered by inflammation. Red light used in this therapy helps reduce inflammation, allowing hair follicles to function properly and supporting new hair growth.
• Improved Blood Circulation: Red light penetrates the scalp to enhance blood circulation, ensuring the delivery of essential nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles. These nutrients promote healthier hair growth and help extend the growth phase of existing hair.
• Prolonging the Hair Growth Phase: Hair grows in cycles, and red light therapy (RLT) can help extend the anagen phase, or the growth period of hair, allowing strands to grow longer before shedding.

How Can Red Light Therapy Be Used for Hair Loss?

Laser caps, helmets, and combs are common red light therapy devices for hair loss. These devices are suitable for home use and provide versatile treatment options. Here’s a guide to using them effectively:

• Ensure the Device Is FDA Cleared: When addressing hair loss, choose an FDA-cleared red light therapy device specifically designed for this purpose. Devices vary in price and design, ranging from laser combs to laser caps or helmets, each offering different coverage and power output.
• Always Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Most devices recommend treatments lasting 10–20 minutes per session, 2–4 times per week. However, this can vary by product, so it’s essential to strictly follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to achieve the desired results.
• Long-Term Commitment: Red light therapy is not a one-time solution. As previously mentioned, hair generally grows slower than nails or skin, so noticeable results may take months of consistent use. Regularly stimulate hair follicles to maintain progress.

Results Take Time: Typically, results become visible within 4–6 weeks of regular use. However, outcomes vary depending on the rate of hair loss, the individual’s age, and how diligently the treatment is followed.

Red light therapy is one of the most effective clinical, non-invasive, and side-effect-free methods against hair loss. Discovered in the 1960s, it was FDA approved for hair loss treatment in the early 2000s and has since rapidly emerged as a non-surgical, effective alternative for individuals experiencing hereditary hair loss.

Red light therapy enhances cellular energy, reduces inflammation, increases blood flow to the scalp, and extends the hair growth phase, offering hope for preventing male pattern baldness.

Who should try red light therapy and commit to it for months? It may not be suitable for everyone, but it is a safe, tolerable, and effective alternative for many people battling hair loss.