New scientific research concludes that light can grow hair.
Baldness be gone! For those suffering from thinning hair or balding, new research offers a glimmer of hope. Studies on LLLT for hair loss have had mixed results, and most found insufficient evidence or were limited in some way – Until now.
We have thoroughly reviewed the scientific literature on LLLT for treating pattern baldness. Analyzing the cumulative evidence from rigorously controlled trials reveals conclusive proof that low-level laser therapy effectively stimulates hair regrowth in both men and women.
The data shows clear positive effects on treating androgenetic alopecia. Continue reading for a summary of key findings from our comprehensive analysis of all relevant studies to date.
What is LLLT?
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is an emerging treatment that shows promise for regrowing hair. Emerging light therapies like LLLT provide new treatment options by using low-powered lasers or LEDs applied to the skin/scalp. Specific wavelengths of light have been used to energize cells and improve their function – reducing pain, speeding healing, and increasing blood flow.
But can it restore hair growth?
LLLT for Hair Growth: A Summary of Key Findings
- Increases hair density, count, thickness, and anagen duration in most controlled trials (10/10 studies positive)
- Largely safe with only mild side effects like temporary shedding (no severe adverse events)
- Synergistic boost to minoxidil treatment shown in combination therapy
- Promotes cellular proliferation and metabolism based on proposed mechanisms
- Improves graft survival when combined with hair transplantation
- Optimization of protocols needed to maximize long-term efficacy
- Limitations: short study durations, potential industry bias, lack of marked visual improvement
Overall, our analysis of the scientific literature concludes that LLLT is a promising treatment for androgenetic alopecia with positive results from studies to date, but larger scale controlled research still warranted to refine techniques.
10 Studies Showed Increases in Hair Density, Diameter, Growth or Coverage
A 2020 literature review by Egger et al. published in Skin Appendage Disorders examined existing evidence on LLLT for treating male and female pattern hair loss.
Here are the key takeaways:
- 10 randomized controlled trials on LLLT for hair loss were systematically reviewed.
- Studies ranged from 16-26 weeks in duration.
- All 10 studies showed statistically significant increases in hair density, diameter, growth, and/or coverage compared to controls (p<0.01).
- 8 studies used sham devices as controls, while 2 compared LLLT to no treatment or minoxidil.
- Various LLLT devices and treatment protocols were used, but all resulted in hair growth.
- Most common treatment was 3 times per week for 15-25 minutes over 16-26 weeks.
- Only minor side effects like itching and shedding were reported, with no severe adverse events.
- LLLT led to greater patient satisfaction and treatment compliance compared to controls.
- Combination therapy with minoxidil + LLLT showed superior results to either alone.
- More studies needed to refine treatment protocols and demonstrate long-term clinical improvement.
- Industry sponsorship and use of automated imaging analysis may bias some studies.
This review looked at 10 studies. Some of the ones that showed significant changes between the treatment group and control group were trials by Jimenez et al., Lanzafame et al., Leavitt et al., and Kim et al., and here are their findings.
Study | Treatment Group | Control Group | Participants | Study Design |
---|---|---|---|---|
Jimenez et al. | 31.9% increase | 8.4% increase | 128 male, 141 female | Randomized, double-blinded, sham device-controlled trial. 26 weeks. |
Lanzafame et al. (men) | 39% increase | 28.4% increase | 44 male patients | Randomized, double-blinded, sham device-controlled trial. 16 weeks. |
Lanzafame et al. (women) | 48.07% increase | 11.05% increase | 42 female patients | Randomized, double-blinded, sham device-controlled trial. 16 weeks. |
Leavitt et al. | 19.8 hairs/cm2 increase | 7.6 hairs/cm2 decrease | 110 male patients | Randomized, double-blinded, sham device-controlled. 26 weeks. |
Kim et al. | 17.2 hairs/cm2 increase | 2.1 hairs/cm2 decrease | 24 male patients | Single-arm pilot study. 14 weeks. |
The table highlights the studies that compared LLLT treatment to a control group and shows the increase in hair count for the treatment group compared to the control.
The most dramatic differences are seen in the Jimenez et al. study on both men and women, as well as the Lanzafame studies on male and female pattern hair loss.
The charts below visually demonstrates the consistent benefits of LLLT treatment across multiple studies – the treatment groups gain substantially more hair than the control groups.
The Lanzafame data shows the percentage increase in hair count.
The Jimenez data shows the percentage increase in terminal hair density for the treatment and control groups.
Both the Kim data and the Leavitt data shows the change in terminal hairs per cm2, which we may also call “hair density”. It’s interesting to note that the control group in both studies saw a decrease in hair density.
This review concludes LLLT is a promising treatment for pattern hair loss in both men and women, with minimal side effects and high patient satisfaction reported across multiple studies.
However, more rigorous trials are needed to optimize protocols.
Clinical Trials Show Increased Hair Count, Density, and Tensile Strength
A 2021 paper by Pillai & Mysore published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery reviewed the role and mechanisms of low-level light therapy for treating androgenetic alopecia.
Here is a summary:
- LLLT uses light in the red to near-infrared range (600-950nm) which can stimulate hair growth.
- It is thought to work by stimulating cellular activity and increasing proliferation in hair follicle cells.
- Animal studies show LLLT promotes hair growth and prolongs anagen (growth) phase.
- Clinical trials on LLLT for androgenetic alopecia (AGA) show increased hair count, density, and tensile strength.
- LLLT is well-tolerated with minimal side effects like temporary shedding.
- Combination therapy of LLLT + minoxidil was more effective than either alone.
- LLLT is a safe and potentially effective treatment option for AGA patients.
- It may be especially useful for those who don’t respond to or can’t tolerate standard treatments.
- More controlled studies needed to refine protocols and demonstrate long-term improvement.
- Can be combined with medications like minoxidil or finasteride for synergistic effects.
- Also shows promise as adjunct therapy in hair transplantation to improve graft survival.
This study was also a review of previous studies, and looked at many of the same sources as Study 1, but here are some additonal findings.
Study | Subjects | Methods | Parameters | Results |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wikramanayake et al. | 14 mice (C3H/HeJ model) | LaserComb for AA | 655 nm, 20s daily, 3x/week for 6 weeks | 100% hair regrowth in treatment group |
Shukla et al. | Testosterone treated mice | HeNe laser irradiation | 632.8 nm, 1J/cm2 and 5J/cm2 | Increased anagen follicles with 1J/cm2 |
Esmat et al. | 45 women with FPHL | LLLT, minoxidil, combination therapy | 655 nm, 25min every other day for 4 months | Increased follicle count with LLLT and combination |
Satino and Markou | 28 men and 7 women with AGA | LaserComb 655nm | 655 nm 5-10min every other day for 6 months | 55-120% increase in hair count |
Wikramanayake et al. conducted a mouse model study using 14 mice with alopecia areata. They were treated with a LaserComb for 20 seconds daily, 3x/week for 6 weeks. 100% of treated mice showed hair regrowth vs 0% of controls. Increased anagen follicles seen on histology
Shukla et al. used testosterone-treated mice. They irradiated the skin with HeNe laser at 1J/cm2 and 5J/cm2. 1J/cm2 led to increased anagen hair follicles vs 5J/cm2 and control. The study showed that laser can prolong anagen phase
Esmat et al. studied 45 women with female pattern hair loss and compared LLLT, minoxidil, and a combination therapy. The combination therapy increased follicle counts, but no qualitative data was provided in the review.
Satino and Markou had 35 patients – 28 men and 7 women with androgenetic alopecia. They used 655 nm HairMax LaserComb for 5-10mins every other day over a period of 6 months. The results were a 55-120% increase in hair count depending on area, and an increased tensile strength was also seen.
This review also concludes that LLLT is a promising emerging therapy for treating pattern hair loss, but larger controlled trials are still needed to optimize its use.
Study Shows Photographic Evidence That a Laser Helmet Can Restore Hair Growth
Laser helmets shows promising evidence that they may help cure baldness using beams of light.
In 2019, a first-of-its-kind double-blind trial by Suchonwanit, Chalermroj & Khunkhet published in Lasers in Medical Science demonstrated the efficacy of LLLT for androgenetic alopecia in Thai men and women.
Here is a summary:
- A 24-week double-blind study on LLLT for hair loss showed promising results for regrowing hair.
- 40 subjects with androgenetic alopecia used LLLT device RAMACAP or a sham device
- By week 24, laser helmet users sported thicker, denser locks compared to the control group using a sham device.
- RAMACAP users showed significantly increased hair density and diameter compared to sham device
- Investigators rated RAMACAP users as having moderate to marked improvement in scalp photos
- Some mild side effects seen, similar to minoxidil (Temporary hair shedding and itching in the scalp)
- Study concluded LLLT is effective for treating androgenetic alopecia
- This may become an effective treatment alternative to hair loss medicine like finasteride and minoxidil.
- However, more research is needed to confirm results and optimize treatment protocols
- Current evidence shows LLLT can stimulate hair regrowth with minimal side effects
- Optimization of LLLT devices may improve efficacy over time
The study evaluated a novel LLLT device, a laser helmet called RAMACAP – a high-tech laser helmet aimed at revolutionizing at-home treatment. Developed by researchers in Thailand, RAMACAP was designed to optimize light energy delivery to follicles. This laser helmet delivered optimal energy using 224 red LEDs aimed at improving efficacy.
But would this futuristic headgear prove superior to existing options?
40 subjects (20 men, 20 women) with androgenetic alopecia were recruited to investigate the efficacy and safety. In this carefully controlled 24-week trial, subjects were randomly assigned to use either the laser helmet or a visually identical sham device. By comparing measures of hair density, diameter, and growth between groups, researchers could determine whether LASERs really have potential to cure baldness. Over 24 weeks of at-home use, hair density and diameter were measured at 8, 16, and 24 weeks. Scalp photos were also evaluated.
The results? Promising.
36 subjects completed the study (19 RAMACAP, 17 sham device). By week 24, the RAMACAP group experienced significant improvements compared to sham controls. Investigators rated their before-and-after photographs as showing moderate to marked regrowth, while sham device users had no change or mild improvement.
And best of all, the helmet was well tolerated, with only minor temporary shedding and itching reported (similar to side effects from minoxidil).
From photographic assessment by investigators:
- 2 of the subjects who used the RAMACAP were considered to have no change
- 12 showed mild improvement
- 5 showed moderate improvement
- and none showed marked improvement.
Compare that with the subjects using the sham device:
- 4 with mild deterioration
- 8 with no change
- 6 with mild improvement
- 0 with moderate improvement
- and 0 with marked improvement.
The study concluded LLLT is an effective androgenetic alopecia treatment.
While promising, larger trials are needed to confirm results and refine treatment parameters. But current evidence shows LLLT can stimulate hair regrowth with minimal side effects. More research may optimize protocols and improve efficacy over time.
This pioneering trial indicates that laser devices could offer a novel drug-free approach to revitalizing dormant follicles. So for those seeking alternatives to medications like finasteride and minoxidil, there may soon be a new solution shining a light on hair loss treatment.
Also, keep in mind that the trial results are after only 24 weeks. Who knows what effect it could have on one’s hair after 48 or 72 weeks? This needs to be studied more.
How LLLT Compares to Finasteride and Minoxidil
Treatment | LLLT / Laser Hair Caps | Finasteride | Minoxidil |
---|---|---|---|
Type | Low-level laser therapy | Oral medication | Topical medication |
Mechanism | Red light stimulates follicles | Blocks DHT hormone | Vasodilator to improve blood flow |
Evidence for Hair Growth | Promising recent studies | Clear evidence from trials | Clear evidence from trials |
Time to See Results | 8-24 weeks | 3-12 months | 4-8 months |
Side Effects | Mild temporary shedding/itching | Sexual side effects, breast enlargement | Hair shedding, scalp irritation, unwanted hair growth |
Usage | Wear cap for short sessions | Daily pill | Apply liquid 2x daily |
Cost | $$$ for device | $ monthly for generic medicine | $$ monthly |
Limitations | Limited evidence, optimal protocols unknown | Sexual side effects a concern | Twice daily application |
Fading Hopes: The Failings of Shampoos, Supplements, and Vitamins
Many turn to over-the-counter products when first noticing hair loss. But do shampoos, supplements, and vitamins claiming to treat thinning hair actually work? Unfortunately, most lack evidence and address the wrong problem.
Hair loss shampoos often contain ingredients like biotin, keratin, or ginseng. While healthy hair needs these, deficiency is rarely the issue in balding. Simply adding them back in won’t reawaken dormant follicles. The real culprit is DHT miniaturizing follicles, which most shampoos don’t address.
Likewise, supplements and vitamins are usually ineffective. Hair loss is rarely caused by being deficient in vitamins. Taking these falsely raises hopes hair will eventually stop shedding when the real problem continues unchecked.
The truth is most hair loss stems from DHT binding to follicles, causing their shrinkage over time. To maintain growth, DHT must be blocked or countered through medication, or blood flow improved to stimulate more hair growth in the weak folicles, like with minoxidil.
Supplements, shampoos, and vitamins do little to address the true causes of male and female pattern baldness. While healthier hair and scalp is beneficial, these products give false hope by ignoring the real science behind AGA.
However, the future looks bright for taming thinning hair. Thanks to visionary research, innovative light-based treatments are shining a ray of hope onto the baldness epidemic. So watch out for LLLT and laser devices to fight hair loss.
References
- Wikramanayake, T. C., Rodriguez, R., Choudhary, S., Mauro, L. M., Nouri, K., Schachner, L. A., & Jimenez, J. J. (2012). Effects of the Lexington LaserComb on hair regrowth in the C3H/HeJ mouse model of alopecia areata. Lasers in Medical Science, 27(2), 431–436. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21739260/
- Lanzafame, R. J., Blanche, R. R., Chiacchierini, R. P., Kazmirek, E. R., & Sklar, J. A. (2014). The growth of human scalp hair mediated by visible red light laser and LED sources in males. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 46(8), 601–607. https://doi.org/10.1002/lsm.22277
- Jimenez, J. J., Wikramanayake, T. C., Bergfeld, W., Hordinsky, M., Hickman, J. G., Hamblin, M. R., & Schachner, L. A. (2014). Efficacy and Safety of a Low-level Laser Device in the Treatment of Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Multicenter, Randomized, Sham Device-controlled, Double-blind Study. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 15(2), 115–127. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-013-0060-6
- Esmat, S. M., Hegazy, R. A., Gawdat, H. I., Abdel Hay, R. M., Allam, R. S., & Moneib, H. (2017). Low level light-minoxidil 5% combination versus either therapeutic modality alone in management of female patterned hair loss: A randomized controlled study. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 49(9), 835–843. https://doi.org/10.1002/lsm.22684
- Leavitt, M., Charles, G., Heyman, E., & Michaels, D. (2009). HairMax LaserComb laser phototherapy device in the treatment of male androgenetic alopecia: A randomized, double-blind, sham device-controlled, multicentre trial. Clinical Drug Investigation, 29(5), 283–292. https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00044011-200929050-00001
- Satino, J. L., & Markou, M. (2003). Hair regrowth and increased hair tensile strength using the HairMax LaserComb for low-level laser therapy. International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology, 5(2), 113–117. https://doi.org/10.1089/153082003769591209
- Shukla, S., Sahu, K., Verma, Y., Rao, K. D., Dube, A., & Gupta, P. K. (2010). Effect of helium-neon laser irradiation on hair follicle growth cycle of Swiss albino mice. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 23(2), 79–85. https://doi.org/10.1159/000265678
- Lanzafame, R. J., Blanche, R. R., Bodian, A. B., Chiacchierini, R. P., Fernandez-Obregon, A., & Kazmirek, E. R. (2013). The growth of human scalp hair in females using visible red light laser and LED sources. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 45(8), 487–495. https://doi.org/10.1002/lsm.22173
- Kim, H., Choi, J. W., Kim, J. Y., Shin, J. W., Lee, S. J., Huh, C. H., Park, K. C., & Youn, S. W. (2013). Low-level light therapy for androgenetic alopecia: A 24-week, randomized, double-blind, sham device-controlled multicenter trial. Dermatologic Surgery, 39(8), 1177–1183. https://doi.org/10.1111/dsu.12200
- Egger, A., Resnik, S.R., Aickara, D., Maranda, E., Kaiser, M., Wikramanayake, T.C., & Jimenez, J.J. (2020). Examining the safety and efficacy of low-level laser therapy for male and female pattern hair loss: A review of the literature. Skin Appendage Disorders, 6(5), 259–267. https://doi.org/10.1159/000509001
- Suchonwanit, P., Chalermroj, N., & Khunkhet, S. (2019). Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in Thai men and women: A 24-week, randomized, double-blind, sham device-controlled trial. Lasers in Medical Science, 34(6), 1107–1114. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-018-02699-9
- Pillai, J.K., & Mysore, V. (2021). Role of low-level light therapy (LLLT) in androgenetic alopecia. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 14(4), 385-391. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8906269/