Using Low Level Laser Therapy for Hair Loss
Hair loss affects 1 in 2 men and 1 in 6 women worldwide. Between the new therapies and treatments for hair loss being investigated, low level laser therapy (LLLT) has shown some effectiveness in encouraging hair regrowth or, at least, slowing hair loss in a number of research studies. Before you start searching for low level laser therapy nearby, what is low level laser therapy exactly? How does it encourage hair growth?
What is low level laser therapy?
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a medical treatment that uses a special light to help the body heal. The light is not hot or strong, so it's safe to use. When this light touches our skin, it goes into our cells and makes them work better. The benefits of LLLT come from four key effects: provide cells with more energy, encourage blood flow and help create new blood vessels, reduce swelling and inflammation, and help wounds heal faster.
In practical terms, LLLT helps cells synthesise a substance called ATP which acts as fuel for cells to provide energy. The additional energy also encourages blood flow to bring more oxygen and nutrients to the area receiving the therapy. The low-intensity light also helps to calm down inflammation, while also assisting with the generation of collagen.
The most common low level light therapy utilises lights in the 650-1200 nanometre wavelength and fluences of 1-10 joules per square centimetre, with a power density of 3-90 microwatts per square centimetre. The treatment usually lasts 15-20 minutes for three times a week for 6 months.
Why low level laser therapy is effective for hair loss?
From research, low level laser therapy appears to stimulate resting (not actively growing) hair follicles to re-enter the rapid growth stage, extend the duration of the rapid growth state and increase the rate of growth for the actively growing hair follicles. The mechanism of how LLLT can support hair growth and reduce hair loss is not fully known. But the theories point towards LLLT’s ability to help synthesise ATP, manage chemicals that led to aging, and support cell generation.
In simpler terms, LLLT helps with the following:
- Stimulate hair follicles
- Increase energy production for hair growth
- Reduce inflammation from hair loss
- Extend the duration of active growth
- Protect against hair follicle damage
It's important to note that LLLT is most effective in cases of androgenetic alopecia, where hair follicles are still active and viable. It may not be as effective in cases where hair follicles are completely dormant or non-functional.
What are the negatives for low level laser therapy?
The effectiveness of low level laser therapy varies by the type of hair loss. LLLT is most effective for androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) where hair follicles are still active and viable. For alopecia areata, in which hair follicles are damaged, or scarring alopecia, in which hair follicles are not functioning, LLLT may be less effective.
While LLLT has shown effectiveness for hair growth, the results can vary from person to person. The stage and severity of hair loss, individual response to treatment and adherence to treatment protocol all play a part in the efficacy of the treatment.
LLLT requires a substantial time commitment and consistent usage can pose challenges for those who lead busy lives and have limited spare time. LLLT is highly effective in promoting hair growth, especially when applied consistently over an extended period of time. To achieve optimal results, it is crucial to engage in ongoing treatment to maintain the progress achieved and continue stimulating hair growth.
Are there any adverse effects of low level laser therapy?
Low level laser therapy has a remarkably low incidence of adverse effects for a treatment that has been used for 50 years. The only adverse reports in humans were a temporary onset of a scalp disorder but disappearing on continued application. However, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe and appropriate use of LLLT devices.
History of LLLT
The history of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) dates back to the 1960s when researchers started exploring the effects of laser light on living tissues. The first significant discovery related to LLLT occurred in 1967 when Endre Mester, a Hungarian physician, accidentally observed that low-level laser exposure stimulated hair regrowth and wound healing in mice. This unexpected finding sparked interest in the therapeutic potential of low-level lasers.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, researchers conducted further studies to investigate the effects of LLLT. They discovered that specific wavelengths of laser light, particularly in the red and near-infrared range, had positive effects on various biological processes, such as cellular metabolism and tissue repair. This led to the development of devices specifically designed for LLLT applications.
In the following decades, research on LLLT expanded, and its potential therapeutic applications in medical and dental fields gained recognition. Studies explored its effects on conditions like musculoskeletal injuries, chronic pain, wound healing, inflammation, and neuropathic pain.
The understanding of LLLT mechanisms also progressed. It was found that the light energy from low-level lasers or LEDs interacts with cellular components, particularly the mitochondria, the powerhouses of cells. This interaction triggers a series of cellular responses that lead to enhanced energy production, improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and accelerated tissue repair.
LLLT has gradually gained acceptance and is now utilized in various medical fields and clinics worldwide. It has become an adjunct or alternative treatment option for conditions such as sports injuries, arthritis, chronic pain syndromes, and dermatological conditions.
Despite its increasing popularity, ongoing research is focused on refining the application techniques, optimizing treatment parameters, and exploring new therapeutic uses for LLLT. Scientists continue to investigate its effectiveness, underlying mechanisms, and potential benefits across different medical domains.
Clinical research of LLLT
A series of clinical trials have been done to assess the safety and effectiveness of LLLT. A 2013 study (NCT01437163) reported a 35% increase in hair growth among males with androgenetic alopecia. Many other studies reported overall improvements in the forms of increased hair count, increased hair density and tensile strength, and prevention of hair loss.
Such positive results have been recognised at the European Dermatology Forum with evidence-based guidelines being developed.
Sources
- Role of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) in Androgenetic Alopecia - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8906269/
- Low dose laser therapy for hair loss - https://dermnetnz.org/topics/low-dose-laser-therapy-for-hair-loss
- Hair loss - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372932