Today, people of all ages and genders are affected by hair loss. It is unfortunate that approximately 50% of men and 25% of women in the United States will experience hair loss at some point in their lifetimes.[1]
Today, a large number of leading researchers are still investigating the principles and applications of red light therapy. There is significant interest in red light therapy for hair loss in particular.
We cannot help but ponder if red light therapy can truly prevent hair loss. Or is it just a myth created by businesses to generate revenue?
Let’s begin with our conclusion: certainly, red light therapy is an effective treatment for hair loss.
Interested in the science behind it? Let’s keep reading.
Does Red Light Therapy Really Work for Hair Loss?
In April 2014, Joaquin J. Jimenez et al. conducted a rigorous clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of light therapy for hair growth. In this study, 128 men and 141 women were randomly assigned to receive scalp treatment three times per week for a duration of 26 weeks.[2]
The genuine treatment group reported a higher rate of overall improvement in hair loss, thickness, and fullness than the placebo group. In addition, there were no reports of significant adverse reactions.
If only one study can demonstrate the efficacy of red light therapy for hair growth, it would be a farce, wouldn’t it? We felt the same way.
For this reason, we continued our search for a large number of research results. Trying to determine whether the use of red light to stimulate hair growth is sufficiently effective. And, more important, whether it is applicable to everyone.
More Researches About Red Light Therapy for Hair Loss
One of the most common symptoms of aging is hair loss, but red light therapy has been shown to help with it in many studies and research.
A meta-analysis in 2019 comprised of 11 double-blind, randomized controlled trials examining eight clinical studies showed clear and significant growth in hair density for the people treated with red light compared to the placebo group.[3]
More effective than drugs
Another study compared another 2018 red light therapy meta-analysis against hormone-regulating drugs such as Finasteride and Dutasteride. After examining 22 studies, researchers concluded that red light therapy was superior without side effects.
Increased hair density and strength
Another meta-analysis from 2017 with 680 patients and 11 studies shows a significant increase in hair count and density when treated with red light therapy. The results noted increased tensile strength and thickness too.[4]
Red light therapy versus other treatments for male pattern baldness
In a 6-month-long study from 2018, a randomized, double-blind trial was conducted with red light and other devices. It was trialed on 100 men.[5]
They were treated three times a week for thirty minutes on one side of their head while other methods treated the other side. The trial ended with astonishing results and a marked increase in hair growth, density, strength, and thickness on the side treated with red light therapy compared to the other side.
It was seen in the research that red light therapy is an effective, safe, non-invasive treatment for male pattern baldness.
Red light therapy for female pattern baldness
In a trial from 2017 that studied the effects of red light therapy on female pattern baldness, researchers used the Ludwig-Savin Baldness scale, specifically designed to examine hair loss in women. The women treated with red light therapy noticed a 51% increase in hair count.[6]
How to Find the Best Red Light Therapy Device for Hair Loss?
If you’re looking for a red light therapy device for hair growth, there are plenty of options to choose from on the market. The following suggestions may help you narrow down your choices:
- Wavelength: Look for a device with both 660nm and 850nm wavelengths for the best results.
- FDA approval: Make sure the device you choose is FDA-approved, ensuring that it’s safe and effective.
- Low or zero EMF: Choose a device with low or zero electromagnetic radiation to avoid any potential harm.
- Application: Look for a user-friendly device that fits your head comfortably.
If you’re still feeling unsure, we’ve prepared a more comprehensive article for you. Here, we explain in simpler terms how you can pick a product that’s better suited to you. You can read this guide to choose the best red light therapy for hair growth.
In this article, we delve into the science behind this revolutionary therapy, explore the most effective devices on the market, and provide tips for getting the most out of red light therapy.
Start Your Hair Loss Treatment Plan
Red light therapy is non-invasive and easy to use, and it can be as cheap as $1 a day(or less). It’s a perfectly safe procedure that you can benefit from at home. It not only saves time but money too.
You can use this plan for the best hair growth result:
- Get a red light hair growth hat that suits you. If you are unsure how to choose, please refer to the guide above.
- Wash and dry your hair before using the red light therapy device for optimal results.
- Get comfortable and perform red light therapy when you can remain undisturbed.
- Do red light therapy 3-4 times a week for 10-20 minutes each session. Continue for 4-6 weeks.
- During your RLT treatment, maintaining healthy habits like a balanced diet and good sleep can aid in natural hair regeneration.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a safe, non-invasive, effective, and affordable treatment for hair loss backed by sufficient studies and research, red light therapy is your best bet.
It helps with hair regrowth and density, nurtures scalp tissues, and reduces inflammation.
There are numerous reasons for hair loss, so consult a healthcare professional to ensure that red light therapy is the best suited to help with your situation.
Sources and References:
[1] 21 Hair Loss Statistics and Facts to Know in 2023
[2] Joaquin J Jimenez, “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.” 2014 Apr.
[3]“Comparative effectiveness of low-level laser therapy for adult androgenic alopecia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” Lasers in Medical Science. 2019 Aug.
[4] Afifi L, Maranda EL, et al. “Low-level laser therapy as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2017 Jan.
[5] Mai-Yi Fan S, Cheng YP, et al. “Efficacy and Safety of a Low-Level Red Light Therapy for Androgenetic Alopecia: A 24-Week, Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham Device-Controlled Trial.” Dermatologic Surgery. 2018 Nov.
[6] Esmat SM, Hegazy RA, et al. “Low-level light-minoxidil 5% combination versus either therapeutic modality alone in the management of female patterned hair loss: A randomized controlled study.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. 2017 Nov.