Low-Level Laser Therapy for Hair Loss
Laser therapy or low-level laser therapy for hair loss benefits from laser light to stimulate cell proliferation within the follicles to encourage them to appear on the scalp. It is proving to be the best treatment for secondary hair transplant patients, people with a history of cancer and hereditary baldness. Today, it is an FDA-approved technique with a 80% success rate.
Surgeons use low-power lasers in a non-invasive way on the beard and scalp. LLLT devices use a specific frequency and wavelength of light to stimulate growth and improve hair thickness. Rest of the article is about the efficacy and safety of LLLT for patients with patterned baldness.
Does low-level laser therapy work for hair loss?
Yes, LLLT works for pattern hair loss – androgenetic alopecia. Traditional medications such as topical finasteride or minoxidil often have a limited effect on hair shedding compared to low level laser therapy for hair loss. That’s why people with baldness are looking for alternative solutions like LLLT. It uses light wavelengths between 600 and 1,100 nm to boost hair growth. This therapy is increasingly popular thanks to its ease of use, affordability and low side effects.
What does research say?
- LLLT works for both male and female patients with AGA.
- Statistics show a clear increase in diameter and density of hair.
- Only minor side effects have been reported.
How effective is low-level laser therapy hair?
For various hair conditions, low level laser therapy for hair loss may be preferred but LLLT is commonly used for the treatment of the following hair loss conditions:
- Androgenetic Alopecia (Patterned Hair Loss): This includes male pattern baldness and female pattern hair loss.
- Alopecia Areata: The immune system mistakenly attacks your hair follicles.
- Telogen Effluvium: Temporary hair shedding that occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the telogen phase.
- Traction Alopecia: Because of prolonged tension on the hair due to some hairstyles, e.g. ponytails and tight braids.
- Hormonal Changes: Abnormally high levels of DHT, which can lead to balding.
Does LLLT hair therapy work better in men or women?
Looking at the research based on low-level laser therapy for hair loss, it can be said that both men and women experienced a definite increase in terminal hair density with LLLT compared to alternatives. LLLT is useful for treating pattern hair loss in both sexes. However, one study showed that no improvement was observed in some female patients with hair loss after LLLT. Further research is needed.
Benefits of low-laser therapy for hair loss?
LLLT is a recently developed technique for hair follicle stimulation and improvement of hair graft, dermal layer and overall scalp health. Here are the key features of LLLT for hair loss:
- It’s a non-invasive, FDA-approved method that doesn’t require surgery, incisions or injections.
- It stimulates hair growth through the hair follicles.
- It can improve the density of existing hair.
- It may slow the progression of thinning.
- So far, it is considered safe with minimal side effects.
- It can be done at home or in a clinic.
- It can improve the overall health of the scalp by improving blood flow and nutrition to the scalp.
In addition, there are many other benefits of low level laser therapy for hair loss, such as boosting your confidence, no downtime, natural and medication-free, and time-saving effect.
Cost of Low Level Laser Therapy in Turkey
On average, the cost of low-level laser therapy for hair loss in Turkey ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 for a full treatment package. Low-Level Laser Therapy for hair loss in Turkey is a popular non-invasive hair shedding treatment because of its high potency and price competitiveness. This package is typically made up of multiple sessions over several months, together with transport and accommodation to achieve the best results.
Factors which influence the low level laser therapy cost in Turkey:
- Techniques used: The price may be higher for advanced equipment and technology.
- Clinic prestige: Well-established clinics with a proven track record and high-standard of care, and experienced practitioners, may demand higher fees.
- Number of visits: The total cost will depend on the number of sessions required, which may vary depending on the extent of the hair loss and your response to the therapy.
- Where to go: Clinics in major cities like Istanbul may have higher prices as well as quality than those in smaller towns.
Treatment Process of Low Level Laser Hair Therapy in Turkey
Laser hair growth treatment in Turkey can be done for both men and women in Istanbul. Well-known hair transplant clinics in Istanbul can offer this service in addition to FUE hair transplant, U-FUE hair transplant, PRP treatment, Minoxidil, and Finasteride therapies. This widely accepted treatment is a reliable and effective option for people of all genders and ages.
In the classical scenario, the steps will be as follows in Turkey:
- When you arrive in Turkey, the clinic staff will probably guide you to your 5-star hotel room.
- Once you have rested and settled in, you will be taken to the prestigious clinic.
- At the clinic, hair transplant specialists will assess your scalp and decide the number of sessions required for laser hair loss therapy
- During treatment, low-level laser lights emit photons into your scalp.
- These photons are absorbed by weaker cells, strengthening them and effectively initiating cellular regeneration.
- The light treatment promotes blood circulation, which helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles.
- This process stimulates hair growth.
Laser hair loss treatment addresses many types of hair loss experienced by female and male patients. Men with overall hair thinning, receding hairline, and male-type hair loss can benefit. Moreover, the laser therapy is also available for women experiencing hair volume loss, progressive thinning from the crown, more visible scalp, and female pattern hair thinning.
How often do you need LLLT treatment?
LLLT for hair thinning requires regular and consistent sessions to achieve and maintain the results of fuller and thicker hair. The general outline is below:
- First phase: Most research and professionals recommend 2 to 3 sessions per week for the first 4 months. Each session lasts 20-30 minutes.
- Care phase: The frequency of sessions can be gradually reduced to once a week and then every 2 weeks. The response of your scalp will determine this.
Depending on the individual’s condition, the severity of the hair loss, your stage on Norwood scale and the specific device used, the exact frequency and duration may vary.
How long do low-level laser therapy results last?
It is stated by experts that the treatment should be repeated every 6 months for androgenetic alopecia. However, it is not clear how often low-level laser therapy should be repeated for other hair loss conditions. The whole process, pros and cons and all dates are not clearly stated as in a hair transplant surgery.
FAQs About Low-Level Laser Therapy for Hair Loss
High-power lasers are usually applied for surgical and aesthetic cosmetic procedures that include hair removal, tattoo removal and laser eye surgery. In contrast, LLLT, also called Photobiomodulation or Cold Laser Therapy, is used to stimulate cell function and promote healing. It doesn’t generate heat, so it’s less risky.
The relationship between LLLT and hair loss shows high efficacy in people with non-scarring alopecia and those scalps that do not respond to traditional hair loss therapies. However, men and women of all ages suffering from early-stage hair loss can choose this non-surgical treatment.
No, it is not a permanent treatment like a hair transplant procedure. It should be repeated in certain periods.
Your skin is exposed to low levels of radiation, and because it’s a new treatment, the long-term effects of LLLT are still unknown. In addition, patients may notice effects such as redness and irritation on the scalp. Research is needed to understand its effects under the skin. It is also known to have a serious side effect, such as headaches.
It cannot be said that LLLT is better than PRP. PRP is a treatment that involves the enrichment of the person’s own blood directly into the scalp. Therefore, it does not involve injecting a foreign substance into the body or exposing the skin to laser rays. It’s a natural, safe and budget-friendly option.
References
- Satino JL, Markou M. Hair Regrowth and Increased Hair Tensile Strength Using the HairMax LaserComb for Low-Level Laser Therapy. International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2003;5(2):113-117. doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/153082003769591209
- Jimenez, J.J., Wikramanayake, T.C., Bergfeld, W. et al. 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. Am J Clin Dermatol 15, 115–127 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-013-0060-6
- Trüeb R, Munck A, Gavazzoni M. Use of low-level laser therapy as monotherapy or concomitant therapy for male and female Androgenetic alopecia. International Journal of Trichology. 2014;6(2):45. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-7753.138584