Hair loss is a common condition that can have a multitude of causes and may lead to significant distress in those affected.
This has led researchers and doctors to develop multiple treatments to help combat or reverse hair loss. One non-surgical, non-medication option that has become increasingly popular is red light therapy (RLT).
With a wide range of options for red light therapy, it can be difficult to narrow down your search and identify the system that best fits your needs.
To make this process easier, we have joined forces with our research team to navigate the market and select top RLT devices for hair loss. We hope our guidance can help you make an informed decision and support you during your hair loss treatment journey.
Best red light therapy for hair growth: a shortlist
- Best overall LED and laser combination device: iRestore Elite
- Best helmet with laser and LED red light therapy: iRestore Professional
- Best LED red light hat: HigherDose
- Best laser hair device with the shortest treatment session: Capillus PRO
- Best FDA-cleared cap for faster hair growth: HairMax®
- Most user-friendly red light therapy device for hair growth: Kiierr
- Most affordable laser cap for hair growth: illumiflow
- Best red light therapy for all head sizes: RedLightHat Pro
- Best LED red light device for larger head sizes: CurrentBody





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Comparing the best red light therapy devices for hair growth
Brand | Price | Number of light emitting sources | Laser vs LED | Treatment Duration | Treatment Frequency |
iRestore Elite | $1,899 | 500 (300 laser and 200 LED) | Both | 12 minutes | Every day |
iRestore Professional | $899 | 282 (82 laser and 200 LED) | Both | 25 minutes | Every other day |
HigherDose | $449 | 120 | LED | 10 minutes | Every day |
Capillus PRO | $1,699 | 272 | Laser | 6 minutes | Every day |
HairMax® | $1,299 | 202 | Laser | 15 minutes | Three time a week |
Kiierr | $749–$1699 | 148–302 | Laser | 30 minutes | Every other day |
illumiflow | $699 | 272 | Laser | 30 minutes | Three times a week |
RedLightHat Pro | $407 | 99 | Laser | 15 minutes | Every day |
CurrentBody | $859 | Not specified | LED | 10 minutes | Every day |
Which is the best red light therapy device for hair growth?
The Kiierr Laser Cap Hair Growth System stands out because it uses high-quality materials and medical-grade laser diodes in the optimal wavelength (650 nm) to provide low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to a wide audience.
It is is available at three price levels to allow customers options at different price points. Besides, Kiierr offers a 1-month risk-free trial.
The Kiierr hardware is FDA-cleared and made with high-quality materials to meet certain manufacturing requirements.
The wireless design enables customers the convenience of being able to move freely and complete daily routines until the 30-minute session has been completed.
Overall, the features and benefits of this product have been noted in user reviews, with it receiving over a 4-star rating on Amazon and Trustpilot.
Best red light therapy for hair growth: an overview
Hair loss is a relatively common disorder that affects men and women and can have many causes. It may significantly impact a person's self-esteem and confidence, as well as their social and professional lives.
Fortunately, hair loss is not something you just have to accept. Several options exist to help potentially address hair loss by stimulating new hair growth.
We have reviewed devices that provide the best red light therapy for hair growth promotion.
1. iRestore Elite — best overall LED and laser combination device

The iRestore Elite is a laser and LED combination device using Lumitech technology to provide complete scalp coverage. The LED and laser lights are claimed to be medical-grade and provide wavelengths of 625, 655, and 680 nm.
The iRestore Elite is available for $1,899, with each order coming with free shipping, a 12-month money-back guarantee, and a three-year warranty.
Key features
It is designed to offer comprehensive scalp coverage, targeting key areas like the hairline, temples, and crown, which are often affected by hair loss.
Equipped with 500 medical-grade lights (300 lasers and 200 LEDs), the helmet delivers broad coverage in as little as 12 minutes.
The system comes with a hand controller that displays a timer, allowing you to follow the current treatment session and a protective carrying case.
Key benefits of the iRestore Elite
This device includes the highest number of light-emitting sources compared to other of our top chosen products that stimulate hair follicles throughout the scalp. In addition to being FDA-cleared, this product has undergone Intertek safety testing and has been ISO-certified for quality.
Each helmet is manufactured with pads to provide a comfortable fit during each session and its air-ventilated design keep you cool during the session.
Who might benefit the most from iRestore Elite?
People with hair loss in hard-to-treat areas such as the hairline and temples may benefit the most.
Company review
iRestore was founded in 2003 with a mission to provide non-invasive treatment options to promote hair regrowth and preserve the current hair.
The company is focused on providing scientifically backed evidence by supporting clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness.
The company is confident of the quality of the helmet and they provide a 12-month money-back guarantee, in addition to a 3-year warranty.
Brief summary of the iRestore Elite
The iRestore Elite uses a combination of laser and LED lights to provide full scalp coverage and company-sponsored research to provide scientifically-backed evidence of hair growth. The system comes with a rechargeable battery that can provide sessions for up to 2 weeks on a single charge.
To stimulate hair growth, a person will require a dozen-minute sessions daily. If you are not happy after a year, the company provides a money-back guarantee so you can try their product risk-free.
2. iRestore Professional — best helmet with laser and LED red light therapy

The iRestore Professional, similar to the Elite version, is a laser and LED combination system using Lumitech technology to provide full scalp coverage.
For this model, LED and laser lights are medical-grade but only produce a wavelength of 655 nm compared to the three different wavelengths seen with the Elite model.
The iRestore Professional is available for $899, with each order coming with free shipping, a 12-month money-back guarantee, and a two-year warranty.
Key features
Similar to the Elite, this device is designed to provide full scalp coverage, including the hairline, temples, and crown. However, it contains 282 medical-grade lights (82 lasers and 200 LEDs). The treatment regimen is recommended for 25 minutes, to be performed every other day.
The equipment includes a hand controller that displays a timer, allowing users to easily start sessions and monitor the remaining time. A carrying case is also provided to keep the helmet safe while traveling.
Key benefits of the iRestore Pro
It uses laser and LED light to help promote hair growth and is cheaper than pure laser care systems. Similar to the Elite version, the Pro helmet is FDA-cleared, has undergone Intertek safety testing, and is ISO-certified for quality.
Each helmet is manufactured with pads to provide a comfortable fit during each session and its design allows airflow to keep you cool during the session.
Who might benefit the most from iRestore Pro?
Users with hair loss in hard-to-treat areas such as the hairline and temples may benefit the most from this care system.
Company review
iRestore was founded in 2003 with a mission to provide non-invasive treatment options to promote hair regrowth and preserve the current hair. The company is focused on providing scientifically backed evidence by supporting clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness of its systems.
The company is confident of the quality of the helmet and you will like their product that they provide a 12-month money-back guarantee, in addition to a 3-year warranty.
Brief summary of the iRestore Pro
The iRestore Pro offers an affordable option for those looking to purchase a hair care system that combines laser and LED lights for full scalp coverage.
A rechargeable battery pack is recommended to avoid tangled cords and gain more flexibility during treatment sessions. Additionally, company-sponsored clinical trials have shown evidence of hair growth.
It stimulates hair growth with half-hour sessions every other day. Additionally, the company offers a 12-month money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the product risk-free if you're not satisfied.
3. HigherDose — best LED red light hat

HigherDose Red Light Hat is an LED-only hat that provides red light therapy to the scalp to increase blood flow and improve its health. By improving scalp conditions, such as increasing blood flow to hair follicles, it stimulates hair growth.
This hat 120 LEDs producing red light at 650 nm wavelengths and can be purchased for $449 which includes free shipping, 120-day satisfaction guarantee, and a one-year warranty.
Key features
The HigherDose device uses a baseball-style cap design and a rechargeable battery to provide daily treatment in a convenient and easy-to-wear manner. The hat contains medical-grade LEDs to help improve blood flow within the scalp, nourishing follicles with nutrients and oxygen that may improve hair growth.
The brand claims to use LED technology in this hat that is FDA-cleared.
When the 10-minute daily session has completed, the battery will beep letting you know the process has ended and to shut off the hat.
Key benefits of the HigherDose Red Light Hat
The use of LEDs to provide red light therapy makes this product much cheaper than laser red light devices.
The battery can provide 8–10 therapy sessions on a single charge allowing one-week of care without needing to charge.
The short sessions and cordless design makes it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
Who might benefit most from the HigherDose Hat?
This device may benefit those looking to prevent overall hair loss.
Company review
HigherDose is a company founded on the principle of making biohacking technologies easy and accessible. They provide several products that utilize infrared, PEMF, and red light therapy to improve one's overall well-being.
Founded by two female biohackers, their products focus on harnessing the healing power of nature into devices that can be incorporated into the busy schedules of wellness champions.
Brief summary about the HigherDose Red Light Hat
The HigherDose Hat utilizes LED therapy to help enhance hair health. This product is best used by those who want to prevent hair loss and improve blood flow to the scalp.
With an adjustable strap, this hat can fit a wide variety of head circumferences and is easy to assimilate into the daily routine.
4. Capillus PRO — best laser hair device with the shortest treatment session

The Capillus Pro utilizes 272 medical-grade diodes to stimulate hair follicles and improve the hair thinning. This FDA-cleared devise is battery-powered allowing you to continue your life while receiving your treatment session.
Each diode produces light at a wavelength of 650 nm in a continuous pattern.
The Capillus Pro is available for $1,699 which includes free shipping, a free Capillus gift, a 6-month satisfaction guarantee, and a 3-year limited warranty.
Key features
The Capillus Pro is held in place by a baseball-style cap while undergoing the hair care sessions. The automatic shut-off function enables you to complete the daily session without watching the clock.
The device can fit heads up to 23 inches in circumference and is assembled and serviced in the U.S.
Key benefits of the Capillus Pro
One key benefit of the Capillus Pro is its ability to deliver a follicle-stimulating session in only 6 minutes. This short process helps with compliance by easily fitting into almost anyone's daily routine.
The rechargeable battery included with Capillus Pro purchases allows customers to move freely during the sessions.
Who might benefit the most from the Capillus Pro?
This product can benefit those looking for a quick hair therapy sessions.
Company review
Capillus Pro uses cutting-edge technology to develop innovative hair loss solutions for those suffering from it. Their main focus is to provide a non-invasive and convenient method for regrowing hair.
Customer satisfaction is prioritized by this company and is evident in the positive reviews on Amazon and Trustpilot.
Brief summary about Capillus Pro
The Capillus Pro is an FDA-cleared system that utilizes 272 medical-grade diodes to ensure full coverage of the scalp and power stimulation of hair growth. The rechargeable battery that comes with the device allows for full mobility while undergoing therapy.
It features one of the shortest hair care sessions and has an automatic shut-off so you do not have to watch the clock.
5. HairMax® — best FDA-cleared cap for faster hair growth

Whether you are looking for a cap to wear at home or get your daily red light therapy on the go, HairMax® stands out as an exceptional choice. FDA-cleared and in a convenient baseball-style cap, it features 202 medical-grade laser diodes emitting a 655 nm wavelength light to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
The PowerFlex is available on their website for $1,299, which includes free shipping, a 6-month money-back guarantee, and a one-year warranty.
Key features
The HairMax PowerFlex utilizes 202 laser diodes to provide low-level laser therapy that has been shown to stimulate hair growth in as little as three months; however, the brand suggests giving the device up to six months for noticeable results.
This device is FDA-cleared and is produced in line with ISO Quality standards.
The PowerFlex device fits into a baseball-style cap designed to fit head circumferences up to 22 3/4 inches.
The brand suggests the cap be worn for 15-minute treatment sessions with a recommended frequency of three times per week.
Key benefits of the Hairmax PowerFlex
The PowerFlex 202 Laser Cap system has been shown through company-sponsored studies to produce hair growth results without the use of medications and has been well-tolerated in the studies.
The cap’s medical-grade laser diodes are positioned to provide the maximum coverage to the scalp. The hat includes a battery source, which provides freedom to move during the treatment session.
Who might benefit the most from the Hairmax PowerFlex?
This cap can benefit any individual with hair loss from various causes, such as androgenetic alopecia, thinning and slower growth due to aging, or menopausal hair loss.
Company review
HairMax® is a company dedicated to providing the latest technology geared at improving the lives of its customers. The company is committed to continuing to innovate and improve its products while maintaining the highest possible manufacturing standards.
HairMax® has also been committed to scientific research and has funded seven clinical trials at universities, which has resulted in five published studies.
Brief summary of the Hairmax PowerFlex
This HairMax® product combines innovative red light therapy technology with a user-friendly design, making it an ideal choice for anyone embarking on a hair growth journey. With its medical-grade laser diodes, convenient cap, and brief session time, it's perfect for use at home, at work, or on the go, offering a practical device for those looking to support their hair growth.
With seven clinical trials, this and other devices produced by the company have shown positive results in helping users regrow hair while maintaining high manufacturing standards and FDA clearance.
6. Kiierr — most user-friendly red light therapy device for hair growth

The Kiierr Laser Cap Hair Growth System is an FDA-cleared device available in three different models. The options include a cap that provides either 148, 272, or 302 premium-grade lasers in sizes that can fit up to a head circumference of 23.5".
The Kiierr caps are available starting at $749 (148-diode) and $1,699 (302-diode) for the top model. Each purchase comes with free shipping and a 7-month Growth Guarantee risk-free trial.
Key features
The Kiierr Laser Cap contains premium-grade lasers and is available in three different models: the Pro Cap (148 diodes), the Premier Cap (272 diodes), and the Ultra Flex Cap (302 diodes). The laser diode helmet fits under a plain black baseball-style cap with the manufacturer's name stitched into the front of the cap.
This easy-to-wear cap comes with a portable battery and charger and carrying case is cordless and is hands-free, allowing free movement while the device is working.
A scalp massager is also included to support enhanced hair growth due to an increase in blood circulation, thus providing nutrients to the hair follicles. Each session is 30 minutes long and should be performed every other day.
Key benefits
The Kiierr Laser Cap is an FDA-cleared device that promotes the stimulation of hair follicles in an easy, portable, and discreet way. The baseball-style cap makes it easy to wear whenever convenient.
The multiple options give consumers price ranges to fit anyone's budget.
Each premium-grade diode provides 650 nm wavelength light.
Who might benefit the most from Kiierr Laser Caps?
According to the manufacturer, this device may benefit users with androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern baldness), alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and chemotherapy-induced hair loss.
Company review
Kiierr is a company in Utah founded by a husband-and-wife team with a mission to help others through their hair loss journey.
The company has an A-rating with the Better Business Bureau and partners with dermatologists, trichologists, and mechanical laser engineers to provide continuously improved technology.
Brief summary about Kiierr Laser Caps
The Kiierr Laser cap provides high-grade, low-level laser therapy to help combat hair loss by stimulating hair follicles to grow new hair.
This cap should be used every other day for half-hour to obtain the best results. The Kiierr cap comes with free 2-day shipping and a 7-month results guarantee or your money back.
7. illumiflow — most affordable laser cap for hair growth

The illumiflow 272 Pro Laser cap is an FDA-cleared equipment that contains 272 medical-grade diodes to provide users with low-level light therapy at 650 nm wavelengths to stimulate hair growth.
The cap comes with an additional safety feature preventing the cap from turning on unless it is in place.
The illumiflow device is available $699 and comes with free shipping and a two-year warranty.
Key features
The illumiflow 272 is FDA-cleared for use by men and women to stimulate hair growth using low-level light therapy. The cap is contained within a baseball-style hat to allow users to move freely while keeping the laser cap in place.
It comes with a safety feature to prevent it from turning on unless it is on the scalp and has an automatic shut-off and a soft chime alert when the treatment is complete.
Key benefits of the illumiflow
The system utilizes pulsing laser light to allow the laser diode to recharge, giving the hair time to rest and heat to dissipate, reducing thermal damage, as reported by the company. This device provides a comfortable fit for customers with a head circumference of up to 23 inches.
The illumiflow 272 utilizes advanced cooling technology to protect the lasers and keep it functioning properly.
Who might benefit the most from the illumiflow?
It would benefit those with hair loss due to several different who are looking for a cost-conscious option.
Company review
illumiflow is a revolutionary company that holistically approaches hair loss by providing a noninvasive, affordable, and effective solution. The group has set an ambitious goal of helping all 56 million customers who suffer from hair loss using low-level laser therapy.
This company work hard to provide a product that is both high-quality and affordable to allow everyone the ability to use a promising hair growth technology.
Brief summary about illumiflow
This product provides a high-quality option at a more affordable price. The 272 lasers producing light of 650 nm wavelength provide a potential to help stimulate hair growth using a unique pulsatile approach.
This product offers an easy-to-use option that requires a 30-minute session three times a week.
8. RedLight Hat Pro — best red light therapy for all head sizes

The RedLight Hat Pro is a unique product, it has a 99-laser diode mat designed to provide coverage to all areas of the scalp, including the hairline, temples, and crown. The mat can then be placed in any baseball-style hat, providing significant versatility with all head sizes.
The device is battery-operated and can be purchased for $407 which includes shipping, a 90-day guarantee, and a 1-year warranty.
Key features
The RedLight Hat Pro utilizes 99-laser diodes producing low-level laser therapy to the scalp at three different wavelengths, 615, 635, and 650 nm. Additionally, it has a power bank, which allows it to be used while on the go with an easy-to-use digital controller.
The equipment is designed to shut off automatically when the therapy session has been completed. It comes with a hard case to help keep the device safe during travel.
Key benefits of the RedLight Hat Pro
One of the biggest benefits of it is its ability to accommodate a wide range of head sizes, which has traditionally been one of the biggest complaints of other red light therapy systems.
The utilization of low-level laser therapy is important in providing the best potential for stimulating hair growth.
The power bank and ability to slip the mat in any baseball-style cap gives this device the ultimate ability to be used anywhere and anytime.
Who might benefit the most from the RedLight Hat Pro?
It would benefit those who want to try low-level laser therapy for hair loss but have a head circumference that prevents the use of other devices.
Company review
RedLight Innovation is a UK-based company committed to providing high-quality solutions to hair loss without an invasive approach. The mat is one of their flagship products, increasing the versatility of low-level laser therapy for a wider audience.
The mission of RedLight Innovations is to empower individuals to regain their confidence through the use of the latest technology to help with their hair regrowth journey.
Brief summary about RedLight Hat Pro
The RedLight Hat Pro is a versatile product that uses 99 laser diodes to provide low-level laser therapy to the scalp. It uses a power bank, allowing customers to ambulate and go about their daily routines while completing their therapy sessions.
It is recommended to be use the device for 15 minutes every day.
9. CurrentBody Skin LED Hair Regrowth Device — best LED red light device for larger head sizes

The CurrentBody Skin LED Hair Growth Helmet uses LED technology to stimulate blood flow to the scalp with a spectrum of red light (620–660 nm wavelengths). This can increase blood flow to the scalp and stimulate follicles for hair growth.
Helmet-style LED devices are available in small and medium sizes for $859, and they include free shipping and a two-year warranty.
Key features
The small fits head circumferences from 21.3 to 23.1 inches and the medium fits circumferences from 23.5 to 25 inches.
The helmet-style system contains headphones and bluetooth connectivity so that you can listen to music during your therapy session.
The device has an automatic shut-off feature so you do not have to watch the clock during your session.
Key benefits of the CurrentBody Skin LED Helmet
It has a rechargeable battery to provide a cordless experience allowing you to keep going with your daily routine.
The headphones and automatic shut-off feature allow you to sit back and relax during hair care sessions.
With a choice of larger size, this helmet provides red light therapy to users of larger head circumferences unable to use smaller models.
Who might benefit the most from the CurrentBody Skin LED helmet?
It may benefit those seeking to improve hair growth who have been unable to use similar devices due to sizing constraints.
Company review
CurrentBody has been around for over 14 years and has made it its mission to provide red light therapy to users in the comfort of their own homes. The company offers a wide range of products that can complement your skincare routine.
The company is committed to providing excellent customer service and high-quality products to redefine the home-use beauty technology marketplace.
Brief summary about the CurrentBody Skin LED helmet
It provides some unique features to the health and beauty marketplace, including two different helmet sizes and headphones with Bluetooth connectivity directly installed.
This LED helmet is a battery-powered device that allows its users to enjoy the benefits of LED therapy without being tethered by a cord.
How we chose the best red light therapy for hair growth
Price | Convenience | FDA-cleared |
$407–1,899 | Bluetooth connectivity, short-therapy sessions, battery pack, and adequate battery life | Products cleared by the FDA to comply with safety regulations |
- Price. Hair growth products can be pricey and thus we evaluated these products to find the best value for your money.
- Convenience. The ability to put the device on and go about your daily routine is important as these often need to be used daily.
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FDA-cleared. The equipment meeting the rigorous safety standards of the FDA were important to help ensure the device is unharmful for consumers.
What is red light therapy for hair growth?
Red light therapy (RLT) involves using light within a range of 620-750 nm wavelengths to stimulate dormant hair follicles to combat hair loss.
Clinical studies have shown RLT (also referred to as low-level light therapy or LLLT) to improve hair density and hair caliber. The improved density gives users a more full head of hair, while increased caliber increases the thickness of the individual hair.
LLLT has been shown to improve the health and appearance of the scalp. RLT has been shown to decrease sebum production, which can reduce hair's oily appearance.
Additionally, RLT can decrease inflammation within the scalp, which promotes a healthier scalp for hair growth.
How to decide on the right red light therapy device for hair growth
When deciding on a red light therapy device, it is important to look at the wavelength and the light-emitting source.
The wavelength of 655 nm has been shown to be most beneficial for combating hair loss. Additionally the use of laser diodes as the source can help to penetrate deep into the scalp to stimulate the hair follicles better than LED diodes.
Identifying RLT devices that are easy to use and fit a wide range of head sizes is important to improve usage and ensure appropriate scalp coverage. Many devices come with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing the use of an app to help make the treatment sessions easy to program.
The wide range of costs can play a significant part in deciding the best option for you. We provided options throughout the spectrum of costs to allow you to find the price that best fits your wallet.
The benefits of red light therapy for hair growth
A fuller, healthier-looking hair may greatly boost self-esteem and confidence. RLT helps achieve this by offering several key benefits that support hair growth.
Increased hair density
The loss of hair density may occur in different scalp areas and is typically the result of aging or genetics.
Utilizing a red light therapy helmet can provide therapy to the entire scalp, targeting multiple areas of concern to potentially help increase hair growth by stimulating dormant hair follicles.
Increased hair caliber
The thickness or caliber of each hair strand can result from various factors, such as genetics, stress, and hormonal changes, and it will often give the hair a less healthy appearance.
The use of low-level light therapy stimulates the hair follicle to enter the anagen phase (growth phase), prolongs the duration of the anagen phase, and increases proliferation rates within the hair follicle. This increases hair caliber, resulting in a thicker, healthier appearance.
Modulation of reactive oxygen species
Low-level laser light therapy can help to increase the production of reactive oxygen species in cells within the hair follicle responsible for hair growth.
The presence of reactive oxygen species may promote cellular proliferation, migration, and growth factor production. Additionally, LLLT can stimulate the production of energy by the mitochondria (powerhouses of cells) that may support hair growth.
How red light therapy stimulates hair follicles
The mechanism of red light therapy in stimulating hair follicles is likely multifactorial. Laboratory research has shown that low-level light therapy stimulates protein production by increasing the expression of genes that are useful for hair follicle growth.
This was shown to result in stimulation of the hair follicle to remain in the active growth phase by having advantageous effects on metabolism, cellular junctions, and other biological processes.
RLT has also been shown to reduce the transition of hair follicles from the anagen (active growth phase) to the catagen (phase of regression and reduced production of hair). This produces more actively growing hair strands, which produce the improved density and caliber of hair shafts as described above.
Finally, reduced scalp inflammation and irritation set the stage for a healthier scalp, which may promote hair growth. This is an important effect of RLT that helps achieve a fuller head of hair.
Expert insights
As our red light therapy article began to take shape, we turned to the expertise of Rugilė Kančaitė, MD. With a background in Health Sciences, she provided guidance on the role of red light therapy in hair growth and offered key insights that may help you select an optimal RLT device for your needs.
Hair loss and red light therapy
Hair loss affects a wide range of individuals, often leading to significant stress and discomfort. With red light therapy emerging as an aid to combat hair loss, even celebrities like Lili Reinhart are embracing their potential. Adding to its popularity, some scientific studies are starting to support some of the claims associated with these devices. To gain further insights, we asked Rugilė about their effectiveness.

Honestly, it is hard to believe that simple light can help you achieve a head full of hair. However, multiple studies have shown positive results. Current evidence suggests that red light therapy may help with hair regrowth, and improve its density and hair count. It’s shown to be potentially effective in people with several types of alopecia, including male/female pattern baldness.
That being said, Rugilė highlighted that evidence is still emerging, and the effectiveness of red light therapy is still quite uncertain.
Considerations
Rugilė noted that red light therapy devices vary considerably in terms of power and features, and currently, there is not sufficient research to point out ‘perfect’ parameters or universal usage guidelines.
Since there are no guidelines on how often, for how long, and at what intensity or distance red light therapy devices should be used, it is important to follow the guidelines and recommendations of your provider. Moreover, for optimal results, you should select devices that use red light wavelength between 630 and 660 nm, with an irradiance of 5 mW/cm2 (approx. 32.26 mW/in²), and at a dose of 4 J/cm2 (approx. 25.81 J/in²). These parameters are supported by scientific research.
Rugilė Kančaitė
That being said, Rugilė highlighted that evidence is still emerging, and the effectiveness of red light therapy is still quite uncertain.
Bottom line
Red light therapy shows potential for those who are experiencing hair shedding or thinning. However, these devices should not be a replacement for medication or other medical treatments. If you are experiencing alopecia or other hair-related concerns, it is fundamental to discuss the best course of action with your physician.
“Consult your healthcare provider first — they’ll help you decide whether purchasing a red light therapy device is the right option and ensure these devices are safe for you,” Rugilė added.
Safety and side effects of red light therapy for hair growth
Overall, the safety profile for low-level laser therapy is favorable, and the adverse effects attributed to red light therapy are generally mild. The most common side effects include:
- Dry skin
- Pruritis (itchiness of the scalp)
- Scalp tenderness, and
- Skin irritation
To minimize the risk of side effects, the equipment should always be used as directed by the manufacturer. Additionally, following the manufacturer's recommendations can prevent the rare cases of red light therapy causing burns and blistering at the treatment site.
LLLT is a localized treatment that does not produce any systemic symptoms, unlike some of the pharmacologic options used for the treatment of hair loss. However, it is still important to discuss the use of any device with your healthcare provider to ensure the most efficacious and safe use.
How to incorporate red light therapy into your hair care routine
Consistent use of these systems is essential to maximize hair growth. It's important to determine the best time to incorporate treatment sessions into your day, such as during your bedtime routine. The short duration and portability make it easier to integrate the sessions into your daily routine with minimal disruption.
Once you have successfully added it to your routine, it is important to be patient, as hair growth can take two to four months to notice results. Keep the sessions to the duration and frequency as recommended by the manufacturer.
Best red light therapy for hair growth — conclusion
Red light therapy has been used for many years for its benefits in the health and beauty sector.
With improved technology, more at-home devices have reached the market and are popular for hair growth purposes.
While the exact mechanism of how red light therapy stimulates hair growth is unknown, many different clinical studies have shown red light therapy to be beneficial. Therefore, we have provided an in-depth review of the top ten products on the market.
As with all medical systems, it is recommended that you talk with your healthcare provider before starting, to ensure it is safe for you.
FAQ
How does red light therapy work for hair growth?
The mechanism of red light therapy in stimulating hair follicles is likely multifactorial. Some studies have shown low-level light therapy to improve protein synthesis and positively affect the metabolism, cellular junctions, and other biological processes of hair cells. It has also been shown to keep hair follicles in the active growth stage.
Can red light therapy be used with other hair treatments?
Yes. Low-level light therapy has been safely added to hair loss medication therapies such as minoxidil to help maximize hair growth. However, before adding red light therapy to any medical regimen it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider the risks and benefits.
Is red light therapy safe for long-term use?
While the long-term safety of red light therapy is not known, red light therapy is safe when used for short-term therapy at the recommended treatment intervals. The overuse of red light therapy can cause skin irritation, skin blistering, and even burns. So it is always important to use only as recommended.
What results can I expect from red light therapy for hair growth?
Clinical studies have shown red light therapy to increase the density of hair follicles and the caliber of the individual hair. These results are often coupled with reduced inflammation that facilitate hair growth. However, these results are not immediate and require regular use to achieve these benefits.
7 resources
- Skin Appendage Disorders. Examining the Safety and Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy for Male and Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Review of the Literature.
- Lasers in Surgery and Medicine. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) for treatment of hair loss.
- Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery. Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring.
- Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. Role of Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) in Androgenetic Alopecia.
- Annals of Dermatology. Hair Growth Promoting Effects of 650 nm Red Light Stimulation on Human Hair Follicles and Study of Its Mechanisms via RNA Sequencing Transcriptome Analysis.
- Skin Appendage Disorders. Low-Level Light Therapy and Minoxidil Combination Treatment in Androgenetic Alopecia: A Review of the Literature.
- Annals of Biomedical Engineering. The Nuts and Bolts of Low-level Laser (Light) Therapy.
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