In addition to prescribing topical or oral treatments for hair loss such as minoxidil or finasteride, many hair restoration clinics now offer laser light therapy as an adjunct and non-invasive therapy for male or female pattern hair loss.
In clinical studies, Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) has been shown to stimulate the scalp and stimulate blood circulation while at the same time encouraging the regeneration of normal healthy tissue at the cellular level.
These types of low level lasers used for hair restoration are called "cold" (or soft) lasers because while their light is absorbed by the tissue, there is no cutting or burning sensation and these types of lasers do not heat up the tissue, as do other types of lasers.
According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), in clinical trials with LLLT, 97% of patients have shown improvement in hair characteristics, stabilization of hair loss, or hair re-growth.
Although in use in other countries, including Canada, for hair loss, in this country clinical trials are ongoing. In January 2007, the FDA gave 'clearance' for a type of low level laser called the Lexington HairMax LaserComb, the first LLLT device for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (male pattern hair loss).
Low Level Lasers have been approved in this country for use as treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, wound-healing, and as an adjunct to liposuction.
How does it work? Laser therapy works by delivering light energy from infrared laser radiation (photons) to damaged cells.
The process between laser light and living tissue is called photobiology. During this process, these photons get absorbed by the cells through laser therapy and stimulate the mitochondria to accelerate production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and convert it into adenosine diphosphate (ADP).
This biochemical process releases cell energy and supplies needed nutrients and additional oxygen to the scalp, increases blood circulation and transforms unhealthy cells to stable, healthy cells.
Studies show that LLLT is most effective when used in conjunction with other medical therapies such as minoxidil or finasteride. Physicians report that LLLT may enhance hair growth and reduce inflammation after a hair transplant.
LLLT is not a "one time only" treatment for male or female pattern hair loss. As with other medical therapies, treatment must be repeated at intervals to maintain hair regrowth results.
Not all patients will have successful results when treated with LLLT. Those who get the best results usually have minimal to moderate hair loss or are in the early stages of pattern balding.
Many clinics have large, LLLT devices resembling the old-fashioned hair dryers, but smaller hand-held LLL devices, such as the laser comb are available for personal use.
While The ISHRS takes no official stand on LLLT as a treatment for hair loss, it does say that LLLT may be an appropriate treatment for some patients with male or female pattern hair loss. Patients should discuss this option with a qualified hair restoration physician and make their decision based on their own personal criteria.
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