Comparative Efficacy of 2% Minoxidil Alone Versus Combination With Low-Level Laser Therapy in Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Chinese Females

The study involved 80 Chinese females with Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) and compared the effectiveness of 2% minoxidil alone and in combination with low-level laser therapy (LLLT). The results showed that both treatments were effective and safe, but the combination of LLLT with 2% minoxidil achieved better results in transforming intermediate hair to terminal hair and thickening hair diameter. The combination group had a 33.5% improvement rate at vertex scalp and 42.3% at midscalp, and a decrease of vellus hair percentage by 12.6% at vertex scalp and 17.5% at midscalp. In contrast, the 2% minoxidil group had a 23% improvement rate at vertex scalp and 25% at midscalp, and a decrease of vellus hair percentage by 13.9% at vertex scalp and 35.2% at midscalp. No serious side effects were reported. The study suggests that a larger sample size and longer therapy period could provide more conclusive results.