Optical Characteristics of LEDs for Scalp Care with Effects of Malassezia Sympodialis Inhibition and HFDPC Activation
TLDR LED light at specific wavelengths can help fight dandruff and promote hair growth without increasing inflammation.
In 2019, a study investigated the optical properties of LEDs in inhibiting Malassezia sympodialis and activating Human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPC) to combat dandruff and hair loss. The research found that light of 393 ± 3nm improved antifungal performance by increasing horizontal irradiance and reducing energy density. In tests on scalp cell activation, light was exposed to HFDPC at an energy density of 5 ± 0.17J/㎠ with the 630 ± 1nm LED and an energy density of 20 ± 1.22J/㎠ with the 850 ± 1nm LED. This led to a 38% and 44% increase in the incidence rates of IGF-1 and VEGF, hair growth promoting factors, respectively, compared to the non-irradiated group. The incidence of the inflammatory factor (COX-2, MMP-2) remained unchanged when the 850 ± 1nm LED was used.
