Photobiomodulation for the Management of Hair Loss

December 2020 in “ Photodermatology Photoimmunology & Photomedicine ”

Angeli Eloise Torres, Henry W. Lim

photobiomodulation low-level laser therapy androgenetic alopecia HairMax LaserComb Capillus Laser Therapy Cap alopecia areata lichen planopilaris PBM LLLT AGA AA LPP

From the encyclopedia

Alopecia Areata →

autoimmune disorder causing patchy hair loss

Low Level Laser Therapy →

laser therapy for anti-inflammatory and likely insignificant hair regrowth effects

Studysummary This review discusses photobiomodulation as a potential treatment for hair loss, highlighting its safety and possible effectiveness but noting cost, protocol standardization, and expectation management as limitations; it reports no new clinical results.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), was explored as a treatment for hair loss, showing promise in increasing hair density and thickness, particularly in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Devices like the HairMax LaserComb and Capillus Laser Therapy Cap received FDA clearance for pattern hair loss, with studies showing significant improvements, such as a 19.8 hairs/cm² increase in hair density in 110 males and a 51% increase in terminal hair counts in 44 females. PBM also showed potential benefits for alopecia areata (AA) and lichen planopilaris (LPP), though no devices were FDA-approved for these conditions. Despite its effectiveness, the high cost of PBM devices and lack of standardized protocols were noted as limitations, and further large-scale studies were needed to confirm efficacy and establish optimal treatment protocols.

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Research cited in this study

25 / 25 results

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