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Photobiomodulation Therapy

Photobiomodulation Therapy & Hair Loss

Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT), known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), is used in the right dose and clinical context. This treatment can reduce pain and alleviate inflammation while stimulating tissue healing and regeneration.

LLLT was discovered in 1967 by Endre Mester at the Semmelweis Medical University in Hungary. Mester was trying to repeat an experiment first conducted by Paul McGuff in Boston USA, who had successfully used the newly discovered ruby laser to cure malignant tumors in rats. This was the first indication that low-level laser light (rather than high power thermal lasers) could have its own beneficial applications in medicine.

In 2015, thanks to the efforts of Dr. Praveen Arany, PBMT was added to the National Library of Medicine MeSH database as an entry term to the existing record of low-level laser therapy. In summary, PBMT is accurate and specific terms for this effective and important therapeutic application of light.

 

Photobiomodulation and Low-level laser therapy are safe and effective on hair growth improvement

Photobiomodulation for Hair Growth

Photobiomodulation involves the use of light within the visible red (600‐700 nm) or near infrared (NIR) (700 nm‐1400 m) range that is produced from a laser or light‐emitting diode (LED) source. These wavelengths coincide with the “optical window” of mammalian skin, that is, the wavelength at which there is maximal absorption of light. Unlike regular lasers which produce tissue heating or ablation, absorption of light by a chromophore in PBM produces a photochemical effect that is analogous to photosynthesis in plants.

PBMT has been shown to be more effective for stimulating regrowth during the early stages of hair loss rather than in later stages, so it’s important to recognize hair loss early and work with a less invasive (and likely less expensive) solution.

Photobiomodulation Devices

Most of the marketed devices have been based on low power (5 mW) red laser diodes, while some contain LEDs in addition to lasers. The red wavelengths have usually been between 630 nm and 660 nm. These devices can be divided into four broad types:

  • Hand held combs or brushes

  • Head bands

  • Caps or helmets

  • Stationary hoods

The total number of laser diodes incorporated into each of the delivery devices determines the total power administered to the head, and hence the time required to deliver the desired dose to the affected regions of the scalp. The treatment repetition for a home use device is usually once per day, or once every two days.

 

Benefits of LLLT for Hair Loss

According to a 2014 study, LLLT therapy appeared to be safe and effective for hair growth in both men and women; a 2013 study showed that over a period of 16 weeks, 39% hair growth increase in 41 males (ages 18-48). Low level laser therapy can provide benefit for some men and women suffering from androgenic alopecia (genetic baldness), and has been suggested to assist a hair transplant patient’s postoperative wound healing process, expedite hair growth.

Among all kinds of LLLT devices, InStyle-Egg® Laser Cap is the optimal choice for hair restoring treatment. It’s no adverse effects and painless for patients, and portable to carry. InStyle-Egg® Laser Device emits red light at wavelength 650 nanometers to scalp, promote blood circulation. Improvement is reported in at least some users after 12 to 26 weeks of use, with reduced hair fall and noticeable hair growth.

Photobiomodulation and Low-level laser therapy device can reverse hair loss, improve hair regrowth

Conclusion

Photobiomodulation or LLLT is a safe and potentially effective modality for the management of hair loss. Most laser devices can be conveniently administered from home, and certain models offer hands‐free, discreet use. To reverse hair loss or improve hair quality, laser treatment would be an option for you.

If you lose hair suddenly, see your doctor. Rapid hair loss might be an indication of an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

 

 

References:

  1. Michael R. Hamblin, Ph.D.

  2. Michael R Hamblin

  3. Author: Anoma Ranaweera B.V. Sc; PhD: Low dose laser therapy for hair loss

  4. ISHRS: Photobiomodulation (PBM)/ LLLT