Red Light Therapy for Hair Loss: Does It Really Work?

Table of Contents > Causes of Hair Loss Does Red Light Therapy Work for Hair Loss? What Research Says Wavelength for Hair Growth Benefits for Hair Red Light Therapy for Thinning Hair Red Light Therapy for Grey Hair How to Use How Often Before and After Red Light vs. Blue Light Therapy for Hair Other Hair Loss Treatment FAQs Wrapping Up

  

Is your hairbrush looking a little too full these days? Millions of people experience hair loss, but what if we told you there's a natural way to fight back?

Red light therapy might sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it could be the answer to your hair woes. In this article, we'll explore the science behind red light therapy and how it can help you achieve the luscious locks you deserve.

Source: Freepik

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a real drag. It can affect your confidence and leave you feeling, well, a little less than your best. But before we dive into the wonders of red light therapy, let's uncover the common culprits behind those disappearing strands.

Source: Freepik

 

• Genetics: Sometimes, hair loss is simply in your genes. Thanks, Mom and Dad! This type of hair loss is called androgenetic alopecia, and it's the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women.

• Hormonal Imbalances: Hormones play a big role in hair growth. Changes during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid issues can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to shedding.

• Stress: Have you ever noticed more hair in your brush after a stressful period? Stress can push hair follicles into a resting phase, causing hair to fall out.

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Your hair needs the right nutrients to grow strong and healthy. A lack of iron, protein, or zinc can contribute to hair loss.

• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like scalp infections, alopecia areata (an autoimmune disorder) can cause hair loss.

• Medications and Treatments: Some medications, like those used for cancer, arthritis, depression, or blood pressure, can cause hair loss as a side effect.

• Hair Treatments and Styles: Excessive styling, chemical treatments, or tight hairstyles can damage hair follicles

• Aging: Hair growth slows and thins naturally as part of the aging process.

Understanding the cause of your hair loss is the first step toward finding the right solution. But don't worry. Even if you can't change your genes, there are still ways to fight back.

Does Red Light Therapy Work for Hair Loss?

Red light therapy invigorates cells, stimulating energy production. This cellular boost enhances circulation, delivering vital nutrients and oxygen to the scalp. Additionally, low-level laser therapy helps reduce inflammation, creating an optimal environment to nourish hair follicles. By stimulating hair follicles, red light therapy encourages them to enter the anagen (growth) phase, leading to faster and thicker hair growth.

 

Here's the lowdown:

• Boosts Circulation: Red light therapy increases blood flow to the scalp, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to those hungry hair follicles.

• Reduces Inflammation: Inflammation can hinder hair growth. Red light therapy helps calm things down, creating a happy environment for your hair to flourish.

• Stimulates Hair Follicles: Red light therapy can encourage hair follicles to enter the anagen (growth) phase, leading to faster and thicker hair growth.

 

But does it really live up to the hype?

The good news is that there's a growing body of research supporting the effectiveness of red light therapy for hair loss. Studies have shown that red light therapy can:

• Increase hair count and density

• Improve hair thickness and diameter

• Prolong the hair growth phase

 

So, while we can't promise you'll wake up with a mane like a lion overnight, red light therapy is a game-changer for those struggling with hair loss.

What Research Says About Red Light Therapy for Hair Loss

You don't have to take our word for it. Scientists have been putting red light therapy to the test, and the results are pretty darn impressive. Here are a few studies that shed some light on the matter:

Hair density and strand diameter

Source: mijoynaturals.com

 

• Increased Hair Count in Men: A 2013 study published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine found that men with androgenetic alopecia who used a 655nm red light device experienced a significant increase in hair count after 16 weeks.

• Improved Hair Density in Both Sexes: A 2014 study in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine explored the effects of red light therapy on both men and women with androgenetic alopecia. The results? Those who used a 655nm red light device saw a significant increase in hair density compared to the placebo group.

• Thicker Hair Strands: Not only can red light therapy increase hair count, but it can also make your existing hair thicker. A 2021 study in the J Cutan Aesthet Surg. found that red light therapy increased hair shaft diameter in women with androgenetic alopecia. 

These are just a few examples of the growing body of research supporting the use of red light therapy for hair loss. While more research is always welcome, the existing evidence suggests that red light therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for those looking to reclaim their crowning glory.

What are the Ideal Red Light Wavelengths for Hair Growth?

When it comes to hair growth, the wavelength matters. Consider it like tuning your radio to the right station to get the best signal.

The sweet spot for hair regrowth seems to be in the 630-660 nanometer range. This wavelength can penetrate the scalp and stimulate those sleepy hair follicles. Some studies also suggest that combining red light with near-infrared light (around 850nm) can further enhance the benefits.

 

Why is this wavelength so special? It appears to have the perfect balance of energy to stimulate cellular activity without causing any damage. It's like giving your hair follicles a gentle wake-up call, encouraging them to get back to work and producing those luscious locks.

When choosing a red light therapy device, make sure it emits light within the optimal wavelength range. Don't be fooled by fancy gadgets with flashing lights – look for devices specifically designed for hair loss treatment.

Red Light Therapy Benefits for Hair

While thicker hair is a fantastic benefit, red light therapy is a bit of an overachiever. It brings even more to the table. Here's how it can improve your hair's health:

• Increased Hair Strength: Say goodbye to brittle strands. Red light therapy can help strengthen your hair, reducing breakage and split ends.

• Improved Scalp Health: A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. Red light therapy can help reduce scalp inflammation and improve circulation, creating the perfect environment for hair growth.

• Reduced Dandruff: Dealing with pesky flakes? Red light therapy can help regulate oil production and reduce scalp inflammation, which can contribute to dandruff.

• Faster Hair Growth: Red light therapy can help speed up the hair growth cycle, so you can see results sooner.

• Enhanced Hair Quality: Red light therapy cannot only make your hair thicker but also improve its overall quality, leaving it looking and feeling healthier.

Red light therapy is like a multivitamin for your hair, providing a range of benefits that go beyond simply stimulating growth. It's a holistic approach to hair health that can leave you with a head of hair you'll love to show off.

Does Red Light Therapy Work for Thinning Hair?

Thinning hair can be a real blow to your confidence, but don't throw in the towel just yet. Red light therapy might be the secret weapon you've been searching for. Thinning hair often occurs when hair follicles shrink, producing finer and weaker hairs. Eventually, these follicles can become dormant, leading to noticeable hair loss.

Source: Freepik

 

But here's where red light therapy comes in:

• Awakens Dormant Follicles: Red light therapy can stimulate those sleepy follicles, encouraging them to wake up and start producing healthy hair again.

• Strengthens Existing Hair: It can also help strengthen existing hair, making it less prone to breakage and giving your hair a fuller appearance.

• Increases Hair Density: By promoting the growth of new hair and strengthening existing strands, red light therapy can lead to a noticeable increase in hair density.

Red light therapy acts as a personal trainer for your hair follicles, helping them get back in shape and pump out those thick, healthy strands you crave. While it might not work miracles overnight, consistent use can lead to significant improvements in hair thickness and fullness over time.

Can Red Light Therapy Reverse Grey Hair?

Gray hair is a natural part of aging, but let's be honest, most of us aren't exactly thrilled about those silver strands popping up. So, can red light therapy help us hold onto our youthful color?

Source: Freepik

 

Unfortunately, the answer is probably not. Gray hair happens when the pigment cells in our hair follicles stop producing melanin, the stuff that gives our hair its color. While red light therapy can stimulate circulation and promote healthy hair growth, it doesn't seem to have any effect on melanin production.

However, there's a silver lining. Red light therapy can still benefit those with gray hair by:

• Improving scalp health: A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair, regardless of color.

• Strengthening hair: Gray hair can be more prone to breakage, but red light therapy can help strengthen those strands.

• Promoting new hair growth: Even if it can't reverse gray hair, red light therapy can encourage the growth of new, healthy hair.

So, while red light therapy might not be the fountain of youth for your hair color, it can still play a role in maintaining a healthy and vibrant mane, even as you embrace those distinguished grays.

How to Use Red Light Therapy for Hair Growth

Ready to use red light therapy for your hair? Here's a step-by-step guide:

 

1. Choose the right device: There are a variety of red light therapy devices available, including helmets, caps, brushes, and handheld wands. Do your research and choose a device that is specifically designed for hair growth and emits light in the optimal wavelength range (630-660nm).

2. Set the timer: Most devices come with a timer. Start with shorter sessions of 10-15 minutes and gradually increase the duration as your scalp becomes accustomed to the light.

3. Position the device: Place the device on your head so that the red light shines directly on your scalp. If you're using a handheld wand, move it in small circles to ensure even coverage.

4. Relax and enjoy: Sit back and relax while the red light works its magic. You can read a book, listen to music, or simply close your eyes and enjoy the moment.

5. Repeat regularly: For optimal results, it is recommended to use red light therapy for 20-30 minutes daily. Consistency is key, so stick to a regular schedule.

 

💡 Additional tips:

• Clean your scalp before treatment: A clean scalp provides a better canvas for the red light to work its magic.

• Use a hair mask: Applying a hair mask before or after your red light therapy session can help boost the treatment's effectiveness.

• Protect your eyes: Red light can be harmful to your eyes, so be sure to wear protective eyewear during treatment.

• Be patient: Results may take time, but with consistent use, you should start to see a difference in your hair growth and overall hair health.

 

Red light therapy is just one tool in your hair loss arsenal. For best results, combine it with a healthy lifestyle, a good hair care routine, and a positive attitude. With a little patience and perseverance, you can achieve the hair of your dreams.

If you're using a handheld device, you can also target other areas of your body that could benefit from red light therapy, such as your face, neck, and hands.

How Often to Use Red Light Therapy for Hair Growth

Consistency is key with red light therapy, but you don't want to overdo it. Most experts recommend using red light therapy for hair growth 3-5 times per week, with each session lasting around 20-30 minutes.

Think of it like exercise – you need to give your body (or, in this case, your hair follicles) time to rest and recover between sessions. Overdoing it can actually be counterproductive, so stick to the recommended frequency and duration.

Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration as your scalp adjusts. Always follow the instructions that come with your specific device.

Red Light Therapy for Hair Before and After

Many companies that sell red light therapy devices showcase impressive before and after photos on their websites. You can also find testimonials and photos shared by real users on forums and social media. Keep in mind that results can vary depending on individual factors, but these visuals can give you a good idea of the potential benefits of red light therapy for hair loss.

Red Light vs. Blue Light Therapy for Hair: What's the difference?

Red light and blue light therapy are both used for hair treatments, but they work in different ways and target different conditions:

Light penetration into skin

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5653719/

Red Light Therapy:

Uses wavelengths typically between 630-660 nm. It penetrates deeper into the skin, reaching the hair follicles.

Benefits for Hair Growth:

• Stimulates cellular activity in hair follicles, promoting hair growth.

• Increases blood flow to the scalp, which can improve the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles.

• May help reduce inflammation in the scalp, which can be a factor in hair loss.

Best for: Androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness), thinning hair, and general hair growth stimulation. It is often considered the primary light therapy for hair restoration.

Blue Light Therapy:

Uses shorter wavelengths (around 450-485 nm), which primarily target the skin’s surface and have antibacterial properties.

Benefits for Hair and Scalp Health:

• Can help treat scalp conditions like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis by reducing inflammation and bacteria.

• May help improve scalp health, creating a better environment for hair growth.

Best for: Addressing scalp-related issues rather than directly stimulating hair growth.

 

Red light is more effective for directly stimulating hair growth by targeting hair follicles, while blue light is better suited for treating scalp conditions that may indirectly support hair growth.

For optimal results, some therapies combine red and blue light to target both hair follicles and overall scalp health, maximizing the benefits for hair restoration and scalp condition management.

 

⭐️ Further Reading:

LED Light Therapy Color Guide: Red, Blue, Green Light Therapy

Hair Loss Treatment Alternatives to Red Light Therapy

Yes, there are several other hair loss treatment alternatives, including:

• Minoxidil (Rogaine): An over-the-counter medication that can help slow down hair loss and promote regrowth.

 

• Finasteride (Propecia): A prescription medication for men that can help prevent hair loss and promote regrowth.

 

• Hair transplantation: A surgical procedure that involves transplanting hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another.

 

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: A treatment that involves injecting concentrated platelets from your own blood into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

Source: Sadick Dermatology

 

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs and hair loss condition.