Red light therapy is becoming more popular as a solution to hair loss. This non-invasive therapy uses specific wavelengths to stimulate hair growth. You can perform red light therapy at home, which is a great benefit. We'll explain what RLT is and how it works. Then we'll discuss why you might want to try this treatment.
What is red light therapy for hair loss?
The red light therapy is also called PBM (photobiomodulation therapy) and it is a noninvasive treatment for the skin that uses wavelengths of red light to penetrate into the skin, stimulating cellular activity. Scientists developed red light therapy in the 1990s to promote wound healing and regeneration of skin. Doctors now use it as a noninvasive skin treatment for a variety of purposes including reducing acne and skin lines, reducing inflammation and stimulating hair growth.
The principle behind red light therapy is the same, regardless of its purpose. Red light therapy causes mitochondria to produce more energy in cells, allowing them to regenerate faster, grow and heal.
How Does Red Light Therapy Work For Hair Loss?
The hair follicles in the skin are small cavities from which the hair grows. The cells and proteins in them nourish and support hair shafts. Genetics, ageing, hormonal changes or environmental stresses can cause hair follicles to shrink or go dormant. The red light therapy stimulates the hair follicles by delivering light to their cells. This increases energy production, and promotes hair growth.
This is a step by step explanation of the process:
Step 1: Apply the red light therapy device to the scalp. It penetrates deeply into the skin.
# Step 2 : The wavelengths in red light stimulate mitochondria to produce more adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), the cells' currency of energy.
# Step 3 : Increased levels of ATPs will help the cells function better and repair themselves. This will lead to healthier hair follicles.
# Step 4: Dormant hair follicles can enter the anagen phase of the hair cycle (the active growth stage).
Does Red Light Therapy For hair Loss Work?
Red light therapy can be effective in reducing hair loss depending on the cause of your hair fall.
The hair cycle is divided into three phases.
# Anagen (growth phase)
# Catagen (transitional phase)
# Telogen (resting phase)
# Exogen (shedding phase)
Hair loss can occur when the hair follicles enter the telogen stage prematurely or the anagen period is reduced. Over time, this can cause thinning of the hair and baldness.
Red light therapy is still debated, but it's generally agreed that the red light stimulates follicles in the anagen stage by increasing blood circulation and cell proliferation. It prolongs anagen and encourages dormant hair follicles to enter the growth cycle.
Many factors can cause hair loss. Hair loss can be caused by many factors.
# Androgenetic Alopecia - Male and female pattern hair loss
# Alopecia Areata - Autoimmune Hair Loss
# Telogen Effluvium - Stress-Related Hairloss
# Traction Alopecia - Hair Loss due to Tension
# Anagen Effluvium - Hair Loss Due to Chemicals
# Cicatricial Alopecia (Scarring Alopecia)
Trichotillomania - Hair-Pulling disorder.
RLT has been shown to be particularly effective in treating androgenetic hair loss (male or female pattern baldness), which is the most common form of hair loss. Telogen effluvium can also be treated with RLT. RLT has also been shown to be effective in treating alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder that causes patchy hair loss. RLT is not effective in treating scarring alopecia where the follicles have been permanently damaged, or hair loss caused by chemotherapy, which requires addressing the underlying medical condition.
Research on Red Light Therapy for Hair Loss
Red light therapy is a non-invasive, effective treatment for hair thinning.
In a 2018 study, published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, red light therapy was found to be effective for hair growth in people with androgenetic androgenetic. The study showed that RLT led to an increase in hair diameter and count.
In a 2017 study, published in Dermatologic surgery, it was shown that red light therapy improved hair density and regrowth by stimulating follicular activities and prolonging anagen phase. RLT was found to be an effective adjunct treatment for hair loss.
In a 2016 study, published in Lasers Surgery and Medicine, it was found that red light therapy improves the microcirculation of the scalp. This leads to better nutrient delivery for hair follicles. This mechanism promotes hair growth and scalp health.
Red light therapy is not without its limitations. The results can be very different between individuals and require consistent use for several months in order to see any noticeable improvement.
Consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues if you are experiencing rapid or extreme hair fall. The most effective way to treat female/male hairloss at home with red light therapy is when it's combined with other treatments like minoxidil or finasteride. These treatments enhance the results and offer a holistic approach to hair restoration.
How to Do Red Light Therapy at Home for Hair Loss
It's easy to do red light therapy at home for hair loss.BlockBlue Light red light therapy devices from BlockBlue Light are easy to use and safe. Here's a brief overview:
1. Follow our guide to buying the best device for you
2. Make sure your scalp is completely dried
3. Position the device between 6-12 inches from your scalp or as instructed by the manufacturer. You can hang a panel over your head if you want to target the top of the scalp. You can also lie on your back and place the panel so that it faces the top of the scalp.
4. Turn on the device. If you feel uncomfortable, reduce the brightness or get closer.
5. You can use the device up to three times a week, for 10-20 minute sessions.
6. Keep a regular routine. For best results, you must be consistent.
7. Take a photo of your head at least every two to three weeks. You and your doctor can adjust your plan accordingly if necessary.
To avoid accidents, it is important to thoroughly read all instructions provided by the manufacturer. Wear the protective eyewear provided with the panels. This is especially important because the panels are so close to your eyes. Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or have any health conditions.
The Best Device for Red Light Therapy at Home
It is important to choose an effective panel if you want to get the best results with red light therapy at home. It is not sufficient to have a panel that emits red light. The panel must also emit the correct wavelengths and intensity of light. When buying a device, you should check the following:
Wavelength:
Near-infrared therapy uses wavelengths of 800 to 850 nanometers for red light. The best frequencies for red light are 660 nanometers (nm) and near-infrared wavelengths of 850 nanometers (nm).
Power Density:
The light energy is measured in milliwatts (mW) per square centimeter. The more powerful the panel is, the stronger it will be.
Flicker-free & EMF free:
Flickering light can cause eye strain and discomfort, but they also disrupt the distribution of light. This could reduce the effectiveness of a panel. Our red light panels eliminate all harmful flicker.
Safety Goggles
Make sure the device comes with safety goggles that will protect your eyes against prolonged exposure to intense lighting.
Number of LED
Numerous light-emitting Diodes (LEDs) emit red light from the panel. The more LEDs, the better light output and distribution.
