Low-Level Laser Therapy for the treatment of androgenic alopecia

This recent peer reviewed published article is an excellent summary of the published data regarding low level light lasers in the treatment of hair loss for men and women.

Clinical trials have confirmed the efficacy of low level light lasers in the treatment of hair loss. It is effective as a sole treatment or in combination with other therapies.

 Lasers Med Sci. 2018 Feb;33(2):425-434. doi: 10.1007/s10103-017-2385-5. Epub 2017 Dec 21.

Low-level laser therapy for the treatment of androgenic alopecia: a review.

Darwin E1,et al  

Abstract

There are many new low-level laser technologies that have been released commercially that claim to support hair regrowth. In this paper, we will examine the clinical trials to determine whether the body of evidence supports the use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to treat androgenic alopecia (AGA). A literature search was conducted through Pubmed, Embase, and Clinicaltrials.gov for clinical trials using LLLT to treat AGA. Thirteen clinical trials were assessed. Review articles were not included. Ten of 11 trials demonstrated significant improvement of androgenic alopecia in comparison to baseline or controls when treated with LLLT. In the remaining study, improvement in hair counts and hair diameter was recorded, but did not reach statistical significance. Two trials did not include statistical analysis, but showed marked improvement by hair count or by photographic evidence. Two trials showed efficacy for LLLT in combination with topical minoxidil. One trial showed efficacy when accompanying finasteride treatment. LLLT appears to be a safe, alternative treatment for patients with androgenic alopecia. Clinical trials have indicated efficacy for androgenic alopecia in both men and women. It may be used independently or as an adjuvant of minoxidil or finasteride. More research needs to be undertaken to determine the optimal power and wavelength to use in LLLT as well as LLLT's mechanism of action.