Research* and user reports indicate that red light can stimulate hair growth in both men and women with androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) and non-patterned types of alopecia.
Red 660 nm light increases circulation at the base of the hair follicle and increases the metabolic activity within the skin cells of the scalp. These effects promote hair growth.
This photodynamic technique also enhances topical treatments like Rogaine.
Treatment times vary and longer times probably do no harm but also may not improve results. 10-15 minutes of daily exposure for 2-4 weeks followed by a series of equally long treatments 1-2 times per week over 6-12 months may suffice for maximum benefit.
NOTE: Because not enough solid research exists to specify treatment times, adverse effects, etc, we accept no liability for the use of these modalities. Use them responsibly, cautiously, and prudently. Evaluate the effects of minimal exposure before using more extensively.
Complementary approaches:
- DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), a sex steroid, affects hair growth. Saw Palmetto
can be used with good results, as does Neem oil and Tea tree oil to combat DHT build-up. - Honey acts as an emollient, a natural softener which conditions your hair.
- Propolis has promise in the battle against baldness.
- Antioxidants assist scalp health and stimulate hair growth.
- Stress plays a large part in hair loss. Reduce it with mind machines.
- Add omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. Flax, salmon, walnuts, etc.
- GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), eg black currant oil and evening primrose oil.
- Be kind to your hair. Don’t use “product” that make it look good but harm it. Avoid hair styles that put tension on the hair and scalp. Stop twisting your hair compulsively. (CES helps with these kinds of issues.)
- Apple Cider Vinegar
*Research links
- The growth of human scalp hair mediated by visible red light laser and LED sources in males. CONCLUSIONS: LLLT of the scalp at 655 nm significantly improved hair counts in males with androgenetic alopecia.
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Low-Level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) for Treatment of Hair Loss
Using 655 nm red light and 780 nm infrared light once a day for 10 minutes, 24 male AGA patients were treated and evaluated by a group of investigators. Evaluation has been performed via global photography and phototrichogram. Following 14 weeks of treatment, increase in hair density on both the vertex (145.1/cm2 vs. 137.3/cm2 pre-treatment, P < 0.005) and occiput (163.3/cm2 vs. 153.3/cm2, P < 0.005) as well as anogen/telogen ratio (vertex: 84.7 vs. 79.7 pre-treatment and occiput: 91.9 vs. 89.6 pre-treatment) was observed, and 83% of the patients reported to be satisfied with the treatment.
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Study of the Effect of Low Level Laser Light on Hair Growth on the Female Human Scalp