Laser Alopecia Treatment
Alopecia is a hair loss condition that can lead to baldness. Advances in laser technology and technique have presented a solution for this condition.
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Laser Type
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Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is the FDA-approved laser treatment for alopecia and other hair loss conditions. This type of laser treatment is also referred to as soft laser therapy, cold laser therapy, biostimulation, laser acupuncture and low-intensity or low-energy laser therapy.
Features
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LLLT for alopecia involves targeting the scalp with panels of low-energy lasers in abrief, painless procedure that has no downtime and no side effects.
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How It Works
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Laser energy penetrates the surface skin to stimulate the mitochondria of abnormal cells of the hair follicles. The energy triggers cell functions, metabolism and protein synthesis, improving functionality and health of the hair follicles.
Benefits
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LLLT revives the hair follicles to restore hair growth and thicken thinning hair. Treatment has no side effects, complications or recovery time. The laser does not use heat, so burning or damaging the skin tissue isn't possible. Additionally, patients' scalps do not develop a chemical dependency for continued hair growth, unlike chemical hair loss treatments.
Drawbacks
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Since the efficacy and safety of LLLT has been confirmed, the only real drawback is the amount of time required. To see results, patients may have to endure from eight to 30 treatment sessions, two to four times per week. Also, LLLT is not likely to work on a head that is already completely bald.
LLLT for Home Use
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The FDA approved a hand-held home-use LLLT product in January 2007. It is a low-laser comb used for hair restoration and thickening.
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