Regrowing hair with laser and light sources: Is this practical?

Michael R Hamblin PhD

near infrared light extracellular matrix deposition growth factor production

cell proliferation & motilityanti-apoptosis and pro-survival

Gene transcriptionsignaling

Mechanisms of low-level light therapy

Literature Review

Low Level Light Therapy for Hair Regrowth

1. Does it work in androgenetic alopecia?2. What is best wavelength?3. What is best fluence/irradiance?4. Do you need a laser?5. How often should light be repeated?6. Other parameters - pulsing, polarization?7. Does it work for alopecia areata?8. Does it work in women?9. Does it work for chemotherapy?

10. What is best way to deliver light?

655nM+/-5nm 26mW +0 -15%

Summary and conclusionLow level light mechanisms are beginning to be understood

Evidence exists for laser-induced hair growth

Follicles can be rescued from dying and stimulated into anagen

Optimum wavelength, laser or LED, irradiance, fluence and treatment repetition need to be determined

Different patients may need different dosimetry

Plethora of devices appearing on market

Minimal number of clinical studies