Low level hair therapy (LLLT) has been debated by both patients and physicians. LLLT is the newest technology in hair restoration wherein the laser aids in regrowing the bald patches on the head. Laser hair regrowth was discovered when a researcher named Endre Mester was treating his group of mice with “cold laser light” to induce cancer. He noticed that the mice did not develop cancer; instead, the shaved fur grew back faster than the mice not treated with the laser light.
How is LLLT done?
Today LLLT is used as a treatment to baldness or alopecia. The laser rays are “pulsed” on the scalp to produce a stimulating growth effect on the head. It releases energy to cause cellular changes and in addition, the scalp is treated with oxygen to promote blood flow.
HairMax LaserComb is one of the products that use the LLLT theory. It looks like a comb which should be used three times a week for approximately 10-15 minutes. The product boasts of a greater than 90% user satisfaction and being FDA cleared (not approved).
What does FDA approval mean?
The United States Food and Drug Administration have two products approved for hair loss treatment—Propecia (finasteride) and Rogaine (minoxidil). If a product is “cleared” by the FDA it does not necessarily mean that it is already “approved.” Products are cleared because they present proof that they work and they are cleared if they are proven safe for consumption.
Some physicians found LLLT as part of their regular practice because it supposedly resolves postoperative telogen effluvium quicker. But some physicians are sceptical of the treatment because it does not work for several patients that they have treated.
Only time will tell if this new innovation will surpass the expectations of hair regrowth. But as of the moment, it should still be developed and perfected so that it qualifies for FDA approval.
