Laser Hair Restoration

Close your eyes and imagine "the future." What do you see? If you're like most people, you probably imagined something right out of the Jetsons. Neon lights on every corner, flying cars, vacations into space, and lasers being used for just about everything. You wouldn't be entirely mistaken, either; we don't have the flying cars (yet), but a quick look in a newspaper will show that everything else has come true, that we may very well be living in the future. The most iconic and telling sign, of course, is the laser. Where it was once a staple of fantastic science fiction, scientists are discovering uses for them that we hadn't even imagined before. We know that they have all sorts of military and medical applications, we even know that they can help with hair removal, but did you know that lasers can also be used to restore hair?

Every man past the age of thirty worries about hair loss, so it's no surprise that new, increasingly strange methods to halt or reverse hair loss are being developed every day. Creams, pills, plugs, surgery, and now lasers. It may seem unusual, and maybe even a little scary, but when you're staring down your reflection, counting the hairs on your head with fearful expectation, any solution to the problem of hair loss suddenly seems viable. A man faced with the loss of confidence that hair loss brings doesn't have time to worry about how scifi his treatments are, he just wants results.

Still, it has to work. No matter how advanced a laser may be, if it doesn't get results its little more than a pretty light show. Also, even the most desperately balding men might pause a bit when they see the devices used in the treatment, as they're reminded of an old spy movie they once saw. Laser hair restoration may be another sign that we're living in the future, but for those of us in the present, we need to know one thing: does it work?

How Does Laser Hair Restoration Work?

Laser hair restoration, called Low-Level Laser Therapy or LLLT, is a catch-all term for laser treatments that do not break the skin. By strapping a rather intimidating looking apparatus to the patients head, doctors use lasers on the scalp to stimulate blood flow to the scalp. The lasers convert Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) to Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP), which causes a metabolic change, which in turn allows more nutrients to flow to the affected area, encouraging tissue regeneration and growth. It's similar in principle to laser based procedures used to treat injuries, and in fact many doctors combine laser hair restoration with hair transplants. In lay terms, the laser stimulates the scalp which can promote hair growth. Thick, luxurious hair growth. In addition to the James Bond-esque office device, many patients are recommended to use a laser comb (try saying that out loud!) for at home hair restoration treatments. This works in much the same manner as its larger, scarier cousin, and is used much like a regular comb (or regular laser). Just brush it across the scalp slowly to stimulate blood flow, and enhance the results achieved in the doctor's office. There are a surprising number of models for these laser combs on the market, so hair restoration patients should shop carefully and talk to their doctors.

Who Can Benefit from Laser Hair Restoration?

Unfortunately, the efficacy of lasers as a treatment for hair loss is still under consideration. While the consensus seems to indicate that there is some effect, it's a topic of much debate about how useful laser hair restoration is when compared to other established methods. The general opinion seems to be that, while the treatment is effective in most men who try it, it works for about the same number of people as other hair loss treatments, such as Propecia or Rogaine. Most often, it is best used as a supplement for other hair restoration procedures, and has been said by some doctors to increase hair shaft diameter when combined with medication for genetic female hair loss or male pattern baldness. It is only indicated (but not necessarily proven) to work for people who suffer natural hair loss, and is of little benefit otherwise. While some doctors and patients swear by it, others would like to see wider reaching, more formal studies. A study presented at the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery confirmed an increase in shaft diameter in men and especially women, but that there was no statistically significant new hair growth. It's recommended to consult your physician for his opinion before undergoing laser hair restoration.

Risks

The FDA has approved LLLT hair loss treatments for clearance, suggesting that there is little to no health risk in its use. It did not, however, grant its full approval for efficacy. Furthermore, the study was conducted in private. Other laser hair restoration treatments have been cleared by the FDA on similar grounds, suggesting no significant side effects when using LLLT. Essentially, LLLT is about as safe, and as effective, as Rogaine. The only thing you need to worry about is whether or not you're willing to risk the hit to your pocketbook. The laser comb is sold to the tune of $400-$500 dollars, and a full regimen of in-office therapy could cost over $4500. How important is your hair?

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care an appropriate health care provider.