Photobiomodulation for the management of hair loss

Abstract

Photobiomodulation, otherwise known as low‐level laser (or light) therapy, is an emerging modality for the management of hair loss. Several randomized trials have demonstrated that it is safe and potentially effective on its own or in combination with standard therapies. These devices come in many forms including wearable caps or helmets that afford hands‐free and discreet use. Models with light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are less expensive compared to laser‐based devices and do not require laser safety considerations, thus facilitating ease of home use. Limitations include cost of the unit, risk of information bias, and lack of standardized protocols. Finally, as with any hair loss treatment, patients' expectations with regards to therapeutic outcomes must be managed.

Low-level laser therapy in androgenetic alopecia: narrative review

“…Non-invasive and safe, LLLT has demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of adverse events when used for more than 50 years in various medical states and anatomical sites. In addition, it was reported to be convenient for patients to use at home and stimulate hair growth in male and female with AGA, and was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2007 [41][42].…”

A MINI REVIEW ON PHOTO- BIOMODULATION- Novel approach

“…Effect of PBMT on hair cells: PBM has recently been discovered to increase the production of ligands in the Wnt/B-catenin route, that is implicated in the commencement of hair follicle maturation and evolution [12].PBMT is hypothesized to extend the anagen and prevent an early transformation into catagen in hair regrowth. PBMT devices, when used to promote hair regrowth, use wavelengths that can penetrate underlying tissue, often in the 600 to 700 nm range [13].…”

“…PBMT devices, when used to promote hair regrowth, use wavelengths that can penetrate underlying tissue, often in the 600 to 700 nm range [13]. The following are the several types of low-level laser therapy devices: (a) stationary hoods, (b) handy combs or brushes, (c) headbands, and (d) caps or helmets [12]. It is based on the dose-response feature.…”

Red LED light therapy for telogen effluvium in the course of long COVID in patients with and without androgenetic alopecia

“…Among a broad range of dermatological indications, LEDs have been used to treat hair loss. LED irradiation was safe and well-tolerated as monotherapy or combined with standard therapies, both in scarring and non-scarring alopecia [12]. Considering potential therapeutic targets, photobiomodulation might be promising option for post-COVID hair loss [11,[16][17][18][19] (Fig.…”

“…Photobiomodulation, also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), is based on the application of light in the red or infrared spectrum produced from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or laser to modulate cell metabolism. Typically in photobiomodulation, light with relatively low intensity in the range of 0.04-50 J/cm 2 and low power density < 100 mW/cm 2 is used [11][12][13]. Marashian et al demonstrated that photobiomodulation using red LED light reduced levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines: IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha, and inhibited cytokine storm in mildly to moderately ill patients with COVID-19, compared to the placebo group in which no such effect was observed [13].…”