Red Light Therapy For Hair Growth

If you’ve fallen into a TikTok beauty rabbit hole at any point recently, you've likely come across countless videos praising the virtues of the latest trend: red light therapy for hair growth. The hype surrounding red light therapy (RLT) for healthy hair is fueled by various benefits and positive outcomes, making it a popular choice among those seeking effective and non-invasive hair care solutions. Endorsed by celebs, and influencers, this is the new miracle solution on the market to promoting thicker, healthier hair. So does this device truly work? Is it worth the hype and substantial pricetag?

What is Red Light Hair Therapy?

Red light therapy involves harnessing specific wavelengths of red light to penetrate the scalp and stimulate hair follicles. This form of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) works by increasing blood circulation and cellular energy production within the follicles. The enhanced blood flow ensures that hair follicles receive more oxygen and essential nutrients, which can revitalize dormant or weakened follicles.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

When visible red light lasers are applied to the scalp at the optimal duration, intensity, and wavelength, the body can absorb this light and convert it into cellular energy. This process stimulates the body's natural healing mechanisms, potentially encouraging hair regrowth. Specifically, red light therapy devices that use light in the 600-650 nanometers range, which enhances cellular activity within hair follicles, increasing blood circulation and nutrient delivery.

Can Red Light Therapy Prevent Hair Loss?

Though not an overnight miracle, this non-invasive, and pain free treatment’s key benefit is the enhancement of blood circulation in the scalp. The increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and essential nutrients to hair follicles, which can stimulate growth and improve follicle health. It sounds pretty legit?!

Red light therapy is believed to promote the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) within cells. ATP is a crucial molecule that provides energy for cellular processes, including those involved in hair growth. Increased cellular energy means better-functioning hair follicles, which can lead to thicker and healthier hair. 

However, while many people see positive outcomes, results can vary. At the moment, some individuals may not see significant improvements. The reason behind this discrepancy remains uncertain, as medical professionals have yet to identify the specific factors that contribute to the varying levels of effectiveness in different individuals. Red light therapy appears to work remarkably well for some people, while others experience limited to no benefits. This variability suggests that there could be underlying biological, genetic, or environmental factors at play. Also, given there hasn’t been a widespread study, user commitment and process variations could impact results.

Are There Side Effects of Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is generally considered safe, but there are some potential side effects that users should be aware of:

Mild Skin Reactions: Some individuals may experience mild skin reactions such as redness or irritation, or sensitivity after the treatment. This is usually temporary and subsides after a short period.

Temporary Hair Shedding: Similar to other hair loss treatments, some people may experience temporary hair shedding initially. This is usually a sign that the treatment is working, as old hairs are making way for new growth.

Headaches and Dizziness: A small number of users report experiencing headaches or dizziness during or after the treatment. This is not common but can occur, especially if the devices are not used properly.

Time Consuming: Not a side effect, but something to consider. RLT requires a commitment to regular and consistent use. 20 minutes every other day over a period of 38 to 40 weeks is what is recommended. Results take several months to start showing. So those that don’t have the patience will not likely experience any benefits.

How To Use Red Light Therapy

Preparation

Clean Your Hair and Scalp: Before starting a session, make sure to have clean hair and scalp using Biotin shampoo, and shampoo brush to stimulate hair growth. This ensures that the red light can penetrate the scalp effectively.

Key Fact: Biotin shampoo is made with a blend of caffeine, biotin, moringa, and ginseng root extracts for compromised scalps and hair. Caffeine promotes hair growth by targeting the hormone DHT, the hormone responsible for hair loss, and ginseng root extract is rich in B vitamins that support strong hair follicles.

Dry Your Hair: Wet or damp hair can lessen the effectiveness of the therapy. Ensure your hair is completely dry before beginning a session.

Avoid Hair Products: Refrain from using hair products like gels, sprays, or creams before your session, as they can impede the light's ability to penetrate the scalp. This is all about scalp stimulation!

Session Frequency and Duration

Most treatment protocols recommend sessions approximately 3 to 5 times per week. Each session typically lasts around 15 to 30 minutes. Refer to the specifics of your device for exact timing.

During the Session

Position the Device: Place the red light therapy device as directed. This could be a helmet, cap, comb, or handheld device designed for scalp treatment.

Ensure Proper Coverage: Make sure the device covers all areas where you are experiencing hair thinning or loss. Adjust positions if necessary to ensure comprehensive treatment.

Relax: Sit back and relax while the device works, following the recommended duration.

Post-Treatment

Immediate Care: After the session, you can resume your normal activities. There's no downtime required.

Consistent Use: Regular and consistent use is key to seeing results.

Takeaway

Red light therapy is not a miracle cure, despite the positive outcome of many, the effectiveness can vary significantly, but it offers a non-invasive and pain-free method to enhance blood circulation in the scalp, delivering more oxygen and essential nutrients to hair follicles. This can result in stimulated growth and improved follicle health in general along with good scalp hygienic practices.

Further research is needed to fully understand these factors and to identify who would benefit most from red light therapy. But if for nothing else, we like the idea of sitting peacefully and having mindful moments these sessions would afford.