Have you seen advertisements for at-home laser devices claiming to regrow hair? Think they’re just gimmicks? Well, you may want to think again. The light-based devices used to treat hair loss are known as low level laser/light therapy (LLLT). This is an FDA-approved effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia (AGA, male/female pattern hair loss). LLLT has biostimulatory effects on hair follicles and is presumed to prolong anagen (growth phase), stimulate anagen reentry from telogen (resting phase), and inhibit early transition to catagen (regression phase) of the hair cycle. There are a number of studies and randomized controlled studies that have shown the efficacy of these devices for AGA. LLLT has become a popular treatment option because there are commercially available devices that can be used at home, are a relatively inexpensive one-time investment, are easy to navigate, and have a favorable safety profile. To date, there are over 29 FDA-cleared devices for the treatment of pattern hair loss in both males and females. There are different LLLT devices that can be selected based on preference including hats, helmets, combs, brushes, and panels. You can find many of them for purchase online. Typically they are used at least every other day for up to 30 minutes (varies based on device). There are also stronger professional LLLT devices offered in some dermatology offices like mine. Results can be seen as early as 2 weeks into treatment, but most significant results take at least 6-12 months to fully appreciate. Some of the devices my patients have used and reported benefits include: - Theradome (can find in @costco !) - Capillus - iRestore - iGrow - HairMax Remember, even though LLLT is effective, I almost always recommend it as part of a customized hair loss treatment plan which may include prescription topical or oral medications, supplements, and PRP treatments. If you suffer from AGA, see your board certified dermatologist to develop the right plan for your hair loss needs! #dermatology #hairloss #alopecia #lowlevellasertherapy