Hair loss can be caused be genetics, passed down through either parent. This is called androgenetic alopecia, and usually results in thinning for women and the typical receding hairline and balding spot for men. While there are no hair loss treatments that can instantly cure this problem, there are several that are less invasive than hair replacement options such as surgery.
You’ve probably heard of drugs and topical applications designed to thicken and accelerate hair growth. But there’s another method you may be less familiar with: laser hair growth stimulation. Here are answers to the three most important questions regarding this technique.
- What is Laser Hair Growth Stimulation?
Low level laser therapy, or LLLT, is a light treatment. The name may be frightening, since consumers are generally more familiar with laser treatments designed to remove hair. But lasers can also be used to stimulate hair follicles that are in decline, causing them to grow thicker and longer hair. It is a completely painless process.
- Who Should Consider Laser Hair Restoration?
Laser hair regrowth treatments appear to be most effective on people who are actively experiencing hair loss but have not yet gone completely bald. This could be because lasers can stimulate a follicle, but cannot reactivate a dead follicle. Laser treatments work equally well on men and women. LLLT can also be used in conjunction with other hair loss treatments, such as surgeries, to maximize new hair growth.
- What Are the Costs of Laser Hair Growth Methods?
Laser hair treatments may cost a few thousand dollars, but are significantly lower in cost than hair transplant surgeries. There are also some at-home products such as caps and combs that can make LLLT significantly more affordable, since there’s only an upfront purchase cost instead of ongoing treatment costs.
Since the effectiveness of LLLT has been debated even among hair loss doctors, it’s wise to visit a reputable doctor and have a consultation before trying to decide if the method is right for you.
Have you been considering various hair loss treatment options? What are you leaning toward? Share in the comments.