More Facts About About Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
LLLT Defined
Lasers are widely used in medicine and also throughout a variety of industries, in a multitude of varying capacities. The laser energy used to stimulate hair growth is visible in the red light spectrum. The laser light used in promoting hair growth is defined as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). LLLT is sometimes included under a broader definition of ‘Phototherapy’ called Low-Level Light Therapy, where the light-emitting device may be a laser and/or light-emitting diode (LED).
Men and women being treated for hair loss sit comfortably under the lasers as it gently delivers the phototherapy to the scalp. Most of our patients read a magazine during treatments. There is no pain or discomfort from the therapy–some patients do report some “scalp-tingling.”The visible red light from the hood’s lasers travels several layers into the tissue without harming the skin and scalp. Because the laser light does not cut or burn the skin, the therapeutic light-energy is absorbed by the cells and the process of cell repair begins. One theory of how this noninvasive, non-chemical hair loss treatment works is that it stimulates the production of energy at the cellular level; therefore, improving cell function.It is believed that LLLT may increase blood flow to the treated area as well. European studies have shown that LLLT stops hair loss in 85% of cases and stimulates new hair growth in 55% of cases. While LLLT is no ‘miracle cure’ for hair loss, we have found similar results with our patients. Low Level Lasers have been approved in this country as a treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, as a wound-healing aide, and as an adjunct to liposuction procedures. Laser therapy has been safely used for decades throughout Europe, the Far East and has no documented side effects.Patients who have used the therapy have said that their hair looks and feels thicker, fuller and healthier and they have noticed improved hair growth. As mentioned previously, Laser Therapy is no ‘miracle cure’ for hair loss. For best results, a visit with a qualified hair restoration physician who can evaluate your condition, make treatment recommendations and evaluate your progress, is highly recommended. Dr. Bauman has observed that, regardless of the treatment regimen recommended, the highest degree of satisfaction is obtained when a patient’s expectations are closely in-line with what the treatment can realistically provide.
LLLT at Work
Light from a laser in a specific wavelength has an effect on your body when it is applied for a sufficient length of time. It is theorized that when the laser light is absorbed by target tissue molecules, the energy level of the molecules is increased and the molecules respond by ‘working off’ the excess energy with adaptive changes. These changes may be chemical or physical, and they may have biological effects on the target tissue or surrounding tissues. Because the changes in the molecules are brought about by phototherapy, chemical changes are said to be due to ‘photochemistry’ and physical changes to ‘photophysics.’ As a result, the biological effects on tissue are called photobiomodulation. Treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss via Photobiomodulation. There are many hypotheses, which address how LLLT photobiomodulation may stimulate new hair growth. It is hypothesized that LLLT initiates the chemical reaction in the cells that make up the follicle’s epithelial matrix causing the proliferative activity. Much evidence points out that follicular apoptosis (programmed cell death) is reversed via the application of laser energy. Observations of wavelength stimulation of optimal hair growth, has shown precisely what wavelengths, power, and intensity are necessary for optimal effect in stimulating new hair growth. It is important to note that heat is not associated with the photochemical and photo therapeutic effects of LLLT. LLLT is a low wattage ‘cold light’ laser, and while there are visible red wavelengths, there is no sensation on the skin of persons undergoing treatment. Cold lasers are safe and universally accepted as such by medical authorities, worldwide. Also significant is the fact that there are no side-effects associated with the use of LLLT, as there are with usage of pharmaceuticals, topicals and pills.
The Discovery of LLLT’s Origin in Stimulating Hair Growth
In 1967, a Hungarian scientist studying the use of lasers for other purposes in mice, discovered that visible red laser light may stimulate hair growth. The hair on the backs of the mice were shaved in the area to receive treatment. One group of mice received laser treatments, and one group did not. The hair within the shaven area grew back more quickly in the mice treated with laser.
Who May Benefit from LLLT?
Medical experts who specialize in treating hair loss agree that treatment should be based on the correct diagnosis of its cause. Hair loss physicians and medical experts agree that LLLT is a highly viable option for growing hair in those afflicted with androgenetic alopecia-inherited female/male pattern hair loss. It is not intended to treat hair loss due to other factors such as a thyroid issue, etc. In treating androgenetic alopecia with LLLT, physicians have found that LLLT is most effective in persons with minimal to moderate hair loss. Individual responses to LLLT differ, and results do vary from person to person.
Is LLLT Effective in Hair Restoration?
The vast majority of physicians and medical experts agree that LLLT can be effective in growing hair in those with female and male pattern hair loss. Experts have also observed and noted that the overall health and condition of hair will be improved in a LLLT treated area.
HRC The Hair Rejuvenation Clinic specializes in laser hair therapy (growing your hair back natural), non-surgical hair replacement for men and women and hair transplants. At HRC you can trust we have the experience to bring you the most natural looking results.
Our Mississauga Location is conveniently located at:
5025 Orbitor Drive
Building 4, Unit 100
Mississauga
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