The Truth About Red Light Therapy and Hair Growth

IN THIS ARTICLE:

01 What Causes Hair Shedding or Thinning?

02 What is Red Light Therapy?

03 What Color LED Is Best for Hair Growth?

04 Does Red Light Therapy Work for Hair Loss?

05 How Does Red Light Stimulate Hair Growth?

06 Can You Use a Red Light Therapy Mask for Hair?

07 The Takeaway

5-minute read

During their lifetime, 85% of men and 40% of women experience androgenic alopecia, the leading cause of hair loss. Related issues such as hair thinning and excess shedding are prevalent and have wider implications for self-esteem, personal identity, and confidence.

This post focuses mainly on red light therapy for hair growth where one has experienced excessive shedding or thinning rather than complete hair loss. The link between red light and hair growth is hugely promising, with much of the research focused red light stimulating hair follicles to promote hair growth.

What Causes Hair Shedding or Thinning?

Excess hair shedding and thinning can be linked to several factors such as nutrient deficiency, stress, an underlying health issue, styling, or tight hairstyles and extensions. Hair grows around half an inch per month, and growth at this rate can indicate good overall health, so it is useful to consider why you may be experiencing hair thinning and how to rectify it.

What is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy, also referred to as low-level laser therapy or LED light therapy is the application of a specific red light wavelength to parts of the body to trigger different cellular responses by energizing the cells. It is most commonly used in the beauty industry to reverse signs of aging by promoting collagen production and in the wellness industry to reduce overall pain and inflammation in the body. It has also been shown to promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles to grow, for thicker and longer hair. One 2022 review even indicates it could be more effective than pharmaceuticals at controlling hair loss with fewer side effects.

What Color LED Is Best for Hair Growth & How to Use Red Light Therapy for Hair Growth?

The most widely researched wavelength for hair growth is red light, wavelengths 630nm and 650nm long. These wavelengths are the optimal length to stimulate dormant hair follicles and promote hair growth. While there is less research on the power of infrared light wavelengths to stimulate hair growth, there is still some evidence to suggest that longer 850nm infrared wavelengths have a similar impact as red light in promoting hair growth.

Does Red Light Therapy Work for Hair Loss?

More severe hair loss may need a more holistic approach, but a red light therapy device can certainly be incorporated as part of a complete hair growth regime. Red light directly reduces inflammation and increases cell division and follicle stimulation to reignite dormant follicles. Many combine red light therapy and medication such as minoxidil for hair loss for a more effective treatment. Those suffering from severe hair loss (alopecia) should consult a healthcare professional to design a regime that works best for them.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work for Hair Growth?

Although it is generally accepted that red light wavelengths work by stimulating hair follicles to encourage further growth, the exact mechanisms are unclear. There are several theories on how red light promotes hair growth. Red light therapy likely works through a combination of these mechanisms.

ATP Production: Red light helps the cells to increase ATP production, the energy source of the cell. Increased energy helps the cells to perform as younger cells would to promote quicker hair growth.
Protein Synthesis: Red light boosts the production of collagen and other vital proteins for hair health
Oxygen: By increasing oxygen levels in the cell
Mitochondria: By helping the mitochondria produce more energy in the stem cells.

Essentially, red light therapy promotes hair growth by activating hair follicles, improving scalp circulation, and boosting cellular activity. Red light is also clinically proven to stimulate the ‘dermal papillae’ - structures that supply the hair with oxygen and nutrients to boost new growth.

How Often Should You Use Red Light Therapy for Hair Growth?

The general recommended treatment for red light helmets for hair loss is 3-5 times per week for 10-15 minutes. More powerful devices may require a shorter treatment time to deliver the recommended dose. Always follow the recommended treatment time on your device as the manufacturer will likely have determined the optimal to achieve results. It is very unlikely that overuse will cause any side effects, it just won’t necessarily have any benefit either. Red light therapy is a very safe, non-invasive, and painless way to stimulate hair growth.

What is the Best Red Light Therapy Device For Hair Growth?

Typically, a helmet with red light wavelengths of 630 or 650nm is the best red light therapy device for hair growth. You will want to consider the coverage of the device and the number of LEDs.

Can You Use a Red Light Therapy Mask for Hair?

If you’re not experiencing severe hair loss and want to increase the thickness and density of your hair, it is possible to use a red light therapy mask for hair. Simply pop the mask on your head and turn it on as usual. It will work similarly to a red light therapy helmet by stimulating hair follicles to promote quicker hair growth.

LED Mask

LumaLux Face | Pro LED Light Therapy Mask

Our most advanced LED mask for deeper skin renewal - fine lines, acne, hyperpigmentation, skin texture

The Takeaway

Just as red light therapy makes the skin more effective at producing collagen, it also makes the hair follicles more effective at stimulating hair growth. Red light is basically an energy source, and quite an effective one. While the exact mechanisms behind red light's effectiveness remain under study, it is clear that it can be a valuable tool in your hair care routine. Red light therapy may also indirectly aid in hair loss by addressing some of the potential underlying causes of hair loss such as regulating stress (mood boosting), and balancing hormones - a holistic approach will be required, however to ensure proper results.

Shop the latest in LED technology this Spring with 10% off

written by Sophie Flair