Here in the UK, Finasteride Tablets and Minoxidil Spray are the only licensed treatment for male pattern baldness. But in the US, red-light therapy is also officially cleared by the FDA as an effective treatment.
In this blog, we’ll cover what it is and how it works for hair loss, how effective it is according to clinical studies, and whether it’s a worthwhile alternative or add-on to traditional treatments.
What is red-light therapy?
Otherwise known as Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), this treatment involves using red light (wavelengths between 620-680 nm) at the scalp to stimulate hair growth and stop hair loss. Scientists stumbled upon it as a potential hair loss treatment by accident, during a trial on mice. They were investigating red light as a treatment for cancer, when they realized mice were growing more hair. Now, it’s not fully understood how it works just yet, though there are lots of theories.
It’s thought to help move hair follicles back into anagen, the growth phase, and stay there for longer to reduce shedding. It’s also believed that it may increase ATP production in hair follicle cells, improve blood flow to the follicles, and stimulate the dermal papilla cells, which play a key role in hair regrowth. A few researchers have drawn parallels between the ways LLLT and minoxidil work, as they both appear to help reactivate dormant hair follicles via similar pathways.
How is it used?
The treatment can be performed at-home using various devices like helmets, combs and caps, or in clinics. Many people opt for at-home devices, as they’re easier to use consistently over time. Compared to clinic treatments, they’re often more convenient and cost-effective long-term.
It’s also generally well tolerated, with only mild side effects reported, such as minor scalp irritation or itching.
What do clinical studies show?
There’s now a growing body of research on LLLT for hair loss. While results vary, most studies show modest but measurable improvements in hair density and thickness. However, studies are often small, short-term and don’t always include a control group.
A well-known 2013 randomised trial found that men using a red-light helmet every other day for 16 weeks saw a ~35–39% increase in hair counts, while the placebo group saw no meaningful change. This suggests red light therapy can have a measurable effect when compared to no treatment.
A smaller 2014 study looked at people using a laser comb either alone or alongside finasteride or minoxidil. Around 25% saw significant improvement and 62.5% saw moderate improvement, with results appearing from around 3 months and lasting up to 24 months. However, this study didn’t include a placebo group, so the results are less definitive.
In another 26-week clinical trial involving 110 participants, those using the HairMax Laser Comb emitting 650 nm red light experienced a significantly greater increase in hair density compared to those using a sham (placebo) device.
There’s limited research so far into how well results are maintained, and if results stick around, for how long.
Is it worth it?
Maybe, but it’s hard to say definitively without more research.
The first line of recommended treatment for male pattern baldness tends to be a combination of finasteride and minoxidil, which have a solid evidence-base of clinical trials and real-world studies to back them up as effective. Combining red-light therapy could be a good add-on to your existing hair loss treatment routine for those looking to support their results, if you have the funds to invest in your own device or to visit a clinic.
If you’re interested in alternatives to traditional treatments, it could be a good alternative if other treatments aren’t suitable or well-tolerated.
All of our blog articles are reviewed by our Medical Director before publication.
