Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

What is it all about?

From the picture at the top of the page, it may be known that the most known brand is the trademarked "hairmax" LLLT, made by the Lexington International. There are other units by different manufacturers. There are claims and counter claims about the strengths of various units and the advantages of hand held versus stationry units. You may want to read about the history of these devices at history of LLLT.

What is important to note is that the devices do work to promote hair growth, but do they treat hair loss? This controversy about Low Level Laser Therapy was explored at the 2007 International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery conference.

Comments on some blogs since posted have gone as follows "Dr. Alan Bauman gave a brief presentation on the FDA clearance of LLLT devices produced by Lexington International (makers and marketers of the Laser Hair Comb) for use as hair loss treatments. While these LLLT devices were found by the FDA to be safe based on its “substantial equivalence” to previously approved LLLT devices and thus “cleared” (not “approved”), it was not clear to what extent the FDA reviewed or cleared the LLLT based on its effectiveness in treating hair loss." Apparently the FDA did require Lexington to provide it with a study on the efficacy (effectiveness) of LLLT in treating hair loss. But this study and its results, which was apparently funded by Lexington International, has not been released publicly, to my knowledge, as Lexington International had the option of submitting it to the FDA, while keeping the study private.

The obvious question then is why would Lexington not make their study public if it indeed did prove that their LLLT products were effective in treating hair loss? It appears that the LLLT industry is now promoting their devices as "FDA Approved for Hair Loss" as if they are on par with the two only other FDA hair loss treatments "Propecia" (finasteride) and “Rogaine” (Minoxidil). At this point, until LLLT provides compelling public evidence of LLLT effectiveness in treating hair loss, in my opinion the effectiveness of LLLT may potentially be oversold."

The devices work to help hair health, but there appear to be problems with the application, in practice, with most people. Also the commericalisation of these devices often means that they are "sold" as the help to all problems, which they are not. They have a place, they are very good after hair transplant surgery to help with growth.

How do I find out more?