Blue light-emitting diodes in hair regrowth: the first prospective study
G Lodi1, M Sannino1, G Cannarozzo1
1Laser Unit, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
Lasers in Medical Science
|June 8, 2021
Summary
Blue light therapy shows promise for treating androgenetic alopecia (hair loss). In a study, 90% of patients experienced increased hair density and width after 10 weeks of treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Photobiology
Background:
- Hair follicles possess photoreceptors implicated in hair growth.
- Androgenetic alopecia is a common form of hair loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of blue light therapy for hair growth in patients with androgenetic alopecia.
Main Methods:
- Twenty patients with androgenetic alopecia received blue LED light therapy (417 nm) twice weekly for ten weeks.
- Evaluations included standardized photographs and dermoscopic assessment of hair density and shaft width before and after treatment.
Main Results:
- 90% of patients showed increased hair density and hair shaft width.
- 80% of patients exhibited photographic improvement in hair growth.
- Minor side effects, such as temporary hair darkening, were reported in two patients.
Conclusions:
- Blue light therapy is a potentially effective treatment for androgenetic alopecia.
- Further research is warranted to confirm these preliminary findings and explore applications in other hair loss conditions.
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