LED face masks use light to activate cells and improve skin condition. This technology has now been applied to hair growth, but does it actually work?
Zoe Passam, senior consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley, says the type of light therapy used for hair loss is called LLLT, low level light therapy, most often used for male- and female-pattern hair thinning: “It is believed to work by metabolic stimulation of cells to increase the numbers of actively growing anagen follicles.”
It may not be effective for those with longstanding hair loss, and you’ll need to wait at least three months to see baby hairs, and up to a year to see a real difference. Passam adds: “LLLT is more typically used alongside other topical or oral treatments, depending on the type of hair loss. Passam adds.
In terms of side effects, rarely there are heat reactions and loss of fat from the scalp that could cause wrinkling. But as Zoe Passam continues: “LLLTIt may be a good option for those who do not wish to take or apply medications, and is typically well tolerated.”
Perhaps the biggest downside is that the devices are expensive, and treatment time consuming – typically you’d need to use them a few times a week, for roughly 10 minutes. LLLT scalp treatment can be in the form of a helmet: CurrentBody has one for £650. Solaris Labs NY has an LED brush for £86, but this obviously covers a smaller area and has fewer LEDs.
Anyone worried about hair loss should have a blood test to see if there is an issue with iron or thyroid levels. A trichologist or dermatologist can help determine the kind of hair loss you’re dealing with, and suggest further treatments.
Got a beauty question for Anita? Email her at beautyQandA@theguardian.com
