What should you know about light therapy for hair loss?

Low-level light devices deliver non-ablative light to the scalp. The intended effect is to influence follicle activity and the local environment around follicles, rather than cut or transplant hair. Suitability depends on the pattern and cause of shedding. Hair loss can occur with androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, traction alopecia, scalp ringworm and other conditions, so a device cannot replace diagnosis.

Changes are gradual because hair grows in cycles. The scalp should be examined for scaling, inflammation, scarring, broken hairs or sharply defined patches before treatment begins.

Keep a record of when shedding began, whether it is diffuse or patchy, recent illness or stress, medicines, nutrition changes and hairstyles that pull on the roots. A clinician may inspect the scalp and decide whether tests or another treatment are needed. If light therapy is selected, use the device exactly as directed and protect the eyes as instructed. Ask how often it should be used, when progress will be reviewed, and what happens if shedding continues. Other treatment discussions may include finasteride treatment when medically appropriate.

Arrange a prompt assessment for sudden or rapidly progressive loss, smooth bald patches, scalp pain, pus, marked scaling, bleeding, scarring or loss of eyebrows and eyelashes. A child with broken hairs, swollen scalp or crusting needs medical review because infection may require specific treatment. Seek care urgently for hair loss with severe illness, facial swelling or breathing difficulty.

Ask: What pattern and cause of hair loss do I have? Could inflammation, infection, traction or a medical condition be contributing? Is light therapy appropriate for my follicles? How will progress be measured, and what alternatives should I consider?