Hair loss, especially pattern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia, is a common concern for many people. It can affect self - esteem and confidence, leading individuals to seek various treatment options. In recent years, hair growth caps, which utilize low - level light/laser therapy (LLLT), have emerged as a popular at - home treatment. This article will explore what hair growth caps are, how they work, and what types of hair loss they can treat, based on several scientific studies.
What Are Hair Growth Caps?
Hair growth caps are home - use devices that have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in some cases. As described in the study by Lueangarun S et al. (2021), these devices fall under the category of low - level light/laser therapy. They typically come in a cap - like shape, designed to be worn on the head, and are equipped with multiple light - emitting diodes (LEDs) or lasers. These light sources emit specific wavelengths of light, usually in the red and near - infrared spectrum.
The design of hair growth caps can vary. Some are battery - operated, making them portable and convenient for use at home. Others may need to be connected to a power source. The number of light - emitting units and their arrangement on the cap can also differ among different models. However, the common goal is to ensure that the light can evenly reach the scalp to maximize the therapeutic effect.
How Do Hair Growth Caps Work?
The principle behind hair growth caps lies in low - level light/laser therapy. According to the research, this therapy works through a process called photobiomodulation. When the specific wavelengths of light emitted by the hair growth cap interact with the cells in the scalp, particularly the cells in the hair follicles, it initiates a series of biological reactions.
The light energy is absorbed by the cells, which then stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy source for cells. This increased energy availability promotes cell metabolism, including the growth and division of cells in the hair follicles. Additionally, LLLT can reduce inflammation in the scalp, which is often associated with hair loss. By reducing inflammation, it creates a more favorable environment for hair growth. It can also enhance blood circulation in the scalp. Improved blood flow means that the hair follicles receive more nutrients, such as oxygen and essential minerals, which are crucial for healthy hair growth.
What Types of Hair Loss Can Hair Growth Caps Treat?
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia is one of the most common types of hair loss that hair growth caps have been studied for. In the 24 - week, randomized, double - blind, self - comparison, sham device - controlled trial by Mai - Yi Fan S et al. (2018), the efficacy and safety of a low - level light therapy device (similar to hair growth caps) for androgenetic alopecia were examined. The results showed that after 24 weeks of treatment, the group using the real LLLT device had significant improvements in hair density, hair count, and hair thickness compared to the group using the sham device. This indicates that hair growth caps can effectively treat androgenetic alopecia, helping to regrow hair and improve the overall appearance of the hair.
Gupta AK and Carviel JL (2021) conducted a meta - analysis of photobiomodulation for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. Their findings further supported the effectiveness of LLLT in this regard. The meta - analysis combined data from multiple studies and showed that LLLT, which hair growth caps are based on, can lead to a noticeable increase in hair density over time. This means that for individuals suffering from androgenetic alopecia, hair growth caps offer a viable treatment option.
Pattern Hair Loss in General
The systematic review and meta - analysis by Lueangarun S et al. (2021) focused on FDA - approved, home - use, low - level light/laser therapy devices for pattern hair loss. Pattern hair loss encompasses various types of hair loss with characteristic patterns, and androgenetic alopecia is a major type within this category. The review found that these devices, including hair growth caps, can have positive effects on pattern hair loss. By analyzing data from multiple randomized controlled trials, the researchers concluded that the use of LLLT devices can contribute to hair regrowth and improvement in hair quality for patients with pattern hair loss.
Can Hair Growth Caps Be Used in Combination with Other Treatments?
Yes, they can. Gentile P et al. (2020) conducted a randomized blinded retrospective study, exploring the combined use of micro - needling technique, low - level laser therapy (such as that provided by hair growth caps), and autologous non - activated platelet - rich plasma (PRP) for patients with androgenic alopecia. The results showed that this combination treatment significantly improved hair re - growth compared to using these treatments alone. Micro - needling creates tiny channels in the scalp, which can enhance the penetration of nutrients and the effectiveness of LLLT. PRP, rich in growth factors, further stimulates hair follicle cells. When combined with the photobiomodulation effect of hair growth caps, they work synergistically to promote more robust hair growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Use a Hair Growth Cap?
The frequency of use can vary depending on the specific device and the instructions provided. However, most studies suggest using the hair growth cap for a certain period, usually 2 - 3 times a week, for at least several months to see significant results. It's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Are There Any Side Effects?
One of the advantages of hair growth caps is their relatively good safety profile. In the studies mentioned above, adverse effects were generally mild. Some users may experience temporary scalp redness or mild itching, but these symptoms usually subside quickly. Compared to some oral medications for hair loss that may have more serious side effects, hair growth caps offer a safer alternative for many people.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
Results may vary from person to person. As shown in the 24 - week study by Mai - Yi Fan S et al. (2018), significant improvements in hair parameters were observed after 24 weeks. However, some individuals may start to notice subtle changes, such as reduced hair shedding, within a few weeks of consistent use. It's important to be patient and continue the treatment as recommended to achieve the best results.
In conclusion, hair growth caps are a convenient and effective at - home treatment option for pattern hair loss, especially androgenetic alopecia. Their working mechanism based on low - level light/laser therapy and photobiomodulation makes them a scientifically supported solution. Whether used alone or in combination with other treatments, they have the potential to help individuals regain their hair and confidence.
References:
1. Lueangarun S, Visutjindaporn P, Parcharoen Y, Jamparuang P, Tempark T. A Systematic Review and Meta - analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials of United States Food and Drug Administration - Approved, Home - use, Low - Level Light/Laser Therapy Devices for Pattern Hair Loss: Device Design and Technology. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021 Nov;14(11):E64 - E75. PMID: 34980962; PMCID: PMC8675345.
2. Mai - Yi Fan S, Cheng YP, Lee MY, Lin SJ, Chiu HY. Efficacy and Safety of a Low - Level Light Therapy for Androgenetic Alopecia: A 24 - Week, Randomized, Double - Blind, Self - Comparison, Sham Device - Controlled Trial. Dermatol Surg. 2018 Nov;44(11):1411 - 1420. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001577. PMID: 29957664.
3. Gupta AK, Carviel JL. Meta - analysis of photobiomodulation for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia. J Dermatolog Treat. 2021 Sep;32(6):643 - 647. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2019.1688755. Epub 2019 Nov 20. PMID: 31746251.
4. Gentile P, Dionisi L, Pizzicannella J, de Angelis B, de Fazio D, Garcovich S. A randomized blinded retrospective study: the combined use of micro - needling technique, low - level laser therapy and autologous non - activated platelet - rich plasma improves hair re - growth in patients with androgenic alopecia. Expert Opin Biol Ther. 2020 Sep;20(9):1099 - 1109. doi: 10.1080/14712598.2020.1797676. Epub 2020 Jul 27. PMID: 32678725.
