Comparative Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy for Adult Androgenic Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

This 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis examined whether low-level laser therapy (LLLT) improves hair growth in adults with androgenic alopecia (pattern hair loss). Researchers reviewed 8 studies comprising 11 double-blinded randomized controlled trials, comparing LLLT devices with sham/control treatments.

Key Findings

  • LLLT significantly increased hair density compared with sham treatment. The pooled analysis showed a meaningful improvement in hair growth outcomes.
  • Benefits were seen in both male and female patients.
  • Positive effects were observed across comb-type and helmet-type devices.
  • Both short- and long-term treatment courses showed benefit.
  • Subgroup analysis suggested lower treatment frequency may have stronger hair-growth effects than higher-frequency treatment.
  • The authors noted heterogeneity among included trials, so results should be interpreted with some caution.

Clinical Takeaway

This study suggests LLLT may be a potentially effective, non-invasive treatment option for androgenic alopecia, helping improve hair density in adults, though device protocols and study variability remain important considerations.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30706177/

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