There now exist numerous FDA cleared laser hair growth devices and systems on the market. Both male and female pattern hair loss sufferers can benefit from these products. The top 10 laser hair growth devices themselves include laser caps, combs, laser helmets, laserbands and more.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy. One can divide low-level laser therapy hair growth devices into four broad categories:
- Laser Caps
- Laser Helmets
- Laser Combs (also called Lasercombs) and Hair Brushes.
- Laser Head Bands and other light emitting diode (LED) and LLLT devices such as in-salon hoods and overhead panels.
How does LLLT Work for Hair Loss?
Laser light can revitalize thinning hair follicles and extend anagen growth cycles by stimulating blood flow and key hair growth factors.
The light energy also leads to increased production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This in turn releases nitric oxide and energy in hair follicles; improves nutrient and oxygen delivery; and and stimulates metabolic processes. All of this theoretically counters the adverse effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Laser wavelengths and photon density can vary depending on product. Low-level laser therapy uses devices with diodes that emit red light or infrared radiation at wavelengths ranging from 630-670 nanometers. The low frequency light energy and heat from these lasers stimulates hair follicle activity. This is done via photochemical and photosynthesis type reactions at the cellular level via the mitochondria.
Studies and Side Effects
Make sure to read and analyze the results of clinical studies on “LLLT and hair” type searches. A 2020 study summarized past publications and clinical trials on low-level laser therapy for female and male pattern baldness. The conclusion was that lasers are safe and effective at treating hair loss, with limited potential side effects.
While growth of new hairs is not common, lasers can prolong the anagen growth phase of the hair cycle. And they can stimulate catagen (shedding) and telogen (resting) phase follicles, resulting in their shift to production of anagen hair. The laser light can also make hair appear healthier and more vibrant via blood flow stimulation.
Some people might notice sudden changes in hair shedding frequency upon first starting treatment. For best results, one should continue to use Minoxidil (Rogaine) and Finasteride (Propecia) while having laser hair growth treatment. Note that these laser devices also help treat hair loss in women.
On this page, I list the 10 best laser devices for hair regrowth on the market. Rankings are based on average ratings as well as number of reviews. Some manufacturers advertise their products as physician recommended. However, I do not think that there is any one laser device product that is widely recommended by numerous doctors and dermatologists.
The 10 Best Laser Hair Growth Devices and Systems
Below is a list of the most popular laser hair growth devices in 2023 for balding men and women. A majority have only come to the market within the last decade. The first LLLT device obtained 501(k) clearance to market for use in male androgenetic alopecia sufferers by the US FDA in 2007. FDA approval for marketing to female pattern baldness hair loss patients came in 2011. As of mid-2018, 47 LLLT devices had received 510(k) premarket approval.
Many of these laser devices can be purchased used on ebay much cheaper. Make sure to also check hair loss forums, consumer reports and Reddit for customer reviews and feedback. Many people even try to make their own homemade laser devices to treat hair loss. I do not recommend doing so if you can afford to buy any of the below reputable products. Talk to your dermatologist or doctor for best advice on any kind of androgenic alopecia related treatment.
LLLT can make existing thinning hair thicker or delay receding hairline progression. Usually, laser devices will not regrow hair in totally bald regions of the scalp. Some people do claim that they got new hair growth with laser treatment. Low level laser therapy may also assist a hair transplant patient’s postoperative wound healing process and speed hair growth.
Low level laser therapy entails devices with diodes that emit red light (wavelength 630-670 nanometers) or infrared radiation. All the below products usually come with user manuals, instructions, batteries, adapters and chargers included.
Best Laser Caps for Hair Growth — Top Picks
The best laser caps for hair loss in 2023 include products made by Capillus, Illumiflow and Kiierr. These laser hair growth caps (or hats) are all well reviewed, although before and after photos are not always easy to find.
Capillus Laser Cap for Hair Growth
On the Miami, Florida-based company’s website, they have three models ranging in price from $999 to $2999. Among the most expensive products out there, although they do offer coupons and sales regularly. The CapillusUltra has 410 mW of total power output. The CapillusPlus has 1010 mW total output and 2.5x scalp Coverage. The CappilusPro has 1360 mW total output (via 272 individual 5 mW laser diodes) and 3.3x scalp coverage.
This Illumiflow laser cap comes with 272 laser diodes for full scalp coverage. Treatment time is recommended at 30 minutes, three times per week. Retail price is $799. On the Scottsdale, Arizona-based company’s website, the product is offered at a lower price if purchased in refurbished condition. Amazon reviews and ratings are currently averaging 4.1/5 stars.
This is a very popular state-of-the-art laser cap product, but currently unavailable on Amazon. You can still buy directly from the manufacturer via the above link. Tooele, Utah-based Kiierr makes various models that include: the Kiierr272Premier-MD laser cap; the Kiierr272Premier laser cap; the Kiierr 272 MD laser cap; and the lowest-priced Kiierr148Pro. The former two come with 272 diodes. Treatment consists of wearing the portable cap for just 30 mins every other day. Also included is the product warranty and assorted products (such as shampoo, conditioner, vitamins and biotin gummies).
Best Laser Helmets for Hair Growth
Update: LG Electronics of South Korea plans to release a laser hair growth helmet by 2022. The device will combine 146 lasers and 104 LED lights. It will be called “LG Pra.L MediHair”. Edit: Releasing in November 2020.
iRestore Laser Hair Growth System
The bestselling low-level laser therapy (LLLT) device on the market as of 2023. iRestore is part of Los Angeles, California-based Freedom Laser Therapy. Over 1,300 reviews, averaging 3.8 out of 5 stars at the time of writing this post. Currently on sale at $545. Also known as iRestore Essential or ID-500, which contains 51 medical-grade lasers and LEDs. The more expensive iRestore Professional model comes with 282 medical-grade lasers and LEDs.
Comes with an AC adaptor and add-on option of a rechargeable battery pack. FDA 510(k) cleared as a medical device, and manufactured at GMP-certified facilities. The 51 medical-grade lasers and LEDs have been calibrated to the optimal wavelength of 650 nm red light. The manufacturer’s Help and FAQ page has more details. iRestore has been clinically tested on men between the ages of 18 and 48, and on women between the ages of 18 and 60.
The hands-free iGrow laser helmet is made by Boca Raton, Florida-based Apira Science. iGrow uses a combination of both laser and light-emitting diode (LED) light sources to stimulate hair regeneration. The red light from both the laser and LEDs emits 650 to 670 nm wavelength light waves. Treatment is recommend on alternative days, with each session lasting 25 minutes. Note that in Thailand, a new helmet type LLLT device called RAMACAP showed good hair growth results in 2018 based on before and after photos.
Theradome PRO LH80 Laser Helmet
I have covered the Theradome hair growth laser helmet in detail in the past. The Pleasanton, California-based company has a number of models on the market. The PRO LH80 is the premium and newest model. It costs around $900, versus $600 for the older Theradome EVO LH40 model. The PRO LH80 comes with 80 red light lasers. You can also purchase this at Costco, where it presently has a rating of 3.5/5 based on 111 reviews.
The FDA cleared and CE approved iHelmet comes in several different models. The most recommended one seems to contain 200 diodes, but another model has 88 diodes. It seems like the Blue model has 200 diodes. Boca Raton, Florida-based Regenomedix seemed to be making this product until recently.
Laser Combs
I have covered the battery-powered HairMax LaserComb (aka electric comb) in detail in a separate post.
This is the older and less costlier model. The current sale price is only $180 after discount. And you can even get an additional $20 off coupon. The HairMax Ultima 9 laser hair growth comb contains with 9 medical grade lasers (but no LEDs). It is cordless and comes with a rechargeable battery. The current average rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
The newest model is the HairMax Ultima 12 LaserComb and it comes with 12 lasers or ray beams. Although the retail price is $395, you can get this for $350 after sales and discount offers. HairMax’s stellar reputation has allowed it to even be sold at Costco. It has an average product rating of 4/5 stars at the time of writing this post.
Laser Bands
HairMax (part of Boca Raton, Florida-based Lexington International) manufactures two laserband products:
- The HairMax Laserband 41, which has 41 lasers and costs $550.
- The HairMax Laserband 82, which has 82 lasers and a cost of $800.
Both devices are often on sale at Costco, Walmart and various big box and department stores. The lasers are all medical grade with no LEDs in the stretch fit head bands. Treatment time is super fast at just 90 seconds per day, three days a week. The unique curved design and patented hair parting teeth maximize laser light delivery to your hair follicles.
A power adapter, power cord, and rechargeable battery are included with the purchase. The Laserbands can be used both at home and while traveling. HairMax recently also released a laser hair growth cap. Reviewers give this product an average rating of 3.7/5 on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about laser hair growth devices.
Which laser hair growth device is the best?
The best laser device for hair growth depends on your preferences. Some people prefer laser helmets while others prefer laser caps and yet others prefer laser combs. Price affordability, durability and warranty time frame also factor into the equation.
How long does each laser treatment take?
Laser caps are meant to be worn continuously for many hours at a time on a daily basis. Laser helmets can be worn a bit less frequently. Irrespective of device, hair growth results may not be seen for several months.
How long does the laser hair growth last?
There are no guaranties as to how long the hair growth will last after laser treatment. Moreover, if you stop using the device, any hair regrowth will reverse as it is not permanent.
Are their any side effects with low-level light therapy?
Lasers are safe and effective at treating hair loss, with limited potential side effects. In some cases, you may get scalp redness and tingling. But make sure to never get the light ray beam into your eyes.