What are Laser Treatments for Alopecia?
A New Generation Approach to Hair Loss


Hair loss, especially types of alopecia, is a common problem that affects many people both aesthetically and psychologically. With developing medical technology, laser treatments for alopecia are increasingly coming to the fore. So, how do laser systems fight hair loss? In which types of alopecia are they effective? In this article, we examine the effect of laser treatment on alopecia based on scientific findings.

Mechanism of Effect of Laser on Hair
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) supports ATP production by increasing mitochondrial activity. In this way, cellular energy is increased, and the transition of hair follicles to the growth phase (anagen phase) is facilitated. At the same time, laser reduces inflammation around the hair follicle and optimizes follicle nutrition by increasing blood flow. This process, called photobiomodulation, is a very effective mechanism for reducing hair loss and improving hair quality.

Lasers in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is a hereditary type of hair loss that can be seen in both men and women. Laser treatment provides very promising results in this type of alopecia. Some FDA-approved LLLT devices are safely used in the treatment of AGA.

Lasers, which work in the red light spectrum, especially in the 630-680 nm range, target hair follicles and stimulate the anagen phase. It is also supported by scientific publications that it provides an increase in hair density in the frontal and vertex regions in men and in areas where diffuse thinning is seen in women.

Laser Applications in the Treatment of Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata (AA), an autoimmune hair loss, can be targeted with different laser technologies. Systems such as UVB laser, excimer laser, Er:YAG and fractional CO2 laser can be effective by regulating the immune response in areas where AA plates are located.

Fractional lasers, in particular, regulate cytokine levels by causing microthermal damage to the epidermis and promote hair growth by reducing inflammation. In the treatment of AA, laser can contribute to clinical improvement by providing immune modulation.

Hair Transplantation and Laser
Laser treatment is used in individuals who have undergone hair transplantation to both accelerate the healing process and support the retention of transplanted hair. The reduction of postoperative edema and inflammation occurs thanks to the anti-inflammatory effect of the laser. In addition, laser accelerates healing in the donor area and increases patient comfort.

The Role of Laser in Other Types of Alopecia
The role of laser applications is also being investigated in less common hair loss conditions such as frontal fibrosis alopecia and traction alopecia. In these types, especially those containing inflammatory components, laser is considered an adjunctive treatment due to its anti-inflammatory effect.

Safety and Frequency of Application
Laser treatments are usually applied 2-3 times a week and regular use for at least 3-6 months is recommended. Since these treatments are non-invasive, patient compliance is high. There are no known serious side effects, but temporary erythema (redness) may be seen in some sensitive individuals.

Conclusion
Laser systems offer scientifically proven effectiveness in the treatment of alopecia, low side effects, high patient compliance and comfortable applications. It contributes to the strengthening of hair follicles with its photobiomodulation effect, especially in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata. In addition, laser has become an indispensable treatment modality in dermatology practice with its supportive effect in surgical procedures such as hair transplantation.

This article was prepared by Dermatologist Fatma Yıldız and presented with the scientific consultancy contribution of Ankara Life Polyclinic.