The current role of laser/light sources in the treatment of male and female pattern hair loss

Abstract

Over the past several years there has been great interest in the potential role of laser/light‐based treatments for male and female pattern hair loss. Despite aggressive marketing and centers claiming great success in the treatment of hair loss there is little scientific data supporting laser/light sources in hair loss. This paper is a consensus of hair loss experts on the current scientific data, mechanisms of action, safety, protocols and recommendations regarding laser/light treatment for hair loss. The authors believe that, while seemingly safe, there are no controlled, peer‐reviewed studies validating current devices for hair loss and that all patients should be medically evaluated for any hair loss by a physician specialist to rule out other underlying medical conditions or the etiology of hair loss.