Posted on March 18, 2010.
Laser hair removal can increase capillary density in some men Approximately 55 million Americans have some degree of hair loss, thus creating a large potential market for an effective home treatment.
The HairMax LaserComb may be an option for men who do not want to pay for hair restoration surgery, but have no high expectations. It provides a specific wavelength of light that stimulates the hair follicle, says its manufacturer, Lexington International.
In studies by the manufacturer, the device has increased the number of thick hairs in 93 percent of 120 users. The average increase in hair density was 19 hairs per square centimeter - an improvement of about 20 per cent in person to thinning hair.
The device costs $ 545 and must be used 10 to 15 minutes per day three times a week to maintain the effect.
In contrast, laser hood treatments, which are available in clinics and cover the entire scalp, can cost hundreds of dollars per treatment and should be repeated at least twice a week.
Hair transplants provide a more permanent solution, but that cost thousands of dollars.
Topical medications such as Rogaine, run about $ 10 per bottle for the generic but produce only modest results for some users.
The laser comb is not supported by controlled, randomized studies conducted by independent researchers, said Dr. Paul Cotterill, president of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.
The device may be best suited for men who are serious about hair regrowth, such as those undergoing a hair transplant and want to increase the income at home, "he said.
"This new laser comb will not hurt, and it may be useful to keep your hair," said Cotterill. "But I want to see the papers of others - studies that have not been made by people who produced. "
Other laser devices for hair loss are on the market but have not received FDA clearance to make claims of effectiveness. Sunetics, which sells the Laser Hair Brush, apply for FDA approval, said John Carullo, director of marketing for the company.
