Regenerative Therapies and Photobiomodulation for Hair Growth

By: Lennard M. Gettz, Ed.D

The world of regenerative medicine is evolving quickly, and it's not just helping with chronic pain or injury recovery—it’s also opening new doors in treating hair loss. More and more people are turning to non-surgical, science-backed options to stimulate hair regrowth, with promising results. From stem cell-based treatments to light therapy, modern hair restoration is moving beyond shampoos and medications.

Special thanks to: Ms. Gina Adams /Dr. Robert Bard

One of the most exciting technologies in this space is photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or red light therapy. This treatment uses safe, targeted wavelengths of red or near-infrared light to boost cell energy production and improve blood flow in the scalp. By stimulating the hair follicles, PBM helps promote healthier and thicker hair growth. It’s painless, non-invasive, and often delivered through at-home devices like laser caps or combs.

Studies show that PBM therapy can significantly improve hair density and strength in people with androgenetic alopecia (a common form of hair thinning) [1]. The light stimulates cellular metabolism in the hair follicle and extends the growth phase of the hair cycle. With regular use over a few months, many users begin to notice a fuller head of hair.  

[L-Image: 2022- Dr. Bard conducted a 6-month performance test drive and validation study of the "HairMax".]

REGENERATIVE 2: MINIMALLY INVASIVE SOLUTIONS

Another regenerative approach that’s gained popularity is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. In this procedure, a small amount of your own blood is drawn, processed to concentrate the platelets, and then injected into areas of thinning hair. Platelets are packed with growth factors that can help stimulate new hair growth, improve scalp health, and strengthen existing hair strands [2]. Since the treatment uses your own blood, it’s a natural and low-risk option.

Microneedling, often used alongside PRP, involves tiny controlled punctures in the scalp using fine needles. This process encourages collagen production and allows better absorption of hair-growth serums or exosomes. It also stimulates wound-healing pathways that may activate dormant follicles [3].

Exosomes, the next generation of regenerative therapy, are tiny messenger particles derived from stem cells. They carry powerful proteins and genetic material that support tissue repair and cell-to-cell communication. When used in hair restoration, exosomes can help reduce inflammation and reawaken sluggish follicles—potentially leading to visible improvements in density and texture [4].

Finally, Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are also being explored in early clinical research. These cells have regenerative potential and may help reverse follicular aging, though this field is still developing and not yet widely available for hair restoration.

Together, these therapies offer a more personalized, natural alternative to traditional hair loss treatments. While results may vary depending on your unique hair health and biology, many patients are finding real hope through these innovative methods. Always consult with a trained medical provider or hair restoration specialist to determine the best course of treatment for your needs.

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Low-Level Light Therapy for Hair Loss: What You Need to Know   By: Diane Pinson (Editor of the House of Hair)

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), also known as red light or cold laser therapy, is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates hair growth by improving blood flow and energizing cells in the scalp. It helps reduce inflammation, reactivate dormant follicles, and promote healthier, fuller hair—especially when hair loss is caught early or triggered by stress or hormonal shifts.  LLLT works best when combined with other treatments like Selphyl PRFM, exosomes, topical minoxidil, and targeted nutritional support, helping these therapies penetrate deeper and work more effectively.

Important note: LLLT only works on areas with active follicles, including thinning or vellus hairs (fine, baby-like hairs). It will not work on fully bald, shiny areas where follicles are no longer viable.   Not all light therapy devices are created equal. The number of diodes and the strength of the light determine how well a device works. Handheld or inexpensive caps with weak output often fall short. The most effective systems have high diode density and clinical strength power for full coverage and consistent results.

Top-rated devices include:

    CapillusPro (at-home): 272 medical-grade laser diodes

    iRestore Professional (at-home): 282 lasers and LEDs combined

    LaserCap HD+ (in-office or prescription-based): 304 laser diodes

    Sunetics Clinical Laser (in-office): 272–650 diodes depending on model

Hair growth varies by hair type:

    Caucasian hair: ~½ inch/month

    African-American hair: ~¼ inch/month

    Asian hair: ~½–1 inch/month

Personally, when my hair fell out, LLLT was one of the key things that helped bring it back. It healed my scalp, reduced inflammation, and supported stronger regrowth when nothing else seemed to work. I used the Sunetics Clinical Laser system—and it made all the difference.

Another therapy that made a big impact for me was PUVA (Psoralen + UVA) therapy. Though it’s not commonly used today, PUVA helped calm inflammation in my scalp and promote regrowth when nothing else seemed to work. PUVA was originally developed for skin conditions like psoriasis and vitiligo, but has been used in some cases of alopecia areata (an autoimmune type of hair loss). It works by using a light-sensitizing medication (psoralen) followed by UVA light to modulate the immune response. It’s especially helpful when hair loss is linked to inflammation or immune triggers.

PUVA is less commonly used now due to newer treatments with fewer side effects, the need for frequent clinic visits, and long-term risks like premature skin aging. But for me, it was a key part of my healing journey and scalp recovery.

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Inflammation, DHT, and the Biochemical Cascade of Hair Loss: A Scientific Overview: by Dr. Jordan Plews

Hair loss is a multifactorial condition influenced by genetic, hormonal, and inflammatory factors. Understanding the roles of DHT and inflammation provides insight into the pathogenesis of AGA and informs effective prevention and treatment strategies. Early intervention is crucial, as inflammation and follicular damage can progress unnoticed until significant hair loss has occurred, while genetic factors (such as expression of MMP genes) in some can lead to fibrosis and result in more difficult to treat hair loss. By focusing on inflammation as an early warning sign, treatment target, and significant factor to consider when diagnosing, tracking, and treating hair loss, existing methodologies can be greatly improved. Ongoing research continues to elucidate the complex mechanisms underlying hair loss, paving the way for more targeted and effective therapies. See Dr. Jordan Plews comprehensive overview on MENONEWS and the recent issue on the HOUSE OF HAIR

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References

1. Avci, P., Gupta, A., Clark, J., et al. (2014). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) for treatment of hair loss. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 46(2), 144–151.

2. Gentile, P., et al. (2015). The Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma in Hair Regrowth: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Stem Cells Translational Medicine, 4(11), 1317–1323.

3. Dhurat, R., Sukesh, M., et al. (2013). A randomized evaluator blinded study of effect of microneedling in androgenetic alopecia: A pilot study. International Journal of Trichology, 5(1), 6–11.

4. Kim, Y.J., et al. (2020). Exosomes in hair growth and alopecia. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(10), 3659.

5. Elmaadawi, I.H., et al. (2018). Stem cell therapy for androgenetic alopecia: A review. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 29(3), 278–283.