Clinical Hours: Mon-Fri, 8AM - 3PM(905) 493-5700
1885 Glenanna Road, Suite 220, Pickering, ON, L1V 6R6
Non-invasive laser-based treatment using specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity, promote tissue healing, and address hair loss.
Low level light therapy (LLLT) is a safe, non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity and promote tissue healing. Originally developed for a broad range of medical applications, LLLT has become an established treatment option for hair loss, offering a painless alternative or complement to conventional therapies.
During treatment, photons of light are absorbed by cytochrome C oxidase, a key enzyme within the mitochondria of cells. This absorption stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy molecule in cells. Within hair follicle cells, ATP is converted to cyclic AMP, releasing energy that activates essential metabolic processes required for hair growth.
LLLT also increases blood flow to the scalp, which helps to deliver oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. By stimulating the metabolism of follicles in the telogen (resting) or catagen (shedding) phases, the therapy promotes the transition into the anagen (growth) phase, resulting in increased production of actively growing hair. Additionally, LLLT has been shown to help reduce the excessive accumulation of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone derivative implicated in androgenic alopecia.
Androgenic alopecia, the most common form of genetically inherited hair loss, affects approximately 70% of men and 40% of women at some point during their lifetime. In men, the condition typically presents as vertex balding and hairline recession. In women, a more diffuse pattern of thinning across the top of the scalp is observed. Regardless of the pattern, hair loss is frequently associated with significant psychological distress.
Conventional treatment options for androgenic alopecia include finasteride and minoxidil, with hair transplantation available as a surgical alternative. LLLT has emerged as a safe and effective non-invasive option that can be used independently or in combination with these established therapies to enhance overall outcomes.
LLLT sessions are conducted two to three times per week, with each session lasting approximately 8 to 15 minutes. During the procedure, the scalp is exposed to light-emitting diodes positioned under a bonnet or head cap. The treatment is entirely painless, requires no preparation, and involves no recovery time.
Improvements, including hair regrowth and a reduction in hair shedding, are typically observed after 12 to 26 weeks of consistent treatment. Clinical studies have demonstrated an average increase of 19 terminal hairs per square centimetre in treated areas, along with noticeable improvements in hair thickness and overall appearance.
LLLT is equally beneficial for both men and women and has no known adverse side effects. Consistency with the treatment schedule is essential for achieving optimal results. At the Centre for Medical and Surgical Dermatology, LLLT is offered as part of a comprehensive approach to hair loss management, with treatment plans customized by Dr. Maksym Breslavets based on individual assessment and clinical needs.
This treatment is classified as a procedural dermatology service. Procedural dermatology services are not covered by OHIP and do not require a physician referral. Appointments may be scheduled directly by contacting the Centre for Medical and Surgical Dermatology.
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No physician referral is required for procedural dermatology services. These treatments are not covered by OHIP and are available through direct consultation. Contact the clinic to schedule an appointment.