For those on a natural hair journey, hair thinning or slow regrowth can be frustrating and emotionally taxing.
While protective styles, scalp oils, and vitamins are often the go-to solutions, more naturals are exploring a high-tech alternative: laser therapy for hair regrowth.
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also called red light or cold laser therapy, has been used in dermatology for years to treat hair loss in both men and women. Now, it’s gaining traction among Black women and men who want to support natural hair growth without resorting to chemical treatments or transplants.
So, how does it work? LLLT devices use specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the scalp, stimulating blood circulation and energizing the hair follicles. This process helps extend the growth phase of the hair cycle (anagen phase), potentially leading to thicker, fuller hair over time.
Dr. Yolanda Lenzy, a board-certified dermatologist and hair loss expert, says the technology shows promise, especially for people experiencing early stages of alopecia. “Laser therapy can be a great complement to a natural hair regimen, particularly for those dealing with traction alopecia or postpartum shedding,” she notes. “But consistency is key, it’s not a one-time miracle solution.”
The treatments can be done in clinics or at home with FDA-cleared devices like laser caps, combs, or headbands. Most users see results after 3–6 months of regular use, though outcomes vary based on the underlying cause of hair loss.
It’s important to note that LLLT is best used as part of a broader healthy hair strategy, including gentle styling, scalp care, and good nutrition. It won’t regrow hair in areas where follicles are completely dormant or scarred, such as in advanced cases of central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA), which disproportionately affects Black women.
Still, the growing interest in lasers as a tool for natural hair health reflects a broader shift: embracing science-backed solutions that support textured hair without compromising its integrity.
For those willing to invest time, patience, and a little light therapy, LLLT may just be the next frontier in the natural hair movement.
