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LED light therapy

LED light therapy uses low-level light, often red, on the scalp, and is offered in some salons and clinics, though evidence for it is still developing.

LED and low-level light devices shine light of particular wavelengths onto the scalp. They are offered as helmets, caps, handheld devices and salon treatments. The treatment is generally painless and does not heat the skin in the way a lamp might.

There has been research into low-level light for some types of hair thinning, but the evidence is still developing, results vary between people and devices, and it is not a replacement for a medical assessment. It should not be described as a cure.

If you are considering LED treatment, get any sudden, patchy or inflamed hair loss checked by a GP first. Ask the provider what the device is, what results you can realistically expect and whether there are reasons it may not suit you, such as light sensitivity or certain medicines.

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