Infrared Light For Hair Growth

Using infrared light from laser caps for hair growth is one of several techniques of light-based hair therapy that have come to light in recent years. Unfortunately, there seems to be a range of misconceptions about using this therapy. 

In this article, we'll take a closer look at this type of light therapy, how it works, and whether it's worth considering.

Understanding Infrared Light

The term infrared light refers to a type of electromagnetic radiation located between visible light and radio waves on the electromagnetic spectrum. Its wavelengths are longer, but its frequencies are lower than those of visible light, which makes it invisible to the naked eye.

Thanks to its unique frequencies and wavelengths, it is capable of penetrating human skin, which has made it (along with certain other types of light) an object of interest for hair treatments. Experts believe that using infrared light for hair growth helps stimulate blood flow and blood vessel formation in the scalp. 

This, in turn, leads to higher oxygen levels and nutrient levels around the hair follicles. Clinical studies have shown that this can increase hair growth significantly.

Infrared Light Therapy Vs. Red Light Therapy 

At this junction, it's important to discuss the difference between using infrared light for hair growth and using red light for hair growth. The two processes are similar, but there are some significant differences between them.

• Infrared Light:
• Primarily used for promoting hair growth.
• It works by enhancing the scalp's blood circulation and improving cellular metabolism.
• Structures, including blood veins, muscles, and even the deeper layers of the scalp, are all accessible to infrared light.
• The wavelengths used in infrared light treatment range from 700 to 1000 nanometers (nm).
• Red Light:
• Has a wide range of applications, including skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and pain relief.
• Red light helps to stimulate hair follicles and extend their anagen, or growth phase. It also helps to enhance collagen production. 
• Red light mostly affects the skin's surface layers and superficial tissues due to its shallower depth of penetration.
• Between 600 and 700 nm are the wavelengths used in red light treatment.

How Infrared Light Influences Hair Growth

Using Infrared light for hair growth is a great idea, but it always helps to consider how something works before using it. Let's take a look at the influence infrared light has on hair growth.

• Blood Circulation: The scalp can be penetrated by infrared light, which encourages vasodilation, enlarging blood vessels and boosting blood flow to the hair follicles. The follicles receive vital nutrients, oxygen, and growth factors thanks to improved circulation, supporting their health, and encouraging hair development.
• Cellular Metabolism: Inside the hair follicles, infrared light therapy increases cellular activity and energy generation. It may also improve mitochondrial activity, which increases ATP synthesis and supplies the energy required for healthy hair follicle operation and hair development.
• Follicle Health: Infrared light therapy may benefit the general health and performance of hair follicles by enhancing blood flow and cellular metabolism. The anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle may be prolonged as a result of increasing hair thickness and density.

Benefits of Using Infrared Light Therapy for Hair Growth

In addition to the effects mentioned above, there are several benefits to using infrared light for hair growth. The advantages include the following:

• Reduced Inflammation: One of the advantageous side effects of infrared light for hair growth is that it helps to reduce inflammation as well. Thanks to its deep-reaching effects, it helps to ease swelling and improve circulation in the layers below your epidermis.
• Non-Invasive and Painless Treatment: When used correctly, the process of using infrared light for hair growth is non-invasive and entirely painless. The devices simply fit on or over your head, where infrared light can effectively influence your scalp.
• Safe and Well-Tolerated: Another advantage of both infrared light and red light is that they're safe. Very few people experience any negative side effects from this type of therapy. When they do, they are short-lived, lasting only a couple of hours. 

Disadvantages of Infrared Light for Hair Growth

There are a few disadvantages to using infrared light for hair growth, but they include the following:

• Scalp Sensitivity: Some people experience mild scalp discomfort when using infrared light for hair growth. It manifests as a mild warmth or a tingling sensation.
• Skin Irritation: Infrared light therapy may, in rare cases, cause temporary redness or rashes. 
• Dryness or Flaking: On occasion, infrared light therapy leads to dryness or flaking. While it may seem counterintuitive, this is actually a good sign as it results from an increase in blood circulation and cellular activity.
• Headache or Eye Strain: Infrared light sources might result in headaches or eye strain if they are too powerful or placed incorrectly. For this reason, it's vital to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Allergic Reactions: The components used in infrared light therapy devices, such as the materials in the device itself or the gel or lotion used in combination with the treatment, may cause allergic responses in a small percentage of people.

Incorporating Infrared Light Therapy into Hair Care Routine

Since Infrared light therapy is so simplistic, it's easy to incorporate into your hair care routine. Most of the time, manufacturers recommend using the device two to three times a week for 10-15 minutes.

That makes it incredibly easy to incorporate into your morning (or evening) routine before you bathe or shower. Simply choose the days that will best allow you to use infrared light for hair growth, and plan to use the therapy on those days.

Please note: while this therapy is relatively safe, following the manufacturer's instructions is vital for your own safety.

Conclusion

While using infrared light for hair growth is undeniably useful, we prefer the direct approach granted by red light therapy. Since our main focus is on improving and sustaining hair growth, Capillus specializes in the production of red-light laser caps.

If you want an affordable, hypo-allergenic solution for hair loss, consider trying our laser hair caps. It's safe and effective.