Laser Device Treatment Information
LASER DEVICES – CANDIDATES FOR TREATMENT
Who is a good candidate for treatment with a Hairmax® laser device?
The ideal candidate is one that has mild to moderate hair loss or thinning, wants to regrow lost hair, and will help prevent further progression. It is best to begin treatment at the first sign of hair loss, because the earlier you start, the better your results will be.
How do Hairmax® laser devices work to regrow hair?
Hairmax® laser devices utilize laser energy to stimulate the follicle to grow healthy new hair. Hairmax® laser devices work directly on the hair follicle to provide the energy needed to support healthy hair growth by helping to increase blood circulation to the follicle, increase circulation and remove waste products.
I am just starting to notice that my hair is beginning to thin. Should I start treatment with a Hairmax® laser device now?
You should start to treat thinning hair when you initially notice thinning, because the earlier you start, the better your results will be. Hairmax® laser devices are easy and convenient to use, just three times a week for 90 seconds to 30 minutes depending on the model.
Can people of all ages with hair loss benefit from treatments with Hairmax® laser devices?
Our clinical studies have shown that Hairmax® laser devices are effective in both men and women, 18 years or older, and age is not a factor with results. The devices are most effective for mild to moderate hair loss*. It is not intended for people who have severe hair loss. While Hairmax® laser devices can ‘awaken’ dormant hair follicles, once the hair follicle is no longer functioning, it cannot be revitalized. We recommend if you want to use the device on an individual under the age of 18, that you consult a physician or pediatrician first.
Will Hairmax® laser devices regrow hair in both men and women?
Hairmax® laser devices have been clinically proven to effectively and safely treat pattern hair loss and promote hair growth in both men and women*. The best time to use the devices is when you first notice hair loss or thinning. There have been no reports of serious side effects occurring. Users experience an average hair growth of 129 new hairs per square inch, with results seen in 4 – 6 months. Hairmax® laser devices can be used with other treatments and must be used indefinitely to maintain results.
What is the difference between FDA Cleared and FDA Approved?
The FDA “approves” drugs and generally “clears” medical devices. Cleared medical devices are those that FDA has determined to be substantially equivalent and safe to another similarly marketed device. The FDA requires data to back equivalence claims and descriptive, performance and safety data to support this type of submission. In the case of new technology, the FDA requires submission of the results of a clinical trial proving not only safety, but efficacy. The results of the clinical trials, submitted with the filings, were a key factor in the FDA Clearing Hairmax® devices.
Can Hairmax® laser devices be used for overall thinning of hair after menopause?
Yes, while Hairmax® was only studied in certain classifications of hair loss, the majority of women with androgenic alopecia tend to have diffuse [widespread] thinning on all areas of the scalp. This type of thinning can successfully be treated with Hairmax® laser devices.
How do I know if my hair follicles are dormant or no longer functioning?
It is not possible to know the difference unless you begin treatment with a Hairmax® laser device to see if the follicles ‘wake’ up and begin to produce hair. If no hair regrows, your hair follicles are no longer functioning.
Can I use the laser devices for hair loss outside of the shaded areas in the Norwood Hamilton or Ludwig Savin Classification?
For best results, the Hairmax® laser devices should only be used for the areas depicted. However, many men and women have used the devices for hair loss outside of the shaded areas and have reported good results.
I have Fitzpatrick Skin Type in the 5/6 range – will the laser devices work for me?
The Hairmax® laser device studies were only studied in the skin types shown as it was easier to visualize and analyze the hair against a light background. Many women with darker skin tones have used the Hairmax® laser devices successfully, and many physicians recommend the devices for darker skin tones as well.
Is it recommended to use the laser devices after hair transplant surgery?
Many hair transplant surgeons use the Hairmax® laser devices in conjunction with transplant surgery, as they feel that they speed healing time, increase potency of the grafts, and improve overall results. We recommend that if you wish to use the devices after your surgery, consult your surgeon on usage after the transplant procedure.
Are laser devices effective treatment for all ethnicities, and skin tones?
All Hairmax® laser devices are cleared by the FDA for treating hereditary hair loss in males and females with light to medium/dark skin tones. The clinical studies were not based on ethnicity but were limited to those with these skin tones to make counting hair easier, as it is difficult to count against darker backgrounds. Many individuals with darker skin tones have chosen to use Hairmax® laser devices, and report that they are pleased with their results.
If I have a thyroid condition, will the laser devices help me treat my hair loss?
If your thyroid is being successfully controlled with medication and your thyroid values are normalized, Hairmax® laser devices can help restore your hair condition.
What forms of alopecia can be effectively treated with laser devices?
Hairmax® laser devices are indicated to treat the most common form of hair loss, androgenetic alopecia which is also called hereditary hair loss, or pattern hair loss.
Will the laser devices be effective if I have psoriasis?
Hairmax® laser devices will not be effective in treating hair loss due to psoriasis.
Are the laser devices effective for treating alopecia areata?
We do not believe that Hairmax® laser devices will be effective for treating alopecia areata or any of its variants.
Are laser devices effective in treating chemotherapy induced hair loss?
Hairmax® laser devices will not prevent hair loss during chemotherapy. However, while there have been no clinical studies carried out on helping to return hair after chemotherapy, some individuals have on their own used the devices in this regard and have reported benefits.
Are laser devices effective if I have hair extensions?
You can use Hairmax® laser devices if you have hair extensions, although you must remove the teeth mechanism on the device for use. This will prevent any of your hair extensions from becoming caught on the teeth and being pulled out. To use after removing the teeth, place the device on top of your hair.
LASER DEVICES MODEL INFORMATION
What are the differences between the various models of the Hairmax laser devices?
All Hairmax® laser devices deliver the same energy which has been proven to effectively treat hair loss and thinning hair and stimulate hair growth. The only difference is in the treatment times, i.e., the more lasers the shorter the treatment time. All devices require treatment only 3 times a week for the following lengths of time:
Ultima 9 Classic – This device has 9 medical-grade lasers, is handheld, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of 11 minutes.
Ultima 12 – This device has 12 medical-grade lasers, is handheld, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of 8 minutes.
LaserBand 41 – This device has 41 medical-grade lasers, is hands-free, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of just 3 minutes.
LaserBand 82 – This device has 82 medical-grade lasers, is hands-free, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of as little as 90 seconds.
PowerFlex 202 -This device has 202 medical-grade lasers and is hands free with treatment time options of 15 or 30 minutes.
PowerFlex 272- This device has 272 medical-grade lasers and is hands-free with a treatment time of just 7 minutes.
How long have Hairmax® laser devices been on the market?
Hairmax® laser devices were the pioneers in the home treatment of pattern hair loss with the introduction of the Hairmax® LaserComb in 2000. Since that time, over a million people have purchased the devices, and there has never been any reports of harmful side effects occurring.
Is the LaserBand designed to be ‘one size fits all’ and how do I know it will fit my head?
The LaserBand is designed to fit the average head size of most individuals, so fitting is usually not a problem.
Do the laser devices have to be cleaned?
The cleaning of the devices varies based on the model.
The Ultima LaserCombs can be cleaned by removing the teeth and wiping the laser window with a soft damp cloth.
The LaserBands can be cleaned by wiping the laser window with a soft damp cloth. The teeth can also be cleaned by wiping a damp cloth through the soft silicone teeth.
The Laser Caps can be cleaned by wiping the laser window with a soft damp cloth.
Do the laser devices contain LED or infra-red light like some of the other ones on the market?
No, the lasers contained in all Hairmax® laser devices are actual medical-grade lasers to allow for maximal delivery of the laser energy to the follicles.
LASER TREATMENT GUIDELINES
How do I use the various laser devices to treat my hair loss?
Hairmax® laser devices have been designed with both comfort and convenience in mind. They are lightweight and are offered at different prices to fit any ‘pocket-book’. Each device is used only 3 times a week (such as Monday, Wednesday, and Friday) to achieve results. All devices emit the same laser energy, and the only difference is treatment times vary depending on the model. The more lasers, the faster the treatment time.
Ultima 9 Classic – This device has 9 medical-grade lasers, is handheld, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of 11 minutes.
Ultima 12 – This device has 12 medical-grade lasers, is handheld, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of 8 minutes.
LaserBand 41 – This device has 41 medical-grade lasers, is hands-free, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of just 3 minutes.
LaserBand 82 – This device has 82 medical-grade lasers, is hands-free, rechargeable, and has a treatment time of as little as 90 seconds .
PowerFlex 202 -This device has 202 medical-grade lasers and is hands free with treatment time options of 15 or 30 minutes.
PowerFlex 272- This device has 272 medical-grade lasers and is hands-free with a treatment time of just 7 minutes.
Do the laser devices have to be used indefinitely?
Hairmax® laser device treatments must be used on an indefinite basis to continue to see positive benefits. However, once you are satisfied with the results, you can try cutting back on treatments to twice a week, but if you experience any shedding, you will have to return to using the device 3 times a week. We do not recommend that you stop using the device altogether, because if you stop, your hair will return to the state it was in before you started treatment.
What is the best way to use the LaserComb and the LaserBand?
For the LaserComb:
The device is used 3 times a week, and should be moved very slowly over your head, and not used like a brush. The device will emit an audible beep and/or vibration every 4 seconds to alert you to move the device ½ inch to the next site. You should continue to use the device this way until you cover either the area you wish to treat, or your entire head with multiple passes as described in the User Manual, until the treatment time is completed.
For the LaserBand:
The device is used in 3 positions on your scalp. Leave it in place for a minimum of 30 seconds for each position. It will vibrate every 30 seconds to let you know when to move it to the next part of your scalp.
To start your treatment, press the power button once. Place your Hairmax® LaserBand at your hairline and leave it in place until it vibrates.
When you feel the vibration, slide your device backwards about 3 inches to the next position.
Use light pressure so the teeth can separate your hair. Leave it in this position until it vibrates again.
You will move the device to 3 or 6 positions, depending on the model of LaserBand.
How often do I have to use the laser devices?
Hairmax® laser device treatments only have to be used 3 times a week, such as every other day (for example, Monday, Wednesday, Friday) for optimal results.
Do I need to wash my hair before I use Hairmax®laser devices?
No, but Hairmax® laser devices should be used on a clean scalp so that the optimal laser energy reaches the scalp for delivery to the follicles for best results.
Can Hairmax® laser devices be used every day instead of every other day?
No, when Hairmax® laser devices are used 3 times a week, they will provide optimal results. Using them every day will not increase the benefit.
What is the treatment time for the LaserBand?
The LaserBand 82 has 82 lasers for broader coverage and will deliver the same energy proven to treat hair loss and thinning hair, and regrow hair in as little as 90 seconds, 3 times a week. (Some physicians have recommended that the LaserBand be used for up to 10 minutes at each session and report good results.)
The LaserBand 41 has 41 lasers for broader coverage and will deliver the same energy proven to treat hair loss and thinning hair, and regrow hair in as little as 3 minutes, 3 times a week. (Some physicians have recommended that the LaserBand be used for up to 10 minutes at each session and report good results.)
Are Hairmax® laser devices safe to use with other hair growth products?
Hairmax® laser devices are safe and gentle and can be used with other hair growth products.
Do I need to use minoxidil and/or other hair care products for Hairmax® laser devices to work?
No, Hairmax® laser devices have been proven to work alone.
Can I use Hairmax® laser devices to treat my hair loss while I am using the Hairmax® Hair Fibers concealers?
Yes, you can use Hairmax® Hair Fibers to conceal hair loss while waiting for the benefits of Hairmax® laser devices to occur. However, be sure to wash out the Hair Fibers before each laser treatment because they can block the optimal laser energy from reaching the scalp.
Should I towel dry my hair after washing it, before using a Hairmax® laser device?
Yes, it is a good idea to use the Hairmax® laser device on damp hair, and not soaking wet hair.
Which shampoos are best to use with Hairmax® laser devices?
It is recommended that you use a sulfate free shampoo, as shampoos that contain sulfate could negatively affect your hair loss condition. We offer Hairmax® Density Haircare for Thinning Hair and Scalp treatments, which do not contain irritants such as sodium lauryl sulfate. A description of these products can be found on the Hairmax.com web site.
Can I use minoxidil and Hairmax® laser devices together to treat my hair loss?
Yes, many doctors use them together because they believe that synergistic results will occur. If you choose to use them together in a combination regimen, minoxidil should be used as directed 2 times a day, and the Hairmax® laser device 3 times a week as directed. On those days when you use this combination regimen, we suggest that you use the Hairmax® laser device first, followed by application of minoxidil.
If I have color treated hair, will Hairmax® laser devices still work?
Yes, Hairmax® laser devices can be used on all hair colors. We do, however, recommend that you wait for 2 – 3 days after any hair coloring process prior to using the device.
If I style my hair will the teeth of the Hairmax® laser devices ruin my hairdo?
No, Hairmax® laser devices are not meant to be used like a typical comb or brush. The devices are simply moved in a gentle manner so that it will not affect a hairdo.
SIDE EFFECTS
Are there any side effects from using Hairmax® laser devices and are they safe?
There have never been any reports of harmful side effects occurring from using Hairmax® laser devices over the past 23 years they’ve been on the market, nor from the clinical trials.
Can Hairmax® laser devices burn my scalp?
No, Hairmax® laser devices utilize lasers that do not give off much heat, so they cannot burn your scalp.
Can Hairmax® laser devices be overused?
The healthy laser light provided by the devices are safe and gentle. Using Hairmax® laser devices more often does not improve results or make them appear faster. The device should be used every other day to receive optimal benefit. Using the devices more often can over-stimulate the hair follicles which may diminish the results seen.
Why am I experiencing shedding after using the Hairmax® laser device?
When the follicles in androgenetic alopecia (hereditary/pattern hair loss) become miniaturized they produce fine, wispy hairs. The laser energy stimulates the follicles to shed these diseased hairs to make way for new healthy hair. The amount of shedding is variable between individuals, and some people have little to no shedding depending on the severity of the condition. It is important to know that Hairmax® laser devices DO NOT IN ANY WAY damage hair and if you were to stop treatment your hair would return to the state it was before you used the device.
When I first started using a Hairmax® laser device I had some tingling and itching. Will this go away?
When you start treatment with a Hairmax® laser device, the follicle begins receiving an increased blood flow, so you may experience some tingling or itching, which should disappear within 1 to 2 weeks of continued use.
Can I get skin cancer from using the Hairmax® laser device?
No, the light energy that can cause cancer is UVA as emitted by sunlight. The lasers in Hairmax® laser devices have a completely different wavelength than UVA, so there is no relationship. However, if you are under treatment for skin cancer of the scalp, it is always best to speak with your doctor about applying any light treatment to that area.
What will happen if I stare at the lasers in Hairmax® laser devices?
You should not stare at the laser light in the devices or look at them in a mirror. However, if you expose your eyes too much, you will experience eye irritation.
Can I use Hairmax® laser devices if I am pregnant or nursing?
As with all drugs and medical devices, we recommend that you ask your healthcare provider whether to begin treatment with a Hairmax® laser device if you are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant.
COMPETITION
What is the difference between the LaserBand and the other devices of its kind?
The LaserBand emits the same total energy as the LaserCombs, which have been proven to work with 460 subjects in 7 clinical studies at major teaching institutions of dermatology. The other ‘top of hair’ devices have no clinical studies of this kind published proving their efficacy. Further, the LaserBand utilizes a patented hair parting teeth mechanism, that automatically parts the hair during use, for optimal delivery of laser energy to the follicles. (The 90 seconds total treatment time provides 246 lasers to cover your entire scalp.)
Why does the LaserBand require 90 seconds of treatment time when competitive devices require 20 - 30 minutes of treatment time?
The LaserBand with 82 lasers has a broader coverage, delivers the same total energy in 90 seconds as the LaserComb does in 8 – 11 minutes (depending on the model), which has been proven to work in 7 clinical studies with 460 subjects.
