Beauty enthusiasts, myself included, have really bought into the red light trend. LED masks are now ubiquitous in the skin care category, available at a wide range of price points and used to help address a wide range of skin care issues — from wrinkles and collagen loss to acne and more. Recently, people have turned their attentions to their hair and scalps, with some claiming that red light therapy can help with hair loss. (I could have used this information when I was dealing with “the worst postpartum hair loss” my hairstylist had seen in her entire career!)In previous reporting, experts weighed in on this the promise of red-light devices. Dr. Kimberly S. Salkey, a board-certified dermatologist and the residency program director for the VCU School of Medicine’s Department of Dermatology, explained that there are a couple of theories that support this conjecture. “One theory suggests [red light therapy] impacts mitochondria inside hair follicles, ultimately leading to increased cellular energy and protein production. Another theory proposes that it triggers dilation of blood vessels leading to improved blood flow and decreased inflammation,” she said.These theories are promising, but Dr. Hadley King, a New York-based board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University, noted that while some studies show that red light may help to restore hair for those with hair loss, additional larger studies are still needed.Despite this, some experts believe that at-home red light therapy can offer some benefits for people with early or moderate hair shedding. This includes postpartum hair loss, perimenopause or menopause-induced loss, stress-induced loss, male pattern hair loss and more. Dr. Ross Kopelman, a New York-based hair restoration surgeon, previously said, “I see red light therapy as a way to energize weakened hair follicles and keep them in the growth phase longer.” He recommends it as part of a multi-pronged approach, where people use it alongside other hair growth treatments, including minoxidil. And while the experts pointed out that red light therapy has few side effects for most people, those with photosensitive conditions, like lupus, or people who are on medications like tretinoin, may want to avoid it. If your interest has been piqued, you’ve come to the right place, because below we’ve rounded up nine red light therapy devices designed specifically to assist with hair growth. Sure, you can plop your red light face mask on your head, but these options are specifically designed to target your hair and scalp, making them the ideal delivery method. Take a look below and find the one that best fits your budget. TargetA 5-in-1 red light therapy hair styler and heat combThis versatile hair tool not only dries, straightens, curls and adds volume to hair, but it also uses red light therapy to help support its overall health while in use. It's a delightfully multifunctional tool for someone who wants to utilize red light therapy but doesn't want to add an extra step to their routine. The styler has three fan speeds, three heat settings, plus a cold air button and includes two styling clips and a protective heat clove. It's currently under $100 at Target, which feels like a great bargain considering how much it does.Promising review: So far I’ve used this about ten times in the last two weeks. It quickly became my favorite brush. The red light seems to make my hair softer. I feel like it’s been less damaged since using this brush maybe because it controls the frizz and gives me more volume and last the whole day. Having several brush options together in one brush makes my life so much more convenient, my bathroom so much neater and my hair definitely feels more healthy. This brush is amazing and I definitely think you should give it a try, especially those of you that do your hair every single day!!!" — momofstronggirls218NordstromA red light hat from a popular wellness brandBoth stylish and functional, this red light hat from Higher Dose can help to promote scalp and hair health. It's easy to charge (you won't be tethered to a cord while using it) and lasts for up to four treatments a week. You can use the hat for just ten minutes at a time to help stimulate the body's natural healing and growth process. Promising review: "I have been extremely interested in at home red light treatments lately. I’ve have really good luck with red light for my face, so naturally the next step was to try red light for my hair. This red light hat from Higherdose has been wonderful so far. First off, the cap itself feels substantial. It is a pricey item, but I can tell it’s going to last some time. The treatments only take 10 minutes a day and it’s super easy to incorporate into my routine. The cap shuts off automatically after the 10 minutes is up and the battery life lasts awhile before needing to be recharged. I love that it’s hands free and cord free! Even on an extremely hectic day, I was able to throw this on and run out the door without anyone even knowing I was treating my scalp/hair. I am only one month in of use, so not quite at the optimal usage time for full results. However, I do feel like my hair has been looking better! I am excited to see what my results look like in a few more months. Remember, consistency matters and is key with products like this so you must use daily for best results. This comes with a really handy storage bag that I store it in and keep with all my other red light devices so I make sure to use it everyday! If you’re experiencing some hair loss or looking to just improve the overall health of your scalp/hair, I think this cap is absolutely worth the investment." — Alli1023NordstromAn LED light headband Ideal for hairline regrowth, this headband has surprisingly great reviews. It's designed to help hair grow in thicker and more resilient, thanks to both red and blue light therapy. It's wireless and rechargeable, which is ideal if you're looking for a hands-free option. It can even help to soothe and reduce scalp irritation.Promising review: "Been struggling with thinning and loss for maybe 2 years now. I tried the supplements nothing. Tried the serums, kept foregging to be consistent but this was in my face and SO easy to put on wear and just live my life around the house. Its about 15 minutes so before you know it its ready to come off. You can move it all around your crown so its not needed to stay in one spot you can adjust it and play around with it. I have been using this for 6 months solid and my hair density has came back." — Deepa LeeAmazonAn LED and laser-powered cap that reviewers say is worth the investmentBoard-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp (among other experts) previously commented on the effectiveness of red light therapy on hair growth. According to him, "low-level light therapy (LLLT) makes use of the biological effect of light on hair follicles," and this impact on the mitochondria inside hair follicles can ultimately lead to increased cellular energy and protein production.Based on this knowledge, we've previously covered the iRestore treatment helmet, an FDA-cleared laser system that uses 282 lasers and LED lights to stimulate hair follicles for new growth. According to the brand, this hands-free device uses an optical wavelength, can be used to maximize the results of other hair loss treatments like minoxidil (if you choose to use it) and can be useful for conditions like alopecia, receding hairlines, pattern baldness and thinning hair.Promising review: "I bought this product after trying minoxidil several times with no success. I did a lot fo research and several good studies done by neutral third-parties have shown this type of light therapy can work. I used this in combination with one other thing -- increasing my protein intake to at least 25 grams per meal, as per my doctor. She said it would take time, and it did. Unlike many others, I did NOT experience a shed before my new hair started to grow in, so that was good. I began seeing baby hair coming in at my hairline, at about the two month mark -- it was peach fuzz and in patches where I'd lost hair, so I knew it was new hair and not just regular regrowth. And that's obviously happening along my crown, too, but along your hairline it's much easier to see. Those hairs are between one and two inches long now, as I've been using the helmet for five months. So I'm calling this money well spent. I even bought a couple of hair pieces to wear before this, but now I won't be needing them anymore, which is SO liberating! I'm a customer for life. I also believe this product makes new hair grow in with thicker strands (which research also backs up), as it just seems to have more body (and therefore more coverage where your part is), without me changing any hair products. So that helps as well. I'm so beyond happy right now. Many negatives come with aging, but I was NOT ready to lose my hair!" — DianeRevolveAn LED-powered hair brushFor those who don't mind a bit of labor, a hair brush with LED lights might be a great option that utilizes the effects of both light therapy and scalp stimulation. It's ergonomically designed to be used every day, has a battery charging cord, and provides a nice gentle massage that can help with scalp circulation. The brand recommends using it twice a day for results. Promising review: "Smart hair technology. I have been using it for two weeks, observed less hair on the floor and sink. It feels great on the scalp and I'm now starting to see hair fill in, and my hair is getting thicker. The quality is excellent." — EmilyDermstoreA scalp massager with both laser and LED lightsThis scalp massager utilizes the combined benefits of lasers, LED lights and massage to stimulate the scalp and hair follicles, which can help to lessen fallout and encourage healthy hair growth. The brand recommends using this device every other day for 2-3 minutes per area of the head. Promising review: "Oh the joy of getting the results you were hoping for! I bought this device because I have noticed my hair thinning for months now and after a little research I wanted to have something that gives a good scalp massage, so when I saw this one has that plus them led lights, I knew this is it! It really is, because after a month my hair stopped falling out and after month two is started growing back! I love this!" — Jani007AmazonA highly-rated laser and LED red light capThis FDA-cleared laser and LED cap is more affordable than other options, but does require longer sessions, more often. The brand recommends 25-minute sessions every other day to see visible improvements in hair growth and density. It's easy to use, lightweight and comes with a remote control. Promising review: "I’ve been using this red light therapy cap consistently and I’m really happy with it so far. It’s lightweight, comfortable to wear, and very easy to use: I can put it on while relaxing or doing things around the house. The fit is good and it doesn’t feel heavy or awkward on the head. What I appreciate most is the quality of the device and how simple it makes sticking to a routine. After a few weeks of use, my scalp feels healthier and my hair looks better overall. Obviously hair growth takes time, but this is a great at-home option for anyone looking to support hair health with red light therapy. If you’re looking for a convenient, non-invasive way to add red light therapy to your routine, this is definitely worth trying." — EllyHairmaxA splurgey cap with high-powered laser diodesWhile most red light therapy devices use LED lights, devices like this cap that are specifically designed designed specifically for hair growth utilize lasers — albeit at a very steep price. It uses 272 medical-grade lasers for targeted delivery and full scalp coverage. The brand claims that three weekly seven-minute treatments can help with increased hair density and growth.Promising review: "I’m a woman who was diagnosed with androgenetic alopecia in my mid-40s. Over the years, I’ve tried countless treatments—lotions, potions, and medications—in search of something that would truly make a difference. The Hairmax device has proven to be a powerful and effective addition to my treatment regimen. I’ve been using Hairmax consistently for two years, and while I initially wasn’t sure whether the improvements I saw were due to my medication or the device, the results spoke for themselves. My hair has grown noticeably longer, feels denser, and each strand seems just a bit thicker—subtle changes that have made a big impact on my confidence. I couldn’t be more pleased."Unfortunately, after two years, my original device stopped working. I held off on replacing it, curious to see whether its absence would make a difference. Within just two months of not using Hairmax, I began to notice increased shedding. While not drastic, it was enough to confirm that the device had been playing a key role in my hair health. I didn’t hesitate to purchase a replacement. I now recommend Hairmax to all of my female friends experiencing hair thinning. It’s not a miracle cure, but it has absolutely been a valuable and effective tool in managing my hair loss—and for that, I’m truly grateful." — TerraKiierrOr a cap with similar functionality that’s slightly more affordableIf you’re on a budget, this very similar model from Kiierr (also FDA-cleared) is on sale right now, starting at $799 for a cap with 148 diodes.
People Are Using Red Light Therapy Devices For Hair Loss — Here’s What Experts Say
"I even bought a couple of hair pieces to wear before this,” wrote one reviewer, “but now I won't be needing them anymore, which is SO liberating!"






