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It’s no secret that hair loss has become more mainstream since the pandemic. But, here's the good news: With the rise of hair loss, thinning, and shedding, more innovative solutions have come out to help with hair growth. From supplements to shampoos, there are a slew of effective remedies that can help with hair growth, and they range from quick fixes to long-term solutions. But if you're willing to try the latter, hair growth devices are a great option for hair thinning. Although they feature different therapies, many of the best devices for hair growth rely on LED, which you may recognize from your favorite skincare masks.
"LED lights might stimulate hair growth in a hair follicle that has not totally atrophied," explains board-certified dermatologist Howard Sobel. "Additionally, they increase blood circulation, stimulate hair growth, and decrease hair fallout." But again, the derm stresses that the therapy "can only stimulate the hair follicle if the hair follicle has totally atrophied."
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But not every device is created equal. To help you decide which device is worth investing in, we rounded up the best 10 well-reviewed tools, according to those who have tried them, including picks from experts and our own Bazaar editors.
LED Hair Regrowth Device
It may look a little like a football helmet, but this device isn't playing games. Thanks to the shape, it provides full scalp coverage, and it's offered in two sizes to ensure you get the right fit.
Time of treatments: 10 minutes
When to expect results: 12 weeks
Customer Review:
"I've been using it every night for 5 months and it is wonderful, my hair is fuller and thicker, especially around my hairline at the front where i have always had very thin hair." —Lucy
Red Light Hat
If you're looking for ease, this HigherDose cap should be on your radar. It looks like a standard baseball cap—and is adjustable, too—but has 120 LED bulbs inside, so you can stimulate hair growth while you get on with your day.
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Time of treatments: 10 minutes
When to expect results: 16 weeks
Editor Review: "Understandably, not everyone loves the idea of putting their hair loss issues on display, which is why HigherDose's subtle solution is a great option. You can wear this cap while running errands, or in bed before dosing off. It's also super lightweight, so multi-tasking while completing the treatment is a breeze." – Katie Intner, associate beauty editor
DUO 4-in-1 Pod Based Scalp & Hair Care Device
Consistency is key when using hair growth devices, so why not find one that is enjoyable to use? This 4-in-1 device not only employs scalp massage and heat to give you a spa-like experience, but it utilizes red light and microcurrent to improve blood flow and encourage thicker, stronger, and more abundant strands. Plus, you can pop in one of the brand's serum pods that boast hair-growth ingredients like peptides and caffeine to amplify the treatment
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Time of treatments: 5 minutes
When to expect results: As soon as 4 weeks
Customer Review: "After one month of using very satisfying results I started noticing new baby hair the results are not only for my hair I was suffering from insomnia but the vibration really helps me to distress and easily to fall asleep it now it becomes mandatory to use it before going to bed."
LaserBand 41 ComfortFlex Hair Growth Device
This band-like device uses laser, rather than LED, to target hair follicles, allowing it to provide treatment in just a few minutes. Its shape makes it great for the hairline, but you can also use it on other areas of the scalp, like the crown.
Time of treatments: 3 minutes
When to expect results: 3-6 months
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Customer Review: "Hairdresser remarked that my hair was longer than usual and seemed thicker, too. She asked what I had been using/doing. When I told her that I bought the HairMax to try and restore growth along my receding hairline, she told me that she thought I was getting some hair re-growth there. Time will tell, but after about 3 months of use, I am happy with the results." —Tom
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Luna 4 Hair
Still struggling to set aside time to use your hair growth device? This Luna LED handheld tool can be used between hair wash days to also clean hair, thanks to silicone bristles and a massage feature that, in conjunction, eliminates oil buildup and dandruff.
Time of treatments: Varies
When to expect results: 1 month
Customer Review: "I bought the luna 4 hair a month ago and I use it every day now. After a week I noticed that I had less hair loss and after a few weeks virtually no hair loss. After use, my scalp feels nice and there is a lot of volume in my hair. In terms of hair growth, I notice that my hair has become a bit fuller and I see some more baby hairs appearing here and there. This is a great addition to my Foreo collection! My boyfriend is also a fan!" – Tara
RED Hair Growth System
"In 2016, a double-blind study showed the LED device to be effective in decreasing hair loss, and some people get hair regrowth, and others might get an increase in hair density," says Sobel of this system.
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Time of treatments: 10 minutes
When to expect results: a few months
Customer Review: "I have been using the Revian cap since April 2021. It is very simple to use, does not take a lot of time and results are noticeable. My friends and family have commented on how much thicker my hair looks since using this product. I highly recommend." —Elizabeth W.
Intensive LED Hair Growth Brush
Consider trying this LED brush if you don't want to add another step to your haircare routine. LED lights are built right into the thick bristles, so you can reap the benefits as you brush your hair. And for even more circulation benefits, it also offers a light vibration feature to massage the scalp gently.
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Time of treatments: Varies
When to expect results: 20 weeks
Customer Review: "My derm suggested this brush as an added layer to my thinning regimen and I love it. Hair has stopped breaking and shedding significantly since I started using months ago. I also feel I can grab more in a ponytail than before." —Madeline
Spa Styler Blow Dry + Scalp Massage
Heat tools like blow dryers are generally more known for how they damage hair, rather than how they can help it grow. But this one is more than meets the eye: It has an LED function built in, as well as a scalp massager attachment you can use to promote circulation.
Time of treatments: Varies
When to expect results: Not listed
Customer Review: "I like it! My hair gets dried much faster, feels much smoother and I love that it has a scalp treatment, too!" —Emily K
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High Frequency Comb Electrode
If you already own a high-frequency wand for skincare, then getting this comb attachment is a no-brainer. Simply swap it out and comb it throughout your hair to stimulate the scalp and hair follicles.
Time of treatments: 1-3 minutes
When to expect results: Not listed
Customer Review: "I like my comb attachment. The price point made this an even better purchase. I already had Stackedskincare high frequency device. So When this attachment came out I was extremely thrilled. I feel it working on my scalp. I say consistency is key. At least that’s my goal and can’t wait to see results." —Kelly B
Pro 12 Hair Growth LaserComb
This easy-to-use brush-slash-comb swipes through the hair with ease, bringing follicle-stimulating lasers with it. The brand also offers a shampoo and conditioner, which may contribute to your results.
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Time of treatments: 8 minutes
When to expect results: 3 months
Customer Review:
"It’s easy to use and the 8 minutes go by very quick. I am hoping to see hair grow in 6 months."
How does LED therapy for hair growth work?
According to Sobel, LED therapy "works on the hair follicle by creating a better environment for that hair, causing a hair follicle to decrease hair loss and possibly promote hair regrowth."
It's a treatment that can also be done in the derm's office. "I really like TEDS (trans epidermal system) that we have in my office that shows a lot of promise when used with growth factors and episomes," says the derm. "It's an ultrasound and air pressure device that increases hair follicle circulation, which decreases hair loss and may stimulate hair growth and density."
How often should you do LED therapy for hair growth?
Sobel recommends "Three to five times per week," and that you "must continue treatments as long as you don't experience any side effects." As the dermatologist says, "Hair loss is an ongoing process so it always requires treatment."
Meet the Expert
Dr. Howard Sobel is a Clinical Attending Cosmetic Dermatologic Surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women of every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, hair care, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
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