Reversible hair loss in a patient with cicatricial alopecia: A case of regrowth associated with pioglitazone use

Low-Level Laser and LED Therapy in Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Low-level laser/LED therapy (LLLT) has been described as a treatment option for alopecia, but no study has comprehensively reviewed its efficacy in multiple alopecia types.

OBJECTIVE

To review and evaluate LLLT for various alopecia types.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL was conducted to identify studies assessing the effect of LLLT on patients diagnosed with alopecia. Prespecified outcome measure was the change in hair density. Meta-analysis was performed to calculate the standardized mean difference in hair density before and after LLLT compared with placebo.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight studies were included that described 3,098 patients with androgenetic alopecia (2,930/3,098), scarring alopecia (49/3,098), alopecia areata (50/3,098), telogen effluvium (17/3,098), and chemotherapy-induced alopecia (32/3,098). The mean change in hair density increased significantly in androgenetic alopecia patients after LLLT for 4 to 26 weeks compared with placebo (<20 weeks: SMD = 1.14; 95% CI [0.51-1.78]; p = .000; I 2 = 88.26%; >20 weeks: SMD = 1.44; 95% CI [0.97-1.91]; p = .000; I 2 = 80.81%). Change in hair density was reported in 5 studies evaluating other alopecia types; however, statistical information was insufficient for meta-analysis.

CONCLUSION

LLLT is a promising treatment option for patients with androgenetic alopecia, but future studies are needed to better understand its efficacy in other alopecia types.

Treatment modalities for lymphocytic and neutrophilic scarring alopecia

Primary cicatricial alopecia can result in permanent hair loss from the destruction of hair follicles. Early intervention is key in controlling disease progression, reducing symptoms, and optimizing hair density. Treatment modalities range from topical and intralesional therapies to oral medications and light therapy.