60, various medications. Will a laser comb or helmet help with hair loss?

Question

I am a 60-year old woman, who's been trying various lotions/oils/supplements over the past 2 years for female pattern hair loss, possibly stress-related too. My medications probably don't help, as I'm on various blood thinners and blood pressure tablets. I'm often vitamin D and folic acid deficient, probably due to those too. Two years on, I have lost 2/3rds of my hair volume and although no actual baldness, it's very thin on the crown. Will these laser devices help?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), such as laser combs, caps, or helmets, can be a helpful adjunct for certain types of hair loss, including female pattern hair loss. These devices use red light to stimulate hair follicles, improve circulation, and may help prolong the growth phase of hair.

What to expect:

Results are usually modest and gradual—most people notice reduced shedding and some thickening rather than dramatic regrowth.

Consistency is key; devices need to be used regularly (several times per week) for at least 4–6 months before assessing effectiveness.

They are generally safe and well tolerated, even in individuals on multiple medications.

Additional considerations in your case:

Medications and deficiencies: Blood thinners and antihypertensives may contribute to hair thinning, while vitamin D and folic acid deficiencies can also worsen shedding. Correcting nutritional deficiencies is important.

Combination approach: LLLT is often most effective when combined with other evidence-based treatments such as topical minoxidil, oral minoxidil (in select cases), or anti-androgen therapies, depending on your health profile.

Realistic outcomes: These devices help slow progression and improve density but are unlikely to fully restore the two-thirds of hair volume already lost.

In summary, laser combs or helmets are safe and may provide benefit for hair density and quality, but results are usually modest and best when combined with correction of deficiencies and medical therapies.

60, various medications. Will a laser comb or helmet help with hair loss?

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60, various medications. Will a laser comb or helmet help with hair loss?

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Everything you need to know about Hair Loss Treatment

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.