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*, and wants to regrow lost hair, and help prevent further progression. It is best to start treatment at the first sign of hair loss, because the earlier you start, the better your results will be.
How do the HairMax laser devices work to regrow hair?
HairMax laser devices utilise laser energy to stimulate the follicle to grow healthy new hair when you have androgenetic alopecia, also known as pattern baldness or thinning hair. The 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, to 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 begin to notice thinning, because the earlier you start, the better your results will be. The HairMax laser devices are easy and convenient to use, just three times a week for 90 seconds to 15 minutes depending on the model.
Can people of all ages with hair loss benefit from treatments with the HairMax laser devices?
Our clinical studies have shown that the HairMax laser devices are effective in both men and women 18 years or older, and that age is not a factor as to how they work. The devices are most effective for mild to moderate hair loss*. It is not intended for people who have severe hair loss. While the HairMax laser devices can ‘awaken’ dormant hair follicles, once the hair follicle is no longer functioning, it cannot be revitalised. We recommend that if you want to use the device on an individual below the age of 18, that you consult a doctor first.
Will the HairMax laser devices regrow hair in both men and women?
The 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 hair. There have also never been any reports of serious side effects occurring. Users experience an average hair growth of 149 new hairs per square inch with results seen in 12 to 16 weeks. The HairMax laser devices can also be used with any other treatments. Finally, the devices 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 the HairMax laser device be used for overall thinning of hair after menopause?
Yes, while the 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”
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 they will ‘wake’ up and begin to produce hair. If no hair regrows, your hair follicles are no longer functioning.
Can I use the HairMax 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. For women, overall thinning of hair after menopause can be successfully treated with the devices.
I have Fitzpatrick Skin Type in the 5/6 range – will the HairMax laser devices work for me?
The HairMax laser device studies were only studied in the skin types shown as it was easier to visualise and analyse 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.
Are the HairMax laser devices effective for all ethnicities including African Americans?
The subjects selected for the clinical studies conducted for the HairMax laser devices were not based on ethnicity; rather they were selected on skin tone to make analysis of results easier. Our clinical study results demonstrated that over 90% of all subjects in the studies regrew hair, and many individuals with darker skin tones have also used the devices successfully. Finally, traction alopecia caused by tight hair styles or braiding can result in hair loss. The HairMax laser devices can help restore healthy hair after the condition has been loosened, but only if the follicles are not permanently damaged.
Is it recommended to use the HairMax 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 patency of the grafts and improve overall results. We recommend that if you wish to use the devices after your surgery that you consult with your surgeons about whether and how to use them after the transplant procedure.
Are the HairMax laser devices effective treatment for all ethnicities, and skin tones?
All the 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 was limited to those with these skin tones in order to make counting hair easier, as it is difficult to count them against darker backgrounds. Many individuals with darker skin tones have chosen to use the HairMax laser devices, and report that they are pleased with the results.
If I have a thyroid condition, will the HairMax laser devices help me treat my hair loss?
If your thyroid is being successfully controlled with medication and your thyroid values are normalised, the HairMax laser devices can help to restore your hair condition.
What forms of alopecia can be effectively treated with the HairMax 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 HairMax laser devices be effective if I have psoriasis?
No, the HairMax laser device will not be effective in treating psoriasis.
Are the HairMax laser devices effective for treating alopecia areata?
We do not believe that the HairMax laser devices will be effective for treating alopecia areata or any of its variants.
Are HairMax 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 some benefit.
Are HairMax laser devices effective if I have hair extensions?
You can use HairMax laser devices if you have hair extensions. To treat your hair loss when you have them, you must remove the teeth mechanism on the device if you are treating your condition when the extensions are in place. This will prevent any of your hair extensions from becoming caught on the teeth and being pulled off. After removing the teeth, the device should be held on top of your hair.
Can I use HairMax laser device if I am pregnant or nursing?
As with all drugs and medical devices, we recommend that you ask your healthcare provider as to whether to begin treatment with a HairMax laser device if you are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant.
LASER DEVICES MODEL INFORMATION
What are the differences in 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 length of time.
LaserBand 82 – This enhanced, hands-free device requires as little as 90 seconds treatment time just 3 times a week (and is rechargeable).
LaserBand 41 – This enhanced, hands-free device requires as little as 3 minute treatment time just 3 times a week (and is rechargeable).
Ultima 12 – This device is handheld, rechargeable and requires treatment time of 8 minutes.
Ultima 9 – This device is handheld, rechargeable and requires treatment time of 12 minutes.
How long have the HairMax laser devices been on the market?
The 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 HairMax laser devices have to be cleaned?
HairMax laser devices may need to be cleaned from time to time to ensure maximum benefit. To clean the device, unplug it, then gently remove the teeth by pulling them straight out. Clean the window with a soft damp cloth and then replace the teeth. The device is now ready to be used.
Do the HairMax 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 lasers to allow for maximal delivery of the laser energy to the follicles.
LASER TREATMENT GUIDELINES
How do I use the various HairMax laser devices to treat my hair loss?
The HairMax laser devices have been designed with both comfort and convenience in mind. They are light weight and 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 that treatment times vary depending on the model. The more lasers, the faster the treatment time.
The LaserBand only requires treatment for 90 seconds, which is the fastest treatment time of any home use laser device on the market.
The Ultima 12 takes only 8 minutes.
The Prima 7 and the Advanced 7 take only 15 minutes.
Do HairMax laser devices have to be used indefinitely?
HairMax laser device treatments have to 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 difference in using the 4 second or the 30 second treatments for the LaserBand?
Each method delivers a similar laser energy dose, so it is up to the user as to which method to use as described in the device’s User Manual.
What is the best way to use the LaserComb and the LaserBand?
For the HairMax 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 HairMax LaserBand: Simply place the device on the front of your head and gently move it to the top of your head, then the back, using either the 4 second or 30 second method described in the User Manual. Either method requires as little as 90 seconds treatment time, 3 times a week.
How often do I have to use the HairMax 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 have to wash my hair every time before I use the HairMax laser devices?
No, but the 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 the HairMax laser devices be used every day instead of every other day?
No, the HairMax laser devices when used 3 times a week will provide optimal results. Using them every day will not increase benefit.
What is the treatment time for the LaserBand?
The LaserBand 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.)
Are the 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 the HairMax laser devices to work?
No, the HairMax laser devices have been proven to work alone.
Can I use HairMax laser devices to treat my hair loss while I am using Hair Building Fibres?
Yes, you can use Hair Building Fibres to conceal hair loss while waiting for the benefits of the HairMax laser devices to occur. However, be sure to wash out the Hair Fibres 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 the HairMax laser devices?
It is recommended that you use a sulphate free shampoo, as shampoos that contain sulphate could negatively affect your hair loss condition. We offer the HairMax for density Thinning Hair and Scalp treatments which do not contain irritants such as sodium lauryl sulphate. A description of these products can be found on the HairMax.co.uk 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 colour treated hair, will the HairMax laser devices still work?
Yes, the HairMax laser devices can be used on all hair colours. We do, however, recommend that you wait for 2 – 3 days after any hair colouring process prior to using the device.
If I style my hair will the teeth of the HairMax laser devices ruin my hairdo?
No, the 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.
LASER DEVICE EFFICACY
Do HairMax laser devices work on the entire head or only on the top?
The HairMax laser devices treat hair loss and thinning hair* over the entire head, back, front, top and sides, unlike drugs that work best only on the top.
How long does it take to see results for treatment with the HairMax laser devices?
Results from treatment with the HairMax laser devices takes time as hair grows ½ inch a month, so do not expect to see results ‘overnight’. Users typically begin to see results within 12 to 16 weeks, so it is important to take the ‘long view’ and give the devices time to work. While results vary with each individual, in the clinical studies, over 90% of users experience hair growth. Some of our researchers also feel that further positive results can occur beyond the 26-week period of time of the studies, for up to a year or more of continued use.
What benefits will I see from using the HairMax laser devices?
Any of the following indicates response to treatment with the HairMax laser devices.
New hair growth
Reversal of hair thinning
Hair growing stronger
Increase density and fullness
More manageability and vibrancy
Less shedding will occur over time
Will HairMax laser devices work for me?
While results vary from individual to individual, over 90% of participants in the clinical trials regrew hair. Since we cannot predict individual results, we provide a 90 day money back guarantee (less a 20% restocking charge), so that you can judge results and decide if the device is working for you.
Do the more expensive HairMax laser devices have higher power, and give better results?
No, all devices emit the same energy level and will give the same results, with the only difference between models being the treatment time, i.e. the more lasers, the shorter the treatment time.
How long do I have to use the HairMax laser devices and do I have to use them forever?
To maintain results, you have to continue using the HairMax laser devices indefinitely on a consistent basis to continue to see positive benefits. Once you are satisfied with the results, you may try to cut back on treatments to twice a week for maintenance. However, if shedding occurs, you will have to return to treatment 3 times a week.
I have been using the HairMax laser device for many weeks, but I am not seeing results so where do I go from here?
We recommend that you take the ‘long view’ to judge results. The HairMax laser devices work in 2 ways – to help regrow hair and/or to help you keep what you have. Therefore, we recommend that you use the device for at least 20 weeks, to judge results.
SIDE EFFECTS
Are there any side effects from using the HairMax laser devices and are they safe?
There have never been any reports of harmful side effects occurring from using the HairMax laser devices, in the past 15 years that the devices have been on the market, nor from the clinical trials.
Will the HairMax laser devices cause shedding or damage my hair?
The HairMax laser devices in no way will damage hair. Shedding is a natural phase of healthy hair growth. Treatment with the devices can cause some users to experience shedding during the first few weeks of use, as the laser energy causes the hair follicle to shed damaged hairs and regrow healthy ones. Shedding is actually a positive sign that the HairMax laser device is beginning to work to regrow new, healthy hair. If you were to stop using the device, your hair would return to where it was before you began treatment.
Can HairMax laser devices burn my scalp?
No, the HairMax laser devices utilise lasers that do not give off 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 the 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 experiencing shedding after using the HairMax laser device?
When the follicles in androgenetic alopecia (hereditary/pattern hair loss) become miniaturised 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 the 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 began 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 sun light. The lasers in the HairMax laser devices have a completely different wave length 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 the HairMax laser devices?
You should not stare at the laser light of the devices or look at them in a mirror. However, if you exposed your eyes too much, you would experience eye irritation.
Can I use HairMax laser device if I am pregnant or nursing?
As with all drugs and medical devices, we recommend that you ask your healthcare provider as to 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 of the LaserCombs, which have been proven to work in 7 clinical studies with 460 subjects 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 utilises 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 for broader coverage, delivers the same total energy in 90 seconds as the LaserComb does in 8 – 15 minutes (depending on model) which has been proven to work in 7 clinical studies with 460 subjects. We do not know where the other ‘top of hair devices,’ such as helmets and caps, got their treatment time from, as no clinical studies have been published to provide justification of their time of use recommendations.