A thinning scalp in females is thankfully a relatively rare occurence, compared to the incidence of scalp thinning in men. However, due to cultural norms and expectations, it is much worse psychologically for a lady to go through hair thinning. Hair is much more important to a lady than a man in many cases and much more devastating to deal with. As such, it is important to treat early signs of hair loss in females, before the situation gets worse.

While men have the option of taking oral Propecia to combat hair loss, Propecia is not suitable for ladies, especially if they are planning to conceive or have not hit menopause. Hair transplant surgery may not be the first choice of patients. This is why Low Level Laser Hair Therapy (LLLT) is emerging as a very important tool for female pattern hair loss. Research has shown that laser light energy in the correct wavelength and intensity can stimulate latent hair follicles to start growing again. The laser energy is able to awaken sleeping hair follicles, initiating a growth phase in the scalp.

Without any need for needles, medication or pain, the iGrow LLLT helmet is used in the privacy and convenience at home, twice a week. It can be used in combination with hair stimulating shampoos, lotions and sprays. It is recommended to use for six months upwards. This helps to target a thinning scalp and results are usually noticed within months. Most users experience decreased hair loss, increased hair growth in terms of hair calibre, hair count and volume.

It has been scientifically shown that low level laser hair therapy, or LLLT can stimulate hair follicles to grow. The laser energy has certain wavelengths that can awaken mitochondria, the machinery responsible for cellular growth. Even latent hair follicles that have been dormant for long periods may be switched on.

It is based on this theory that the iGrow LLLT promises to improve hair volume. The red light wavelength in LLLT is delivered in controlled and precise doses onto the scalp, where the mitochondria of cells are activated. This in turn puts in motion a cascade of microcellular steps leading to the stimulation of the anagen phase (growth phase) of the hair cycle.

What is amazing about this product is that it is the first hands-free, portable home device that can replace much more costly, bulky laser systems that are clinic-based. In the past, patients complained of the inconvenience of having to visit the clinic twice a week, spending up to 2 hours a week just on hair laser therapy. With iGrow, our patients can now plan their time much more effectively, not to mention being able to undergo the same laser hair treatment in the comfort, privacy and convenience of their own home. While there are other laser hair devices designed for home use, they are not hands free. Some come in the form of a laser comb, so users need to continuously hold it throughout the treatment. This can be tiring, cumbersome and at the same time limits users from doing other activities.

Patients are instructed to use iGrow twice a week, more than a day apart between treatment. This ensures that the scalp is given optimal stimulation and rest between treatments. With a simple-to-use interface, users choose from a few pre-programmed options. Thereafter, all they have to do is sit back, listen to their ipod or watch their favourite television show. It is that simple!

This treatment is continued for at least 6 months. Patients can expect up to 30% improvement and a maintenance treatment of weekly to two-weekly sessions are recommended.

iGrow, together with the other time-tested treatment options like Propecia and Minoxidil, is another viable option to battle hair loss in both men and women of all ages. Cost effective and convenient, it is a worthwhile consideration and a source of renewed hope for patients suffering from hair loss.