Do LED Masks Help with Hair Loss?
LED masks are great for skin — but when it comes to hair regrowth, wavelength, power density, and delivery method are critical. Here’s what the evidence says, and what actually works for the scalp.
Key takeaways
Understanding hair loss
Hair follicles cycle through anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (rest). In androgenetic alopecia and other forms of hair loss, follicles miniaturise and spend less time in anagen, producing progressively finer hairs.
- Androgenetic alopecia (pattern loss)
- Telogen effluvium (stress/illness shedding)
- Alopecia areata (autoimmune)
- Traction alopecia (mechanical)
Light therapy basics
Photobiomodulation uses red/near-infrared light to stimulate mitochondrial activity, improve microcirculation, and extend the growth phase. Delivery method matters: depth, dose, and coverage are the difference between a glow and true follicular stimulation.
- LED: non-coherent light, typically lower power
- LLLT: coherent laser light, engineered for deeper penetration
LED masks vs. laser caps
| Feature | LED masks (face) | LLLT laser caps (scalp) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Skin rejuvenation (collagen, redness, acne) | Hair follicle stimulation / retention |
| Typical wavelengths | ~630–660 nm (low power) | ~630 & 650–680 nm (optimised for follicles) |
| Power density / dose | Lower; not calibrated for scalp penetration | Engineered irradiance & treatment time for scalp |
| Coverage | Broad facial panel; hair blocks light | Even, close-to-scalp diode array |
| Clinical support | Strong for skin, limited for hair growth | Multiple RCTs & meta-analyses for AGA support |
In short: most LED masks aren’t designed to deliver the depth or dose required to influence hair follicles meaningfully.
What LED masks are good for
- Boosting collagen & skin radiance
- Calming redness and post-procedure inflammation
- Supporting acne care (blue/red protocols)
We recommend reserving facial LED for skin — and choosing scalp-specific therapies for hair concerns.
What actually helps hair
- LLLT laser caps with calibrated wavelengths and dose
- PRP hair therapy to recruit dormant follicles
- Nutritional & hormonal support via Santi Skin Lab
Device note: dose and design matter
Effective scalp therapy depends on wavelength selection, total output, energy density, and how evenly light reaches follicles through hair. At Santi we evaluate devices on these parameters and combine them with clinical oversight to set realistic expectations and timelines.
Want this section customised with your device specs (e.g., diode count, wavelengths, energy per session)? Say the word and we’ll slot it in.
FAQs
Can an LED face mask slow shedding if I hold it to my scalp?
Unlikely. Face masks aren’t calibrated for scalp dose or geometry, and hair absorbs/scatters light. Purpose-built laser caps provide even, close delivery across the scalp.
How long before I see results with LLLT?
Most people need 12–16 weeks for early signs (reduced shedding, improved calibre), with clearer density changes at 6–9 months. Consistency is key.
Is LLLT safe with PRP or topical treatments?
Yes — LLLT is commonly combined with PRP, nutraceuticals, and topicals as part of a multi-modal plan. We’ll tailor timings and protocols during consultation.
Next steps
LED masks excel at skin; for hair, choose scalp-specific therapies with proven parameters. Book a consultation to plan a results-focused programme.