The mechanisms of photobiomodulation for the hair
Photobiomodulation, an innovative, non-invasive technology, is revolutionising solutions for stimulating hair growth. But how exactly does it work? To understand its effectiveness, it’s essential to delve into the biological and cellular processes activated by this light therapy. From stimulating hair follicles to improving microcirculation, photobiomodulation acts directly on the scalp to create an environment conducive to healthy, long-lasting hair growth.
Stimulation of the mitochondria :
at the heart of hair growth
Mitochondria, often referred to as the ‘energy powerhouses’ of cells, play a crucial role in the hair growth process. Photobiomodulation uses specific wavelengths of light, such as red or near-infrared light, to penetrate scalp tissue and activate the mitochondria of follicular cells. This process leads to a significant increase in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), a molecule essential for providing the energy needed for hair growth cycles.
When ATP levels increase, hair follicles become more active, prolonging the anagen, or growth, phase. This metabolic stimulation promotes hair cell regeneration, helping to strengthen existing hair and encourage new hair growth.
Improved blood microcirculation: an optimised supply of nutrients
Healthy blood flow is essential for healthy hair. Hair follicles, like all living cells, need a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Photobiomodulation stimulates microcirculation in the scalp by encouraging blood vessels to dilate and increasing blood flow to the treated areas.
This improvement in vascularisation provides the follicles with essential nutrients, such as amino acids and vitamins, while eliminating metabolic waste. As a result, hair follicles are better nourished and more robust, leading to more vigorous hair growth and better hair quality.
Reduced inflammation: a soothed, regenerated scalp
Chronic inflammation of the scalp can compromise the health of hair follicles and disrupt their life cycle. Photobiomodulation acts as a powerful inflammatory modulator by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines responsible for excessive inflammatory reactions. At the same time, it increases the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, thereby rebalancing the cellular environment.
By soothing inflammation, photobiomodulation promotes a healthier scalp, better able to support optimal hair growth. This soothing action also reduces irritation, redness and other skin discomforts that can accompany certain hair disorders.
Strengthening follicular stem cells :
the key to regeneration
Stem cells located in the hair bulb play a decisive role in hair regeneration. Photobiomodulation stimulates these stem cells by activating the intracellular signalling pathways that promote their proliferation and differentiation. By reactivating these essential cells, light therapy contributes to the formation of new hair and the renewal of damaged follicles.
In addition, this cellular stimulation strengthens the structure of existing follicles, improving their ability to produce thicker, stronger, more resistant hair. This preventive and restorative action makes photobiomodulation an effective solution for various types of hair loss, whether temporary or chronic.
Optimising the hair cycle: sustainable growth
Hair health is based on a well-regulated cycle between growth (anagen), rest (catagen) and fall (telogen) phases. Photobiomodulation works to stabilise this cycle by prolonging the anagen phase, while delaying the transition to the following phases. This stabilisation helps to maintain optimum hair density and prevent excessive hair loss.
By extending the life of active follicles, photobiomodulation maximises their productivity and encourages continuous hair growth. This targeted action on the hair cycle is particularly beneficial for people suffering from androgenetic alopecia or other hair disorders linked to disturbances in the natural hair cycle.
Impact on dormant follicles
One of the unique advantages of photobiomodulation is its ability to reactivate dormant hair follicles. This phase, known as the telogen phase, represents a period when follicles temporarily stop producing hair, often due to stress, nutritional deficiencies or other factors. The light applied during photobiomodulation sessions penetrates the superficial layers of the scalp to stimulate the sleeping cells, activating their return to the anagen phase (active growth).
This early intervention prevents the miniaturisation of follicles and their eventual atrophy, a condition that is often irreversible. It is particularly useful for patients with diffuse hair loss or sparse areas. By reactivating these dormant follicles, photobiomodulation helps to restore denser hair and limit the progression of hair loss.