Light-therapy device iGrow treats androgenetic alopecia

Apira Science, based in Boca Raton, Florida, develops, produces and distributes aesthetic light therapy products like iGrow for the consumer market.

Wearable​

The iGrown device looks something like a bicycle helmet, resting not on the users head but perching above it. The device is held in position by sturdy headphones. And, iGrow does make use of them. Treatment can be entertaining:  iGrow “features a patented headphone-based stabilizing platform, with a standard 3.5mm audio port which allows a quality connection to most music/audio, TV or entertainment source devices,” ​boasts the product site. 

Enlightening​

The therapy combines both laser light and LED light energy running at a wavelength of 655 nanometers, according to the company.

“The key to light therapy is the wavelength of light, as different colors (wavelengths) produce different chemical reactions within the cells,”​ explained Jeff Braile, vice president of marketing with Apira, in a recent blog post​. 

“Studies have shown that red light between 650 and 670 nm, when projected onto the scalp in 25-minute sessions three or four times a week, can increase hair growth in men and women,”​ he continued.

To help ensure the device functions at fully capacity for the duration of each treatment, it plugs in to a wall outlet. “When you put a battery on something like this, the laser output can vary,”​ Braile told Jordan Cook​ of TechCrunch not long after the device was FDA approved for hair growth in women. With a plug-in design, “we know you’re getting consistent current for 25 minutes,” ​said Braile.

Verified ​

Double-blind research studies on the effectiveness of iGrow have been conducted and published by the company. Women’s hair growth increased 37% and men’s 35%.

iGrow treatment isn’t a one-and-done solution to thinning hair however. The company intends for users to use the devise several times weekly for up to 6 months and subsequently maintain the results with twice-weekly sessions. 

Inside out​

Globally, baldness and hair loss concerns are consumers’ top hair health issue,

Cosmetics Design recently reported​. Besides external care options like iGrow, internal care products are hitting the market in response to consumer demand as well. Haircetuicals, drinks and supplements that address hair quality and quantity, are increasingly under development and available to consumers.

One such example: “Scientists at Columbia University have taken a pill that treats bone marrow disorders and used the treatment to reverse hair loss in patients with alopecia,” ​reported Cosmetics Design​ assistant editor Michelle Yeomans just last summer.