S. Korean "hair loss hat" innovates light therapy treatment

Scientists in South Korea are developing a light therapy hat that offers new venues for treating hair loss, as it has been shown to reduce key ageing markers by nearly 92%. 

Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology said their specially tuned near-infrared light system managed to achieve those results in laboratory tests, as highlighted in an article by Science Alert .

The findings were published in Nature Communications, detailing how the new treatment targets human dermal papilla cells, which play a crucial role in hair growth at the base of hair follicles. As these follicles age, they begin producing higher levels of the enzyme beta-galactosidase, a recognized biomarker associated with cellular aging and hair loss.

Researchers reported that hair cells treated with their customized near-infrared organic light-emitting diode (OLED) system displayed 92 percent fewer aging markers compared with untreated cells. The light was calibrated to a wavelength of 730 to 740 nanometres, which scientists believe is optimal for activating cells responsible for hair regeneration.

Unlike many existing light-therapy helmets that rely on lasers or standard LED devices, the new approach uses thin, flexible OLED technology. This design allows the device to sit closer to the scalp inside a soft cap, distributing light more evenly while also making it more comfortable to wear.

Hair loss affects millions of people worldwide. In the United States alone, up to 40 percent of the population experiences hereditary patterned hair loss. Current treatment options include minoxidil and finasteride, though both can come with limitations and potential side effects.

While the wearable cap has not yet undergone testing on humans, researchers say additional preclinical studies are planned to further assess its safety and effectiveness.

By Nazrin Sadigova