The efficacy and safety of the combination of photobiomodulation therapy and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on androgenetic alopecia

Abstract

Background: Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) appears to be safe and effective for hair loss. Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) also has a positive biological effect on hair re-growth. Objectives: We evaluated the efficacy and safety of both PBMT and PEMF for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Materials and Methods: This study was a 24-week, randomized, double-blind, sham device-controlled trial. We recruited 80 subjects with androgenetic alopecia. The subjects got treatment every week for the 1st 12 weeks, every other week for the next 8 weeks. PBMT entails 15-min therapy, and PEMF was carried out for 10 min. Results: The baseline hair density was 114.57 (±28.75)/cm2 and 113.31 (±30.07)/cm2 in both treatment and control groups. After 24 weeks of treatment, the mean hair density increased to 139.37 (±31.4)/cm2 in the treatment group but only to 119.78 (±31.92)/cm2 in the control group. The difference between two groups was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Based on the global assessment of independent experts, the score was 0.41 (±0.62) in the treatment group and 0.07 (±0.45) in the control group. Only very mild erythema or irritation was reported, and no serious adverse reactions were reported. Conclusions: A combination of PBMT and PEMF is a valid and safe treatment option for AGA.