If you're experiencing hair loss, you are probably aware of the plethora of solutions available on the market. From topical products to ingestible supplements or drugs to more invasive methods such as hair transplant, the list is endless. But let's not forget about the various at-home tools and methods ranging widely from traditional simple solutions to unconventional devices using cutting-edge technology.
These tools can be a great addition to any hair routine to help you make the most of the efforts you already make. In addition, they are a great investment, as once purchased, you will be able to use them for a long time to come.
Below is a brief overview of some of the most common tools including their mechanism through which they promote hair health, their pros & cons, and who they may be a good fit for.
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Derma rollers / Derma pens
What is a derma roller?
If you’re looking for a way to stimulate collagen production, circulation, and cellular turnover for skin and hair benefits without visiting a dermatologist, a derma roller may be the answer.
A derma roller, or derma pen, is a handheld device with a handle and roller covered in tiny needles that vary in length. The micro-needles prick the skin and may help hair growth by increasing blood flow and collagen production. This may sound intimidating, but derma rolling shouldn’t be painful. You might experience some discomfort, but it should be tolerable.
How does it work?
A derma roller is a handheld device with a handle and roller covered in tiny needles that usually vary in length from 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm. Like micro-needling performed in a dermatologist’s office, at-home derma rolling creates tiny tears in the skin or scalp without damaging the skin barrier that signals the brain to begin the healing process by sending blood flow and collagen to the area. This stimulation causes elastin fibre and collagen production, which can, in turn, help increase hair growth.
Pros and Cons
Derma rollers must be used on a clean and dry scalp and then immediately sterilized and left to dry. The products on the market are easy to attain and easy to use, with many positive reviews that mention the user has experienced hair growth and fuller hair. Most derma rollers and derm pens on the market are affordable and come with clear instructions that help you keep the device clean and help with its efficacy.
Unfortunately, sensitive users may find that derma rollers and pens are painful, even noting that using one feels like having a constant sunburn. Some may find this home tool irritating for the skin, especially when not sterilized properly.
Read more about Micro-needling for hair loss.
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Scalp Massagers
What is a scalp massage?
A simple way to stimulate hair growth at home is to give yourself a scalp massage. This will help increase blood flow to your scalp, encourage stronger roots, and help nutrients get to your follicle faster.
If your hair has become lacklustre or begun falling out, it may be time to take better care of your scalp. Any dermatologist will tell you that one of the best things you can do at home to care for your hair and scalp is to perform scalp massages. Stress tightens the scalp, which impedes circulation and, thus, hair growth. Incorporating a scalp-stimulating tool is essential to improve blood flow to the scalp while sloughing away dead skin and sebum.
How does it work?
You can give yourself a scalp massage with dry hair, but adding a scalp-nurturing serum or oil can help you make your efforts pay off even more. With several options to choose from in various shapes and sizes, you can have a scalp massager that works for you and your hair type. It will help to stimulate the scalp, whether your hair is wet or dry, and will help you get the luscious locks that you always wanted when used alongside an effective hair care routine. Also, it can contribute to a balanced oil production and keep the hair as shiny as possible.
You can massage your scalp while you shampoo, but adding a handheld tool can do more for your scalp than you can on your own. Think of it as a deep-tissue scalp massage.
Pros and Cons
Reviewers and dermatologists say that proper scalp massagers stimulate blood flow and help heal flakes, itchiness, tangles, and stress, with others even touting it as a great way to get rid of headaches!
While those benefits are all wonderful, some end up doing more harm than good by overworking their massage sessions. It causes damage to their scalp by stripping the scalp of natural oils, causing itchiness and increased flakiness.
Read more about scalp massage for better hair health.
Laser Caps / Laser Helmets
What are they?
If you’re ready to take your home care to the next level, it may be time to look into a regrowth laser cap or helmet. Studies have indicated that low-level laser therapy can help improve hair thickness and deliver results for people experiencing shedding.
However, researching whether low-level laser hair devices work for specific types of hair loss is still an ongoing process.
How does it work?
Laser caps and laser helmets use low-level laser therapy to stimulate the scalp and hair follicles by emitting photons that penetrate the scalp and target follicles. These low-level lasers claim to increase adenosine triphosphate production. Such an increase can promote hair growth and stimulate cells by fostering blood flow and nutrient transport to the targeted areas.
Pros and Cons
Patients experiencing the earlier stages of hair thinning and hair loss, no matter the root cause, have seen decreased hair loss with consistent use of low-level laser light technology therapy. That said, you may need to use the laser hair cap for several months before seeing results, with doctors that prescribe the caps saying that treatment must be done repeatedly over a long period if you can manage. Many users stated that the caps gave them headaches and could cause eye damage if proper eyewear is not utilized while using the product, skin irritation on the scalp, and even scalp acne.
The bottom line
No matter what hair loss symptoms you face, it is imperative to start making changes immediately. Whether incorporating one of the options above, a new haircare routine, or adding supplements and dietary changes, taking care of your hair and scalp can help you improve your appearance, confidence, and psychological well-being.
Remember, it is always best to see a physician as a first step. A trained professional can help you identify the root cause of your hair loss and advise you on the best course of treatment. It is also advisable to consult a doctor before incorporating any of the above tools into your routine. While they can be beneficial for many, hair restoration is an individual journey that requires solutions tailored to your individual needs.
