Evaluating the Efficacy of Low-Level Laser-Based Treatments for Androgenetic Alopecia: A Network Meta-Analysis

This network meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA) by analyzing 26 randomized controlled trials with 1,638 participants. The study found that LLLT significantly increased hair density and thickness, especially when combined with treatments like botulinum toxin (BTX) injection, topical minoxidil (TM), and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The combination of BTX injection, red laser (RL), and TM was most effective for hair density, while RL + LED + PRP was most effective for hair thickness. No significant differences were found between various LLLT monotherapies, and no severe adverse events were reported, making LLLT a promising and safe option for AGA treatment. However, the study notes limitations such as small sample sizes and methodological flaws, indicating the need for further research.