Lasers and Energy-Based Devices in the Treatment of Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

    May 2026 in “ Skin Appendage Disorders
    Mohammed Alahmadi, Sara Alghamdi, Shatha Albyali, Reenad Alharbi, Dalia Alanazi, Amal Altamimi, Rawan Aldahash, Ruaa Alharithy
    This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of lasers and energy-based devices (EBDs) in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA), involving 3,298 patients across 37 studies. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) showed a mean increase in hair density of 18.56 hairs/cm² and shaft thickness of 10.62 µm compared to sham treatments. Fractional laser monotherapy increased hair density by 102.23 hairs/cm² and thickness by 5.93 µm, while combination protocols with minoxidil, PRP, or growth factors further improved density by 33.6 hairs/cm² and thickness by 11.22 µm. Global photographic improvement rates were 77.2% for fractional laser monotherapy and 95.3% for combination protocols. Adverse events were mild and transient, indicating that LLLT and fractional lasers are effective and safe for AGA, especially when combined with other treatments.
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