Researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), in collaboration with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, have developed a wearable, cap-like device based on OLED light technology. This device has demonstrated a remarkable ability to slow the aging of hair follicle cells by up to 92%, a key mechanism in hair loss.
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The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, paves the way for a new generation of non-pharmaceutical treatments for hair loss.
While phototherapy for hair loss is not a new concept, its adoption has been limited due to the bulkiness of existing devices, their reliance on rigid and uncomfortable helmets, their impracticality for outdoor use, and the uneven distribution of light across the scalp caused by the use of limited light sources such as lasers or LEDs.
These limitations prompted researchers to seek a more flexible and practical solution for everyday use.
The solution lies in replacing point-based light sources with flat OLED technology, which emits light uniformly over a wide area. The team integrated this technology into a flexible, fabric-like material, enabling the design of a lightweight, adaptable light cap that conforms to the shape of the scalp.
This design ensures that the light reaches the entire scalp evenly, without pressure or discomfort for the user.
The researchers didn't just change the device's shape; they also focused on precisely adjusting the light wavelength. The OLED units are designed to emit near-infrared light, in the 730–740 nm range, which is optimal for activating dermal papilla cells responsible for regulating hair growth within the follicle.
When this technology was tested on human cells in the laboratory, the results showed a significant reduction in cell aging indicators and a marked advantage over traditional red light therapy.
A First Step Towards Daily Treatment
The study's lead researcher, Eun-Hae Cho, says the goal was to develop a device that could be easily used in daily life, not just as a treatment tool in clinics.
Professor Kyung-Chul Choi emphasizes that the flexibility of the OLED lights and their ability to adhere smoothly to the scalp give this technology a significant advantage. He notes that the next step will be preclinical studies to verify safety and efficacy before moving on to human trials.
If this technique proves clinically successful, it could change the future of hair loss treatment by reducing reliance on medications with side effects, providing a non-surgical and comfortable treatment, and integrating the treatment into the daily routine without disrupting normal life.