For most people, hair care is all about the strand, but as professional hairdresser and style consultant, Tom Smith, you know the secret to healthy hair lies on your scalp. Whether you’re longing for longer locks or thinning or hair loss, learn how red light therapy targets the root of the problem (literally).
Why is scalp health important for hair growth?
Just as a plant needs nutritious, fertile soil to grow, hair roots need a healthy scalp environment to produce strong, healthy hair. Tom explains: “A good scalp environment creates the right foundations for strong and healthy hair growth with clear and efficient follicles, allowing your hair to grow more efficiently”.
A healthy scalp has good circulation, which allows a strong supply of oxygen and vital nutrients to flow to the follicle and drive new growth. Irritation, product build-up and loose scalp conditions like dandruff can all lead to clogged follicles, reducing their effectiveness and leading to thinner, weaker hair over time.
What are the symptoms of an unhealthy headache?
An unhealthy headache can manifest itself in many ways. The first symptom is usually a change in sensation, including “tingling or tenderness, or just a general feeling of tightness or tenderness.”
Tom explains: “You may notice flaking or excessive oiliness as your scalp tries to fight off whatever is irritating it.” Changes may also include “increased shedding when washing or brushing your hair, or more tangles when styling”.
How to improve scalp health
Scalp health is influenced by a combination of internal, external and lifestyle factors, including stress and diet.
“Many people see negative changes in their mental health when their consumption of alcohol, refined sugar or dairy increases.”
Not washing your hair regularly can also contribute to poor skin health, as oil, dead skin cells and product residue build up. Tom recommends regular shampooing to remove dirt and bacteria, maintaining a healthy, comfortable scalp.
Red light therapy for hair growth
Red light therapy improves scalp health by penetrating the skin and energizing cells. This improves blood flow and reduces irritation, creating a healthy environment for hair follicles, while giving them the ability to stay in the growth phase for longer.
Tom explains: “Dehydration levels and general skin condition can be improved by up to 15% in just 12 weeks of consistent use of red light therapy”. I CurrentBody Skin LED Hair Growth Mask provides full coverage of the scalp for optimal results—think thick, strong strands.
According to Tom, “A better balance on your scalp will probably be the first thing you notice,” as calming redness and reducing oil production are some of the early benefits of red light therapy. “Your hair will start to feel stronger after a few weeks, and you’ll see more shine.”
Red light scalp treatment for healthy hair growth
For best results, Tom recommends just 10 minutes of red light treatment a day: “Hair grows slowly, and although red light can increase this, it won’t grow your hair inches overnight!”, adding that “a daily dose is the best way to improve your scalp and hair in the long term.”
As is often the case, consistency is key—Tom suggests stacking up the routine to encourage regular use, building sessions into your daily routine, whether it’s your morning routine or your evening routine.
“I have clients who wear the device while watching TV in the evening, and others who wear it while preparing dinner. 10 minutes goes by very quickly while you are distracted doing something else”.
Invest in your scalp care regimen, and your hair will thank you—lay the foundations for healthy hair growth with red light therapy and achieve fuller, stronger hair at home.
