ILLUMIWAVE

Illumiwave is a great treatment for those with thinning hair. The illumiwave laser stimulates cell function. Most patients will see full stabilization of hair loss within 3 months and hair regrowth can be seen as early as 6 months. 99% of all patients will stop their progression on hair loss, meaning you are able to achieve stabilization of hair loss. All of these patients will also see fuller, thicker, shinier and healthier hair.

Hair follicle weakening can occur in the scalp’s vascular network when the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT disrupts the binding of essential proteins and nutrients to cells in the follicle. In time, this lack of nutrients leads to a weakening of the hair in the follicular site. Regeneration of new and healthier cells in the scalp can increase hair quality, hair thickness and hair growth.

Bio-stimulation using lasers at 650nm and 670nm wavelengths are reported to increase nutrient transport and cellular ATP production of cells in the inter-membrane space of the scalp. Furthermore, increased ATP synthesis dramatically increases the mobilization of calcium ion (Ca2+) stores and cell signaling cascades that lead to increased protein production, intracellular nutrient acquisition and cell proliferation. This process ultimately leads to a decrease in DHT-dependent disruption of follicular protein and nutrient loss and to the maintenance of healthy scalp hair. Laser bio-stimulation energy is delivered to the scalp which in turn opens up the vascular network within the scalp by using a cell signaling process.

Increased scalp blood flow and microcirculation
Increases nutrient supply to enhance hair growth
Stimulates and accelerates hair growth
Stops the progression of hair loss
Repairs and improves hair shaft quality
Reduces the binding of excess levels of skin 5 alpha reductase and DHT which contribute to genetic thinning
Relieves scalp conditions such as psoriasis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, itchy/scaling scalp (anti-inflammatory properties)
Normalizes sebum production (decreases production in over activity or greasiness)
Reduces tight, tender scalp

If you would like to learn more about this exciting, non-invasive treatment, schedule a consultation at the Washington Institute of Dermatologic Laser Surgery today.

Treatment
Over the course of the year, most patients will receive an average of 44 treatments. The most common protocol is twice a week for 8 weeks, then once a week for eight weeks, and then every other week (twice a month) for the remainder of the year. There are also other protocols available. Protocols can be changed to a certain degree to fit the patients lifestyle.

There is also a 6-month program involves 38 treatments with patient protocol of three times a week for four weeks, then twice a week for eight weeks, then once a week for eight weeks, and then every other week (twice a month) for one month.

Treatment time is 20-30 min. You will not feel much at all while the laser is running. Some people will feel a mild tingling sensation or a warming sensation, which goes away within 10 min of completing the treatment.Patient has to wait a minimum of 48 hours in between treatments as to not over treat, but not wait longer than 2 weeks in between treatments for the first year.

Results
Most patients will see full stabilization of hair loss within 3 months and hair regrowth can be seen as early as 6 months. 99% of all patients will stop their progression on hair loss, meaning you are able to achieve stabilization of hair loss. All of these patients will also see fuller, thicker, shinier and healthier hair. Patients should notice a 20% increase in thickness alone within the first 3-5 months of treatment. Upwards of 85% of patients will also see hair re-growth of terminal hairs.

Is it safe?
The illumiwave laser stimulates cell function. The effect is not thermal as in the case of surgical lasers. This non-surgical therapeutic lasers is certified Class 3A by the FDA. The energy produced by the photons of these lasers is low and does not have a thermal component that can cause injuries to users. This low level energy does not alter molecular structures, but stimulates the body’s mechanisms to repair and heal itself. This laser can also be used for wound healing and there are no reported side effects.

You should not use the Illumiwave laser if you are pregnant, have active cold sores or skin infections in the treatment area, active skin cancer, or extreme sensitivity to light. People with a history of glaucoma, cataracts or retinal detachment should discuss this with the doctor to determine if treatment is possible.

Can illumiWave be used in conjunction with other treatments?
Yes. Patients can be on oral or topical medications, as well as using certain shampoos/ conditioners meant for hair loss/thinning. In some cases, our Medica Director may suggest using Propecia or Minoxidil in combination with your treatment. Most people will benefit from the Infusiderm hair products we offer to complement their hair health.
The excellent effects of LLLT on scalp and hair health make it an excellent addition for pre-operative and post-operative treatment when undergoing surgical Hair Restoration procedures.