iGrow FAQ
With regular use of iGrow, individuals can expect to see a gradual improvement in hair condition within a 12-week period.
Individual results will vary. For best results, the iGrow should be used 2-3 times per week on non-consecutive days. Consistent use provides optimum results. LLLT has been shown to stop the appearance of hair loss and help rejuvenate hair for anyone with genetic forms of hair loss, such as male/female pattern baldness. Those with significant hair loss due to disease or medical causes will not benefit from LLLT.
Q. What is LLLT?
A: LLLT is an acronym for Low Level Light Therapy. This refers to a therapy that utilizes laser or light energy below a specific energy threshold and within a specific wavelength. Light sources used for LLLT may include laser and LED devices. Laser devices used for LLLT are also referred to as cold lasers. LLLT devices produce no heat, are safe and cannot burn or injure the skin.
Q. How does LLLT work?
A: Multiple clinical studies have shown the effectiveness of Low Level Laser Therapy on various conditions including hair loss in women and men, carpal tunnel syndrome and acne. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but the most recent research has identified that LLLT is absorbed into the cells, triggering enhanced cellular activity. In other words, LLLT makes aging cells more active, thereby increasing their effectiveness in hair restoration.
Q. Where did LLLT for hair loss originate?
A: In the late 1960s, researchers proved that low-level light therapies were effective for wound healing. A side effect of this LLLT application was hair restoration in the treated areas.
Q. Are there any medical studies (clinical trials) that support the use of LLLT for hair rejuvenation?
A: Over the past five years multiple studies have proven that LLLT is an effective hair loss treatment for both men and women.
Q. Do physicians advise the use of LLLT for hair rejuvenation?
A: Yes. Dermatologists and Medical Doctors in the United States, Europe and Asia use and endorse LLLT products (such as iGrow) for use with patients suffering from hair loss.
Q. What is the benefit of a device that combines both Laser and LED light?
A: Red light from Laser and LED devices emitting 650-670nm wavelength light can stimulate cells as part of an effective laser hair treatment. The Laser produces a specific wavelength that stimulates the hair follicle cells and also promotes vascular-neogenesis. The LEDs use a broader beam of gentle light energy to cover a wider area of the scalp. Combining the Lasers and LEDs offers the best benefit of both light sources for men and women with thinning hair.
Q. How does wavelength affect LLLT for hair loss treatment?
A: It is important to use light within the recommended wavelength for laser hair treatment. Research studies suggest the most effective wavelength for hair rejuvenation is between 670 650-nm. This wavelength has the most efficient and effective absorption that is essential for hair loss therapy.
Q. Do all LLLT devices use laser and LED together?
A: Most LLLT devices use either LEDs or Lasers. The iGrow by Apira Science utilizes both high-quality laser and LED light sources. This form of LLLT is effective for thinning hair treatment and hair loss treatment.
Q. Will all laser and light devices provide equivalent results on the scalp?
A: No. Not all devices have the same power and energy output and therefore won't yield the same results. Many devices only cover a limited area, and don't deliver sufficient power to stimulate hair rejuvenation. Many handheld devices use only a few lasers or use only LED light. Most of these devices are underpowered and require the consumer to manually move a handheld comb or brush repeatedly over the scalp for 10-20 minutes at a time. This is ineffective, tiresome and does not provide the consistent application of the light that is required for good results. The iGrow, combines Laser and LED light in a hands-free automated device that is easy to use while providing complete, consistent scalp coverage in each 20 minute.
Q. Some LLLT devices stay on continuously, while others pulsate. Is one better than the other?
A: The benefits of LLLT are based on biostimulation, or the stimulation of cells to encourage healing and regeneration. LLLT can be delivered either in the form of "pulsed" or continuous wave energy. Some research has indicated that effective stimulation is enhanced by pulsing the light in a program to mimic cellular respiration. Based on this understanding, newer devices use pulsating light to produce maximum results in laser therapy for hair loss.
Q. Can LLLT be used with treatments such as Rogaine or Propecia?
A. LLLT can be used with hair loss products Rogaine or Propecia. However the use of pharmaceuticals is not required to achieve results. That's what's great about the iGrow. It's a hair loss product that requires only a one-time investment and no monthly prescription or doctor visits. Also, the iGrow causes no side effects, and it isn't difficult or messy to apply.
Q. Is iGrow safe to use at home?
A: The iGrow has been specially designed with safety features for at-home, office and travel use, including a safety mechanism controlling both laser and LED devices. In addition, the iGrow is designed so that it can only be turned on when it is firmly placed on your head. The iGrow is a safe and effective laser hair treatment for use at home or while travelling.
Q. Is the iGrow fully automated?
A: Yes, the iGrow requires no manual movement. Simply, place the iGrow on your head, select one of 5 pre- programmed sessions and then sit back and relax.
Q. When will I know if iGrow is working for me?
A: Within 12 weeks of using iGrow as directed, Most consumers report that they experience the cessation of excess hair loss. The appearance of thicker, fuller, and healthier hair is typical within 24 weeks (6 months) of LLLT.
Q. Are there any negative side effects associated with using the iGrow?
A: No. Testing and patient testimonials have shown no serious side effects when utilizing iGrow as laser therapy for hair loss
Q. Why should I use iGrow versus physician in-office lasers?
A: iGrow is the most powerful hair rejuvenation system, developed for home use, and has an equivalent output to most in office hair lasers. In addition, the iGrow can be used conveniently at home, the office or any convenient location while listening to your favorite music on your iPod or MP3 player.
Q. Why should I use iGrow versus other hand held devices?
A: The iGrow is hands free, easy to use and it provides full scalp coverage. Compare that to moving a laser comb every 4 seconds for 20 minutes. The iGrow has more light energy and provides the most consistent scalp coverage necessary for great results.
Q. I am completely bald and want to use iGrow. Will it work for me?
A: iGrow is not recommended for those with severe hair loss. While improvement may occur, it will not be significant enough to cause a cosmetic difference.
Q. If three times a week has good results, will more frequent sessions yield a better result?
A: There is no evidence that increased LLLT will provide better results. For maximum benefit and to minimize harm, LLLT should only be used as directed. Each LLLT session should be followed by a period of rest. This translates into alternating session days.
Q. How long will I need to continue LLLT sessions?
A: Hair loss is a progressive condition. If un-treated, you can expect to lose more and more hair. After the initial 6-month LLLT period, you should continue sessions once or twice per week to continue seeing hair restoration.
Q. I just noticed my hair is beginning to thin - is it too soon to start LLLT sessions?
A: If you have thinning hair, it's never too soon. In fact, you should begin LLLT as soon as you see signs of thinning hair. LLLT laser hair treatment should be incorporated into your weekly preventative maintenance routine, to preserve and strengthen existing hair and provide a healthy environment for continued growth.
Q. At what age is it safe to start LLLT?
A: LLLT is effective in people ages 18 and older. Please consult your physician if you are under the age of 18.
Q. Can LLLT be used after transplant surgery?
A: Yes. LLLT can be used immediately after transplant surgery. Doctors have reported that using LLLT can help stimulate healing of the wounds, and improve transplant results in hair loss patients. In fact, hair transplant surgeons worldwide have chosen to use the LLLT to improve results. Anecdotal reports have shown that LLLT sessions immediately following surgery decrease the recovery time in hair transplant patients, and increases hair thickness. Consult with your transplant surgeon for more information
Q. Are all LLLT devices safe to use after transplant surgery?
A: No. After transplant surgery, it is important that your scalp does not come into direct contact with any foreign object. Many devices use teeth or spikes that are studded with a laser. You should not use such devices as they will damage your transplant. Instead, use a device that covers the entire scalp but does not directly touch the scalp. At the present time only the iGrow by Apira Science is safe and effective for patients immediately following transplant surgery.
Q. Is iGrow regulated for safety?
A: Yes. iGrow uses Class 3R lasers which are approved by the CDRH. It meets the safety guidelines established by the US and foreign governments for safety.
Q. Does the iGrow emit any heat or radiation?
A: The laser and LED elements in the iGrow do not produce heat and are, known as "cold" lasers. They do not give off heat or radiation and are completely safe for use.
Q. Is iGrow safe to use for a woman?
A: Yes. The iGrow is an effective treatment for hair loss in most women, or for thinning hair in women.
Q. Is iGrow safe to use for a pregnant or nursing woman?
A: Please contact your medical doctors for guidance.
Q. Is it safe to use finasteride (Propecia) and/or minoxidil (Rogaine) while using iGrow?
A: The iGrow is safe to use with Rogaine (minoxidil) or Propecia (finasteride). There are no contraindications with these medicines.
Q. What do I do if my iGrow has stopped functioning properly?
A: Apira Science offers a full 12 month warranty for the iGrow. The warranty protects against factory defects and workmanship errors. If your unit has stopped functioning within this time period, please contact our customer service department so that we can personally assist you with your warranty return.