HairMax Review: What a Board-Certified Dermatologist Thinks

If you’re noticing thinning hair or a receding hairline, or you’re trying to stop hair loss before it starts, you may be interested in learning more about HairMax laser hair growth devices.

In this HairMax review, we’ll cover how the laser devices work and whether they’re worth the investment. We’ll also answer some commonly asked questions that are helpful to know before committing to the comb, cap, or band, and you’ll hear from one of our medical reviewers, board-certified dermatologist Knox Beasley, MD, for his take on this hair-loss solution.

HairMax is a brand that sells laser hair growth devices, hair care products, supplements, and other products designed to treat hair thinning and hair loss, such as female and male pattern hair loss. The products HairMax is best known for are its HairMax LaserCom, Laser Cap, and LaserBand, which use low-level laser therapy (LLLT) technology to stimulate hair follicles and increase blood flow to the scalp, with the goal of encouraging hair growth.

The brand also offers a line of “density hair care products,” including a shampoo, conditioner, serum, and hair booster. These contain active ingredients such as caffeine that may help hair look temporarily thicker, but they are not a hair loss treatment and will not slow or reverse hair thinning or balding. 

In this HairMax review, we’ll be specifically focusing on the brand’s laser devices.

How does HairMax work? It seems futuristic, but some studies show that red light therapy can reactivate hair follicles that are not producing new hair. This may help fight hair loss from male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).

Research shows that regrowth is also possible with low-level laser therapy (LLLT). LLLT seems to increase the size of the hair follicle, leading to thicker, denser hair. It also prolongs the anagen (growth) phase of the hair growth cycle, which is stunted in people dealing with pattern baldness.

The PowerFlex272 Laser Cap is HairMax's most expensive device. Unlike similar devices from other brands, which look like helmets, this one looks like a baseball cap. The brand also sells two LaserBands, which look like thick headbands. They claim to offer full scalp coverage, but you may need to reposition the band to truly get full coverage. There are also several laser combs, which look like hair brushes but have lasers embedded throughout.

Exactly how to use HairMax will depend on the specific laser hair growth device you buy, but there are similarities.

• Start with clean, dry hair.

• Turn on the device. Most have LED indicator lights so you can easily tell if the device is on or off.

• Place it on your scalp. This step varies depending on the model. For example, you’ll move the laser comb like a brush, pausing every few seconds. The laser cap sits on your head like any other hat, and the laser band sits on top of the head but will need to be moved at regular intervals for full scalp coverage.

• Use the device for the recommended time, anywhere from 90 seconds to 11 minutes.

• Be consistent. Plan to use your device at least three times a week for best results.

• Each of the devices has a rechargeable battery, so it’s a good idea to plug it back in when you’re done, so it’s ready for next time.

Here’s how one of our medical reviewers, board-certified dermatologist Knox Beasley, MD, rates HairMax:

• Efficacy: ★★

• Side Effects: ★★★★

• Ease of Use: ★★★

“There is some evidence that ingredients in their products, like saw palmetto and caffeine, may help with hair loss. The LLLT comb has very few side effects and may help some with hair growth as well,” Dr. Beasley says.

Pros:

• Few side effects

• Non-invasive

• Can be used long-term without replacing

Cons:

• Expensive

• Requires consistent use

• Results vary by person

Who Is HairMax For?

HairMax laser products are FDA-cleared for adult men and women. FDA-cleared products are not the same as FDA-approved products — to be “cleared,” a brand has to demonstrate that its product is "substantially equivalent to another (similar) legally marketed device" that already has FDA clearance or approval.

The best results are usually seen when people start using HairMax at the first signs of hair loss — they are unlikely to work if you’re already bald.

How Much Does HairMax Cost?

HairMax laser products cost from $1,699 for the LaserCap to $199 for the Ultima Classic LaserComb. The brand advertises a one-year money-back guarantee on its laser caps, bands, and comb devices; however, 20 percent is deducted from the refund for shipping and handling. There is also a two-year factory warranty.

Which HairMax Laser Device Is Best?

The best HairMax device depends on your budget and your specific needs. For example, the laser combs and laser bands have hair-parting teeth, which can be helpful if you have longer hair.

The laser cap has the most diodes, making it the strongest offering. 

Treatment times vary as well. The brand recommends using the laser cap for seven minutes, the combs for eight to 11 minutes, depending on the model, and bands for either 90 seconds or three minutes.

Can I Use HairMax With Other Hair Loss Treatments?

You can use LLLT devices like HairMax with other hair loss treatments, including FDA-approved minoxidil and finasteride. 

According to the brand’s website, “Hairmax^® has invested in more research and clinical studies on light energy for hair growth than any other company.” There are seven clinical trials specifically looking at HairMax devices, and no “worrisome” side effects were observed.

While serious side effects have not been reported, some HairMax reviews mention an itchy or slightly irritating sensation when using the device.

If you’re looking for proven hair loss treatments to use alongside or instead of HairMax devices, there are two medications with approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically for treating male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). They are:

Minoxidil

Minoxidil (generic Rogaine^®) is typically used topically in a solution or foam, and it’s available over-the-counter. Oral minoxidil is not FDA-approved for hair loss, but there is evidence it’s effective and it’s sometimes prescribed off-label at a provider’s discretion.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends topical minoxidil for treating hair loss, and there is a lot of research backing its efficacy.

Finasteride

Finasteride is an oral medication that helps slow the conversion of testosterone to another hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, which is thought to cause male pattern baldness in those with a genetic sensitivity.

Minoxidil and finasteride can be paired together, as research shows the two are more effective when used together than when used alone. 

You can learn more about using minoxidil and finasteride together in our guide.

Here’s the TL;DR on the HairMax laser cap, combs, and bands.

• HairMax laser devices use low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to stimulate hair follicles. They may help slow hair loss or promote regrowth, especially with regular use for the suggested amount of time.

• HairMax devices are FDA-cleared with few reported side effects, but they tend to work best in the early stages of hair thinning.

• HairMax laser treatment products are pricey, ranging from $199 to $1,699, and results typically take three to six months to become noticeable.

Ready to speak to a healthcare provider? Begin a Hims online hair loss consultation any time to figure out a treatment plan that works for you.

To learn more about other hair growth products and hair loss treatments, check out our Regenix review and Capillus review.