Red Light Therapy vs. Laser Helmet -- is it similar technology? similar benefits?

My new gym offers unlimited "red light therapy" (for an extra $10/mo), and I'm wondering if it's anything like the technology used in the laser helmets or if it would give any similar benefits of a laser helmet. I have been thinking about a laser helmet recently but really don't want to invest the $ right now.

It obviously seems like its promoted more for women and skin beauty (it's called the Beauty Angel), but they say it stimulates collagen and elastin production and rejuventation, and it can increase circulation and detoxification. The device looks like a stand-up tanning bed with long tube-like bulbs. They recommend using it for 12 minutes per session, 3 times per week for at least 3 months.

I found this description online:
"The Beauty Angel uses red light energy (non-UV) wavelengths in the 600–700 nm range to activate the body's own Photo Rejuvenation process to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, firm the skin and improve the body's overall appearance. The skin's permeability also increases, improving the effect of skin care products and allowing active ingredients to penetrate deeper. Red light energy is one of the few ways to gently and effectively reduce the signs of aging and is the ideal choice for anybody who is looking for a natural, noninvasive way to improve the condition of their skin."

What do you think... Does it sound like it would be worth the time and the extra few dollars to use it for hair-related benefits? Or is it way different from the laser helmet concept? They let me try it once, and the main thing I noticed afterward was my face looked a little flushed/red. It was also very bright inside and I felt a little energized and somewhat of a mood boost.

Hey joetr--

Yes, they are similar. Red Light Therapy utilizes LEDs, however, which are weaker. It will still yield some results, though I'm not sure how much for hair. I do know that it is quite effective for skin, and actually purchased a 2-month subscription for the lady to a local red light therapy place. Well worth the $10/mo, IMO.

Hope that helps a bit.

Thanks Nid. I'll probably give it a try since the cost is pretty low and to see if it helps some small eczema patches on my hand and arm.
Is it recommended to use a topical on my scalp before or after getting the red light therapy?
Also, I'm guessing it's hard to quantify, but how much more powerful would a laser helmet be compared to the red light therapy. I just don't want to waste too much time with this if its too weak to have an effect on my hair.

Hey joetr--

No problem man. I can't answer how much more effective, that'd be something that you'd probably want to e-mail Dr. Maricle about. If you private message me, I can provide you his e-mail!

I would apply a topical before utilizing the LED treatment (or a laser treatment for that matter).

Thanks. I was considering ordering Rejuveplex -- Would that be a good topical to apply beforehand?

Are there other specific topicals you would recommend to use with the LED/Red Light Therapy --- either instead of Rejuveplex or to start using right away in the meantime?

joetr--

RejuvePlex would work well prior to LLLT, though I feel that topicals in general are amplified by using LLLT shortly after application. This was a discussion that I had over the phone with Dr. Maricle a couple of years back, and while I can't remember the exact technical explanation, I believe it had to do with what LLLT does for bloodflow (engorges arteries with blood, therefore increasing the amount of nutrients that can be transported to and fro).