Watch CBS News

Scientists Testing New Light-Based Wearable Device To Regrow Hair

BOSTON (CBS) - Millions of Americans experience hair loss and some turn to pills, injections, and transplant surgeries with varying results, but now scientists are testing a new light-based, wearable device to regrow hair.

Researchers say earlier studies have shown that lasers, specifically red light, can stimulate hair follicles.  So scientists have developed a chip the size of a postage stamp containing 900 micro LEDs.

When they applied the chip to the shaved backs of mice 15 minutes a day for 20 days, the mice regrew hair faster and longer than mice who weren't treated or those given injections of a medication commonly used to treat baldness.

Scientists will now have to test the chip on humans.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.