Cryotherapy for Hair Loss: Advantages and Limitations

What is Cryotherapy for Hair?

Hair cryotherapy is a treatment that involves exposing the scalp to very low temperatures, typically between -20°C and -10°C. This technique uses a special device that delivers controlled cold to the scalp, creating a thermal shock that stimulates blood circulation and cellular metabolism (Jun & Lee, 2017).

Is Cryotherapy Good for Hair?

Hair cryotherapy offers numerous benefits for hair health and beauty. This natural method can produce visible results in hair quality and growth, although effects may vary from person to person depending on the regularity of treatment (Zawar & Karad, 2016).

Stimulating Hair Growth

Exposure to cold causes vasoconstriction followed by vasodilation of the blood vessels in the scalp. This process significantly improves blood circulation, allowing for better nutrient and oxygen supply to the hair follicles. This stimulation promotes the growth of new hair and accelerates the natural hair cycle (Jun & Lee, 2017). Studies have shown a significant increase in the number of terminal hairs after cryotherapy treatment, with an average increase of 1.6 times compared to untreated areas (Jun & Lee, 2017).

Strengthening Hair

Intense cold acts as a natural strengthener for the hair fibre. It tightens the hair cuticles, making the hair more resistant and shinier. Cryotherapy also helps regulate sebum production, contributing to a better scalp balance and stronger hair. Research suggests that cryotherapy could modify hair follicle function, potentially improving hair quality and strength (Zawar & Karad, 2016).

Preventing Hair Loss

In the context of chemotherapy treatment, cryotherapy has proven particularly effective in reducing hair loss. The cold helps decrease blood flow to the hair follicles during treatment, thus limiting exposure to harmful chemical agents. This technique is now commonly offered in many cancer centres to preserve patients’ hair. Moreover, studies have shown that cryotherapy can be effective in treating alopecia areata, an autoimmune form of hair loss, with up to 80% of patients showing sustained hair regrowth after treatment (Zawar & Karad, 2016).

What Are the Risks of Cryotherapy for Hair?

Although generally safe, hair cryotherapy carries certain risks that are important to be aware of before starting treatment. A prior consultation with a professional is recommended to assess compatibility with your hair and scalp type.

Scalp Sensitisation

Exposure to intense cold can cause temporary sensitisation of the scalp. Some people may experience tingling, itching, or a slight burning sensation during and after treatment. These symptoms usually disappear within hours following the session. Clinical studies have not reported any serious side effects, but mild scalp sensitivity is common (Jun & Lee, 2017).

Scalp Irritation

In some cases, cryotherapy can lead to scalp irritation, particularly in people with sensitive skin. Signs of irritation include redness, a warm sensation, and sometimes mild itching. It’s advisable to space out sessions, or even stop treatment, if these symptoms appear. However, studies have shown that these effects are generally mild and transient (Zawar & Karad, 2016).

Hair Weakening

Too frequent or intense exposure to cold can paradoxically weaken the hair. Very fine or already damaged hair is particularly vulnerable. It’s crucial to follow recommendations regarding the duration and frequency of sessions to avoid this undesirable effect. Treatment protocols used in clinical studies, such as sessions every two weeks for several months, have shown a good balance between efficacy and safety (Jun & Lee, 2017).

What Are the Contraindications of Cryotherapy for Hair?

Hair cryotherapy has several important contraindications to consider. People suffering from severe circulatory disorders should avoid this treatment due to the risks associated with vasoconstriction. The same applies to those with a history of frostbite or hypersensitivity to cold.

Patients with certain autoimmune diseases are also not candidates for this therapy.

People suffering from active scalp infections will need to wait for complete healing before considering this treatment.

Good to know: Cryotherapy is also not recommended for pregnant women as a precautionary measure.

Finally, those who have recently undergone skull surgery should obtain approval from their surgeon before starting sessions.

Hair Transplant: A Better Solution for Hair Loss

Unlike cryotherapy, hair transplant represents a definitive solution to hair loss. This surgical intervention offers permanent and natural results, meeting the expectations of those seeking a long-term solution.

What Does a Hair Transplant Involve?

A hair transplant is an aesthetic surgical procedure aimed at correcting baldness or alopecia problems. It involves harvesting hair follicles, usually located at the back or sides of the head (donor areas), to implant them in bald or thinning areas (recipient areas).

What Are the Hair Transplant Techniques?

Among the most popular modern techniques, FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) stand out for their effectiveness and natural results.

FUE is one of the most common and innovative techniques in hair transplantation. It involves extracting hair follicles one by one from the donor area, usually located at the back or sides of the head. These follicles are then implanted in the bald areas after preparing small incisions in the scalp. This method is appreciated for its minimally invasive nature, nearly invisible scars, and relatively short recovery time. However, it requires a high level of precision and can be a longer process depending on the desired density.

The DHI (Direct Hair Implantation) technique is an evolution of FUE, offering excellent precision in implantation. It uses a special instrument called a Choi implanter, which allows for the extraction and direct implantation of follicles in a single step, without requiring the prior creation of channels. This method ensures more precise implantation, reduces graft handling time, and thus their risk of deterioration.

DHI also allows for higher density and perfect control of the implantation angle. This technique is particularly recommended for areas requiring great precision, such as the hairline.

What Are the Advantages of Hair Transplant in Turkey?

Turkey has established itself as a preferred destination for hair transplants thanks to its exceptional value for money. Procedure costs are up to 70% lower than in Western Europe, while maintaining high medical standards. Clinics offer all-inclusive packages including the procedure, luxury hotel accommodation, transfers, and post-operative follow-up, greatly simplifying the organisation of the medical stay.

Turkish surgeons benefit from world-renowned expertise, acquired through a high volume of procedures and continuous training in the latest techniques. Clinics are equipped with the most recent technologies and comply with the strictest international standards. Moreover, Turkish culture, renowned for its hospitality, offers patients a unique experience combining quality medical care and cultural discovery.

Dr Cinik’s clinic has established itself as a reference in the field for over 20 years. With a team of experienced professionals, the establishment has successfully performed thousands of hair transplants. This long experience, combined with the expertise of its team, makes Dr Cinik’s clinic a destination of choice for patients seeking quality results.

Although hair cryotherapy offers interesting benefits for hair maintenance and health, it cannot compete with hair transplant for treating significant hair loss. Each option has its place in the treatment of hair problems, and the choice will depend on the nature and severity of the problem to be treated.

Sources

Jun, M., & Lee, W. S. (2017). Therapeutic Effect of Superficial Cryotherapy on Alopecia Areata: A Prospective, Split-scalp Study in Patients with Multiple Alopecia Patches. Annals of Dermatology, 29(6), 722-727. https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2017.29.6.722

Zawar, V. P., & Karad, G. M. (2016). Liquid Nitrogen Cryotherapy in Recalcitrant Alopecia Areata: A Study of 11 Patients. International Journal of Trichology, 8(1), 15-20. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-7753.179403