Innovative methods for stimulating hair growth using non-contact ultrasound technology have recently gained attention, especially following presentations at the Hair Science Research Association held last November. The study, led by Professor Hiromitsu Takada from Nippon Medical School's Plastic Surgery and Anti-Aging Preventive Medicine, introduces a unique approach of applying weak stimuli through ultrasound waves.
Professor Takada explains the genesis of his research: "Initially, we aimed to expedite the healing process for injuries. During our experiments on mice, we applied low-strength stimuli via ultrasound and observed accelerated regeneration of blood vessels at the injury site. This resulted in increased supply of nutrients and oxygen, leading to faster healing of the wounds." The ultrasound used in these experiments operated at 40,000 Hz – by finely controlling these high-frequency waves, the researchers were able to produce gentle, continuous stimulation akin to light touch.
Why does such mild stimulation promote blood vessel regeneration? Although this question remains partly answered, Takada noticed another intriguing result: the stimulated mice not only healed faster but displayed active hair regrowth. Each hair follicle is linked to capillaries, which nourish the root. When these blood vessels become compromised, hair loss can occur. By successfully regeneratiting these capillaries, the research illustrated potential for reviving hair growth.
This mechanism has been pivotal to the development of medical hair growth devices, which are currently under experimental use at D Clinic Fukuoka and Crearju Fukuoka. Patients are encouraged to visit these clinics approximately once a week to receive ultrasound stimulation treatment on their scalps. "We have had over 100 participants, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive," notes Takada. For example, one case involved a 63-year-old male who struggled with M-shaped male pattern baldness; within two and a half months of receiving treatment, he started to notice marked improvements and hair regrowth.
Similarly, another patient, a 67-year-old female suffering from thinning hair at the crown, experienced significant hair volume increase and thicker hair after six months, with only one visit each month. This promising data encouraged the continued pursuit of practical applications for this innovative technology.
With the goal of making this method accessible to the general public, the SonoRepro – a handheld scalp care device – was developed based on the foundational research conducted by Takada. Weighing approximately 260 grams and resembling the size and shape of small hair dryers, SonoRepro has undergone trials on human subjects, demonstrating effective results.
A 61-year-old user of the device, who wished to remain anonymous, reported, "Though priced at around 130,000 yen, I saw visible results within two months." Previously, he'd dedicated considerable effort to hair care using oil after showers, but was frustrated by his increasing hair loss, counting over 50 strands falling out daily. Since beginning treatment with SonoRepro, this number has reduced to just 1-2 strands.
The user shared, "Now, I typically use the SonoRepro after my evening shower, watching TV during the process. The device vibrates gently after one minute, notifying me when to move it along my scalp." Since utilizing SonoRepro, he feels his hair is thicker and shinier, with diminished visibility of his scalp – noting remarkable improvement was evident after just six months of consistent use.
SonoRepro's effectiveness is largely due to the non-invasive, ultrasound-based mechanism of stimulation which does not induce any pain. Professor Takada emphasizes, "Unlike conventional hair loss medications, this method massages the scalp through ultrasound, mitigating the risks of side effects." The device reportedly poses no threat of adverse reactions or concern over neurological impacts, as 99.9% of the ultrasound energy bounces off the skin's surface.
Takada points out, "While other ultrasound technologies, such as those used during echocardiograms, require gel application to facilitate penetration through the skin, SonoRepro simply applies pressure and emits waves without any significant risk of burns or discomfort. The energy output is safe for use."
Innovative hair loss treatments like SonoRepro offer hope for individuals seeking solutions to hair thinning, with the confidence provided by rigorous scientific study and experimental application. With the continued progress of technology, these hair growth options may soon become widely accessible, addressing increasing demands for effective treatment.