Lifestyle

Experts Share How Low Level Laser Therapy Work

Published

4 years ago

October 30, 2020

Hair loss is a normal part of aging. Whether you’re a man or woman, it’s something that you’ll eventually have to embrace. But there’s a difference between embracing who you are and letting hair loss lead to premature balding. If you want to address the issue, low level laser therapy is one of the most effective options.

What is LLLT?

Low level laser therapy (LLLT), known in scientific circles as photobiomodulation, has been around for decades. However, it’s only just recently become accessible to the masses.

LLLT was first discovered in 1967 by Endre Mester who was working at the Semmelweis University in Budapest, Hungary. He found that applying laser light to the backs of shaven mice would actually induce hair to grow back more quickly than normal. Furthermore, he found that lasers could be used to treat skin ulcers, wounds, and certain neurological disorders.

“LLLT involves exposing cells or tissue to low levels of red and near infrared (NIR) light, and is referred to as ‘low level’ because of its use of light at energy densities that are low compared to other forms of laser therapy that are used for ablation, cutting, and thermally coagulating tissue,” explains a study published in the Annals of Biomedical Engineering. “LLLT is also known as ‘cold laser’ therapy as the power densities used are lower than those needed to produce heating of tissue.”

It was previously thought that LLLT required coherent laser light, but researchers have found that light emitting diodes (LEDs) are equally as effective and less expensive.

And while LLLT is used for dozens of therapeutic techniques, its application for hair loss is among the most prized and highly sought after — particularly since it’s become available as a consumer product.

“Until recently, this technology was available only through expensive procedures performed by physicians. Now, you can have it right in your own home for a more comfortable, more time-efficient method of treating hair loss,” explains Kiierr, one of the leading providers of laser hair growth caps.

In terms of hair regrowth, LLLT irradiates photons into scalp tissues. And as these photons are absorbed by weaker cells, it encourages hair growth. In other words, laser therapy improves cellular respiration, stimulates hair follicles, and jumpstarts the hair growth process.

LLLT technology is FDA approved and has been backed by numerous clinical trials. Here are two of them:

In a 2014 study, low level laser therapy was found to be both safe and effective for hair growth in men and women.
In a separate study of 41 males between the ages of 18 and 48, laser therapy produced a 39 percent increase in hair growth over a 16-week period.

Who Should Try LLLT?

As more consumers learn about LLLT, it’s becoming a favored option for fighting hair loss. So, is it right for you? Here are some instances where it makes sense:

You’re experiencing some sort of rapid or premature hair loss. This could be balding at the crown of the head, thinning, and/or a receding hairline. LLLT will not only slow the rate of hair loss, but it could also allow you to regrow hair in areas where you were previously balding.
You need help regrowing hair, but you don’t want to go through the pain and hassle of a hair transplant procedure. You’d prefer something convenient and discreet that can be done in the comfort of your own home.
You aren’t interested in hair loss medications because of the side effects, mess, and ongoing monthly expense. You’d rather have a cost-effective option with no side effects.

LLLT is for both men and women. Whether your hair loss is caused by hereditary factors, changes in hormones, stress, or unknown factors, laser therapy can help you grow a thicker and fuller scalp of hair.

Other Helpful Tips for Fighting Hair Loss

While it’s certainly one of the most effective methods for fighting hair loss, LLLT is just one option. If you’re going to try it, make sure you’re setting yourself up for success with the lifestyle decisions you make. Diet, nutrition, sleep, and stress reduction are all important factors. Live a healthy life and do what you can to fight back against hair loss!

Lifestyle

Duravo’s Success Story: Engineering the Perfect Suitcase

Published

5 days ago

September 11, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo credit: Duravo

By: Mae Cornes

When Matt Muhr and Dan Cooper founded Duravo, they started with something other than luggage design. Instead, their journey began unexpectedly: the world of tactical and anti-ballistic gear. This unconventional background led them to discover a self-reinforced composite material used in professional sports equipment, military gear, and automotive components.

Working closely with a German engineering team, Muhr and Cooper developed Flexshell™, a material that combines strength and lightness. “We saw an opportunity to bring advanced materials science to an industry that hadn’t seen significant innovation in decades,” Muhr explained.

A Lightweight Contender in a Heavy-Duty Market

Duravo’s entry into the luggage market came at a time when established brands dominated the landscape. However, the company’s focus on material innovation sets it apart from competitors.

The Duravo International, an expandable carry-on, weighs just 5 pounds, making it significantly lighter than many competitors’ offerings. This weight reduction doesn’t come at the cost of durability or capacity. The suitcase expands from 37 liters to 46 liters, providing travelers with flexibility without exceeding airline size restrictions.

Cooper noted, “Our goal wasn’t just to make another suitcase. We wanted to change how people think about luggage durability and weight fundamentally.”

Rigorous Testing: Proving Durability in the Lab and on the Road

To validate its claims about Flexshell’s durability, Duravo invested heavily in product testing. The company reports subjecting its luggage to weighted tumble tests, extreme drop tests, and thousands of handle yanks.

The company does not publicly share specific test results, but it states that Flexshell provides five times the strength of traditional plastics used in luggage. This claim would represent a significant advancement in luggage materials if independently verified.

Technology Integration: Beyond Basic Storage

Duravo’s products incorporate several tech-friendly features, reflecting the changing needs of modern travelers. The luggage includes built-in USB access for charging devices, a hidden sleeve for tracking devices like AirTags, and compartments designed to protect electronics during travel.

These additions address common pain points for travelers, such as keeping devices charged and preventing lost luggage. However, it’s worth noting that some of these features, such as USB charging ports, are becoming increasingly common in premium luggage offerings.

Market Performance and Customer Reception

Since its launch a year ago, Duravo reports generating over 1,500 customers. While this number suggests steady growth, it’s modest compared to established brands in the luggage industry. The company currently limits its market to the U.S. and Canada, indicating potential for expansion.

The company reports positive customer reviews, a critical factor in the luggage industry, with an online star rating of 5 out of 5. However, independent verification of these ratings and a larger sample size would provide a more comprehensive picture of customer satisfaction.

Challenges and Competition in a Crowded Market

Despite its inventive method, Duravo faces significant challenges. Established brands like Away, Monos, and Tumi command substantial market share and brand recognition in a highly competitive luggage market.

Duravo’s focus on high-end materials and manufacturing in Germany will likely result in higher production costs. This could make it difficult for the company to compete on price with brands that manufacture in regions with lower production costs.

Environmental Considerations and Future Directions

Duravo emphasizes the eco-friendly nature of its products, stating that Flexshell is recyclable. However, specific data on the material’s environmental impact throughout its lifecycle is not readily available. As sustainability becomes increasingly important for consumers, more transparent and detailed environmental information could benefit the company’s market position.

Duravo’s success may hinge on its ability to scale production while maintaining quality, expand its product line, and effectively communicate its value proposition to a broader audience. The luggage industry’s recovery and growth following the COVID-19 pandemic will also play a crucial role in shaping the company’s trajectory.

As Duravo continues developing its brand and product line, its story is an interesting case study in bringing materials innovation to a well-established consumer goods category. The company’s future success will depend on its ability to balance innovation with market demands and effectively compete with more prominent, established brands.