IN-CLINIC PHOTOBIOMODULATION (PBM) — HAIR RESTORATION
Pattern hair loss. Three FDA-treatments, one combined plan.
Delivered in-clinic under Dr. Nema's supervision, low-level laser therapy stimulates thinning hair follicles — for men with androgenic alopecia, and for women experiencing pattern hair loss around menopause.
1 OF 3
FDA-CLEARED HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS
2007
FIRST DEVICE CLEARED, SINCE EXPANDED
BPM
LIGHT-BASED, NO SYSTEMIC SIDE EFFECTS OF ITS OWN
What it is
LIGHT, NOT MEDICATION
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) — the clinical name for photobiomodulation — is a light-based treatment for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss). It's one of only three treatments cleared by the FDA for this purpose, alongside the drugs minoxidil and finasteride. The first PBM device for male pattern hair loss was cleared in 2007; devices have since been cleared for female pattern hair loss as well. Most published studies involve at-home devices used daily by patients; at Sculpture Clinic, treatment is delivered using a professional, in-clinic laser system under Dr. Nema's supervision, with sessions scheduled rather than self-administered at home.
Unlike minoxidil or finasteride, PBM involves no medication applied to or absorbed by the body — which is part of why it has an excellent safety profile and no known systemic side effects. At Sculpture Clinic, PBM is combined with oral medication where appropriate: low-dose oral minoxidil (prescribed off-label) for women, and oral finasteride for men. Finasteride is not prescribed to women, due to risks in pregnancy.
How it works
LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY, AT THE FOLLICLE
LIGHT ABSORPTION
Reaches the follicle
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Specific laser wavelengths penetrate the scalp and are absorbed by cells in the hair follicle, including its energy-producing mitochondria.
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CELLULAR ENERGY
Increased ATP production
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This absorption is thought to boost cellular energy (ATP) production, supporting the metabolic activity follicles need to grow hair.​​
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BLOOD FLOW
Improved Circulation
PBM is also associated with improved blood flow to the scalp, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to follicles that have become dormant or miniaturised.
For men and women
THE SAME TREATMENT, TWO DIFFERENT PATTERNS OF LOSS
MEN
Androgenic alopecia
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The most common cause of hair loss in men, typically presenting as a receding hairline and thinning at the crown. At Sculpture Clinic, in-clinic PBM is paired with oral finasteride, addressing the condition from two directions — device and medication — rather than one alone. PBM is most effective when started at the first signs of thinning, rather than once an area has gone fully bald.​
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WOMEN
Menopausal pattern hair loss
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Hormonal changes around menopause can trigger diffuse thinning, particularly along the part line and crown. In-clinic PBM is paired with low-dose oral minoxidil, prescribed off-label, as part of a combined treatment plan — a non-hormonal complement rather than a hormone therapy itself.
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PBM vs. minoxidil & finasteride
THE THREE FDA-CLEARED OPTIONS, COMPARED
PHOTOBIOMODULATION
In-clinic laser device
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No medication; no known systemic side effects. Delivered as scheduled in-clinic sessions rather than a daily at-home routine, with consistency still required to maintain results.
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ORAL MINOXIDIL
Prescribed off-label
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Taken daily, at a low dose for hair loss; FDA-approved for blood pressure, not specifically for hair loss. Effects reverse if stopped. Used for women at Sculpture Clinic.
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FINASTERIDE
Oral drug — men only
Reduces DHT levels; carries a small risk of sexual side effects. Not prescribed to women due to risks in pregnancy.
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Who it's for
A QUICK SELF-CHECK BEFORE YOUR CONSULTATION
OFTEN A GOOD FIT
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Early-to-moderate thinning, rather than fully bald areas
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Men with androgenic alopecia
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Women with menopausal or pattern hair loss
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Those wanting PBM on its own, or combined with oral medication for a fuller treatment plan
WORTH FLAGGING AT CONSULTATION
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Advanced, long-established bald areas tend to respond less well
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Evidence is strongest in lighter skin types; less established in darker skin tones
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Other causes of hair loss (thyroid, iron deficiency, alopecia areata) need ruling out first
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Results require consistent, ongoing use — this isn't a one-off treatment
What to expect
A GRADUAL PROCESS, NOT AN OVERNIGHT CHANGE
FIRST FEW WEEKS
No visible change yet
Hair growth cycles are slow — don't expect to see a difference in the first several weeks of treatment.
3–4 MONTHS
Reduced shedding
Many patients notice less hair falling out before they notice new growth — this is often the first sign the treatment is working.
6+ MONTHS
Thickening and stabilisation
Existing hairs may appear thicker, and further loss typically slows. Full results are assessed over this longer timeframe.
ONGOING
Maintenance is required
Like minoxidil, PBM needs to be continued to maintain results. Dr. Nema will set out a recommended in-clinic session schedule at consultation, which typically continues at a lower frequency once results stabilise.