New Devices for the Aesthetic Practice

THERADOME FOR HAIR REGROWTH

Insights from Sara Wasserbauer, MD

A new option to support hair regrowth, the Theradome Laser Helmet LH80 PRO, is an FDA-cleared, wearable home-use laser hair restoration treatment. The helmet contains 80 lasers that provide more than 560mW of low laser light therapy (LLLT) to stimulates the scalp and hair follicles, likely by increasing blood flow and microcirculation and reducing inflammation.

Dermatologist and hair restoration surgeon Sara Wasserbauer, MD says that unlike some other home-use devices, the cordless and lightweight Theradome provides the same type of laser energy and dosing as previously approved in-office systems. These in-office treatments are effective, she says, but not necessarily convenient.

The hair regrowth arena has been “plagued” by many false promises, Dr. Wasserbauer says, noting that several cap-type devices have been pulled from the market by the FDA. She admits she was “skeptical” about the Theradome helmet at first. But she reviewed the data for the FDA-cleared system, has seen first-hand patient experience, and is now convinced. She says other clinicians should “at least give it a try.”

Dr. Wasserbauer recommends that patients wear the helmet for a period of time several times a week. Future research may uncover an optimal “dosing” regimen. She warns against over-use, noting that overstimulation can have an adverse effect on the hair.

Theradome treatment is ideal for any patient with early stage hair loss, Dr. Wasserbauer says: “Not Telly Tsavalas, but people who still have hair remaining in the area.” It is also used by hair transplantation surgeons in proximity to surgery to help support hair growth in surgical sites.

MICROPEN FOR ACNE SCARRING

Insights from Tess Mauricio, MD

The Eclipse MicroPen is a microneedling device for facial treatments. California dermatologist Tess Mauricio, MD says her practice has used different generations of microneedling tools in the past, but the MicroPen works better for the practitioners and patients.

According to Dr. Mauricio, the tiny needles increase delivery and penetration of anti-aging products, while the micro trauma created will also in itself “start the skin's intrinsic repair mechanism and rebuild new collagen.”

“We use MicroPen in different settings depending on the patient's needs,” says Dr. Mauricio. “It could be as simple as delivering an antiaging serum, to incorporating it into our signature Time Machine by Dr. Tess program where the MicroPen is used to enhance delivery of platelet rich plasma (PRP) on the skin.”

A topical numbing cream is applied prior to the procedure. A superficial treatment may feel like a tickle, while more aggressive treatment can cause mild discomfort.

“The Micropen offers an affordable option for resurfacing results for my patients with a tighter budget but want improvement on their pores, fine lines, superficial scars and even stretch marks,” she says. “It also gives us a very safe treatment for patients with skin of color who are at higher risk for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from certain laser treatments.”