Over the past several years there has been great interest in the potential role of laser/light-based treatments for male and female pattern hair loss. Despite aggressive marketing and centers claiming great success in the treatment of hair loss there is little scientific data supporting laser/light sources in hair loss. This paper is a consensus of hair loss experts on the current scientific data, mechanisms of action, safety, protocols and recommendations regarding laser/light treatment for hair loss. The authors believe that, while seemingly safe, there are no controlled, peer-reviewed studies validating current devices for hair loss and that all patients should be medically evaluated for any hair loss by a physician specialist to rule out other underlying medical conditions or the etiology of hair loss.

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Background The occurrence of sexual dysfunction side‐effects associated with finasteride use in men with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is thought to be less prevalent than is publicized. There is a need to investigate sexual dysfunction among finasteride users with population‐based controls. Objective To evaluate the presence of sexual dysfunction in men using finasteride or not using finasteride. Method Adult men visiting a dermatologist's office for any reason were asked to complete a survey including a modified version of the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) to assess the presence of sexual dysfunction with and without finasteride use. Results Data from 762 men aged 18–82 were collected: 663 finasteride users and 99 non‐finasteride users. There were no significant differences between finasteride users and non‐user controls in reporting sexual dysfunction using the ASEX. Regression analysis indicated that self‐reporting libido loss and reduced sexual performance, not finasteride use, predict a higher ASEX score. Conclusion The use of finasteride does not result in sexual dysfunction in men with AGA. These data are consistent with other large survey‐based controlled studies.