The Short Answer: The difference is penetration depth. Laser Diodes emit "coherent" light (focused beam) that penetrates deep into the scalp to reach the hair follicle bulb. LEDs emit "non-coherent" light (scattered beam) which mostly bounces off the surface of the skin. For hair growth, medical-grade Laser Diodes are clinically proven to be significantly more effective than LEDs.
Why "Cheap" Caps Don't Work
Many budget devices sold on marketplaces look like laser caps but actually use cheap LED bulbs (like Christmas lights).
- Laser (Medical): Delivers energy directly to the follicle to stimulate ATP (growth fuel).
- LED (Cosmetic): Good for surface skin issues (like acne or redness), but lacks the power to reach the hair root.
Buyer Beware: Always check the technical specs. At Hair Solutions Canada, we only stock devices like Capillus and Theradome that use proprietary Laser Diodes, ensuring you aren't just paying for fancy red flashlights.
Common Tech Questions
Do more diodes mean better results?
Generally, yes. A higher number of laser diodes (e.g., 202 vs 80) provides denser coverage, ensuring that more follicles receive the therapeutic dose of energy during your session.
Can a cap have both Lasers and LEDs?
Yes, some hybrid devices exist (like iRestore), but pure Laser devices (like Capillus) are generally considered the clinical gold standard for maximum regrowth potential.