Reactive Hair Editorial Team
This post was most recently updated on May 6th, 2023
In our iRestore review, we will be presenting whether this dome/helmet-like product delivers on countering androgenetic alopecia and other hair problems it claims to solve. This review is compiled after careful analysis of:
- The Freedom Laser Therapy company,
- The iRestore Laser Hair Growth System and its design,
- Product benefits,
- Possible side effects and,
- Customer testimonials from real life users.
This iRestore review is set on giving you current and relevant data to make an informed and intelligent decision on solving your hair problems.
Home Laser Therapy Vs Other Market Options
Hair loss, hair thinning and/or slow regrowth can be a brutal experience.
It can be very painful to find confidence in a society that demands perfectionism when it comes to your appearance and then defines perfectionism as a full and healthy crop of hair.
So what are the options available for you?
You can try different alternatives which include:
- Hair Supplements (such as Nutrafol, Natrol Biotin, Priorin)
- Hair Concealers (such as Toppik, Febron, Boldify)
- Hair Weaves (such as Freetress, ebonyline)
- DHT blocking shampoos (such as Propriden, HIMS, Viviscal),
- Topical Hair Treatment (such as Rogaine, Keranique)
- Full Hair Treatment Kits (such as Monat, Vegamour)
- Hair Transplant Surgery
Today, our review is on the iRestore Laser Hair Growth System, if you want to consider Home Laser Therapy as the solution to your hair problem. While Home Laser Therapy is cheaper compared to hair transplant surgery, it is costly compared most of the alternatives displayed above.
In order for you to not a make a mistake, we cover everything you might want to know about the iRestore brand to make an informed and educated purchase decision.
What is the iRestore Laser Hair Growth System?
The iRestore Laser Hair Growth System is designed by the Freedom Laser Therapy company founded by Craig Nabat in 2003. It is a hair growth system using Low-level Light Therapy. The system has a collective 11, 700+ reviews on Amazon and Google reviews.
It is clear that the product is reputed.
But did you know?
Today, there are actually two iRestore Laser Hair Growth Systems as showcased below:
| iRestore Laser Hair Growth System – Essential | iRestore Laser Hair Growth System – Professional |
|  |
| Price: $695.00 USD Equipped with: 51 medical-grade lasers and LEDs Coverage: Top scalp, crown and hairline. | Price: 965.00 USD Equipped with: 282 medical-grade lasers and LEDs Coverage: Extended scalp coverage compared to the Essential on the sides and the back of the head. |
Use of Low-level Light Therapy (LLLT) to stimulate cell metabolism on the scalp and irradiate photons into scalp tissues which are absorbed by weak cells encouraging hair growth and regrowth. Also the products are made with white plastic and have a lightweight design.
In our iRestore review, we will only be talking in detail about the pros and cons of the Essential. However, keep in mind that the main difference between the two is that the Professional is equipped with more lasers and LEDs, and therefore covers more scalp regions than the Essential.
The Irestore Essential is a product that comes with a dome (that is attached to a controller), an AC adapter and a user manual. There is an option to purchase the iRestore Essential System with a Rechargeable Battery Pack at $635.00 USD which is cheaper than the system itself at the moment priced at $695 USD.
Now let’s take a look at who the product is suitable for.
Who is it Suitable for?
The Irestore Laser Hair Growth System is suitable for men and women aged above 18 years with:
- Androgenetic Alopecia/ Androgenic Alopecia
- Receding Hairlines
- Thinning Hair
- Balding Hair
The Irestore Hair Growth System is not suitable for:
- People with skin sensitivity to light or people taking photo-sensitizing medication.
- People who have been bald for years or have severe hair loss.
- People who have cancer on the scalp.
- People who are allergic to this specific wavelength of light (640-665 nm).
- Men who are beyond class V of the Norwood-Hamilton Scale:
- Women who are beyond Class II of the Ludwig-Savin Scale:
- Men and women who are Type V to VI on the Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale:
Thus the iRestore system is only suitable for people who have the above characteristics.
| Note: Its effectiveness has only been clinically tested for men aged between 18-48 and women aged between 18-60. However, just because it has not been scientifically tested does not mean it will not work for anyone outside that age category. Also if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before undergoing any laser therapy. |
Now let’s take a look at the science backing up the iRestore Laser Hair Growth System.
The Science behind the iRestore System
The Low-level Light Therapy System used by iRestore is a non-invasive treatment for hair that is drug-free and FDA certified. LLLT, which is also called red light therapy has the ability to stimulate cell metabolism.
So while you may feel like a Christmas tree wearing the white and red dome on a weekly basis, it is doing an important job of stimulating your scalp to encourage healthy hair growth. Given below is a visual representation of how it works.
And do you want to know the best part?
To back up their claims the company has even done a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial with 40 people for 4 months to study the effects of the iRestore on hair growth.
What does that mean?
It means that they took 40 men and women, aged between 18 to 48 and 18 to 60, respectively, and gave 20 of them a fake system while the other 20 were given the actual iRestore Laser Hair Growth System to test its effects. The study went on for 4 months to determine hair growth overtime.
Given below is a pictorial depiction of the results.
43.2% increase in hair growth! Sounds too good to be true right?
That’s why after presenting to you the science behind iRestore, now it is time to check what real life verified users who actually purchased and used the product are saying.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
In this section we are going to present our unbiased view on iRestore based on positive as well as negative customer reviews and testimonials. We are not trying to paint an all-is-well picture on iRestore based on skewed data.
Positive Customer Reviews
User who has been using the iRestore System for one to three and a half months:
User who has been using the iRestore System along with Nioxin products and Clobetasol foam:
User who has been using the iRestore System for 2+ years along with Rogaine and her progress with it:
Negative Customer Reviews
User who saw limited benefits after 7 months of use:
User who saw limited benefits after nearly 7 months of use:
User who is unsure of results:
While the product holds 3.9 / 5 Stars on Amazon with 3100+ ratings, and a large proportion of people have seen positive results, some people have not. It goes to prove the point that one size does not fit all.
But don’t worry. You are here to figure out if iRestore is suitable for you and after this review, hopefully you feel better educated about the product and its functions.
Before and After Picture of Using the iRestore System
In this section of our iRestore review we are bringing you before and after pictures of using the product taken from real life users on Amazon. Keep in mind that some of these people have been using supplements and shampoos in addition to the iRestore dome.
Next we follow instructions on how to use the system at home.
Instruction on How to Use the iRestore System
We’ve given a detailed 8-step process for getting the best out of your iRestore Essential.
- Place the iRestore dome on your head in an upright position. Make sure your scalp is clean.
- The side with the headband is the front and the foam pads are there to ensure your head stays in place in comfort. See below:
- Insert the 5V AC adapter pin into the wired controller unit.
- Plug the power adapter into an electric outlet. Make sure there are water sources to avoid electric shocks.
- Press the POWER button.
- Press the START button to use the device for 25 minutes. The device will automatically turn off after the session is complete. Make sure you DO NOT go for another session immediately for better results.
- If you need to pause, press START once but make sure you come back to the device within 5 minutes and press START again because otherwise the device will automatically turn off.
- To turn off power, press the POWER button for 3 seconds. Unplug the power adapter from the electric outlet. Make sure you do not directly stare at the red light at any time during the entire process.
- Store the device away from direct sunlight in a dry place and use it every other day (3 times per week) for 16-24 weeks to see optimal results.
| Note: If you purchase the iRestore System with the rechargeable battery pack, you just need to connect the cord to the battery and start the device as instructed above. |
Check the next section for the side effects.
Possible Side Effects of Using the iRestore System
Here we cover the side effects to look for while using the system.
- May cause scalp irritation. If the irritation persists 1 hour after using the dome, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
- Keep all parts of the system away from water sources to avoid electric shocks. Also keep the product away from the reach of children and pets.
- May cause mild headaches. If the headaches persist. Discontinue use and consult a doctor.
- While LLLT has been scientifically linked to benefits such as treating acne, dead skin cells, herpes virus lesions, vitiligo, psoriasis, hypertrophic scars and keloids, if you are light sensitive or have allergic reactions to certain wavelengths of light (640-665 nm) – it may harm you.
Next let’s check out other products offered by Freedom Laser Therapy for optimum hair health.
Other Products by Freedom Laser Therapy
Now we will be taking a look at other hair care products offered by Freedom Laser Therapy to optimize hair growth and hair regrowth while using the iRestore Essential or iRestore Professional.
These products are suitable for men and women with thinning and balding hair, and for all types of hair too.
| iRestore Anti-hair Loss Shampoo | iRestore Anti-hair Loss Conditioner | iRestore Anti-hair Loss Serum | iRestore 3-in-1 Hair Growth Formula |
Price: $16.99 USD Quantity: 8 oz/ 237 ml | Price: $16.99 USD Quantity: 8 oz/ 237 ml | Price: $29.99 USD Quantity: 2 oz/ 60 ml | Price: $29.99 USD Quantity: 60 tablets |
| Contains ingredients such as niacinamide, zinc chloride, amino acids, castor oil, green tea extract, and aloe vera which have been scientifically linked with improving hair health. | Contains redensyl as the primary ingredient which is clinically proven to reactivate hair stem cells and promote hair regrowth. | Contains biotin, saw palmetto and DHT blockers which aid to counter pattern baldness. | Contains biotin, saw palmetto and DHT blockers. |
All four products are available as a bundle for $79.90 USD. The shampoo, the serum and the supplements are also available as a bundle.
Now that we have a thorough understanding of iRestore, let’s take a look at alternatives for iRestore Essential alternatives.
Alternatives in the Market: iRestore Vs HairMax Vs Capillus Vs Theradome Vs iGrow
Given below are four alternatives to iRestore.
All four products displayed below are for men and women suffering from androgenetic alopecia (also called androgenic alopecia).
| HairMax LaserBand 41 | CapillusUltra Cap | Theradome EVO LH40 | iGrow Helmet |
 |  |  |  |
| 3.9 / 5 Stars 160+ ratings on Amazon | 4.0 / 5 Stars 270+ ratings on Amazon | 3.9 / 5 Stars 80+ ratings on Amazon | 3.7 / 5 Stars 250+ ratings on Amazon |
Now let’s take a look at how they differ to iRestore Essential.
| Product | Price (currently) | Treatment Duration | FDA Approved? | Unique Selling Point/s |
| iRestore Essential | $695.00 USD | 3, 25 minute sessions per week for 12-24 weeks | Yes | Comfortable, lightweight design. |
| HairMax LaserBand 41 | $545.00 USD | 3, 3 minute sessions per week for 12-24 weeks. | Yes | Patented hair parting tooth comb technology. Most peer-reviewed product out of the alternatives. |
| CapillusUltra Cap | $449.99 USD | 6 minute daily for 3+ months | Yes | Designed as a lightweight cap. |
| Theradome EVO LH40 | $689.92 USD | 4, 20 minute sessions per week for 12-24 weeks. | Yes | Hands free, wire-free, no LED design. |
| iGrow Helmet | $449.99 USD | 3-4, 25 minute sessions per week for 6 months | Yes | Currently, the most stable fit and the least expensive one along with CapillusUltra. |
Now let’s take a closer look at each of these products.
iRestore Vs HairMax LaserBand 41
Design: Crescent shaped laser tooth comb band with 41 medical-grade lasers. No LEDs.
Company: HairMax based in the USA
Founded: 2000
Purpose Commitment to helping people regrow hair as a driving force of the company – Total focus. No exceptions.
HairMax LaserBands are backed by multiple statistical numbers. It has more than 1.9+ million user worldwide, 8 FDA clearances, and have been extensively studied by the scientific community with
- 7 clinical studies,
- 14 international medical device licenses, and
- 8 publications in peer reviewed journals.
The laserband uses a process called photobiostimulation to stimulate hair growth that expose hair to the therapeutic benefits of laser energy. Therefore, the device also help aging hair, reverse thinning, and also kick-start the growth phase of hair.
Other Laser Hair Growth Products: The HairMax LaserBand 82 which carries 82 medical-grade lasers diodes. Compared to HairMax LaserBand 41, this only needs to be used for 1.5 minutes per day, 3 days per week.
Check out our review of HairMax if you want a detailed explanation on their other products such as the shampoos, scalp treatments, and conditioners.
iRestore Vs CapillusUltra Cap
Design: A cordless cap designed with 82, 5mW laser diodes.
Company: Capillus in the USA
Founded: 2012
Purpose: Offers laser treatments with special formulated ingredients to super charge hair growth.
Capillus laser caps stimulate the enzyme, cytochrome c oxidase, so that it produces energy that is used to repair damaged tissues and kick-start hair growth. Using the caps regularly for only 6 minutes a day yields remarkable results for androgenetic alopecia.
Currently it is the cheapest option along with the iGrow helmet.
Other Laser Hair Growth Products: The Pioneers series include the One, the Plus, the Pro with 112, 202, 272 diodes, respectively. The Smart Hair Growth series include the One S, the Plus S1, The Pro S1 with 128, 214, 304 diodes, respectively. Depending on the number of diodes and the technology used, the price mark goes up.
iRestore Vs Theradome EVO LH40
Design: Cordless white laser helmet with 40 medical-grade lasers.
Company: Theradome Inc. based in California
Founded: 2009
Purpose: Commitment to restoring hair health and confidence of people all over the globe.
The Theradome Laser Hair Growth Therapy System is based on four principles: effective cold lasers, powerful red light, optimal energy dosage and maximum therapy. Unlike the iRestore system, it does not use LEDs and utilizes 40 medical-grade lasers to regenerate hair energy and improve hair health.
What happens when you use only medical-grade lasers?
The red light penetrates deeper into the scalp to stimulate cell metabolism because the lasers carry a single-color wavelength unlike the LEDs which carry a wide and incoherent range of wavelengths.
Right now, the Theradome Evo is pricey compared to the CapillusUltra System and the iGrow Helmet.
Other Laser Hair Growth Products: The Theradome PRO LH80, priced at $995.00 USD which carries 80 medical-grade lasers and has a wider coverage compared to the Theradome EVO.
Check out our review of Theradome if you want a detailed explanation.
iRestore Vs iGrow Helmet
Design: A helmet with headphones and
Company: Apira Science, Inc
Founded: 2004
Purpose: Use of LLLT home laser therapy to help people with skin and hair related problems.
The iGrow system has been featured in Vogue, Allure, Men’s Health, GQ, and Daily Express, and is backed up double blind-clinical results. The product uses both LEDS and lasers with a wavelength of approximately 655 nanometers to treat androgenetic alopecia.
Currently it is the same price as the CapillusUltra cap.
Now let’s sum up our review on iRestore.
Final Comments on the iRestore System with Pros and Cons
Here we have compiled a list of pros, cons and grey areas concerning iRestore.
| Pros | Cons |
| Cheaper than hair transplant surgery. | Still a considerable investment. Therefore, do your research and educate yourself before making a purchase. |
| The iRestore System is a one-time purchase you can keep for a long time with careful usage. | Time consuming as it takes 16-24 weeks to see effects. Moreover, you have to use it consistently 3 times per week. |
| Clinically proven to help men aged 18-48 and women aged between 18-60. | Ineffective for people in later stages of hair loss. Doesn’t work for everyone. |
| Is a drug free, FDA certified, non-invasive treatment for hair loss. | It may interact with other medication you are taking such as photo-sensitizing medication. If you have light sensitivity or are allergic to certain wavelengths (640-665 nm) please do not use this. |
| Is a comfortable and hands free option that comes with a headband, foam pads and lightweight design. | LLLT is still a field in its infancy when it comes to hair loss treatment. |
Grey Areas:
- Mixed customer service reception. Amazon reviewers had both positive and negative experiences with the 6-month return policy.
- You need to integrate iRestore with a good diet + good habits + other hair loss options for the BEST results. A laser hair therapy is no excuse to slack on your healthy food intake, vitamin intake, sleep habits and hair maintenance routine.
- Oily debris on hair has been linked to interfering with LLLT. Therefore, make sure you are using a deep cleansing shampoo and conditioner for oily hair.
These are the pros and cons. Let us know how you fared if you decided to purchase the product and feel like a Star Wars Stormtrooper 3 times per week.
Hope this helped and we wish you good luck!
FAQ
Does the iRestore really work?
Yes and No.
The product has been clinically proven to promote hair growth in men (18-48 years) and women (18-60 years), However, there is a small portion of real life users on Amazon who saw limited results. It does come with a six month return policy if you are completely dissatisfied.
Is it OK to use iRestore every day?
No. The company recommends the product to be used every other day (3 times per week) for 25 minutes each.
How long does it take for iRestore to work?
12-24 weeks.
Which is better: iRestore vs Capillus?
iRestore has a higher number of reviewers than Capillus on Amazon. However, currently, the Capillus has 4.0 starts while iRestore has 3.9 stars.
How long should I use iRestore?
You can try the product for 12-24 weeks to see if it works for you and if it does not, you can return it.
Can you use Rogaine with iRestore?
Real life users have been known to use the iRestore system with rogaine without side effects. However, if you see any adverse effects that worry you, consult a doctor immediately. Check out our review on Rogaine where we go into detail about the product to clarify any queries you may have.
How often should you use iRestore?
Every other day meaning 3 times per week for 12-24 weeks.
Is iRestore FDA approved?
Yes.
How do you use the iRestore helmet?
Please check our instruction above on how to use the iRestore system for a detailed explanation.
