HairMax LaserComb SE Review: What I Learned Owning One Since 2007
Thinking about investing in a HairMax Laser Comb or another red-light therapy device? I bought my HairMax SE in 2007 for $395. It still works.
Today’s models are more powerful, and you can choose from a laser comb, cap, or band. But these devices aren’t cheap; some cost over $1,500. Are they worth it?
Here is my honest HairMax Laser Comb review. I should be upfront about one thing though: I have owned it since 2007, but I have only used it consistently for the last five years. It sat in a drawer for most of that time, and that turns out to be the most useful thing I can tell you about this device.
Update: I have since bought the HairMax RegrowMD Laser 272 cap. You can read my full twelve-month review of the cap here, including how it compares to the comb.
My hair loss issues
I’ve had androgenic alopecia since I was 16. Natural remedies never worked for me. The only way I keep my hair loss under control is by consistently using clinically approved treatments.
I wrote about my treatments in this post.
What is a HairMax Laser Comb, and how do you use it?
The HairMax Laser Comb uses FDA-cleared laser technology to stimulate the scalp, extend the hair growth (anagen) phase, and reduce the hair loss (catagen) phase.
Unlike laser caps that sit on your head for 30 minutes, you have to manually move the laser comb when it beeps.
I use it in front of a mirror after washing and drying my hair. I section my hair and focus on thinning areas at the top of my scalp. Instead of combing, I glide it over my part line, moving it when the device signals.
I’ve only used the LaserComb, so I can’t compare it to the Laser Cap, LaserBand, iRestore, or similar devices.
| Laser Cap | LaserBand | LaserComb | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment time | starts at 7 minutes | starts at 90 seconds | starts at 8 minutes |
| Laser output | up to 272 medical-grade lasers | up to 82 medical-grade lasers | up to 12 medical-grade lasers |
Those are the times HairMax lists today. My own cap is an older RegrowMD Laser 272, which runs for 30 minutes a session. Same 272 lasers, but a much longer sitting than the PowerFlex 272 they sell now.
How long have I been using it
I bought my HairMax SE in 2007. For most of the years that followed I failed to use it consistently. I used it on and off, and never noticed any difference at all.
This is my old HairMax comb, newer ones are much prettier and have a blue color:
Only after I turned 40 did I start using it consistently, three times a week. That is now five years of proper use, out of nearly twenty years of ownership.
That gap is the honest lesson here. The device did nothing for me for well over a decade, and it was not the device’s fault. It only ever works if you actually use it.
What are the benefits?
The HairMax device is small and easy to travel with. It’s just like a small brush, very compact. I travel with it regularly and never have any issues.
When I use it consistently, it improves the strength of my hair and improves the growth of small hairs that appear after I use Regaine.
It also reduces hairfall. But it will not regrow your hair without medication, and without stopping the primary cause of your shedding.
It is very long-lasting. My HairMax SE is from 2007 and it is still working today, on the original device.
What are the downsides?
Using the HairMax Laser Comb takes time. Since it’s a comb, you have to stand in front of the mirror and move it along your scalp for about 10 minutes. It doesn’t sound like much, but when combined with washing and styling, my hair routine easily adds up to an hour.
The laser comb is a more affordable option, but it requires patience and consistency.
If you already have similar devices collecting dust in a drawer, don’t buy this one—it only works if you use it regularly.
Would I repurchase HairMax Comb again?
I would buy the HairMax Laser Comb again because I’ve built a consistent routine with it. Now that my kids are older, I also have more time to use it.
That said, there are now other options—panels, caps, and bands. They’re bulkier and harder to travel with, so I’ll stick with my comb as long as it works.
If you have young kids and a busy schedule, a cap or band might be a better choice. When I was younger, I didn’t use the comb consistently because it takes time and patience.
If you struggle with new habits or have little time, don’t buy it—it will just sit in a drawer.
Laser combs don’t give instant results. They work slowly, strengthening hair and encouraging growth. You won’t see noticeable changes for at least 3-6 months.
From my experience, a laser comb alone may help with mild hair loss, but if you have genetic hair loss, your first priority should be proper treatment, like minoxidil or antiandrogens.
Conclusion
Overall, I am happy with the purchase. It cost $395 in 2007 and it is still working today.
That said, it sat in my drawer for years before I actually started using it. The device works, but it requires time and consistency. If it’s just going to collect dust, you don’t need it.
Before buying, consider your lifestyle and whether you’ll commit to using it. It’s not essential—proper hair loss treatment alone can give great results.
But if you can afford it and know you’ll stick with it, it’s a solid addition to your routine.
You might also want to think about red light therapy for more than just hair. A red light panel can be used for your body, face, and hair, giving you more options than when I first bought this device.
