iRESTORE vs Capillus: which hair growth cap actually delivers results?
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According to statistics, more than 85% of men and over 33% of women face hair loss at some point, usually by the age of 50. With that in mind, it’s no wonder that many go for alternative measures of rejuvenating their hair follicles.
That’s where the iRESTORE vs Capillus debate arises, as these two are the most prominent brands in the field. Naturally, they have a fair share of similarities, but I’ve also found lots of distinctive quirks and features in each.
In this guide that I've made with my team of Cybernews experts, I give you my firsthand accounts, share the companies' pros and cons, and help you select the perfect option for your needs.
iRESTORE vs Capillus overview
Though both iRESTORE and Capillus hair growth products rely on laser therapy technology and a cap-like design, they also craft unique products, so here is our brief overview of both:
| iRESTORE | Capillus | |
| Rating | 4.7 | 4.4 |
| Price | From $499 | From $1699 |
| Effectiveness | Potentially very high | Potentially high |
| Scalp coverage | Maximized coverage with side and back panels | Maximum coverage of areas susceptible to hair thinning |
| Diodes (laser/LED) | Laser and LED | Laser |
| Power output | 1410mW (iRESTORE Professional) | 1540mW (PRO S2) |
| Warranty | ✅ Yes (2-year to 3-year manufacturer's warranties) | ✅ Yes (3-year warranties) |
| Money-back guarantee | ✅ Yes (12-month satisfaction guarantee) | ✅ Yes (6-month satisfaction guarantee) |
| Financing | Financing via Affirm ($44 to $60 per month) | Financing via Affirm ($48 to $75 per month) |
| Shipping | Free standard shipping | Free standard shipping |
Our team of in-house researchers, writers and editors reviews and analyzes health tech products using a research-driven approach. We gather data from multiple sources, fact-check all information, and conduct our research based on peer-reviewed studies, expert opinions, consumer ratings, and regulatory approvals.
You can learn more about how we test health tech products here.
How we test health devices
At Cybernews, we have a specific set of criteria for evaluating health-related products. We consider the key aspects of devices while also looking at them through the industry’s lens. Based on that, here’s how we compared iRESTORE and Capillus:
- Research-backed health claims (25%). I checked the health-related claims of both the iRESTORE laser cap and Capillus devices and only included features that are clinically tested and approved.
- Performance and application (15%). Also, I evaluated the use cases and performance of each cap. I delved into the underlying laser/LED technology and reviewed real-world feedback from past and present users to assess their efficiency.
- User experience and learning curve (10%). I checked whether both companies create user-friendly products.
- Data privacy and security (20%). Many health tech products perform unauthorized data collection, so I wanted to ensure that your personal details are safe when using laser growth caps from these two brands. They are both GDPR and HIPAA compliant, which made my job easier.
- Long-term hair growth potential (30%). Additionally, I considered the efficiency and long-term potential of these tools to entice hair growth.
Understanding laser and LED hair growth caps
In most cases, laser growth caps rely on low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and promise overall scalp health improvements and thicker hair.
Some brands like iRESTORE combine laser therapy with LED lights for wider coverage and maximized efficiency.
Still, I wouldn’t refer to these tools as real medical equipment. Their goal is not to replace hair growth treatments, but rather to act as an additional tool you can use for hair rejuvenation from the comfort of your home.
How do laser and LED-based hair growth caps help with hair regrowth?
Both these companies create hair growth devices that work on the photobiomodulation principle. In other words, low-level light from the source of LEDs or laser diodes are used to entice living hair into healing itself.
Their efficiency also has a lot to do with hair growth cycles. In essence, there are three stages: growth, resting, and the transitional phase. The goal of laser hair growth caps is to extend the growth stage while minimizing the resting phase.
Given all the feedback I’ve seen for iRESTORE and Capillus devices, I was certain that both these brands make helpful tools that potentially improve hair growth, but a lot of it depends on the situation.
The reason behind your hair loss might significantly affect the efficiency and the outcome of the therapy, so these devices aren't guaranteed to work on every occasion.
What is an iRESTORE laser hair helmet?
There are plenty of iRESTORE hair growth devices out there, and they're all FDA-cleared and suitable for users struggling with hair loss.
The brand has some of the best scalp coverage specs in the industry, thanks to the combination of laser and LED diodes. You can clearly see the difference compared to other brands when you examine the number of diodes. As if 120 lasers and diodes weren’t enough, iRESTORE also offers the Professional cap with 282, as well as the Elite one with over 500.
Because of this, iRESTORE products offer a higher output, better coverage, and are easier to use due to shorter sessions. Those using the Essential or Professional helmets will be able to do 25-minute sessions, while it’s enough to have short, 12-minute daily sessions with the Elite option.
What are Capillus laser cap hair growth caps?
Unlike iRESTORE caps, Capillus products are laser-only, but they’re by no means bad hair growth devices. In fact, they are also FDA-cleared and some feature over 300 diodes, rivalling the competition. I’ve found numerous sources praising the classics, such as the following:
- Capillus PRO. 272 medical-grade diodes, 6-minute daily sessions, and a 3-year limited warranty.
- Capillus PRO S2. Laser cap with 308 diodes, professional scalp coverage, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 6-month satisfaction guarantee.
- Capillus Spectrum. 312 laser diodes, 40 near-infrared lasers, and premium materials for extra longevity.
Differences between iRESTORE and Capillus
The best way to compare the Capillus cap with iRESTORE devices is by looking at the differences between the two. Here is what I found:
- Laser count and type. Products made by iRESTORE clearly take the win in this category, as their number of diodes maxes out at 500, compared to Capillus’s 312. Plus, iRESTORE uses LED diodes, as well, which should make it a more robust solution with a wider scalp coverage.
- Design and wearability. I found numerous users' reports stating how they wished that iRESTORE used an incognito-style design of Capillus caps, as it would make it more suitable for outdoor use.
- Price and value. Flagship options like iRESTORE Elite or Capillus Spectrum cost well above $1500 each. However, iRESTORE has more budget-friendly options, priced as low as $499.
- Treatment time per session. I was very pleased to find out that the average time per session for a hair growth treatment is quite short: around 12 to 25 minutes foriRESTORE and 6 minutes for Capillus products.
- FDA clearance. Both Capillus and iRESTORE feature FDA clearance. This means that these tools are not 100% medically approved, but it’s still an important sign of trust.
- Warranty and guarantees. I was more satisfied by iRESTORE’s warranty policy, especially given that its manufacturer’s warranty periods go up to 3 years and can be extended to 5 years for an additional fee.
- Customer service and support. To finish my Capillus and iRESTORE laser cap reviews, I checked out their support. Luckily, both brands are there for their customers, so you shouldn’t face any problems reaching out for help.
The thing with these is that iRESTOREcaps often have similar, or even better pricing, which makes them a better deal. However, the casual design of the Capillus cap makes it suitable for regular use, and you can easily wear it while on the move.
iRESTORE vs Capillus: features
When it comes to features, I’d start by saying that Capillus trails behind iRESTORE, as it lacks LED diodes and treatment. However, iRESTOREs sessions usually lasts up to 25 minutes , while Capillus shortens it to 6 minutes.
As for design and comfort, my vote goes to Capillus. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and it blends right in. On the other hand, iRESTORE’s devices are more helmet-like, which naturally means they’re a bit heavier and less comfy but may offer more coverage.
In terms of battery life, iRESTORE excels with detachable batteries that are easy to replace. They are also chargeable, ensuring enough battery life for sessions while you’re doing your daily chores.
iRESTORE vs Capillus: customer reviews and testimonials
I also wanted to see how other users view the iRESTORE laser cap vs Capillus debate, which is why I scoured forums like Reddit and platforms like the Better Business Bureau.
To my surprise, neither of these companies is BBB-accredited, but there is plenty of feedback on customer review platforms like Trustpilot.
In that sense, I have to give my props to Capillus, which seems to have a far greater rating than iRESTORE. Precisely, it’s a 4.4 rating out of 5.0 on Trustpilot, while iRESTORE features a 3.5 rating out of 5.0.
Users mostly commented how it takes between 3 and 6 months for Capillus caps to display first results, while that’s usually around 3 to 4 months with iRESTORE products like the Elite.
iRESTORE vs Capillus: which one should you choose?
As I’m getting to the end of my Capillus cap and iRESTORE helmet reviews, I wanted to share a few final considerations when choosing the best one for your needs:
- Options for budget-conscious buyers. If you’re looking for a budget solution, you can pick up iRESTORE Essential for $499, which is far less than the cheapest Capillus cap.
- Users looking for more portability. I recommend Capillus caps to all those who plan on using them outside. The robust design of iRESTORE helmets not only makes them difficult to wear but also stands out quite a bit.
- People looking for faster results. If you’re aiming for the fastest results possible, I’d recommend going with iRESTORE’s Professional or Elite, with the first signs of hair regrowth appearing within 3 to 4 months.
- Users preferring medical-grade lasers only. There are numerous clinical studies suggesting that lasers may stimulate hair growth in certain cases. Their narrowband and focused light may directly stimulate hair follicles, which can’t be said for the rather dispersed lighting of iRESTORE’s LED diodes. Moreover, the term medical-grade lasers is a purely marketing trick.
Other health tech reviews you might be interested in:
Theradome vs iRESTORE: which laser therapy helmet is best for hair growth?
Theragun vs Hypervolt: which massage gun is worth it?
RingConn vs. Oura Ring: which one is more worth it?
Oura Ring 4 vs. Samsung Galaxy Ring: which one is more worth it?
iRESTORE vs Capillus: final verdict
Ultimately, my winner is iRESTORE, given its overall efficiency. It has a wider coverage, has more LED diodes, and uses a fair pricing range with regular discounts on bundles.
Although Capillus is nearly as impressive, the higher minimum price made me feel as if it were more of a premium option. On a side note, I’d recommend Capillus caps to all those looking for a portable solution that’s discreet while you’re out.
Otherwise, I recommend iRESTORE to those focusing on fast results and everyday at-home use.
FAQs
Are laser hair growth caps like iRESTORE and Capillus safe to use long-term?
Yes. According to the results of testing conducted by the National Institute of Health, laser hair growth devices are completely safe and harmless, even in the long run. Both iRESTORE and Capillus devices are FDA-cleared.
How long does it take to see results from Capillus or iRESTORE?
Individual results may vary highly. That said, it usually takes from 3 to 4 months to see the first results from your iRESTORE hair growth device, while that period could be pushed to 6 months with Capillus.
Which device is more convenient for travel, Capillus or iRESTORE?
The Capillus device is more convenient for travel, as it features a plain, everyday baseball hat design, and it’s also lighter.
Is there a difference in results between lasers and LEDs?
While laser and LED hair growth performance is debatable, one thing is for sure: lasers provide a more narrow and focused follicle stimulation, while the light generated by LED diodes gets easily dispersed.
