Editorial policy
How we score and rank devices
Our six-factor scoring method, verification rules, and the wording standards we hold ourselves to on a health topic.
Last updated June 1, 2026
Every device on this site is scored out of 10 on six factors. The weighted result sets its rank, and every number lives in one data file so a single update changes every page.
The six factors
| Factor | What we look at | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Light sources | Count of lasers and LEDs; how evenly they're spread | 25% |
| Coverage | Scalp area treated per session without moving the device | 20% |
| Treatment time | Minutes per session and sessions per week | 15% |
| Comfort & ease | Hands-free use, weight, heat, setup | 15% |
| Clinical backing | Published studies behind the device or its light type | 15% |
| Price & value | Price per light source; sale frequency; guarantee | 10% |
Verification
- Specs and prices are approximate and checked against each brand's own site. Anything not yet confirmed is marked [VERIFY] on the page.
- Prices are re-checked monthly; the "Prices checked" date appears under every comparison table.
- Health claims carry a [ADD CITATION] marker until a peer-reviewed source is attached. We never invent statistics, test results or testimonials.
Wording we hold to
- FDA-cleared, never "FDA-approved". All five devices went through 510(k) clearance.
- No cure, guarantee or "regrow your hair" promises. We use "may help", "clinically studied" and "results vary".
- We say who a device is for — early to moderate androgenetic alopecia — and who it isn't for.
- "We tested" only where someone on the team used the device; otherwise "we compared".
- "Medically reviewed by" only when a named, licensed professional reviewed the page.
Independence
iRestore pays us a commission; it does not see, approve or influence our content. Competitors can earn the top spot in any ranking where the data supports it — Capillus leads our discreet-use guide and HairMax leads fastest treatment.