DHT and Hair Loss: Causes, Effects, and Treatment Options

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a key hormone derived from testosterone and plays a significant role in male development. However, it is also a leading cause of hair loss in both men and women who have a genetic sensitivity to DHT. This condition is known as androgenetic alopecia, or hereditary hair loss.

This article provides an overview of DHT’s connection to hair loss, its effects on hair follicles, and the treatments available to manage DHT-related hair thinning.

Key Points at a Glance

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is the most biologically active form of testosterone, produced by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase.
Both men and women produce DHT, but it plays a more prominent role in male characteristics like muscle mass, body hair, and deepening of the voice.
In individuals with hereditary hair loss, DHT binds to hair follicles, causing them to shrink and shortening the hair growth phase, resulting in hair thinning and loss.
DHT-related hair loss can be treated by reducing DHT levels, either through natural blockers or medical treatments.

What Is DHT?

DHT is a hormone that forms when testosterone is converted by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. It plays a crucial role in male puberty and development, contributing to traits such as body hair, muscle growth, and a deeper voice. Though primarily associated with men, women also produce small amounts of DHT, as it is essential for the body’s hormonal balance.

In adults, DHT continues to affect the body, including hair growth regulation. However, in individuals who are genetically predisposed to androgenetic alopecia, DHT triggers a process that weakens the hair follicles, leading to gradual hair loss.

How Does DHT Cause Hair Loss?

DHT-related hair loss occurs when hair follicles are overly sensitive to DHT. When this hormone binds to androgen receptors in the scalp, it disrupts the normal hair growth cycle by:

Reducing the size of hair follicles, making the hair thinner and weaker.
Shortening the growth phase (anagen) of hair, causing it to fall out sooner than normal.

Over time, the affected follicles become smaller, eventually producing finer hair or no hair at all. This process typically starts at the temples, crown, or front hairline in men, while women often notice thinning at the center part or overall diffuse thinning.

Why Doesn’t DHT Cause Hair Loss in Everyone?

Not everyone with high DHT levels experiences hair loss. Hereditary hair loss occurs due to two primary factors:

Increased sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT: This sensitivity is determined by genetics, causing follicles to shrink faster.
Overexpression of 5-alpha-reductase: Individuals with higher levels of this enzyme convert more testosterone into DHT, increasing its concentration in the scalp.

DHT and Genetic Hair Loss in Men and Women

Up to 80% of men experience some degree of androgenetic alopecia in their lifetime. Symptoms typically begin in the 20s, with noticeable hair thinning in the temples, forehead, and crown.

In women, hereditary hair loss is less common but still affects nearly 50% of women by menopause. Female hair loss is usually characterized by thinning at the crown and widening of the center part rather than complete baldness.

How Can DHT-Related Hair Loss Be Treated?

Effective management of DHT-related hair loss involves reducing DHT levels or blocking its effects on hair follicles. Here are some key approaches to treating hereditary hair loss:

1. Natural DHT Blockers

Certain foods and supplements can help lower DHT levels or block its effect on hair follicles. Examples of natural DHT blockers include:

Sulforaphane: Found in broccoli, cauliflower, and other cruciferous vegetables.
Theaflavins: Present in black tea.
Lignans: Abundant in flaxseeds.
Trigonelline and Diosgenin: Found in fenugreek seeds.

Incorporating these into your diet can support healthier hair by reducing DHT activity.

2. Medications

Several medical treatments target DHT production or its effects on hair:

Alfatradiol: A topical solution that inhibits 5-alpha-reductase, reducing DHT levels in the scalp.
Finasteride: An oral medication that blocks 5-alpha-reductase, preventing the conversion of testosterone into DHT. It is primarily prescribed to men for both hair loss and benign prostate hyperplasia.
Dutasteride: Another 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor, used off-label for hair loss treatment, though not as widely available for this purpose.

These medications are most effective in the early stages of hair loss and are generally more suitable for men. Women may require different therapeutic approaches.

3. Bio-regenerative Therapies

For those seeking a non-invasive or supplemental approach to combat hair thinning, bio-regenerative therapies can offer promising results. At Turkeyana Clinic, we provide advanced treatments such as:

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): This technique uses your own blood platelets to stimulate hair follicle activity and encourage new hair growth.
Stem Cell Therapy: Stem cells help regenerate weakened hair follicles, promoting stronger, healthier hair.

While DHT is crucial for many of the body’s normal functions, it can also be the cause of hereditary hair loss in both men and women. Managing DHT-related hair thinning requires a combination of strategies, from natural blockers and medications to advanced bio-regenerative therapies.

At Turkeyana Clinic, we offer a wide range of solutions for hair loss, tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to prevent further hair thinning or restore lost hair, our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you regain your confidence and a fuller head of hair.