There are several know causes for hair loss. Some of these causes – such as hereditary alopecia, pregnancy, autoimmune diseases (like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism), and needing to take certain medications or treatments – are nearly impossible to avoid. That said, one commonality that links most of those causes together is our hormone levels.
One such hormone that is tied closely to hair thinning and loss is testosterone. As we age, our hormone levels adjust, with testosterone levels naturally declining. Does that mean that lower testosterone correlates to increased hair thinning and loss?
Does Balding Mean Low Testosterone?
The causes of male or female pattern baldness are more complicated than being caused by low testosterone. However, testosterone can be converted into dihydrotestosterone (or DHT) which does play a role in hair loss.
DHT is important in our bodies being able to mature and is thought to be vital to our bodies’ entering puberty. Too much DHT has been shown to cause our hair follicles to shrink. This can lead to a shortened growth cycle while also extending the length of the resting phase… which is linked to hair thinning and loss. While testosterone itself can bind with hair follicles as well, DHT does so at five times the rate – which makes it a more significant factor in hair loss.
Does Testosterone Grow Back Hair?
While it’s true that high levels of DHT have correlated to hair thinning and loss, it’s still important to have a healthy amount of testosterone if you want healthy hair. Low levels of testosterone have been linked to hair loss, which further shows that it is important to have a healthy balance of hormones in your body.
Some studies have shown that testosterone implants have even helped some people regrow their hair when related to a testosterone deficiency. Hormone levels being balanced from proper medication related to autoimmune diseases have helped those affected regrow their hair lost directly from those diseases as well.
Is Hair Loss From Testosterone Reversible?
For some men, excessive DHT levels are the result of medical abnormalities such as issues stemming from the prostate or the adrenal glands. In these instances, DHT blockers may help to stop (and/or potentially reverse) hair loss directly related to DHT as a result – if caught early enough. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, proper diet, quitting smoking, and reducing stress levels can also reduce DHT levels in the body.
PNW Hair Restoration Will Work With You On How Best To Restore Your Hair.
While managing healthy levels of testosterone and DHT in your body can help keep your hair healthy and strong, common forms of hair loss such as male and female pattern baldness is an inevitability for millions of Americans. That fact, however, should not dissuade you from your journey towards hair restoration.
As the only facility in Oregon that utilizes the ARTAS® Robotic Hair Transplant System, we are well-equipped to help you with your hair restoration journey and improve your overall quality of life as a result. Dr. Higgins can meet with prospective clients in-person or through virtual consultation to explore your options and best chart your path to hair restoration. To discuss your options and arrange a hair consultation contact us today.
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