Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative of the sex hormone testosterone and metabolite. It is more potent than regular testosterone and is linked to the physical expression of male sex traits including hair growth.
Up to 50 percent of people, regardless of gender, experience androgenetic alopecia or related hair loss at some point in their lives. Sex hormones like DHT are believed to be the most significant underlying factor behind male (or female) pattern hair loss.
What Does DHT Do to Your Hair?
During male puberty, DHT is the main androgen that is responsible for the growth of facial hair, body hair, and pubic hair. Its effects later in life are minimal unless there is a deficiency or an excess. Excess DHT is the one associated with hair loss issues.
What Happens If DHT Is Too High?
About 10% of testosterone in all adults is converted to DHT with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase (5-AR). Since there is a natural increase in DHT levels as people age, these levels can sometimes become excessive. When that happens, the DHT in the bloodstream can then link to receptors on hair follicles in your scalp, shortening the hair’s anagen or growth phase.
What Causes DHT to Increase?
As testosterone production increases, so does the creation of DHT. Some health issues that can drive an increase in DHT include the following:
- Prostate problems
- Issues with the adrenal glands
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Certain medications, including testosterone replacement therapy and anabolic steroids.
What Are the Signs of High DHT?
High DHT symptoms are not always visible but, when they do occur in men, they may include androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness), acne, and prostate cancer. Similarly, symptoms of high DHT in women may include hirsutism (increased hair growth), amenorrhea (absent menstrual periods), acne, depression, and abnormal changes to genitalia.
Can You Remove DHT from the Scalp?
The main source of DHT in the scalp is sebum, a mix of natural oils secreted from your scalp. Sebum not only causes hair loss at the root due to the DHT in it but also blocks pores – further inhibiting hair growth.
Methods to reduce DHT levels typically include the use of DHT blockers, like saw palmetto, Finasteride, and Dutasteride. While more research is necessary, some anecdotal evidence suggests that dietary changes (such as including onions and pumpkin seeds) and lifestyle changes (such as regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing stress) may help reduce DHT levels.
The First Step is Proper Diagnosis
Each individual’s case is unique, requiring a solution tailored specifically to that person. Whether the issue is excessive levels of DHT, stress-related hair loss, or another issue, identifying the root cause is essential for proper treatment. Contact PNW Hair Restoration today, and let’s get to work identifying the cause of your problem and tailoring a bespoke solution!
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