DHT and Its Effect on Hair Loss
Hair Loss Science
DHT and Its Effect on Hair Loss
DHT is the androgen behind pattern baldness. It binds to sensitive follicles, shortens their growth phase, and shrinks them until they stop producing hair. Here is how it works, and what counters it.
Key takeaways
- DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is an androgen made from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase.
- It binds to androgen receptors in the follicle, causing miniaturization, a shorter growth phase, and eventually dormancy.
- Signs of heightened DHT activity include pattern hair loss, acne or oily skin, prostate enlargement, and thinning scalp hair alongside robust body hair.
- Finasteride and dutasteride lower DHT, minoxidil stimulates growth, and a hair transplant permanently relocates DHT-resistant follicles.
Hair loss is a common concern affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly men. One of the primary culprits is a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. Understanding its role is crucial if you want to keep a full head of hair. Here is what DHT is, how it affects your follicles, and what can be done to counter it.
What is DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is an androgen, a hormone that plays a vital role in the development of male characteristics. It is derived from testosterone through the action of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. DHT is essential for various bodily functions, including the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, but it has a far less welcome effect on hair follicles.
How to tell if you have high levels of DHT
High DHT is not usually assessed through routine testing. It tends to show up through physical signs associated with excessive androgen activity:
| Sign | What it can look like |
|---|---|
| Hair loss | Male or female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is a key sign of heightened DHT sensitivity or levels: a receding hairline, a thinning crown, or overall thinning |
| More body or facial hair | High androgen levels can lead to excessive hair growth on the face or body |
| Acne or oily skin | Elevated DHT may stimulate the sebaceous glands and cause acne, especially in teenagers and young adults |
| Prostate enlargement | In men, high DHT can lead to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and urinary symptoms |
| Thinning scalp, normal body hair | A contrast between thinning scalp hair and robust body hair can indicate DHT activity |
How DHT affects hair follicles
DHT’s influence on the follicle is the key factor in androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male pattern baldness. It works in three stages:
01
Shrinking hair follicles
DHT binds to androgen receptors in the follicle and triggers miniaturization. Over time the follicle shrinks and produces thinner, shorter strands.
02
Shortening the growth cycle
DHT shortens the anagen (growth) phase and prolongs the telogen (resting) phase, so hair spends less time growing and more time resting.
03
Follicle dormancy
Prolonged exposure to high DHT can make follicles dormant. Dormant follicles no longer produce hair, which leads to bald patches and overall hair loss.
Dormant is not the same as dead: here is how to tell the difference, and how DHT disrupts the hair growth cycle.
Who is affected by DHT-related hair loss?
DHT can affect anyone, but it is particularly problematic for men, because of higher testosterone levels and the genetic factors that predispose them to androgenetic alopecia. Women can also experience DHT-related hair loss, though it often presents differently: more diffuse thinning rather than distinct bald patches.
Testing for DHT levels
DHT testing is not standard, but it can be done:
- Blood tests measure DHT concentration and are typically ordered if an androgen imbalance is suspected.
- Hormone panels often include testosterone and DHT to give a broader picture of androgen levels.
When to see a specialist
If you have unexplained hair loss, skin changes, or signs of a hormone imbalance, a dermatologist or endocrinologist can help determine whether DHT or another issue is contributing.
Free consultation
Find out how far DHT has progressed
A free, in-person consultation with an Advanced Hair Restoration® physician examines your scalp and donor area and shows which follicles medication can still protect.
Combating DHT-related hair loss
Understanding DHT’s role has led to treatments that reduce its impact on the follicles:
| Strategy | How it works |
|---|---|
| DHT blockers | Finasteride and dutasteride inhibit 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. Lower DHT can prevent further hair loss and, in some cases, promote regrowth |
| Topical treatments | Minoxidil is applied to the scalp to stimulate growth. It does not affect DHT directly; it increases blood flow to the follicles |
| Hair transplantation | FUE or FUT relocates DHT-resistant follicles to thinning or balding areas: a more permanent solution for significant hair loss |
| Lifestyle changes | A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management support overall hair health. Biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids support growth and may help mitigate DHT’s effects |
| Natural DHT inhibitors | Saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil are believed to have DHT-blocking properties. Research is ongoing |
Go deeper: DHT blockers, minoxidil, saw palmetto, and FUE vs FUT.
Conclusion
DHT plays a significant role in hair loss, particularly in androgenetic alopecia. Understanding how it affects your follicles, and which treatments counter it, lets you take proactive steps to keep a healthy head of hair.
At Advanced Hair Restoration®, we offer a range of treatments tailored to DHT-related hair loss, including Advanced FUE™, which moves DHT-resistant follicles permanently. Transplanted hair is Guaranteed to Grow for Life™.
Related reading: why androgen levels matter and what to expect at your hair restoration consultation.
Questions patients ask
DHT questions
What is DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is an androgen made from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. It is essential for male development, but in genetically sensitive follicles it drives pattern hair loss.
How does DHT cause hair loss?
It binds to androgen receptors in the follicle and causes miniaturization, so the follicle produces thinner, shorter hairs. It also shortens the growth phase and prolongs the resting phase, and prolonged exposure can make follicles dormant.
How can I tell if I have high DHT?
It is not usually tested routinely. Signs include pattern hair loss, excess body or facial hair, acne or oily skin, prostate enlargement in men, and thinning scalp hair alongside robust body hair. Blood tests and hormone panels can measure DHT if an androgen imbalance is suspected.
Can you stop DHT-related hair loss?
It can be slowed. DHT blockers such as finasteride and dutasteride lower DHT, minoxidil stimulates growth, and natural inhibitors like saw palmetto may help. Where follicles are already lost, a hair transplant relocates DHT-resistant follicles to restore the area permanently.
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Every photo below is a real Advanced Hair patient: Advanced FUE™, their own natural hair, Guaranteed to Grow for Life™.
Kyle M. · 3,000 Advanced FUE™ grafts
Scott H. · 2,500 Advanced FUE™ grafts
Madison T. · 3,300 Advanced FUE™ grafts
AJ S. · 2,500 Advanced FUE™ grafts
Individual results may vary.
Next step
Restore your hair, and your confidence
Talk to Advanced Hair Restoration® about a personalized plan for DHT-related hair loss. Consultations are free and in person, so the physician can examine your scalp and donor area directly and map your exact graft count.