These days, almost every other man and woman is dealing with hair loss, as it affects their confidence and personality. However, some think hair thinning or male pattern baldness is random. But there is one hormone behind it, which is dihydrotestosterone.
Most people are searching for DHT Hair loss India because it is the main hormone for androgenic alopecia. It affects around 50% Indian men of age 50 and women in their thirties and after. If you are noticing thinning or widening parts, then it is due to dihydrotestosterone.
To control the growth, you should understand dihydrotestosterone and ways to block it. So, let’s explore the genetics, working, and other affecting factors of DHT.
What Is DHT and How Does It Cause Hair Loss?
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that is present in both men and women. When an enzyme, 5-alpha reductase, binds with testosterone, it is converted into Dihydrotestosterone. This process takes place in the testes, prostate, and skin of males and the skin of females.
DHT is more potent than testosterone and more aggressively binds with the androgen receptors. However, this hormone is responsible for the male sex organs' growth, but excessive amounts cause problems for hair follicles, as they are genetically sensitive.
However, in the androgenetic alopecia, dihydrotestosterone binds with follicles in the scalp and affects their growth which results in progressive shrinkage. This process is called miniaturisation. Due to this effect, each hair growth cycle will become shorter.
So, the follicles will produce thinner and shorter hair for several cycles. But after a few cycles, there will be no hair growth at all. This androgenic alopecia is also known as pattern baldness, and DHT is the main reason for it.
For more context, please read our guide on “Why is my hair falling out?”
Are You Genetically Predisposed to DHT Hair Loss?
Your genetics determine your hair growth pattern and how your hair follicles respond to dihydrotestosterone. The gene responsible for androgenic alopecia is the androgen receptor (AR) gene. The AR gene affects the binding and signaling of DHT with the hair follicle. Changes in these genes make your follicles sensitive.
One myth about the hair loss condition is that it can come from the maternal side only. This is because of its association with the X chromosome. Actually, it can happen because of either paternal or maternal genes.
In most cases, hair loss starts at the crown and frontal part of the forehead because these parts are more susceptible to DHT. However, the back and sides of this area are less sensitive to the effects of dihydrotestosterone. This is why they are often chosen as donor areas during hair transplantation surgeries.
Natural DHT Blockers - What the Evidence Says
Before starting any professional hair treatments, people always try natural remedies to reduce hair loss. These remedies help as DHT blockers to reduce hair loss. Some show modest results, especially at the start.
Some commonly used natural products include:
- Saw Palmetto:
It is the most studied natural DHT blocker. It inhibits the action of 5-alpha reductase. A 2020 study shows that consistent use of it helps to improve hair density. But it is less effective than the proper medications.
- Pumpkin Seed Oil:
The regular use of pumpkin seed oil for about 24 weeks will help to increase hair count up to 40%. But more studies are still needed to confirm its benefits.
- Green Tea (EGCG):
Green tea contains antioxidants which help to reduce scalp inflammation and also affect the androgen activity.
- Lycopene:
Lycopene is found in tomatoes. It supports hormonal balance and reduces oxidative stress.
If you are using natural ways to reduce hair loss, you should set realistic expectations only. Natural DHT blockers cannot replace pharmaceutical drugs.
Natural items can only slow hair shedding or improve hair quality. But they cannot reverse the established and advanced hair loss. If your hair loss is increasing, you should try other options, like hair transplant treatments.
Our article on the difference between minoxidil and hair transplant explains when medications alone may not be enough.
Pharmaceutical DHT Blockers - Finasteride and Dutasteride
For proven and satisfying results, it is better to start medication to control hair loss. There are some effective medicines like Finasteride and Dutasteride, which inhibit the 5-alpha reductase. These enzymes basically reduce the dihydrotestosterone levels in the scalp.
Here is a role of both of these pharmaceutical drugs:
Finasteride: it blocks Type || enzymes. As a result of this inhibition, the levels of DHT in the scalp are reduced to 60-70%. It is easily available in India and is used for male pattern baldness. It is taken orally once a day.
Dutasteride: This is a more effective drug as it inhibits both Type I and II enzymes. However, dermatologists prescribe it with caution.
Now, let’s talk about some side effects of these drugs. In a minority of males, these drugs cause some sexual side effects, which include reduced libido and erectile changes. These effects usually reduce after stopping the drugs.
But both of these drugs are contraindicated in women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. This is because they can affect the genital abnormalities in a male foetus. Post-menopausal women take them after consulting with doctors.
Combining DHT Blockers with Hair Transplant
Well, for better results and faster hair growth, it is suitable to combine DHT blockers with a hair transplant. Basically, through hair transplantation, doctors move DHT-resistant follicles from the back of the scalp to the thinning areas.
These transplanted hairs will reduce the dihydrotestosterone levels. But unfortunately, it does not stop ongoing hair loss in the nearby areas. In this situation, using DHT blockers becomes essential.
As if you don't stop the dihydrotestosterone levels, the surrounding natural hair will continue to thin. This will create uneven hair density over time. That's why dermatologists recommend two way approach:
- Restore lost hair through a hair transplant
- Protect your existing hair through DHT-blocking therapy
When you combine both of these treatments, you can enjoy a quick cosmetic improvement and long-term stability. It is often seen that patients who skip the DHT treatment have to undergo extra procedures later.
Dietary Changes That May Reduce DHT Activity
However, diet alone cannot block dihydrotestosterone and cure hair loss. But with proper diet and nutrition, you can increase your scalp health and hair condition.
- To help the hormone balance in the body, you should take zinc-rich foods. For example, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
- Natural lycopene sources, such as watermelon and tomatoes, help to reduce oxidative stress.
- By taking an anti-inflammatory diet like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s, you can reduce prostaglandin levels. It is also associated with hair loss.
- People suffering from hair thinning should also avoid processed foods and excessive sugar. This is because they can increase inflammation and also worsen the hair shedding.
