DHT and Hair Loss: The Crucial Link

When a man experiences hair loss, it can be stressful and is commonly considered a sign of ageing. There is more to the issue of hair loss in men than just getting old. One of the causes is down to the hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This article explains the crucial link between hair loss and DHT.

What Is Dihydrotestosterone?

DHT is a sex hormone that gives males their male characteristics such as body hair, a deeper voice and body mass. It is also linked to men developing an enlarged prostate gland and sometimes prostate cancer. The hormone is produced by both men and women but is produced in much larger quantities in males. It helps regulate several bodily functions such as blood cell production and neurological processes.

How Dihydrotestosterone Affects Hair Loss

Dihydrotestosterone can cause physiological changes including hair loss. Some hair follicles are genetically sensitive to losing hair. If DHT builds up over time, it can block the dermal papilla within the hair follicle. This causes the follicle to shrink and baldness results. Sometimes the scalp is so full of DHT that hair is simply unable to grow. People can spend several years completely unaffected by their genetic disposition to DHT and hair loss. Once Dihydrotestosterone triggers a dormant gene to become active, it results in hair follicles becoming affected and baldness appearing.

How Hair Loss Due to Dihydrotestosterone Can Be Treated

Understanding the link between Dihydrotestosterone and hair loss is critical to ensure people get the correct and most effective treatment for their hair loss. Once DHT is known to be the cause of hair loss, there are hormone treatments called 5 alpha-reductase inhibitors. They work by blocking the 5aR enzyme from turning testosterone into DHT. This prevents the destructive impact on hair follicles and also stops a large build-up of dihydrotestosterone in the scalp. With less Dihydrotestosterone in the bloodstream, the hair follicles can begin to produce more hair growth. You can obtain details on treatments for DHT-related hair loss from your doctor. By understanding the link between Dihydrotestosterone and hair loss, you can reach a solution for baldness easily.

If you’re suffering from hair loss, Transitions Hair Loss Centers prides themselves on having cutting edge hair loss technology, while giving you many options to choose from. Our professional hair loss specialists understand the importance of quality and comfort you look for from people you can trust. To find a location nearest you click here.