DHT's Role in Hair Loss

Derived from the hormone testosterone and found in both males, and to a lesser extent in females, is the steroid hormone DHT, (Dihydrotestosterone). Scientists have learned that DHT is the primary cause of hair loss and male pattern baldness.

Coming from testosterone from two 5-alpha reductive isoenzymes known as Type I and Type II, which is held in the hair follicles oil glands, DHT is produced in the adrenal glands, the prostate, the skin and the scalp. Type I is produced in large amounts by the oil glands in the skin, while those that come from the scalp are mainly Type II.

Scientific studies show that DHT is responsible for causing baldness in men and female hair loss. Scientists also believe that it is not the amount of testosterone circulating that is the problem, but the level of DHT that is binding the receptors in the scalp.

DHT causes the hair follicles to become shorter and thinner. Eventually, each hair follicle will become unhealthy and stop developing altogether, while the anagen phase (growth phase) will be greatly reduced. The ending result being really thin hair or even baldness.

Hair follicles that are on the top, front and crown of the head, are the most threatened by the DHT hormone. Hair that is on the side or bottom back of the head are more likely to be spared.

Women have a much lower level of testosterone than men have, but even a low level can trigger DHT and cause hair loss. Each decade after turning thirty, the testosterone level in some men drops by 10%. Womens hormone levels will reduce with the onset of menopause then drop quickly during menopause.

For reasons unknown, DHT does not effect everyone. Taking a look at the family history can help determine if a person will develop hair loss. Age also plays a role in the onset of this hormone.

To help hide the sometimes embarrassing effects of hair loss, there are many different things that you can do. There are shampoos, and hair treatments that can be used. Prescriptions from a doctor such as Rogaine or Propecias are an option, as well as medical hair transplants.