What is the Relationship Between Testosterone and Hair Loss?
Testosterone is a hormone produced by the male body. The hormone affects the appearance and the sexual development of a man and plays a vital role in sperm production. Testosterone is found in one’s body in different forms. The most active form is the “free” testosterone, which is not bound to any protein in the body. The other form is bound to albumin, a protein found in the blood. The widely available, yet inactive, form of testosterone is bound to Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG).
However, the reason for hair loss is DHT.
What is DHT and Its Function?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen made from testosterone by an enzyme, causes hair loss. With five times more potency than testosterone, DHT is found in the skin, hair follicles, and the prostate. The sensitivity our hair follicles have to DHT is the root cause of hair loss.
One may see different traits in our body due to DHT. These are:
- An increase in muscle mass and body hair
- Deep voice
- With sperm production, a growth of penis, testicles, and scrotum
- Change in body fat storage
These changes are only indicative. DHT affects every person differently. Hair loss is considered to be genetic. If your hair loss is hereditary, your follicle shrinking process will likely also be more pronounced.
What is the Connection Between DHT and Balding?
Follicles are like small capsules. This capsule-like structure holds 2-3 strands of hair. The hair we see growing anywhere on our body grows out of structures like these.
Every hair strand within a follicle goes through a growth cycle of two to six years. Shaving or trimming the hair does not affect the follicle, and hence hair will regrow from the same root.
As the cycle ends, the hair strand enters the resting phase, after which it falls. When it falls, the follicle produces a new hair strand, and the cycle goes on.
High DHT levels shorten this growth cycle and shrink the follicles. This makes your hair look thinner, and it falls at a much faster rate. The follicles in some cases cannot grow more hair, causing permanent baldness.
DHT vs Testosterone
Testosterone is an androgen found in abundant quantities in our body. It affects the following:
- Regulation of hormones
- Sperm Production
- Keeping control of bone density and muscle mass
- Body fat distribution
- Keep emotions and mood in check
DHT is a derivative of testosterone. Even though like testosterone, DHT also is responsible for sexual function, it is much stronger. Since DHT can bind to the androgen for a longer time, its impact is also more intense.
Treatment for Hair Loss
Several methods to treat hair loss and male pattern baldness involve interfering with the actions of DHT and testosterone. Using Finasteride is one of the treatments to block DHT. It blocks the 5 alpha-reductase enzymes, stopping the conversion of testosterone to DHT. However, it is dangerous for pregnant women, and also has other side effects that may cause sexual problems in both men and women, but these side effects are reversible and when prescribed by a dermatologist they will ensure the right dosage so that side effects can be avoided altogether.
One of the other DHT blockers called Dutasteride, is also being considered by researchers as a possible medication. It is available in the market currently for the treatment of an enlarged prostate.
The side effects of DHT blockers include premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, vomiting, heart failure, and skin rashes.
The treatment options that do not include DHT blockers are:
- Minoxidil
- Laser Treatment(LLLT)
- Surgical Transplant
- Ketoconazole
- Procedures like prp, mesotherapy, dermaroller
Takeaway
The role of DHT in hair loss, and especially in male pattern baldness is well known. Genes and natural causes may make DHT more potent and increase the severity of hair loss. However, using a DHT blocker is not always the best solution, considering its side effects on the human body. Therefore, it is always best to consult a doctor.
Remedies like using minoxidil, are commonly used as it helps to keep the hair in the anagen phase – the growing phase of the hair follicle. The other safe option is the use of Finasteride as the side effects are reversible.
The best solution, when experiencing hair loss, is to consult a dermatologist. Hair loss, especially in the early stages can be easily controlled with medication. Therefore, it is wise to consult a dermatologist at the first signs of hair fall, or male pattern baldness. Taking medicines without consulting a doctor may prove dangerous, and is never recommended.
Revive not only has experts who give you the best solutions, but also offer the best treatments. Revive’s experienced dermatologists who have successfully treated hair fall are your best chance at arresting the menace of falling hair early.
