Hair loss is a complex issue that can stem from several causes. Before diving into any treatment, it's crucial to understand what type of hair loss you're dealing with. The three major categories are DHT-related (genetic), Inflammatory (environmental or emotional), and Nutrient-related hair loss. In this blog, we'll focus on DHT-related hair loss, how it works, and why it's essential to ensure this is your hair loss type before starting any action plan.
What Is DHT?
DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a derivative of testosterone, with a small but crucial difference—a single extra hydrogen molecule. While testosterone itself plays many roles in the body, when it’s converted to DHT through the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, it opens the door to hair loss for those genetically predisposed.
The key here is genetics: you need to have the gene that creates a sensitivity to DHT for it to affect your hair follicles. This is why a look at your family history—on both sides—can be a helpful indicator. If someone in your family has experienced androgenic alopecia (also called DHT-related hair loss), you may be predisposed to it too.
Signs It's DHT-Related Hair Loss
One of the easiest ways to identify DHT-related hair loss is by where it happens. DHT primarily affects the top portion of the scalp:
- Men experience a receding hairline, hair thinning at the crown, and for some people leads to total atrophy hair loss on the top of the scalp.
- Women tend to develop thinning in a uniform pattern, often centered about an inch behind the hairline. This area is the epicenter of female pattern baldness (FPB).
When Does DHT Hair Loss Start?
For men, hair loss related to DHT can kick in as early as age 18. This is due to the spike in testosterone levels during puberty, which peaks and then begins converting into DHT through the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. As men age, DHT levels continue to rise, causing progressive hair loss.
Women, on the other hand, have a natural protection against DHT thanks to estrogen. Estrogen guards the hair follicles, making DHT-related hair loss less of a factor until estrogen levels begin to decline. For many women, this happens in their 40s or 50s, typically around menopause. By age 35, it’s a good idea to start a prevention routine, as estrogen levels peak and begin to taper off around this time.
The Window for Reversal
If you’re experiencing DHT-related hair loss, you have a window of 3-5 years to reverse and mitigate the damage before total atrophy occurs. At that point, the hair follicle has completely died and cannot produce even the fine, vellus hairs that can appear under trichoscopic analysis. Once a follicle reaches this stage, it is impossible to regrow hair.
The Hidden Connection Between Testosterone Supplements and DHT-Related Hair Loss
If you’re predisposed to androgenic alopecia (genetic hair loss) and you’re taking supplements that boost testosterone levels—like creatine—it’s important to understand how this could be accelerating your hair loss. While boosting testosterone might be great for muscle growth, the body converts this extra testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the primary hormone responsible for hair loss in both men and women.
What’s tricky is that blood tests won’t necessarily show a spike in testosterone levels. That's because the testosterone is already being converted into DHT. This increase in DHT can attack hair follicles, shortening the hair growth cycle, thinning hair, and eventually causing the follicles to shrink and stop producing hair altogether. So, even though your testosterone might seem normal, the DHT conversion process is silently fueling hair loss in those who are already genetically prone.
If you’re taking creatine or similar supplements and noticing thinning hair, this could be the reason.
Natural Remedies for DHT-Related Hair Loss
Many natural DHT blockers have been proven to help by preventing the conversion of testosterone to DHT without reducing testosterone levels themselves. Some include
- Saw palmetto
- Stinging nettle
- Pumpkin seed oil
- Green tea
- Zinc oxide
- Chicory root
- Lycopene
- Turmeric
- Rosemary Oil
These ingredients block the uptake of DHT by the hair follicle, slowing the hair loss process. In addition to internal blockers, topical treatments using these ingredients, or even melatonin, can also be effective. Melatonin, a hormone, is "absorbed" by the hormone receptors in the hair follicles, making them less likely to absorb DHT.
While natural remedies are typically more effective in women than men, a combined internal and external approach can help preserve the hair you have and potentially reverse some of the loss.
DHT and PCOS
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) need to be even more vigilant about DHT. Due to lower levels of estrogen and higher testosterone, they are more susceptible to androgenic alopecia and can also experience hirsutism, or unwanted hair growth in areas more common in men.
The Importance of Identifying Your Type of Hair Loss
Jumping into treatment without knowing what’s causing your hair loss is like treating an illness without a diagnosis. Not all hair loss is DHT-related, and using DHT blockers won’t help if your hair loss is caused by nutrient deficiencies or inflammatory factors. That’s why understanding whether your hair loss is genetic (DHT), nutritional, or inflammatory is critical before starting any regimen. Get a proper diagnosis through blood work or a trichologist consultation to pinpoint the cause and save yourself time and frustration.
Our Plant-Based Solutions
At Halo, we offer plant-based solutions designed to support hair growth and combat DHT-related hair loss. Our Nourished By Hair and Scalp Oil, Stimulate and Strengthen Shampoo, Rejuvenate Dust, Reinforcement Treatment, and Revitalise Serum contain natural DHT blockers like the ones mentioned above. These products work as part of a comprehensive scalp care routine to help preserve and strengthen your hair.
To get started, explore our curated bundles designed for your specific hair care needs.
Foods Rich in Natural DHT Blockers to Include in Your Diet
In addition to topical treatments and supplements, your diet plays a vital role in managing DHT-related hair loss. Incorporating foods that naturally block DHT can support hair growth from the inside out. Here are some powerful DHT-blocking foods you can add to your daily diet:
1. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, which has been shown to inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, the key player in converting testosterone into DHT. Adding a handful of pumpkin seeds to your salad, smoothie, or snack routine can help reduce DHT’s impact on your hair follicles.
2. Green Tea
Green tea contains a powerful antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to inhibit 5-alpha reductase activity. Regularly drinking green tea or using it in your smoothies can help balance hormone levels and support healthy hair growth.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are high in lycopene, another natural DHT blocker. Lycopene helps reduce DHT formation and also acts as an antioxidant, protecting your hair follicles from oxidative stress. Cooking tomatoes (e.g., in soups or sauces) helps enhance the absorption of lycopene.
4. Nuts and Seeds
Flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower DHT levels and reduce inflammation. Omega-3s also nourish hair follicles, helping them stay healthy and strong. Incorporating these into your diet can improve scalp health while reducing DHT production.
5. Spinach
Spinach is a great source of magnesium, which plays a role in inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. Additionally, it contains iron and biotin—both essential for maintaining healthy hair and reducing hair loss.
6. Avocados
Avocados are high in beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol that helps block the production of DHT. Regular consumption of avocados not only benefits your scalp and hair health but also supports overall hormonal balance.
7. Berries
Berries, such as blueberries and strawberries, are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which protect your hair follicles from damage and support collagen production. Collagen is vital for hair strength, while antioxidants help mitigate the effects of DHT.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to inhibit 5-alpha reductase. Adding turmeric to your meals or drinks can help lower DHT levels and improve hair health.
9. Carrots
Carrots are packed with vitamin A, which promotes the production of sebum, a natural scalp oil that nourishes hair follicles. Additionally, they are rich in antioxidants that can help block DHT production.
10. Bananas
Bananas contain biotin, a key nutrient for hair growth, and potassium, which supports scalp circulation and nutrient delivery to hair follicles. Bananas also provide phytosterols, which help reduce DHT formation and contribute to maintaining strong, healthy hair.
How to Incorporate These Foods into Your Diet
- Smoothies: Combine berries, spinach, flaxseeds, and bananas into a nutrient-packed smoothie for a DHT-blocking boost.
- Salads: Toss pumpkin seeds, avocado, and tomatoes into your salad to up your intake of DHT-blocking foods.
- Snacks: Grab a handful of nuts or seeds for an easy, on-the-go DHT-fighting snack.
- Herbs and spices: Add turmeric to soups, stews, or even tea for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
By integrating these DHT-blocking foods into your diet, you can give your body an extra layer of defense against hair loss while promoting overall health. Combining this approach with our plant-based hair care products will help ensure that you’re addressing DHT-related hair loss from both the inside and out.
By understanding your hair loss type, you can take targeted action and protect your hair for the long term.
