DHT and Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms, Foods, and Effective DHT Blockers

Hair loss affects millions worldwide, and one of the main culprits is a hormone called DHT. Understanding DHT and hair loss, its causes, and effective ways to manage it can help you maintain healthy, strong hair. In this article, we’ll explore what DHT is, how it affects hair follicles, and the best natural DHT blockers and medical strategies to block it.

What Is DHT? Why Does It Cause Hair Loss?

DHT, short for dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone converted from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. While it plays a key role in male development and body hair growth, excessive DHT is strongly linked to DHT and hair loss. It binds to scalp hair follicles, shrinking them over time and leading to thinner, weaker hair. According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 10% of testosterone is converted into DHT daily.

DHT is crucial for male development, influencing sexual characteristics, muscle growth, and body hair. However, excess DHT can negatively impact hair follicles, leading to thinning hair and pattern baldness in both men and women.

How DHT Leads to Hair Thinning in Men and Women?

When DHT binds to receptors in scalp hair follicles, it can cause a process known as follicular miniaturization. In this process:

Hair follicles shrink gradually.
Hair strands become thinner and weaker.
The growth phase of the hair cycle shortens, leading to increased hair shedding.

Excess DHT affects hair follicles through a process known as miniaturization, which gradually causes hair to become thinner and shorter. Over time, the growth cycle shortens, causing more hair to fall out than grow back. This process is a key reason why both men and women experience DHT and hair loss, particularly in the crown, temples, or frontal hairline. In men with male-pattern baldness, average DHT production was found to be ~60 µg/hour, significantly higher than in control men.

Symptoms of High DHT in Males and Females

High levels of DHT can affect both men and women, leading to changes in hair growth and scalp health. Recognizing DHT and hair loss symptoms early helps manage thinning effectively.

Symptoms of High DHT in Males

High levels of DHT may not only cause hair loss but can also present other symptoms in men, such as:

Thinning hair on the crown and temples
Receding hairline
Acne and oily skin
Increased body hair
Prostate enlargement

Recognizing these signs early can help you take action before hair loss progresses.

Symptoms of High DHT in Women

While often associated with men, DHT also affects women. Elevated DHT levels in women can result in:

Thinning hair, especially on the scalp
Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
Acne and skin changes

Hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can contribute to higher DHT in women. Understanding this connection is vital for effective hair loss management.

What Causes DHT Levels to Increase Naturally?

Several factors can contribute to elevated DHT levels, including:

Genetics: Some individuals are more sensitive to DHT.
Hormonal imbalances: High testosterone can convert to more DHT.
Age: DHT levels naturally increase in adulthood.
Certain medical conditions: Including PCOS in women.

Managing DHT levels effectively often requires addressing these underlying causes.

What Is a DHT Blocker? How Do DHT Supplements Help?

A DHT blocker is any substance, natural or synthetic, that reduces DHT levels in the body or prevents it from binding to hair follicle receptors. DHT blockers are a primary treatment option for androgenic alopecia, helping to slow or even reverse hair loss.

Types of DHT blockers include:

DHT blocker medicine/pills: Medications like finasteride and dutasteride inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, preventing testosterone from converting into DHT.
DHT blocker supplements: Natural compounds such as biotin, saw palmetto, and pumpkin seed oil can reduce DHT activity. A clinical trial reported that a saw palmetto formulation significantly inhibited 5α-reductase activity and reduced serum DHT levels.
DHT blocker foods: Certain foods have properties that naturally reduce DHT levels.

DHT Blocker Supplements

Hair supplements such as saw palmetto, pygeum bark, and biotin also help manage DHT and hair loss. Combining these foods and supplements with healthy lifestyle habits supports hair strength and growth. Common DHT blocker supplements include:

Biotin and other B-vitamins – Promote keratin production for stronger hair.

Cureveda Grow Plant‑Based Biotin (10,000 mcg), a DHT blocker supplement, contains 10,000 mcg of biotin (vitamin B7) derived from sesbania, which may have better absorption than synthetic biotin. It also includes 10 mg of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports scalp health and may help control hair fall.

Benefits of Cureveda Grow in DHT and Hair Loss:

- Strengthens hair and supports scalp health
- Improves hair thickness and reduces breakage
- Supports overall skin and nail health

Saw palmetto – One of the most studied natural DHT blockers.
Pygeum bark extract – Can support hormonal balance.

Natural DHT Blocker Foods

Incorporating DHT blocker foods into your diet can support healthy hair growth. Some effective options include:

Green tea – Rich in antioxidants, it may reduce DHT production.
Pumpkin seeds – Contain zinc and phytosterols that inhibit DHT.
Soy products – Isoflavones in soy can decrease DHT levels.
Spinach and leafy greens – High in magnesium and iron, which support hair health.
Tomatoes – Contain lycopene, which may help block DHT naturally.

Including these foods consistently may complement other treatments and improve hair strength.

Side Effects of DHT Blockers

While DHT blockers can be highly effective, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects:

Medical DHT blockers (like finasteride) may cause:

Decreased libido or sexual dysfunction
Mood changes
Rare cases of breast tenderness or enlargement

Natural DHT blockers are generally safer but can sometimes cause mild digestive issues or allergic reactions.

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any DHT blocker, especially medicines.

How to Reduce DHT Naturally to Protect Your Hair?

Beyond medications and supplements, lifestyle changes can help manage DHT levels naturally:

Maintain a balanced diet rich in zinc, magnesium, and vitamins.
Exercise regularly to balance hormones.
Manage stress through meditation or yoga, as cortisol may affect testosterone and DHT levels.
Avoid excessive intake of processed foods or sugar, which may exacerbate hair loss.

Combining lifestyle changes with DHT blockers can maximize hair health and growth.

Conclusion

DHT plays a crucial role in hair loss for both men and women. Understanding what DHT is, the symptoms of high DHT, and how to use DHT blockers, foods, and supplements can empower you to take control of hair thinning.

Whether through natural DHT blocker foods, supplements, or medication, the key is early intervention and consistent care. Always consult a healthcare professional to choose the safest and most effective approach for your hair health.

FAQs

1. What is DHT?

DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone derived from testosterone. While it plays an important role in male development and body hair growth, excessive DHT can shrink scalp hair follicles, causing hair loss.

2. How does DHT cause hair loss?

DHT binds to receptors in hair follicles, leading to miniaturization. This process makes hair thinner, weaker, and eventually stops growth, which is the main cause of male and female pattern baldness.

3. Can women have high DHT?

Yes. Women can have elevated DHT levels due to hormonal imbalances, such as PCOS. High DHT in women can cause thinning hair on the scalp, excess body or facial hair, and acne.

4. How can I reduce dihydrotestosterone naturally?

You can reduce DHT by consuming DHT blocker foods, taking supplements like saw palmetto, managing stress, exercising regularly, and avoiding excess sugar and processed foods.

5. What causes DHT to increase?

DHT levels can rise due to genetics, high testosterone, age, and certain medical conditions such as PCOS or hormonal imbalances.