What in the world is Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)? And why is it causing hair loss?

With the modern world heading towards development, health is somewhat seen as getting compromised. Each day we hear the cases of cardiac arrests, brain stroke, and cancer rising up. And although these causes impact a few, there is one thing that is being seen consuming the emotions of a larger chunk of the population – Hair Fall. Greet 10 people a day and ask them how their hair is doing; chances are, you might hear negative news coming from almost all of them. But why do we suffer from hair fall? One big thing that is attributed to this is DHT. What is DHT and why is it making the crowd hold their hair in fear?

DHT – The culprit behind hair thinning and fall

DHT is a strong hormone that affects hair growth and can cause hair loss. It's made from testosterone and is made when an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase changes testosterone into DHT. This hormone is particularly active on the scalp and causes the hair follicles to shrink, leading to a type of hair loss called androgenetic alopecia. To understand it, let us understand Testosterone first.

Testosterone is a hormone found in the human body, specifically in males. It can be compared to a special type of gas that helps run the engine of the body, particularly for sexual development and other functions. Just like gas helps a car move, testosterone helps the male body function properly, including the growth of muscles and facial hair, and maintaining energy levels and a deep voice. Sometimes this testosterone is converted into DHT. The main reason for this conversion is to regulate the effects of testosterone in the body, as too much testosterone can lead to negative side effects. However, elevated levels of DHT have also been linked to certain medical conditions, such as hair loss and prostate enlargement.

Both men and women can be affected by DHT and hair loss, but it's most commonly linked to male pattern baldness. This is when hair loss starts at the temples and top of the head, creating an "M" shape. Over time, the hair may keep thinning, resulting in complete baldness for some people.

Now, let us understand what can be done to reverse this DHT conversion.

How to tackle increased DHT to treat hair loss?

Although no proper solution has been found to stop DHT conversion and end hair loss from the root, there are ways that can help in slowing down this process. Depending upon the situation and underlying medical condition, the treatment could differ. Tackling increased DHT levels to treat hair loss can involve a variety of different approaches. Here are some of the common ways that you can use to treat your hair thinning and loss:

• Medications: Some drugs like finasteride and dutasteride stop the change of testosterone into DHT. These drugs have been shown to be effective in slowing down or reversing hair loss in some cases.

• Healthy habits: Eating well, exercising, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep can help regulate hormones and lower the risk of hair loss.

• Topical solutions: Products like minoxidil can be applied directly to the scalp to help hair grow.

• Surgery: If hair loss is severe, surgical options like hair transplants may be an option.

Apart from it, you’d want to take care of what hair care products you use. Never buy shampoos or other hair-care products that contain harmful chemicals like sulfate, paraben, etc. Go for natural products as they will help you keep your hair healthy till you grow old. Check out free Shopify alternatives where you might find health and beauty products at a reasonable price. And at last - regrow your confidence, and fight hair loss.