Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) refers to a hormone that has been linked with balding or loss of hair mostly in men. Male balding also referred to as androgenic alopecia, is among the main reasons why men lose their hair as they become older. DHT plays a key role in pattern baldness or hereditary loss of hair that is estimated to affect at least 80 percent of men. Derived from testosterone, DHT contributes to the development of male attributes.
When it gets into the bloodstream, DHT links to hair follicles and causes them to shrink. The follicles weaken and are not able to support healthy hair growth. Individuals experiencing hair loss may choose to undergo treatments such as a hair transplant, even though, the cost of a laser hair transplant can be extremely high. Though hair may be restored through such a procedure, there are ways you can prevent hair loss in the first place.
These are inhibiting the production of DHT in the body and preventing DHT from binding with 5-alpha reductase receptors that cause follicles to shrink.
Here’s how to block DHT using 5 proven natural ways.
Vitamin H Also Known As Biotin
Biotin is a B vitamin that occurs naturally. It supports the conversion of some liquids and foods that a person consumes into energy for use by the body. Besides this, Biotin supports and maintains keratin levels in the body. Keratin is a protein type that is present in the nails, skin and hair. Though there are no conclusive research findings to show why the human body needs keratin, there is evidence that biotin helps with hair regrowth and that it prevents hair loss. You can make Biotin part of your daily diet because it can be found in nuts, egg yolks and whole grains. In addition, you may consume Biotin in the form of oral supplements.
Vitamin B 6 And B 12
Some of the symptoms that deficiencies in vitamins B 12 and B 6 can cause include hair loss and thinning of the hair. B vitamins are crucial nutrients that the body requires to promote overall health. Though taking B 6 or B 12 vitamin supplements alone may not enhance or restore lost hair, these vitamins are known to make hair healthier and thicker by enhancing the flow of blood to the follicles in the scalp.
Finasteride
This is a hair loss prescription only drug that has been approved by the FDA. Finasteride works by inhibiting DHT from binding with 5-alpha reductase. The inhibition properties in Finasteride help in keeping DHT from binding with hair follicle receptors, which prevents them from shrinking. Studies show that the success rate of this medication stands in preventing hair loss is very high. There are studies that suggest that Finasteride is also able to keep testosterone from being converted into DHT. Because of this ability, the medication is also categorized as a DHT blocker. While it offers various benefits in preventing hair loss, Finasteride has several side effects that include weight gain, chills, fainting, dizziness, itchy skin and in some cases, breast issues.
Caffeine
Though there isn’t much research on how caffeine can enhance hair growth, a study conducted in 2014 shows that caffeine has properties that can prevent people from losing hair. The study suggests that caffeine does this by prolonging the hair growth phase, enhancing the production of keratin and causing hair to continue growing for longer.
Pygeum
This natural herb is extracted from an African cherry tree bark. It is a herbal supplement that is taken orally. It has the ability to block DHT, which is why it is known for potentially treating prostatitis and enlarged prostate. For this reason, pygeum is considered a possible treatment for hair loss that is caused by DHT.
Conclusion
DHT is known to be the main cause of hair loss that is linked to genetic predisposition and the natural processes that occur in the human body as one progresses in age. As such, treatment of hair loss resulting from DHT is designed to either inhibit the production of DHT in the body or prevent DHT from binding with 5-alpha reductase receptors that cause follicles to shrink.
There are numerous treatments available for hair loss that are related to DHT inhibition. Some of the treatments available also help with slowing down the hair loss process, making people prone to hair loss much more confident as they go through life.
Anha Khalid is a passionate writer with donkey years of experience in the industry. She is a versatile freelance writer with having experience in writing content for health and beauty magazines and websites. With a background in journalism, she loves writing blogs and product reviews that provide valuable information to readers.
