Does taking testosterone increase hair loss….
While high testosterone levels don’t directly cause hair loss, they can contribute to hair thinning and loss through the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a more potent androgen that binds to hair follicle receptors, leading to hair follicle miniaturization and eventually, hair loss.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
- DHT’s Role:
DHT is the key hormone involved in male pattern baldness (androgenic alopecia), a common type of hair loss. It binds to receptors in hair follicles, particularly on the scalp, causing them to shrink and produce thinner, shorter hairs. - Individual Sensitivity:
Not everyone with high testosterone levels experiences hair loss. The sensitivity of an individual’s hair follicles to DHT is determined by genetics, and those with more sensitive receptors are more prone to hair loss. - Male Pattern Baldness:
Male pattern baldness is a progressive condition where hair gradually thins and may eventually disappear in a pattern, often starting with a receding hairline and thinning on the crown. - Female Pattern Hair Loss:
While DHT also plays a role in female pattern hair loss, the exact mechanisms and the extent of its involvement can be more complex. - Treatment Options:
Several treatments are available to address DHT-related hair loss, including topical and oral medications like minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia), which help slow down hair loss or even promote regrowth.
