What is DHT?
DHT is a steroid hormone like testosterone and is synthesized mostly in skin and in the liver. Its synthesis involves conversion of testosterone into DHT by an anzyme, 5-alpha reductase. It exists in two distinct forms or isoenzymes, namely, type I and type II. Both of these convert testosterone into DHT.
DHT molecules diffuse into hair follicle cells and bind with androgen receptors. This complex of the androgen receptor and the DHT molecule, then enters the nucleus of the cell, and alter the rate of protein synthesis and block the hair follicles.
Role of DHT in Hair Loss
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an androgen is known to inhibit function of adenylate cyclase thereby blocking/shrinking the growth of hair follicles. When DHT is high in concentration in the scalp, the terminal scalp hair become reduced fine and thin peach fuzz.
DHT is the chief contributor to male-pattern baldness. And women with increased levels of DHT sometimes develop certain male secondary sex characteristics like body hair, deepened voice and increased muscular growth.
Prevention of Hair Loss Caused by DHT
DHT is detrimental to hair growth in genetically predisposed men/women. There are several remedies to fight DHT. Luckily, there have been several approaches that have been shown to combat DHT damage. In men Propecia is prescribed to for DHT reduction, but in females in reflects some counter effects. Ketoconazole promises some advantages over Propecia, it gives same anti-DHT results and it can be applied through shampoo.
Propecia inhibits the production of 5-alpha reductase and reduces DHT level in the men. It has some side effects also, like decrease in libido. Saw palmetto extract in another DHT inhibitor. And this is safe for use in men and women. Lowering of DHT in scalp by Propecia saves 35% of hair in the crown area. Propecia works better in initial balding stages than in bald stages. The limitation of Propecia is that one has to take the drug through out the life. Stopping the medication will again make way for DHT to start hair loss.
Antiandrogens to Inhibit the Action of DHT
Antiandrogen treatments is also very useful in preventing DHT from binding to the Androgen receptor, which ultimately leads to hair loss. It acts on the very process of hair loss.
Biology Of Hair Growth
What is DHT?
Role of DHT