DHT Blockers: The Ultimate Guide to Battling Baldness

DHT blockers are substances that reduce the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone) in the body. Commonly used medical DHT blockers for topical and oral use include finasteride and dutasteride. You can also use natural supplements like saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil, and green tea, which are comparatively safer and risk-free than medical DHT blockers.

DHT blockers have side effects, and knowing them can help you be mindful of their usage. However, if you’re still considering DHT blockers as part of your hair care routine, we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know about DHT blockers.

Read on to find out answers to questions like - “what is a DHT blocker?” “What are DHT blocker foods?” and “Is DHT blocker safe?”

What is DHT and how does it work?

DHT is a by-product of testosterone, a naturally occurring male hormone, that causes hair follicles to shrink, leading to hair loss and pattern baldness.

DHT is formed when testosterone is converted by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. First, DHT attaches itself to the hair follicles. Through a chain reaction, DHT causes hair follicles to shrink, weaken, and eventually die. DHT also disrupts the hair’s natural growth cycle by slowing down hair growth.

The entire DHT cycle leads to increased shedding due to a shortened growth phase.  

What is a DHT blocker?

When it comes to hair loss treatments, DHT blocking is one of many ways to prevent hair thinning and hair loss.

DHT shrinks hair follicles by blocking the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme. This leads to less hair growth. To work against this, DHT blockers stop the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

DHT blockers work in two ways:

1. By stopping DHT from binding to hair follicles.
2. By blocking the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT.

There are multiple types of DHT blockers available to combat hair loss or pattern baldness. These include oral medications, topical treatments, and natural ingredients. Below, we introduce each category and highlight some examples:

What are the different types of DHT blockers?

Not every DHT blocker is the same. Each varies in strength and effect. However, DHT blockers are widely categorised into two main types: medical and natural DHT blockers. Here’s what sets them apart:

1. Pharmaceutical DHT blockers

Pharmaceutical or medical DHT blockers are off-label prescriptions. The most common ones are:  

• Finasteride is a highly effective, prescription-only DHT blocker.
• Dutasteride is stronger than finasteride and reduces DHT by 95%.
• Ketoconazole shampoo is an anti-fungal treatment that penetrates the scalp directly.
• Topical finasteride is a popular hair loss treatment that is also an effective DHT blocker.

2. Natural DHT blockers

For those seeking a risk-free and secure option without unwanted side effects, natural DHT blockers may be a suitable alternative. Here’s an overview of some common choices:

Individuals who need a risk-free and secure option without unwanted side effects should try it. However, it is important to remember that the evidence of the effects of natural DHT blockers on hair loss is minimal.  

• Saw palmetto: An extract derived from the berries of a small palm tree is shown to inhibit the enzyme activity that causes hair loss.  
• Pumpkin seed oil: Like many oils, pumpkin seed oil has been shown to reduce DHT. It is also rich in zinc, an essential element for fighting hair loss.
• Rosemary oil: A popular natural remedy that improves hair thickness.
• Green tea: Rich in antioxidants that are essential for DHT blocking.
• Onions and shallots: Contain sulphur and quercetin, important in the fight against hair loss.
• Walnuts and almonds: Rich in nutrients that reduce hair follicle shrinkage.

Side effects of DHT blockers

There are a few hair loss medications without the risk of unwanted side effects. But sometimes those side effects are minor. Otherwise, those side effects, when they occur, significantly outweigh the benefits of the medication.

With low DHT levels, the following side effects can be expected, especially when using topical and oral blockers:

• Sexual dysfunction, leading to decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and ejaculatory problems.
• Mood and health changes pertaining to depression, anxiety, headaches, and dizziness.
• Gynecomastia or male breast development. However, this is rare.  

If you are using topical blockers like shampoos or topical finasteride:  

• Scalp irritation, dryness, burning, and contact dermatitis.  

These side effects can be seen only in a small section of men who use DHT blockers. However, if there are any issues that develop with sexual functioning, you can resolve them by discontinuing the medication immediately.

Being aware of potential side effects allows you to make informed decisions about using DHT blockers.

Side effects of natural DHT blockers

While natural DHT blockers found in foods are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of any potential risks, especially when taking concentrated supplements. Here’s what you should know:

Natural DHT blockers that occur in foods are generally safe. For example, DHT inhibitors in saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil, and green tea have almost no side effects, unless taken in excess.

Natural DHT blockers may offer a gentler alternative for those who prefer to avoid pharmaceutical options.

However, concentrated supplements (herbal) are not 100% risk-free. These supplements are known to cause stomach issues, headaches, and hormonal imbalances.

Who should use DHT blockers?  

DHT blockers are primarily for men in the advanced stages of hair loss or pattern baldness. Women can use them, but should seek advice from a doctor first.

Although professional advice is always best before using DHT blockers, here are some indications that you may require DHT blockers:  

• Receding hairline: The most common sign of male pattern baldness is the absence of hair follicles on the front part of the scalp.
• Hair thinning at the crown: Usually signified by a balding patch at the crown of the head (in men), or at the widening part of the hair (in women).  
• Excessive shedding without regrowth is a sign of a DHT problem and reduced hair density.

Who should avoid using DHT blockers?

DHT blockers like finasteride and dutasteride shouldn’t be used by:

• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Anyone under the age of 18.
• Any person over age 65 with an underlying heart condition.
• Those with sensitive scalps or serious skin conditions.
• People with high blood pressure.

Limitations of DHT blockers

DHT blockers can only manage hair fall, but not completely reverse hair loss. So, before going in expecting it to magically regrow hair, it is important to understand the limitations.

They are ineffective when:

• Hair follicles have already died or been dormant for years.
• Stress and other autoimmune conditions have already caused irreversible hair loss.

If you are unsure whether they are the right treatment, speak with a doctor or dermatologist about suitable alternatives.

Combining DHT blockers with other hair loss treatments

When treating hair loss or thinning hair, no single medication will give you the results you’re hoping for. Different approaches work best for different health concerns. Combining several hair loss treatments can significantly increase the likelihood of hair regrowth and reduce overall hair loss.

• With minoxidil

Combining DHT blockers like finasteride with minoxidil targets both the hormonal and follicular causes of hair loss. This stimulates further hair growth and reduces hair thinning and hair loss.  

• Medical plus natural approaches

Pumpkin seed oil and rosemary oil are common sources of natural DHT blockers. These two can be combined with other medical treatments.  

• Topical and oral combinations

Using topical solutions like a DHT-blocking shampoo, along with oral hair loss treatments, can help reduce hair loss. However, these may cause side effects and must be consulted by a doctor.  

• DHT blockers with PRP treatment

If you choose PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) with DHT blockers, then it is a powerful combination. PRP improves blood flow to hair follicles and nourishes the scalp with nutrients. This enables healthy hair regrowth.

While it may be tempting to try out different hair loss treatment combinations, remember that combining treatments should always be preceded by a doctor’s consultation.  

For further successful results, pair minoxidil or finasteride (or both) with Traya’s Ultimate Hair Supplements Combo, blending Ayurveda and dermatology with Hair Ras and Hair Vitamins.  

Alternatives to DHT blockers

The good news is that there are multiple hair loss treatments out there. There are prescription-only medicines and even over-the-counter medications. If you want something non-chemical, you can opt for natural remedies. Choosing the right approach depends on the underlying factors or pre-existing issues you may possess.

Here are some alternatives to DHT blockers:

• Minoxidil increases blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles, all without reducing DHT.
• Microneedling increases topical solution absorption.
• Low-level laser therapy uses safe light energy to stimulate hair follicles and ultimately improve hair density.
• Nutritional supplements rich in iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin D help effectively address hair loss symptoms.
• Natural oils like rosemary and onion oils have been shown to reduce hair fall and hair thinning.

Choosing the right DHT blocker as a treatment

Based on your medical needs and comfort levels, you can choose the right treatment. Whether you opt for a medical or natural method of treatment, the goal is to stop the shrinking of hair follicles before it becomes permanent.  

Finding the best treatment depends on:

• The current stage of hair loss.
• Your age and scalp sensitivity.
• How quickly do you want to tackle the symptoms.

When to use medical DHT blockers?

Medical DHT blockers should be used when hair loss is progressing rapidly, fast action is required, and especially when all other natural remedies have failed.  

When to use natural DHT blockers?

Natural DHT blockers are used as a 'prevention rather than cure' method to tackle hair loss at an early stage. They are also safer and risk-free alternatives to medical/pharmaceutical DHT blockers.  

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can DHT blockers regrow hair?

DHT blockers are not known to regrow hair, but they are most effective at halting further hair loss.

2. Do DHT blockers really work?

DHT blockers slow down the progression of hair loss by reducing DHT levels, which shrink hair follicles.

3. Are DHT blockers safe to use?

Taking DHT blockers is generally safe under medical supervision.

4. Do DHT blockers cause side effects?

Natural DHT blockers have no major side effects. But medical DHT blockers like finasteride and dutasteride are known to have sexual side effects, including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and breast tenderness. However, these side effects will stop if the medication is discontinued.

5. Can I take DHT blockers daily?

Yes, DHT blockers like finasteride can be taken daily at 1 mg for optimal results. However, do consult a doctor to avoid any side effects.

6. Do I need to use DHT blockers forever?

To maintain the results of hair loss treatment, DHT blockers need to be used for as long as you want to prevent hair loss.

7. What is the most effective DHT blocker?

Finasteride and dutasteride are the most effective medical DHT blockers.

8. Are there DHT blockers for women?

Under medical supervision, women can use certain DHT blockers to treat hair loss.

9. Are there any DHT blockers for beginners?

Pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto are natural DHT blockers for people just beginning hair loss treatments.

10. What if I stop using DHT blockers?

Your DHT levels will return to normal and the whole hair loss process restarts.

11. How do you tell if you need a DHT blocker?

You need to take DHT blockers if your hairline is receding or once you notice hair thinning.

12. What are the pros and cons of DHT blockers?

DHT blockers can help reduce hair loss, but they can also reduce sexual function in rare instances.

References:

1. https://ishrs.org/dht-blockers-hair-loss/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30980598/
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4017725/
4. https://www.healthline.com/health/dht
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5%CE%B1-Reductase_inhibitor

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