DHT is one of the most searched terms in hair loss—and one of the most oversimplified. Pattern hair loss is not simply a matter of having “too much DHT.” Genetics and the sensitivity of particular scalp follicles to androgen signaling are central to androgenetic alopecia.
What is DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone is an androgen made from testosterone through the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. DHT has normal biological roles. The issue in pattern hair loss is susceptibility of certain follicles.
What is follicular miniaturization?
In androgenetic alopecia, susceptible follicles can progressively produce shorter, finer hairs. Over time, the visible density of the hair decreases.
Is hair loss inherited only from your mother?
No. Hair-loss susceptibility is complex and can be influenced by genetic variants inherited from both sides of the family. Looking at only your maternal grandfather is not a reliable prediction.
Does minoxidil block DHT?
No. Minoxidil is a hair-regrowth medication with a different mechanism and should not be marketed as a DHT blocker. Prescription antiandrogen approaches are a separate category to discuss with a physician.
What about DHT shampoos?
Be cautious with this phrase. A cosmetic shampoo may contain ingredients that have been studied in relation to scalp health or androgenetic alopecia, but that does not make the shampoo an FDA-approved DHT treatment. Regenepure should use accurate cosmetic positioning for DR and reserve drug claims for minoxidil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DHT bad for everyone’s hair?
No. Follicular sensitivity and genetics are key.
Can shampoo remove DHT and stop baldness?
A cosmetic shampoo should not be presented as a proven treatment for androgenetic alopecia.
Is androgenetic alopecia the same as male pattern baldness?
Male pattern baldness is the male presentation of androgenetic alopecia; women can also develop pattern hair loss.
Educational content only. Sudden, patchy, painful, inflamed or unexplained hair loss should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional.