What Is DHT and How Does It Affect Hair Loss? Symptoms, Testing, and Natural DHT Control 

Introduction

Have you noticed more hair than usual on your pillow, in the shower, or on your comb? Hair loss is common. The most common type is androgenetic alopecia, also called genetic or pattern hair loss. It can affect both men (about 8 out of 10) and women (about 4 out of 10), although the pattern may look different¹. Genes and hormones both play a role. One hormone involved is dihydrotestosterone (DHT)¹. This article explains what DHT is, how it can affect hair growth, how doctors may assess DHT-related hair loss, and what lifestyle steps may support hair health. 

What Is DHT and Why Does It Matter?

DHT is a natural hormone made from testosterone with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. DHT assists normal male development, especially during puberty. It contributes to changes such as facial and body hair growth, a deeper voice, and growth of the prostate gland². In adult women, however, DHT is not very beneficial².

How Does DHT Affect Hair Growth?

Hair grows from tiny openings in the skin called hair follicles⁴. In people who are genetically sensitive to DHT, the hormone can attach to these follicles, especially on the scalp. Over time, the follicles may shrink. This process is called miniaturisation. Smaller follicles produce thinner and shorter hairs. The active growth phase may also become shorter, while the resting phase becomes longer. As this continues, some follicles may stop producing visible hair. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow this process in some people¹.

Signs of High DHT Levels

High DHT levels do not always cause noticeable symptoms. However, increased DHT activity may lead to certain changes in the body, especially in people who are genetically sensitive to its effects. Some possible symptoms of high DHT include: 

• Gradual thinning of hair or increased hair fall from the scalp¹
• A receding hairline or bald patches (particularly in men) 
• Increased facial/body hair growth²
• Oily skin and acne⁵ 
• Enlarged prostate (in older men)²
• Increased body weight in women with PCOS⁶ 

Note: These symptoms may also be linked to other health conditions, so consulting a doctor is important for an accurate diagnosis. 

How Are DHT Levels Tested?

Doctors do not usually diagnose hair loss by checking DHT alone. They first look at the pattern of hair loss, medical history, family history, scalp health, medicines, nutrition, and any symptoms that may suggest a hormone or thyroid problem. 

• Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor may look for signs associated with increased DHT activity, such as pattern hair loss, an enlarged prostate in men, oily skin, or hirsutism (excessive facial or body hair growth) in women. They may also ask about family history of androgenetic alopecia and existing conditions such as PCOS or other hormonal imbalances^2,6. 
• DHT Blood Test: The doctor might recommend a blood test to measure the amount of DHT in the blood. The test involves collecting a blood sample, which is analysed in a laboratory to determine DHT levels³.

Natural Ways to Block DHT

Many people search for ways to reduce DHT when they learn that DHT is linked to pattern hair loss. Lifestyle changes can support general hair and scalp health, but they may not directly lower DHT enough to treat androgenetic alopecia. Medical treatments may be considered by a doctor when appropriate. 

• Manage Stress Levels: Long-term stress may contribute to increased hair shedding in some people⁷. Regular physical activity, relaxation practices, and adequate sleep may help support overall well-being⁸.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Low levels of nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, zinc, protein, or other vitamins and minerals can contribute to hair loss. A balanced diet may support healthy hair growth⁷.
• Use Natural Hair Care Methods: Avoiding excessive heat styling, harsh chemicals, and tight hairstyles can help protect hair follicles from additional damage⁹.
• Follow a Healthy Lifestyle: Practices such as smoking are known to contribute to hair loss. Avoiding smoking can help reduce the progression¹.

Note: The results of these approaches may differ depending on the individual. If you are experiencing persistent hair loss or noticeable hair thinning, it is best to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment. 

Foods That May Help Block DHT Naturally

Some foods contain nutrients or plant compounds that have been studied for possible effects on hormone pathways linked to DHT. However, most evidence is early, indirect, or based on small studies. These foods may support general health, but they should not be described as proven DHT blockers. 

• Pumpkin Seeds: According to some studies conducted on women with PCOS, pumpkin seeds are known to reduce testosterone (a precursor of DHT) levels, as they are rich in zinc and magnesium¹⁰.
• Green Tea: Some animal studies have shown that catechins found in green tea may affect enzymes involved in androgen activity, including DHT production¹¹.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are known to have compounds that help reduce the activity of 5-alpha-reductase and androgen receptors, which can lower DHT levels¹².
• Soy: Soy has been found to influence hormone levels, particularly the lowering of DHT levels¹³.
• Turmeric: Curcumin found in turmeric helps reduce testosterone and DHT levels¹⁴.

Note: Including these foods as part of a balanced diet may support overall health, but they should not be an alternative for medical treatment. If you have persistent hair loss or concerns about high DHT levels, consult your doctor for proper evaluation and guidance. 

Natural DHT Blockers vs. DHT Blocker Supplements

Several supplements are marketed as “DHT blockers.” The table below explains the difference between food-based approaches and supplements. 

Note: Foods and supplements should not replace medical treatment. Supplements can interact with medicines and may not be suitable for everyone. Prescription medicines are approved for specific uses, but over-the-counter “DHT blocker” supplements are not approved by the FDA to treat hair loss. Speak with a qualified doctor before using any supplement or medicine for hair loss. 

Side Effects of Blocking DHT

Medicines that lower DHT can cause side effects in some people. These effects are more commonly discussed in men using prescription DHT-lowering medicines, but anyone considering treatment should review benefits and risks with a doctor. 

• Reduced sex drive (low libido) in some individuals 
• Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction) 
• Breast tenderness or enlargement in men (gynaecomastia) 
• Problems with ejaculation, such as reduced semen volume (ejaculatory dysfunction) 
• Mood changes¹⁸

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if your hair fall becomes persistent, worsens over time, or starts affecting your daily life. Medical advice is also important if you notice sudden hair shedding, a receding hairline, thinning hair, or bald patches^1,2. If your scalp feels itchy, painful, red, or flaky along with hair loss, it could indicate an underlying scalp condition that requires treatment¹⁹. 

If you are taking DHT-blocking medications or supplements and develop side effects such as reduced sex drive, erectile or ejaculatory problems, skin rashes, mood changes, or breast enlargement (in men), consult your doctor promptly^17,18.

Hair loss that begins after starting a new medication, recovering from a recent illness, or experiencing significant stress should also be evaluated²⁰. In women with PCOS, symptoms such as hair fall, irregular periods, excessive facial hair, or severe acne may indicate a hormonal imbalance that requires medical attention⁶.

Also Read: Blood Test for Hair Loss: Who Should Get Tested, Types and Prevention

 Conclusion

Understanding DHT can help explain why pattern hair loss happens in some people. DHT is a normal hormone, but people who are genetically sensitive to it may develop gradual hair thinning. Healthy habits, gentle hair care, and good nutrition can support hair health, but persistent or worsening hair loss should be assessed by a doctor. Early medical advice can help identify the cause and discuss treatment options that may slow hair loss or improve hair growth. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

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12. Arias-Chávez DJ, Mailloux-Salinas P, Ledesma-Aparicio J, et al. Tomato lipidic extract plus selenium decrease prostatic hyperplasia, dihydrotestosterone and androgen receptor expression versus finasteride in rats. World J Urol. 2023;41(10):2793-2799. doi:10.1007/s00345-023-04558-x. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37659980/

13. Dillingham BL, McVeigh BL, Lampe JW, Duncan AM. Soy protein isolates of varying isoflavone content exert minor effects on serum reproductive hormones in healthy young men. J Nutr. 2005;135(3):584-591. doi:10.1093/jn/135.3.584. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15735098/ 

14. Ide H, Lu Y, Noguchi T, et al. Modulation of AKR1C2 by curcumin decreases testosterone production in prostate cancer. Cancer Sci. 2018;109(4):1230-1238. doi:10.1111/cas.13517. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29369461/

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17. Ashique S, Sandhu NK, Haque SkN, Koley K. A Systemic Review on Topical Marketed Formulations, Natural Products, and Oral Supplements to Prevent Androgenic Alopecia: A Review. Nat Prod Bioprospect. 2020;10(6):345-365. doi:10.1007/s13659-020-00267-9. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7648777/

18. Devjani S, Ezemma O, Kelley KJ, Stratton E, Senna M. Androgenetic Alopecia: Therapy Update. Drugs. 2023;83(8):701-715. doi:10.1007/s40265-023-01880-x. Also Read: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10173235/

19. Dandruff, Cradle Cap, and Other Scalp Conditions: MedlinePlus. Accessed August 6, 2026. https://medlineplus.gov/dandruffcradlecapandotherscalpconditions.html 

20. Singh S, Muthuvel K. Practical Approach to Hair Loss Diagnosis. Indian J Plast Surg. 2021;54(4):399-403. doi:10.1055/s-0041-1739240. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8719967/

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22. Lak M, Forbes SC, Ashtary-Larky D, et al. Does creatine cause hair loss? A 12-week randomized controlled trial. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 22(Suppl 1):2495229. doi:10.1080/15502783.2025.2495229. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12020143/

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