The impact of DHT on female pattern hair loss

An Overview of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) – Treatment approaches at Rejuvence Clinic

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a significant role in hair loss disorders, particularly androgenetic alopecia (AGA), commonly referred to as pattern hair loss in both males and females. While the role of DHT in male pattern hair loss is well-established, its contribution to female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is less clear but increasingly recognized in recent literature. DHT’s effects are thought to involve miniaturization of hair follicles, reduction of anagen (growth) phase duration, and eventual hair thinning.

Emerging evidence has highlighted both hormonal influences and genetic predispositions as drivers of FPHL. While DHT may not be the sole factor, its presence in hair follicles is considered a key element in androgen-mediated hair loss processes.

Key Findings:

1. Mechanisms of DHT in Hair Loss:

• DHT binds to androgen receptors in the scalp, leading to follicular miniaturization. This effect is mediated by 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT. While men tend to experience more acute hairline recession, women often display diffuse thinning, suggesting varying mechanisms of sensitivity.

2. Clinical Evidence:

• Clinical studies suggest that FPHL patients with elevated DHT levels or heightened androgen receptor activity tend to exhibit more pronounced hair loss.
• Treatments aimed at reducing DHT, such as finasteride (a 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor), have shown limited efficacy in women compared to men, highlighting the complexity of FPHL’s hormonal regulation.

3. Limitations of DHT-Centric Models:

• Hormonal fluctuations, such as those seen in menopause, implicate estrogen-progesterone imbalances alongside DHT in FPHL.
• Non-androgenic factors, including inflammation and scalp health, also contribute significantly to FPHL progression, reducing the sole culpability of DHT.

Current Evidence-Based Therapies:

• Antiandrogens (e.g., spironolactone, which blocks androgen receptors) and topical treatments (e.g., minoxidil) remain standard care. Both treatments provide indirect and direct modulation of hair growth pathways beyond DHT suppression.

At Rejuvence Clinic e we are keen to emphasise the importance of a comprehensive holistic approach to addressing hair loss, particularly in women with androgenetic alopecia. Here’s a summary and key highlights of our approach:

1. Consultation First:
   

• Every patient begins with a thorough consultation to assess the pattern of hair loss and explore potential causes.
• Factors such as family history, supplemental deficits, and underlying health issues are evaluated, often with the support of recommended blood tests.

2. Personalized Treatment Plan:
   

• A combination of treatments is typically recommended, as no single therapy is sufficient for significant improvement. Common treatments include:
• Vitamin Supplements: Utilizing the clinic’s in-house Replenology range.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Often part of the initial treatment.
• Medications: Including minoxidil and spironolactone for women, with finasteride generally avoided due to potential side effects.
• Advanced Therapies: Such as radiofrequency microneedling combined with exosomes, and adjuncts like basic fibroblast growth factor and copper peptides through mesotherapy.

3. Analytical Approach:

• The clinic emphasizes identifying all potential contributing factors and grading the severity of hair loss to create an effective treatment strategy.

4. Commitment to Long-Term Results:

• A realistic timeframe of 1.5 to 2 years is set for visible progress, with an emphasis on consistency and patience.

5. Patient Support and Financial Sensitivity:

• Rejuvence Clinic offers reassurance and support throughout the process, aiming to balance results with financial considerations.

6. Contact and Further Information:

• Patients can reach the clinic via WhatsApp or phone at 0207-531-6600.
• Additional resources and details are available on the clinic’s website.

For those seeking expert care and a tailored approach to hair loss, Rejuvence Clinic emphasizes professionalism, a multi-faceted treatment plan, and ongoing support to ensure the best possible outcomes.