Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

Here are some of the main functions of DHT in the body:

1. Male sex organ development: During the embryonic phase, DHT stimulates the development of the penis, vas deferens, prostate and seminal vesicles.
2. Secondary sex characteristics: During puberty, DHT plays a role in the development of secondary sex characteristics, such as the growth of body hair, changes in the voice, and the enlargement of the penis and testicles.
3. Regulation of hair growth: DHT is important for hair growth on the body, but it can also contribute to hair loss on the scalp. In some people, excess DHT can lead to male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).
4. Sexual behavior and libido: DHT can affect sexual desire and behavior.

The amount and activity of DHT can vary greatly from person to person. This is determined in part by genetics and age. Excess or insufficient amounts of DHT can cause various health problems, such as hair loss, prostate enlargement and certain cancers.

DHT and hair growth

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a crucial role in the growth and development of hair in the body, but the exact mechanism is complex and not fully understood. Here is a general explanation of the process:

Hormones like DHT communicate with cells by binding to specific receptors on the cell. Think of a key (the hormone) opening a lock (the receptor). DHT has a particular affinity for the androgen receptors in hair follicles.

When DHT binds to these androgen receptors, it activates genetic processes in the cell that lead to changes in hair growth and development. These processes include the production of proteins and other molecules necessary for hair growth.

In some parts of the body, such as the chest, face and armpits, DHT can promote hair growth. This is why men often develop more body hair during puberty.

Interestingly, DHT can have the opposite effect on the scalp. In people who are genetically predisposed to hair loss, DHT can cause hair follicles to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. This process, known as hair follicle miniaturization, is a major factor in male pattern baldness(androgenetic alopecia). This form of hair loss, because of its predictable pattern, is easily treated by hair transplantation.

How DHT communicates with hair follicles and causes hair loss is a subject of active research. It is clear that the process is influenced by genetics and other factors, but its exact action is not fully known.

Counteracting hair loss

Dihydrotestosterone is responsible for the miniaturization and falling out of hair. Finasteride inhibits the action of DHT, causing hair to regrow where growth had previously stopped. It is especially effective on the bald spot on the crown. After a few days, a decrease in DHT levels of about 70% is observed. At the same time, testosterone increases slightly.

After 3 to 6 months of use, you may notice some hair growth in the areas where it did not grow before. For a lasting effect, you must use this remedy continuously. When you stop, the newly formed hairs disappear again within half to one year.

DHT Level

The exact level of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body can vary from person to person, depending on a number of factors such as age, genetics and general health. But in general, normal blood levels of DHT for adult men range from about 30 to 85 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).

The absolute amount of DHT in the blood is only part of the story. DHT acts at the local level in tissues, so it is the interaction of DHT with the receptors in those tissues, such as the hair follicles or the prostate, that determines the effects.

Therefore, a man with normal or even low blood levels of DHT may still experience symptoms related to DHT, such as male pattern baldness or enlarged prostate, if his hair follicles or prostate tissue are particularly sensitive to this hormone. This can be influenced by genetic factors and other aspects of his hormonal balance.

To assess hormone levels and determine appropriate treatment, it is advisable to consult a physician or endocrinologist. They can perform a blood test to determine the levels of various hormones, including DHT, and interpret the results in the context of the individual's health situation.