Male pattern baldness, or androgenic alopecia, is one of the most common causes of hair loss in men. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a sex hormone or androgen, is one of the hormones responsible for the development of characteristics we traditionally think of as male, such as deep voice or chest hair. High levels of DHT can lead to thinning hair and hair loss. But procedures like scalp micropigmentation can help.
What does DHT Do?
DHT is beneficial to both men and women. However, men have a much higher level of dihydrotestosterone than women and are more affected by it. In men, an enzyme known as 5-AR (5-alpha-reductase) converts the hormone testosterone into DHT through the prostate and testes. For most men, up to 10% of all testosterone gets converted into DHT.
DHT attaches to all the same sites within the body that testosterone does. But it is more powerful and remains bound at the cellular level for a longer time. As they go through puberty, DHT gives males:
- Increased body hair
- Increased muscle mass
- A deeper voice
- Growth of male genitals and sperm
- Changes in how the body stores fat
Having a low DHT can cause problems for boys. It may delay sexual development and put them at higher risk for prostate tumors in adulthood.
DHT and Hair Loss
DHT also links to receptors in the hair follicles on your scalp. Having high levels of DHT causes the follicles to shrink and shortens the natural growth cycle of hair. Hair will grow out thinner or less healthy. It will also fall out of the follicle at a faster-than-normal rate. New hairs will take longer to grow back in.
Not everyone is affected the same way by DHT. Variations in other androgen receptors and hormone levels as well as genetics all play a part. The shape and size of your head can even affect how fast DHT makes hair follicles shrink.
DHT Blockers
Some men have tried DHT blockers as a way to slow hair loss. But this might not be a good choice for everyone. DHT is a necessary hormone that plays an important part in male health and sexual function. There are several unwanted and even dangerous side effects related to taking DHT blockers:
- Decrease in libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Weaker muscles and bones
- Decrease in cognitive function
- Tenderness and swelling in breasts
While there are many tips and tricks for avoiding the side effects associated with DHT blockers, a better solution may be to skip them altogether.
Scalp Micropigmentation has No Dangerous Side Effects
Scalp micropigmentation (SMP) is a non-invasive, hormone-free treatment for hair loss with none of the health risks associated with taking DHT blockers. Many men who have opted for SMP report a boost of confidence and an increased desire to enjoy life.
Scalp micropigmentation is a cosmetic procedure that involves placing hundreds of micro-dots of natural pigment around the scalp with a very small needle. The pigment is placed only 2mm into the dermis, about half as deep as a traditional tattoo. SMP replicates the look of hair that has been closely shaved.
The experts at Micro Scalp USA encourage men to explore all the hair loss solutions available to them but to carefully consider the possible side effects. Micropigmentation helps men regain the look of full hairline without putting their health at risk.