DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is an essential hormone when it comes to hair growth in the body. However, when it attaches to hair follicles for a long time, it can shrink or block them, causing hair thinning and hair loss. An unbalanced level of DHT can also interrupt hair growth cycles.
How Does DHT Affect the Hair?
It’s important to note that high levels of dihydrotestosterone are not the cause hair loss. The trouble is that hair follicles can become sensitive to it. According to the American Hair Loss Association, DHT triggers receptors to begin miniaturizing the follicles, which may cause the hair to become thin and fall out.
This sensitivity may also shorten the hair growth phase. As a result, it has been associated with genetic pattern baldness in men and hair loss conditions in women, such as androgenetic alopecia and traction alopecia.
Vitamins That May Block DHT
Blocking DHT is a good remedy for hair loss. Unlike other DHT blockers, vitamins and minerals are natural and don’t have adverse side effects when taken in recommended amounts. Here are some essential vitamins for hair growth and preventing DHT-related hair loss and other harmful effects of excess DHT.
Vitamin B9 or Folic Acid
Vitamin B9, commonly known as folic acid, is a beneficial nutrient best known for being recommended during pregnancy. Folic acid is commonly confused with folate. The two are different in that folate is the natural form found in foods, while folic acid is synthetically made for supplements. Regardless of the source, it’s an essential nutrient for hair growth. Both folate and folic acid play a crucial role in synthesizing and repairing DNA, and hair falls in this category.
Biotin or Vitamin B7
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, helps boost hair growth. It’s important in the production of keratin, a useful component in hair treatment, and improves hair quality and strength. You can find it sold as gummies or pills, and it’s often included in multi-vitamin preparations. You can also get more biotin from biotin-rich foods like broccoli, beef, bananas, and sweet potatoes.
Niacin or Vitamin B3
Niacin, one of the B vitamins, promotes healthy blood flow to the scalp which keeps the follicles healthy and helps blocks DHT. This nutrient is also essential for other cosmetic purposes, such as aging and general health.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is found naturally in leafy greens, vegetable oils, seeds, and nuts. It can also be taken as a supplement. Its antioxidant properties help minimize cell damage and improve hair growth.
Final Thoughts
Too little DHT may have adverse effects just as too much can cause problems such as hair loss. Therefore, a balanced level is ideal, and certain vitamins can help achieve that goal. Several B vitamins and vitamin E promote scalp and follicle health, which reduces DHT sensitivity. Since many vitamins occur naturally in food, increasing the intake of those foods can boost the health of your hair. Supplements can also help. Besides, the benefits of vitamins go beyond healthy hair!
If you’re suffering from hair loss, contact Genesis II today. Click here to schedule your free consultation.
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