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What Is a Natural DHT Blocker for a Woman's Scalp?

Written by Karyn Maier
28 August, 2019

Fact Checked

The conversion of testosterone to DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is one of the main causes of hair loss. Although estrogen counters this conversion, the onset of menopause decreases this protection in women. Fortunately, the process can be slowed or reversed with natural DHT blockers.

The conversion of testosterone to DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is one of the main causes of hair loss. Although estrogen counters this conversion, the onset of menopause decreases this protection in women. Fortunately, the process can be slowed or reversed with natural DHT blockers.

Treatment Goal

As hormone levels begin to decline in women, available circulating testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone, which signals hair follicles to enter a permanent state of rest. Since this conversion cannot take place without the release of enzyme 5-alpha-reductase (5-AR) Type II from hair follicles, blocking this enzyme is the primary goal.

Fatty Acids

British researchers at the University of Portsmouth confirm that L-lysine plays a significant role in deterring female hair loss. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology reports that gamma-linolenic acid also appears to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase 2.

Green Tea

Green tea extract contains epicatechin-3-gallate and epigallocatechin-3-gallate, which have demonstrated the ability to prevent 5-AR release. These agents also inhibit the 5-alpha-reductase type I, the enzyme needed to synthesize DHT from testosterone.

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto extract contains sterols that inhibit follicle uptake of dihydrotestosterone.

Beta-sitosterol

This plant sterol has been shown to be effective in blocking 5-AR release, particularly when combined with saw palmetto extracts.

The Wrap Up

Mature woman reading shampoo label in store, close-up As hormone levels begin to decline in women, available circulating testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone, which signals hair follicles to enter a permanent state of rest. Since this conversion cannot take place without the release of enzyme 5-alpha-reductase (5-AR) Type II from hair follicles, blocking this enzyme is the primary goal. Pills This plant sterol has been shown to be effective in blocking 5-AR release, particularly when combined with saw palmetto extracts.

Karyn Maier is a seasoned columnist and feature writer. Since 1992, her work has appeared in Mother Earth News, The Herb Quarterly, Better Nutrition and in many other print and digital publications. She is also the author of five books, and is published in six languages.

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