Different Levels of 5α-Reductase Type I and II, Aromatase, and Androgen Receptor in Hair Follicles of Women and Men with Androgenetic Alopecia

September 1997 in “ Journal of Investigative Dermatology ”

Marty E. Sawaya, Vera H. Price

5α-reductase type I 5α-reductase type II aromatase androgen receptor androgenetic alopecia cytochrome P-450-aromatase AGA

TLDR People with hair loss have more androgen receptors and enzymes in certain follicles, with men and women showing different patterns.

This study found that people with androgenetic alopecia have higher levels of androgen receptors and 5α-reductase type I and II in frontal hair follicles, while higher levels of aromatase were found in occipital follicles. Men with AGA have higher levels of 5α-reductase type II and androgen receptor in their hair follicles, while women with AGA have higher levels of aromatase and 5α-reductase type I. Women have lower levels of 5α-reductase type I and II, but higher levels of cytochrome P-450-aromatase in their frontal hair follicles compared to men.

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Research cited in this study

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research Increased Androgen Binding Capacity in Sebaceous Glands in Scalp of Male-Pattern Baldness

51 citations, January 1989 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology”

Men with male-pattern baldness have more androgen receptors in their scalp's oil glands, which may contribute to hair loss.

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community Dutasteride SAVES your hair follicles: MAJOR BS on people who say it destroyed their hair permanently.

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 160 upvotes 10 months ago

The conversation discusses the effectiveness of hair loss treatments, specifically finasteride and dutasteride. The conclusion is that dutasteride significantly reduces DHT levels and may be more effective than finasteride for long-term hair retention, with some users reporting personal experiences and side effects.

community Dutasteride might be better for your hairline. Some people have more type 1 5AR activity in their scalp than others.

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 52 upvotes 1 year ago

Dutasteride might be better for hairline due to varying levels of 5AR activity in scalps. Genetic tests can determine if finasteride is enough or if dutasteride is needed.

community DHT/Testosterone levels in scalp Fin VS Dut.

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 60 upvotes 3 months ago

Dutasteride raises scalp testosterone by 99%, which may not be ideal for those sensitive to all androgens. Some argue finasteride's balancing act might be better, while others believe dutasteride is superior for hair regrowth.

community Topical Finasteride Doesn't Directly Reduce 5ar Enzyme on Scalp

in Finasteride/Dutasteride 72 upvotes 1 year ago

Topical Finasteride doesn't directly reduce 5ar enzyme on scalp and has the same mechanism as oral, needing to go through the liver. Users debate the accuracy of this information and discuss various studies and experiences.

community FCE 28260: A Forgotten 5α-Reductase Inhibitor

in Research 330 upvotes 2 months ago

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community Proof that finasteride messes with neurosteroids

in Research/Science 230 upvotes 3 months ago

Finasteride can impact neurosteroids, potentially causing depression and other side effects in some users. Despite these concerns, many continue using it for hair loss, with some switching to topical applications to mitigate side effects.

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Minoxidil, originally a blood pressure medication, is effective in treating hair loss in men and women, with different strengths recommended for each.