Androgen Metabolism as It Affects Hair Growth in Androgenetic Alopecia

April 1999 in “ Dermatologic Clinics ”

Keith D. Kaufman

androgen metabolism hair growth androgenetic alopecia androgens DHT 5α-reductase inhibitors finasteride enzyme activity hair follicles sebaceous glands Propecia

TLDR Androgens, like DHT, affect hair growth and treatments like finasteride may help.

This 1999 document explores the relationship between androgen metabolism and hair growth in androgenetic alopecia. It suggests that androgens, particularly DHT, play a role in the development of the condition. The document discusses the use of 5α-reductase inhibitors, such as finasteride, as a potential treatment option for reducing DHT levels and promoting hair growth. The study also found differences in enzyme activity in hair follicles and sebaceous glands in individuals with androgenetic alopecia.

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Androgenetic alopecia is caused by DHT affecting hair growth. Finasteride and minoxidil are used to manage hair loss by blocking DHT and promoting hair growth.

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Scalp biopsies are crucial for diagnosing hair loss conditions like Diffuse Unpatterned Alopecia (DUPA) and retrograde hair loss, as treatments like finasteride and dutasteride may not be effective if other conditions are present. Combining PPAR-GAMMA agonists with retinoids could improve treatments for conditions like Lichen Planopilaris.

community Why is it that low testosterone causes hair loss as well? How can I be balding?

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The conversation discusses the confusion over low testosterone potentially causing hair loss, with users sharing personal experiences and knowledge about hair loss treatments like Finasteride. Some users suggest that hair follicle sensitivity to DHT, not testosterone levels, is the key factor in balding, and others discuss the side effects of hair loss medications.

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DHT in the scalp, not the bloodstream, is crucial for hair loss. Treatments discussed include finasteride, minoxidil, dutasteride, and microneedling.

community UPDATE: The theory that explains everything. Please help me make this big!

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