Androgens and Hair: A Biological Paradox with Clinical Consequences

    Valerie A. Randall
    Image of study
    TLDR Androgens can both increase body hair and cause scalp hair loss.
    The document from 2012 explores the paradoxical effects of androgens on hair growth, where androgens can stimulate body hair development post-puberty but also cause scalp hair loss leading to baldness. It delves into the biology of hair follicles, their response to androgens, and the psychological impact of hair growth abnormalities. The document discusses the importance of androgen receptors and 5α-reductase in hair follicle response, with evidence suggesting that androgens act on dermal papilla cells to regulate hair characteristics. It also covers the clinical aspects of androgenetic alopecia (AGA), its genetic links, and the psychological effects of hair loss. Various treatments are mentioned, including antiandrogens for female hirsutism, 5α-reductase inhibitors like finasteride for male pattern baldness, and the potential of bimatoprost in clinical trials. The document underscores the need for ongoing research to better understand hair follicle biology and develop more effective treatments for hair disorders.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    73 / 73 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 1000+ results

      community Testosterone and hair loss seeming irrelevance

      in Research/Science  81 upvotes 1 year ago
      The conversation is about the role of testosterone in hair loss and the effectiveness of different treatments. The conclusion is that DHT is the main culprit for hair loss, and finasteride has been proven to work long-term in maintaining and regrowing hair. Testosterone may have a minor effect, but it is not the primary cause of hair loss.

      community A Different Take on Curing MBP

       16 upvotes 5 years ago
      Addressing hair loss by focusing on posture, blood flow, and craniofacial development. Methods include improving posture, cardiovascular activity, scalp massages, healthy diet, meditation, using minoxidil, and addressing craniofacial issues.
      Diffuse hair loss and scalp biopsies

      community Diffuse hair loss and scalp biopsies

      in Research  692 upvotes 4 months ago
      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.

    Similar Research

    5 / 1000+ results