4 citations,
October 1988 in “Clinics in Dermatology”
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is crucial for conditions like male-pattern baldness and acne, and measuring a byproduct, androstanediol glucuronide, is a better way to assess DHT's effects than DHT blood levels.
Elevated bile acids can inhibit the enzyme AKR1C2, leading to increased DHT levels, which may accelerate hair loss in those predisposed to androgenetic alopecia. Treatments mentioned include topical minoxidil and finasteride.
The post and conversation are about the role of the enzyme 3alpha-hydroxysteroid reductase in hair loss and the potential of compounds like procyanidin B2 and sulforaphane to boost its activity for hair regrowth. Further research is needed to develop effective treatments based on this theory.
Genetic variations influence how people respond to dutasteride for hair loss, with some benefiting more from finasteride. Dutasteride is effective for most, but genetic differences may cause it to be less effective for some.
Hair loss theories discussed include poor blood flow, scalp tension, inflammation, and DHT. Treatments mentioned are massaging scalp, minoxidil, finasteride, and RU58841.
Dutasteride is less commonly prescribed for hair loss because it is not FDA-approved for this purpose, unlike finasteride, which is more accessible and preferred due to fewer side effects. Dutasteride may be more effective in reducing DHT but has a longer half-life and potentially more significant side effects.