Hair Glossary

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT, 5α-dihydrotestosterone, 5α-DHT, androstanolone, or stanolone)

DHT plays a significant role in both male and female pattern hair loss (FPHL). 

It has an important causative role in a number of androgen-dependent conditions, including hair conditions like pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia or pattern baldness) and hirsutism (excessive facial/body hair growth).

It also has a role in prostate diseases such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. 5a-Reductase inhibitors, which prevent DHT synthesis, are effective in the prevention and treatment of these conditions.

DHT is an endogenous androgen sex steroid and hormone. The enzyme 5a-reductase catalyzes the formation of DHT from testosterone in certain tissues, including the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, epididymides, skin, hair follicles, liver, and brain. 

This enzyme mediates the reduction of the C4-5double bond of testosterone. Relative to testosterone, DHT is considerably more potent as an agonist of the androgen receptor androgen receptor (AR).

Note:  An agonist is a chemical that activates a receptor to produce a biological response.

In addition to its role as a natural hormone, DHT has been used as a medication. For instance, in treating low testosterone levels in men, for additional. information on DHT as a medication, see the androstanolone.