A normal aging adult male loses some scalp hairs daily. However, for many men, this loss is much more significant due to genetically predisposed hair follicles and elevated levels of dihydrotestosterone, or DHT.

In males experiencing hair loss, especially prematurely, high DHT levels are present on the scalp. DHT is formed when the enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts male testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. DHT then attaches itself to the hair follicle and acts as a hormone inhibitor slowing down or preventing hair growth from the follicle. Over time, the hair follicle shrinks, and is no longer able to produce hair.

High levels of DHT are found to be the main cause of male pattern hair loss, the most common form of hair loss in balding men. Male pattern hair loss typically afflicts men between the ages of 25 and 50, although it can strike some men in their teens. It presents itself in a specific pattern, beginning at the temples and progressing to the crown of the head. This DHT-related hair loss usually starts gradually but may eventually lead to total baldness. Once the effects of DHT become noticeable, it is very difficult to reverse without drugs or supplements.

Although many males are genetically predisposed to elevated levels of DHT, there are some treatments that can slow down the progression of male pattern baldness. The two most popular FDA approved treatments are Minoxidil and Finasteride.

The first, Minoxidil, commonly known as Rogaine, comes in the form of a topical foam and is applied directly to the scalp. Originally created as treatment for high blood pressure, scientists found that one of Minoxidil’s side affects was increased hair growth. Studies have yet to prove exactly how it works, but it is thought that it may serve to increase blood flow to the scalp, thus stimulating hair growth.

The second popular treatment for male pattern hair loss is Finasteride which is prescribed as a pill and sold under the brand names of Propecia or Proscar. Taken orally, Finasteride is proven to be slightly more effective than Minoxidil. It acts by attaching itself to 5-alpha enzyme and preventing it from converting free testosterone into DHT. Due to this inhibition, DHT levels on the scalp drop and hair stops thinning. For many users taking Finasteride, hair follicles enlarge allowing for thicker hair to grow. Although results vary, Finasteride works for about 90 percent of men that experience male pattern hair loss.