The Science of Healthy Hair, Hair Loss and How to Regrow Hair | Huberman Lab Podcast

DHT Impact

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a significant role in hair loss by affecting hair follicle health. Andrew Huberman explains that DHT, a derivative of testosterone, binds to androgen receptors with high affinity, shortening the hair growth phase and miniaturizing hair follicles 1. This process leads to androgen-related alopecia, a common cause of hair loss in both men and women 2.

Dihydrotestosterone does two things that are bad for hair maintenance and hair growth. First of all, it shortens the antigen phase that growth phase.

--- Andrew Huberman

Treatments like saw palmetto aim to reduce DHT levels by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, potentially extending the hair growth phase and preventing follicle miniaturization 1.

   

Androgen Effects

Androgens, including DHT, significantly influence hair growth patterns and loss. Andrew Huberman notes that androgen receptors' distribution on the scalp determines hair loss patterns, with higher receptor density leading to more pronounced hair loss in specific areas 3. This genetic predisposition explains why some individuals experience hair loss at the crown, while others lose hair at the front or sides.

The pattern of androgen receptors that you inherit indeed does come from your mother's side.

--- Andrew Huberman

Minoxidil, a common treatment, can affect hormone levels, such as prolactin, which may lead to side effects like reduced libido and apathy 4. Understanding these hormonal interactions is crucial for effective hair loss management.