- What is a DHT blocker?
- How does DHT contribute to hair loss?
- Who are DHT blockers suitable for?
- Low-threshold DHT reducers in hair products
- Why do DHT blockers vary in quality?
- How do you choose the right DHT blocker?
- What can you realistically expect?
- Are DHT blockers safe? Side effects and considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions about DHT
- Conclusion
- Resources
DHT blockers are a popular choice for people who want to slow down hereditary hair loss. If you know what DHT is and are considering using a DHT blocker, this article will help you make an informed decision. We explain what a DHT blocker does, who it may be suitable for and how to choose an approach that matches your personal situation.
What is a DHT blocker?
A DHT blocker is a substance that helps reduce the impact of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on the hair follicles. In people who are genetically sensitive, DHT can cause the follicles to shrink and produce increasingly weaker hairs over time.
What DHT blockers do:
- They make it harder for DHT to attach to your hair follicles.
- They help your hairs stay in the growth phase for longer.
- They can reduce hair shedding and help keep it more stable.
- They are suitable for both men and women with a hereditary tendency to thinning hair or early-stage hair loss.
How does DHT contribute to hair loss?
In your body, a small amount of the hormone testosterone is converted into DHT. This happens in various places, including around the hair follicles on your scalp. Some people are naturally more sensitive to DHT. If you have this genetic tendency, DHT can cause the following:
- Your hair stays in the growth phase for a shorter period
- The hair follicles gradually become smaller
- The hairs grow back thinner and shorter
This process leads to hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia). Would you like a more detailed explanation? Then read our articles: What is DHT & Androgenetic Alopecia.
Who are DHT blockers suitable for?
DHT blockers are mainly suitable for people with androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss), which often shows as gradual thinning. They are less effective for other types of hair loss.
For men
- If you are developing a receding hairline.
- If the hair on your crown is thinning.
- If other men in your family experienced early hair loss.
For women
- If the hair on the top of your head is becoming thinner.
- If your parting appears to be widening.
- If you are experiencing hair loss around pregnancy or during the menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate strongly.
The earlier you take action, the better your chances of slowing down the process and keeping your hair more stable.
Low-threshold DHT reducers in hair products
There are several ways to reduce the influence of DHT on your hair. Below, we explain the most common and accessible options. These are not medicines but cosmetic products that contain natural ingredients often used in hair care. These plant extracts are widely studied because they may help lower the production of DHT. Their effectiveness varies per ingredient.
For medical DHT blockers, such as finasteride or dutasteride, we always recommend consulting a dermatologist or general practitioner. These routines can have significant side effects, so professional guidance is important.
Natural DHT-reducing ingredients
Many hair products contain plant-based extracts that are considered natural DHT reducers. These ingredients are studied for their potential ability to reduce the conversion of testosterone into DHT. They are gentle to use and commonly found in shampoos, lotions and supplements.
Examples of natural extracts used in Neofollics Hair Growth products include:
- Ecklonia cava
- Panax ginseng
- Nettle (Urtica dioica)
- Beta-sitosterol
- Red clover extract (Trifolium pratense)
- Isoflavones
- EGCG (green tea extract)
- Saw palmetto
Want to learn more about these ingredients? Visit our ingredients page to explore them in detail.
Shampoos and lotions for the scalp
These are products that you apply directly to your scalp. They work exactly where your hair grows.
Benefits:
- Gentle on both the scalp and the hair
- Easy to use as part of your normal washing or care routine
- Suitable for both men and women
Supplements that work from within
These are tablets or capsules that you take orally. They support your hair from the inside out, especially when stress, nutrition or hormonal changes are affecting your hair health.
Why do DHT blockers vary in quality?
Not all DHT blockers are the same. Their quality can differ significantly. This is because:
- Some products use higher-quality plant-based ingredients
- Some contain more (or less) of the active ingredients
- Your body absorbs certain substances more easily than others
- Effective products usually combine several ingredients in a smart way
In short: the better the ingredients and the stronger the combination, the more effectively a DHT blocker can support your hair.
A strong natural DHT blocker rarely relies on a single ingredient. It uses a well-balanced mix of substances that work together to support the hair follicles. This can help your hair grow stronger and keep your hair growth cycle more balanced.
Not sure about a product? Start by looking at the ingredients list. Check how many well-known natural DHT-reducing ingredients it contains. A simple rule of thumb: the higher an ingredient appears on the list, the higher its concentration in the product.
How do you choose the right DHT blocker?
If you’re considering trying a DHT blocker, it helps to first look at what best suits your situation. Keep the following points in mind:
How long have you been experiencing hair loss?
Is it only just starting, or have you noticed it for several years? The earlier hair loss begins, the easier it usually is to stabilise. If hair loss is more advanced, you will often need a more intensive approach.
What does your hair loss look like?
Is it mainly mild thinning, or has it progressed further? For early-stage thinning, shampoo or lotion is often a good place to start. If you already have visible thinner areas, a combination with supplements usually works better.
How does your body respond to supplements?
Some people tolerate tablets well, while others may experience stomach or skin sensitivity. If you are sensitive to supplements, it's better to start with products applied directly to the scalp.
What can you realistically expect?
It’s important to know what DHT-reducing products can do, and what they can’t. This helps you avoid disappointment and gives you a clear idea of what to expect.
What you can expect with consistent use
Stronger, fuller hair after 3 to 6 months.
Your hair follicles receive more support, allowing the hair to gradually become stronger and thicker.
A healthier scalp and improved hair condition.
Natural ingredients can help calm the scalp and create a better environment for hair to grow.
A stabilisation of hereditary hair loss.
You can often slow down the process, especially when you start early.
What is not realistic
Complete regrowth on areas that are already fully bald.
If hair follicles have stopped producing hair for a long time, regrowth is usually not possible.
Visible results within a few weeks.
Hair grows slowly. Every routine needs time, often several months. Give your routine and products a fair chance to work.
Permanent results without maintenance.
If you stop using the products, hair loss can return. Consistency is key.
Are DHT blockers safe? Side effects and considerations
Most cosmetic DHT blockers, such as shampoos, lotions and natural supplements, are generally considered mild and safe to use. Still, some people may experience minor side effects, such as:
- Stomach discomfort from certain supplements
- Allergic reactions if you are sensitive to specific plant extracts
For medical DHT blockers, such as finasteride or dutasteride, the situation is different. These treatments act on hormones and can come with stronger side effects. Cosmetic products do not have this hormonal effect, making them much more accessible and easier to use.
Frequently Asked Questions about DHT
Do DHT blockers work for both men and women?
Yes. Both men and women can benefit from DHT blockers, especially in cases of hereditary hair loss. DHT plays a role in both, although the pattern of thinning can look different.
Are DHT blockers helpful for women going through menopause?
During the menopause, hormone levels fluctuate, which can make the hair more prone to shedding. Mild DHT-reducing ingredients can offer extra support during this time.
Can I combine different types of DHT blockers?
Yes, and this is often recommended. Using a topical product (such as a lotion) together with a supplement supports the hair from multiple angles.
Can I use a DHT blocker together with microneedling?
Yes, you can. Microneedling can help improve the absorption of products applied to the scalp. Just make sure to use it gently and follow the instructions carefully.
Conclusion
DHT can play a significant role in hereditary hair loss, but there are gentle and accessible ways to help slow this process down. With shampoos, lotions, supplements and natural ingredients, you can often reduce shedding and support stronger, healthier hair. The earlier you start, the more effectively you can slow the genetic pattern of thinning. Choose an approach that suits your situation, and remember that consistent, realistic care delivers the best results.
Resources
Kanti, V., Messenger, A., Dobos, G., Reygagne, P., Finner, A., Blumeyer, A., Sánchez-Viera, M., Tosti, A., Trakatelli, M., & Blume-Peytavi, U. (2018). Evidence-based (S3) guideline for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in women and men. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.
Sawaya, M. E., & Price, V. H. (1997). Different levels of 5α-reductase type I and II in scalp of men and women with androgenetic alopecia. Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
Liao, S., & Hiipakka, R. A. (1995). Green tea catechins inhibit testosterone 5α-reductase. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications.
This information does not replace professional medical advice. If in doubt, always consult a doctor or specialist.
