DHT And Hair Loss
DHT is short for Dihydrotestosterone (5α-Dihydrotestosterone). The molecular formula for DHT is C19H30O2. Although predominantly a male sex hormone, an androgen, both men and women have DHT produced in their bodies.
An enzyme called 5α-reductase synthesizes DHT in the adrenal glands, the hair follicles, the testes, and the prostate. Men and women can both lose hair as a result of changes in the metabolism of DHT in the body. This is much more significant for men who develop Adrogenetic Alopecia.
DHT causes hair thinning or "miniaturization." This is the progressive shrinking of the hair follicle.
DHT And Hair Loss Normal Hair Loss
According to the American Academy of Dermatology you lose anywhere from 50 to 100 strands of hair each day. On the days when you shower and wash your hair you can lose up to 250 strands. So what are the causes of normal hair loss?
There can be many causes of normal hair thinning and most are temporary. For example, many women may notice hair loss after giving birth. Some patients notice hair loss after general anesthesia or surgery. In fact, just being under a lot of stress can cause some noticeable hair loss. Acne and prolonged sun exposure can cause some hair loss; so even how you style and care for your hair can cause hair loss.
The most common cause of hair loss is a medical condition called hereditary hair loss. About 80 million men and women in the United States have this type of hair loss. Other names for this type of hair loss are:
Abnormal hair loss can be caused by a variety of illnesses or by side effects to medications and therapy. If you notice abnormal hair loss and are concerned then see a specialist. Most causes of hair loss can be stopped or treated. And hair loss can be restored either medically or surgically.