DHT Blocker
What is DHT Blocker?
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) inhibits the absorption of nutrients by hair follicles, causing them to shrink so that hair falls out and eventually stops growing[1].There are currently two prescription medications available which block DHT. These are finasteride and dutasteride. Finasteride is a DHT Blocker that blocks the enzyme 5a reductase which converts Testosterone to DHT. The herbs saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol are thought to “block DHT” by interacting with receptors for DHT and the enzyme 5a-reductase.
Benefits and Uses of DHT Blocker
Because using a DHT blocker prevents hair follicles from shrinking, hair follicle can retain or grow back to a normal size, which supports healthy hair growth. This can be of particularly benefit for men who are suffering from male pattern baldness.
The DHT blockers by preventing the production of II 5-alpha reductase. This is the enzyme that finasteride and minoxidil work converts testosterone to DHT[2]. In this way, finasteride can strengthen hair and support healthy hair growth. Finasteride is a drug so it will require a doctor’s prescription. The usual dose for alopecia is 1 mg taken orally every day.
DHT Blocker Side Effects/Overdose
Finasteride reported side effects are not common but may include:
- Reduced libido
- Reduced semen production
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Fainting or weakness
- Runny nose
- Skin rash
Sometimes, the sexual side effects of finasteride may continue for a while after you stop taking the medication. No information is currently available about finasteride overdose. It has been shown to be safe in doses of up to 400mg a day. If you think you have taken an overdose of finasteride, you should seek medical advice immediately[3].
Side effects of minoxidil may include:
- Irritation of the treated area
- Eye soreness or redness
- Itching
Side effects of saw palmetto may include:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Constipation
There are no reports of overdose of this supplement.
Best Natural Herbal “DHT Blockers”
Saw palmetto is an extract of the fruit from the Serenoa repens tree. This herb interacts with the enzyme 5a-reductase[4] which produces DHT and also interacts with DHT receptors themselves. By blocking DHT, saw palmetto helps to support healthy hair growth. The recommended dose for saw palmetto is 320 mg daily[5]. The dose for a more concentrated extract of saw palmetto would be lower.
If you’re looking for a serum that can be applied topically to areas where your hair may be thinning or breaking, DrFormulas™ HairOmega® Foam could be the solution you seek. It contains 2% minoxidil combined with a blend of herbal DHT blockers like saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol.
HairOmega® DHT Blocker Biotin 5000 mcg Vitamins is suitable for both men and women. It contains biotin, also known as vitamin B7, which helps support healthy hair, skin, and nails. This supplement also contains 33 other ingredients to support the body’s natural metabolism of DHT as well as nutrients to nourish the hair’s roots.
With its specially designed formula including saw palmetto and beta-sitosterol, HairOmega® 3-in-1 not only supports healthy hair growth and DHT metabolism, but healthy skin and nail growth as well.
By strengthening and toning the hair follicles, DHT can help reduce the effects of male pattern baldness and to support the general health and condition of the hair. You can choose from an oral supplement or a topical application. Keep your hair strong and healthy with a DHT blocker.
[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/hair-loss-and-testosterone
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4314881/
[3] https://www.rxlist.com/dht-side-effects-drug-center.htm
[4] http://www.goldjournal.net/article/S0090-4295(00)01052-9/abstract
[5] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11934-000-0044-y