DHT-blocking foods and supplements work for people whose hair loss is driven by dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). They are not effective for other types of hair loss. Here is a breakdown of who benefits, who does not, and how to tell the difference.
Who DHT-Blocking Foods and Supplements Work For
Men With Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Baldness)
Androgenetic alopecia accounts for over 95% of male hair loss. It follows the Norwood Scale pattern, starting with temple recession (Norwood 2) and potentially advancing to extensive loss (Norwood 7). DHT causes follicle miniaturization in genetically susceptible areas, and reducing DHT exposure can slow or partially reverse this process.
Natural DHT blockers like saw palmetto (320mg daily) and pumpkin seed oil (400mg daily) inhibit 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. These are most effective for:
- Norwood 2-3: Early recession with 800-2,200 grafts worth of loss. Follicles are still partially functional. Natural DHT blockers may slow progression and produce modest thickening.
- Norwood 3V-4: Moderate loss with 2,000-3,500 grafts worth. Natural DHT blockers help stabilize but rarely produce visible regrowth alone.
- Norwood 5+: Advanced loss with 3,000-7,500 grafts worth. Natural DHT blockers offer maintenance value but prescription finasteride (80-90% halt, 65% regrowth) is more appropriate as primary treatment.
Women With Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL)
Female pattern hair loss involves diffuse thinning across the crown and top of the scalp, typically following the Ludwig Scale. DHT plays a role, though estrogen and other hormones also contribute. Some women benefit from natural DHT blockers, particularly:
- Post-menopausal women whose declining estrogen levels increase relative DHT sensitivity
- Women who cannot take finasteride or spironolactone due to contraindications
Women should consult a dermatologist before starting any DHT-blocking regimen, as hormonal interactions differ from male pattern baldness.
Post-Transplant Patients
After a hair transplant (FUE recovery: 7-10 days, graft survival: 90-95%), transplanted follicles are permanently DHT-resistant. However, surrounding native hair remains vulnerable. DHT-blocking foods and supplements are appropriate for any transplant patient who wants to protect their remaining native hair density.
Who DHT-Blocking Foods and Supplements Do NOT Work For
Alopecia Areata Patients
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles. DHT is not involved. Natural DHT blockers will have zero effect on this condition. Treatment for alopecia areata involves immunomodulatory therapies like corticosteroids or JAK inhibitors.
Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium causes widespread shedding triggered by stress, illness, surgery, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies. Hair follicles are pushed prematurely into the resting (telogen) phase. Since DHT is not the driver, blocking it will not address the underlying cause. Telogen effluvium typically resolves on its own within 6-12 months once the trigger is removed.
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia results from physical pulling on hair follicles from tight hairstyles, extensions, or braids. The damage is mechanical, not hormonal. DHT blockers are irrelevant for this condition. Treatment involves removing the source of tension and allowing follicles to recover.
Scarring Alopecias
Conditions like lichen planopilaris and frontal fibrosing alopecia destroy hair follicles permanently through scarring. DHT-blocking is not a treatment mechanism for these inflammatory conditions. Dermatological evaluation and anti-inflammatory treatments are required.
Quick Candidacy Assessment
| Your Situation | DHT Blockers Helpful? | Better Option |
|---|---|---|
| Receding hairline / thinning crown (male) | Yes | Start natural, consider finasteride |
| Diffuse thinning on top (female) | Possibly | Consult dermatologist first |
| Patchy, coin-shaped bald spots | No | See dermatologist (alopecia areata) |
| Sudden widespread shedding | No | Identify trigger (telogen effluvium) |
| Hair loss from tight hairstyles | No | Remove tension source |
| Post-transplant maintenance | Yes | Combine with surgeon's plan |
How to Confirm Your Hair Loss Type
The most reliable way to determine whether your hair loss is DHT-driven is through evaluation. Options include:
- AI-based assessment: Get a free analysis at myhairline.ai/analyze to identify your Norwood stage and hair loss pattern
- Dermatologist evaluation: A scalp examination with dermoscopy can confirm follicle miniaturization
- Blood tests: Hormone panels can identify DHT levels and rule out thyroid or nutritional causes
If your loss follows the classic Norwood pattern (temple recession, vertex thinning), DHT-blocking foods and supplements are appropriate to try. Read the comprehensive DHT-blocking guide for a full protocol, or compare natural options against prescription treatments in the finasteride vs hair transplant analysis.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a board-certified dermatologist to confirm your hair loss type before beginning any treatment.