The powerful androgen with dual action
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen, a male sex hormone, produced in the body from testosterone . Although less well-known, DHT plays a central role in many typically male characteristics: body hair, muscle growth, libido, and prostate health.
However, DHT is also ambivalent: While it is crucial for male development and sexual function, it is simultaneously linked to hair loss and prostate enlargement . Therefore, for men's health, it is important neither to underestimate DHT nor to block it prematurely, but rather to understand and measure it systematically.
What is dihydrotestosterone?
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative of testosterone and is produced under the influence of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase . This enzyme converts some of the free testosterone into DHT, primarily in the skin, prostate, and hair follicles.
DHT is about three times more androgenic than testosterone. It binds more strongly and for a longer period to androgen receptors, thus producing more intense effects in the body.
What functions does DHT have in the male body?
DHT is already active during embryonic development; it ensures that the embryo develops into a boy. It also plays key roles later in life:
- Development of the external genitalia
- Promotes body hair growth (beard, chest, back)
- Maintaining libido and erectile function
- Supporting muscle building
- Involvement in prostate function
- Control of the skin's sebum production
An optimal DHT level contributes to sexual vitality, physical performance and radiance - but is only healthy if it is in balance with other hormones.
What symptoms indicate too much or too little DHT?
In cases of insufficient DHT (e.g., due to enzyme inhibition):
- Loss of libido despite normal testosterone
- Erection problems
- Lack of beard or body hair
- Muscle loss
- Lack of motivation
In cases of excessively high DHT levels (e.g., due to overactivity of 5-alpha reductase):
- Oily skin, acne
- Premature hair loss (androgenetic alopecia)
- Irritable bladder or prostate problems
- Enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
The evaluation of DHT should always be done in the context of other values , especially free testosterone, SHBG, estradiol and cortisol.
How is the DHT hormone status viewed?
DHT can be measured in blood serum . It is important to take the sample in the morning, as androgen levels fluctuate throughout the day.
In addition to DHT, the following parameters should also be determined:
- Free & Total Testosterone
- SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin)
- 5-alpha reductase activity (indirectly)
- Estradiol (estrogen)
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) - for prostate cancer screening from age 40
How can DHT be influenced?
Increased effect in cases of DHT deficiency:
- Ensure sufficient free testosterone as a "raw material" (e.g., through testosterone therapy when medically indicated)
- 5-alpha reductase activity is promoted by zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D.
- Regular strength training
- Sufficient sleep and stress reduction
- Low body fat percentage (fat inhibits testosterone and DHT)
Reduction in cases of excessively high DHT:
In certain cases (e.g., hair loss or prostate problems), targeted DHT reduction can be beneficial. Options:
- Inhibition of 5-alpha reductase by drugs (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride)
- Herbal active ingredients: Saw palmetto, nettle root, pygeum
- Dietary changes (less saturated fat, less alcohol)
- Balancing hormonal imbalances (e.g. testosterone deficiency, estrogen dominance)
Caution: Excessive reduction of DHT can lead to loss of libido, depression, fatigue and muscle loss - therefore, only under medical supervision.
What role does DHT play in hair loss?
Androgenetic alopecia – also known as hereditary hair loss – affects up to 80% of all men during their lifetime. The main culprit is DHT.
- It shortens the growth phase of the hair follicles.
- accelerates the hair renewal cycle
- This leads to a reduction in the size of the hair root (miniaturization).
Not every man reacts equally sensitively to DHT. The crucial factor is the sensitivity of the hair follicle, i.e., the genetic makeup of the androgen receptors.
DHT and the prostate: risk or normality?
A persistently high DHT level can lead to an enlarged prostate gland – medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) . Possible symptoms:
- Frequent urination
- Nighttime urination
- Weak urine stream
- Sensation of residual urine
Men aged 45 and over should have their PSA levels checked regularly.
What should men be aware of when dealing with DHT?
- Not every case of hair loss justifies a DHT blockade - the side effects can be severe.
- Testosterone replacement therapy can increase DHT levels – which may be desirable or undesirable, depending on the goal.
- Physical symptoms should be viewed holistically - DHT is part of a larger hormonal network.
- Targeted hormone measurement and individual consultation are the key to healthy regulation.
Conclusion
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a powerful hormone – it confers masculinity, vitality, libido, and energy. However, an excess can lead to hair loss or prostate problems. The solution lies not in general denial or ignorance, but in intelligent diagnosis, individual assessment, and hormonal balance.
