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DHT: Too Much or Too Little?
As a human ages from puberty to adulthood, hormone levels assist in the development of many important functions in the body. Testosterone is a hormone responsible for lowering a man’s voice. For the design and function of sexual organs. And for the regulation of muscle mass and fat storage.
A similar hormone; dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a byproduct of testosterone. DHT develops “male” sex characteristics, like a man’s beard and underarm hair. The body maintains a certain percentage of DHT. It converts from testosterone to DHT by way of an enzyme known as 5α-Reductase. If the percentage fluctuates out of range, the scalp and hair follicles can be compromised.
High levels of DHT are believed to be the leading cause of male-pattern baldness. Over time too much DHT production decreases the size of hair follicle receptors. These receptors receive and send nerve impulses from the brain, and need to remain stimulated for the hair to remain healthy.
A gene known as an Androgen Receptor (AR) binds to the DHT. Too much binding blocks the receptors on the scalp and hair follicle. This causes an increase in the production of DHT, which shrinks the hair follicles and causes hair loss. This article will explore some top 5 tips (and more!) to naturally remove DHT from the scalp.
Stimulate & Reactivate
Stimulation is the process of sloughing away the dead skin cells. This can be achieved many ways. Treatments from a dermatologist, barber or aesthetician include infrared therapy, vitamin and hormone injections, and topical leave-in treatments. These options can be very costly. The alternative is to find a natural treatment. Scalp massage, essential oils and lemon juice just a few of the many natural DHT removal treatments.
Natural scalp treatments are derived from plant-based and organic substances. They offer benefits at a fraction of the cost of medical treatments. They’re proven to increase blood circulation. Natural scalp treatments feed important nutrients to hair follicles, keeping the healthiest, root to tip.
Reactivation is the process of routinely adding the natural treatment to the scalp. This helps maintain and realign skin cells. Healthy skin cells grow, mature and reproduce in a coordinated pattern. If the pattern becomes obstructed, by accumulated skin cells or too much DHT, the skin cells grow in a different pattern. In the confusion, the cells overlap. Hair follicles shrink causing hair loss.
Take action! 5 simple tips…
Navigating the endless choices lining the aisles in the drug store and finding the right DHT removal product can be confusing and costly. Listed below are 5 natural DHT removal options.
- Natural essential oils are some of the most popular treatments to rid the scalp of DHT. Add a few drops of Rosemary essential oil or extract to daily shampoo routine. Rosemary contains natural anti-fungal properties. A great DHT blocker and a soothing treatment for a clogged scalp. Pumpkin seed oil naturally blocks DHT. With regular use this oil has shown significant success. Six months of daily 400mg absorption of Pumpkin seed oil showed 40% hair regrowth in a 2014 Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative hair study
- Take your vitamins. Much like vitamin D is essential for healthy bones, B-complex vitamins are vital for calcium absorption and hair follicle stimulation. Taking a vitamin B supplement like B-6 or B-12 increases blood flow to the scalp. Hair thickens and strengthens. Vitamin B isn’t proven to grow hair, but it definitely benefits the scalp/hair relationship and overall hair health.
- Life changes are the key to better health. If exercise, quitting smoking and getting more rest are on the list, seriously consider ticking those boxes. The body functions better when it isn’t being bombarded with stress, anxiety and man-made chemicals. As do hormones and Androgen receptors. Rid the body of toxins and stressors and the scalp might not be as susceptible to higher DHT levels.
Look in the Kitchen
- Green tea contains a property which inhibits the production of 5α-Reductase. Less of this enzyme means less conversion of DHT. By the cup or in a smoothie, green tea is easy to incorporate into a daily routine. Green tea is available as an extract and supplement too. The phenol in green tea is a well-known DHT blocker. It acts as an antioxidant, reducing cell structure damage and skin overlap.
- Eat healthy foods. Watermelon, carrots, tomatoes and mangos contain high levels of lycopene. These foods block extra DHT production. Keep the body hydrated. Skin and hair require adequate hydration. Water intake is mandatory to keep skin cells functioning effectively. Hydration maintains coordinated skin cell patterns. Eat biotin-packed berries, beans and bananas. Biotin acts as a natural skin conditioner. Fruits, vegetables and water keep hair follicles full and the scalp clean and healthy.
Simple, safe, and convenient – So long DHT…
Do research before starting a natural DHT scalp treatment. Speak to a physician about any side effects and food allergies. Natural options to remove DHT are simple, safe and convenient. A solution may already be living at home! Check for Pink Himalayan sea salt or activated charcoal. These pantry staples add nutrients and absorb toxins. Check the fridge for lemons. The juice works as an astringent. It opens pores and helps remove dead skin cells while neutralizing oils on the scalp. Exfoliate with ground fresh ginger and rinse with cucumber juice. This combo works as a natural exfoliant and plaque remover. Taking the first step towards blocking DHT production may be closer than you think!
Tired of chasing down hair growth solutions without the results you’re after? Make sure you’re using the 3 hair loss products known to work before experimenting with alternative solutions – you may be surprised with how effective those 3 alone can be.
