Over time, this causes the follicles to shrink, leading to hair that becomes progressively thinner, shorter, and weaker. Managing androgen-related scalp issues is possible with the right approach. Simple steps like maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and eating a balanced diet can support better hormone regulation. For those exploring professional treatment options, telehealth services make it easier than ever to access expert care. Addressing androgen-related hair issues isn’t an overnight fix - it takes time. The connection between hormones and hair is complex and varies from person to person.
Dr. Kopelman and our team explain the science, address myths, and guide patients toward effective treatments tailored to their specific needs. For a more customized plan, it’s worth consulting healthcare providers who specialize in hormonal health. When DHT attaches to receptors in the follicles, it sets off a process called miniaturization. The first step is a thorough evaluation that considers your unique sensitivity, symptoms, and goals for treatment. Combining proven medical treatments with lifestyle changes can lead to lasting improvements.
According to the AUA, low testosterone for adult males who don’t have obesity is below 300 ng/dL. Research suggests that females produce three times more testosterone than estrogen before menopause. As you grow older, the level of testosterone in your body naturally decreases, leading to a variety of changes. Testosterone levels may start to decline after age 30 years in males and between ages 45 and 55 years in females.
The team at Eureka Health notes, "Sudden, diffuse thinning is a red flag—classic male-pattern loss is gradual and temple-first." Watch for the signs below. Testosterone and its derivative dihydrotestosterone (DHT) influence hair-follicle growth cycles. If you’re worried about hair loss, talk to your doctor about your treatment options. If you’re noticing changes in your hair and experiencing signs of testosterone imbalance like fatigue, low libido, or mood swings, it’s worth exploring whether your hormones are part of the picture. But if you’re genetically sensitive to DHT, hair thinning may be one of the earliest visible signs of how your body responds to hormonal shifts. If your scalp is more sensitive to DHT, or if you produce more DHT locally due to increased 5-alpha-reductase activity, you may be more prone to hair loss. It’s also why testosterone and hair loss are closely linked in clinical research, even if high testosterone itself isn’t the direct culprit.
If you are suffering hair loss, regardless of whether or not you're on testosterone, Malik encourages you to consult a dermatologist who may be able to help you identify any underlying medical causes and potentially offer treatment. Dr. Rena Malik breaks down what you should know about testosterone replacement therapy and hair loss. Green tea, onions, pumpkin seeds, and edamame, among other foods and beverages, contain nutrients that may help lower DHT levels and prevent hair loss. It’s worth noting that although consuming soy is commonly thought to decrease testosterone levels in males, research suggests this isn’t the case.