Latest news with #DHT
Telegraph
2 days ago
- Health
- Telegraph
I reversed my thinning hair naturally with diet and supplements
I started losing my hair in my mid-20s. My crown thinned first which became a bald patch. Then, in my early-30s, my hairline started receding. I wasn't happy about losing my hair, and early on I tried a topical treatment called minoxidil, but this caused scalp irritation, so I stopped. I didn't have an emotional attachment to having long hair, so I shaved my head instead. As a personal trainer, I work with a lot of men in the fitness industry, and it became very clear to me how much of a problem hair loss is for them. It is a major stressor and damages confidence. Many try finasteride, an oral medicine prescribed on the NHS to treat enlarged prostates, but which is also sold privately as a treatment for baldness. It works by suppressing the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is an important hormone for male sexual characteristics, but which may contribute to shrinking hair follicles, shorten hair growth cycles, and reduce hair's ability to absorb nutrients. Finasteride can have a range of worrying side effects, and I witnessed some of these in some of my clients who I train online. There was a case of sexual dysfunction which continued for years after the client stopped taking the medication. More than one suffered depression and were placed on antidepressants, which they believed was a direct result of finasteride. One even had damage to the structure of his penis. The reason I personally never tried finasteride was that I would rather be bald and not run the risk of low DHT symptoms. Last year, the Government issued a warning for men taking the finasteride to treat baldness to be vigilant as it has been reported to cause 'depressed mood, depression, suicidal thoughts and sexual dysfunction'. The warning emphasised the lack of awareness of these potential side effects. Can you cure hair loss with supplements? Aged 37, and with this warning in mind, I decided to see if baldness could be reversed or slowed with natural solutions that don't impact hormones. I wanted to do a proper experiment to see whether I could really improve my hair growth over time. I started researching as much as I could about why hair loss happens, and other ways to slow the process or promote regrowth. The first thing I found was that, while most people think DHT is the only cause of hair loss, there is so much more to it. Genetics does play a part, particularly in male pattern baldness – the most common type – but there are hundreds of reasons why hair falls out, including nutrient deficiencies, nutrient absorption issues, inflammation, oxidative stress, and gut health. I did a deep dive into research and used the PubMed database to look up studies and academic papers. I found reports that suggested a lot of non-medical treatments for hair loss were equally as effective as available medications. The health community I am part of share lots of information and tips, so I asked this group questions and started pinpointing some of the things I wanted to try. I became the guinea pig and made my own mixtures and tinctures containing dozens of ingredients. I tried lots of things in combination with the aim of reducing inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, improving nutrient intake, and enhancing nutrient absorption and circulation. I devised a programme which combined nutrition, topical compounds and lifestyle changes, and created a sample product which contained over 50 active ingredients. The supplements and treatments I tried for thinning hair I worked out that there were several strategies that could potentially counter the different controllable factors that cause hair loss – the ones that aren't genetic. You can put things on your scalp, you can eat the right things in the form of supplements and food, and you can adjust your lifestyle. My diet and exercise routines were already on track and just needed slight tweaks, so I concentrated on trying to boost my hair regrowth by finding the right mix of supplements and topical oils and compounds. I spent about £400 in total on products, and used them all religiously according to the instructions on the labels. I didn't have a time limit in mind but I started to see results after a month, which I was pleased about. Even though hair loss hadn't affected me on an emotional level, as it does for many men, it was still really encouraging to see regrowth, and to know it was as a result of natural products. The details Redensyl This is a natural ingredient that combines plant extracts, including DHQG (dihydroquercetin-glucoside) and EGCG2 (epigallocatechin gallate glucoside), which are thought to activate hair follicle stem cells. It is used in cosmetic serums and studies suggest it can be effective for slowing hair loss and hair regrowth. Copper peptide Also called GHK-Cu, copper peptide occurs naturally in the body. Studies show promise in promoting hair growth and improving scalp health. It works by stimulating hair follicles, enhancing circulation to the scalp, and promoting tissue regeneration. I used this in a blend and as a single ingredient, and it seemed to work well. I also experimented with it for skin care, and it appeared to reduce fine lines and gave a more even-looking complexion. Niacinamide Also known as nicotinamide or NAM, this is a form of vitamin B3 produced by the body and found in various foods. It has almost identical physiological effects to Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), which in studies has been found to promote hair growth in vitro as well as in mice. Caffeine Applying caffeine to the scalp can stimulate hair follicles, potentially leading to longer hair growth and increased hair density. One study last year concluded that a shampoo which included caffeine and adenosine (a natural compound found in cells), significantly enhanced hair density and reduced hair loss. Drinking coffee, however, does not stimulate hair growth. Beef tallow It sounds unpleasant but rendered beef fat, or beef tallow, is commonly used in the formulation of hair care products. It contains fatty acids (such as oleic and stearic acids), vitamins A, D, E, and K, which nourish the scalp and hair follicles. It also moisturises and conditions, reducing dryness and flakiness that can hinder hair growth. Castor oil This is rich in ricinoleic acid, which is a combination of unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid and hydroxy acid and has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Rosemary oil I tried one product with rosemary oil and it was too greasy to use. It left my hair and scalp looking shiny and unwashed. Luckily, most of the topical products I tried had no scent at all. Other supplements worth trying I have been using supplements for other things, such as boosting my testosterone, for some time and have seen drastic improvements, so I was confident that they could also have an effect on hair growth. Bamboo extract This is a powder extracted from the leaves, stems or shoots of bamboo and is taken orally to increase collagen. It is also used as a component in some skincare and haircare formulas. Bamboo is rich in silica, and it's thought that incorporating bamboo into haircare may help strengthen strands, especially strands that have been damaged. Betaine HCL (hydrochloride) This is an acidic form of betaine, a vitamin-like substance found in grains and other foods, which is recommended for improving digestion and nutrient absorption. Biotin Also known as vitamin B7, this is thought to play a role in reducing hair loss primarily by contributing to the production of keratin, a protein that makes up hair. My hair regrowth diet This experiment took place over 16 weeks, but I've now incorporated the elements into my day-to-day life. I didn't have to change my diet much at all because I already eat a lot of the foods that I worked out would likely help hair growth, such as liver (which I eat a couple of times a week) and oysters, which I eat when I can. Oysters can help reduce hair loss primarily because they are an excellent source of zinc, a crucial mineral for hair follicle function and growth. I also incorporated three to four raw egg yolks a day in a shake with collagen. I tried to eat more foods containing higher levels of collagen and gelatine, compounds that are known to be important in hair growth. They are found in organ meats, chicken skin and oysters. I also supplemented with homemade jelly, bone broth and collagen powder. Gelatine – a protein derived from animal collagen – is rich in amino acids, including sulphur-rich ones, which are essential for hair and nail growth. Studies have shown that gelatine consumption and topical treatments can improve hair thickness, growth, and reduce hair loss. Additionally, it may help improve hair moisture and thickness. I avoided intermittent fasting as this popular form of diet has been shown in studies to inhibit hair follicle regrowth by inducing cell death in follicles. I also avoided low-carb, keto-led dietary regimens as lack of carbohydrates is also believed to impact hair growth through a similar mechanism to intermittent fasting. In one study I found, after six months, 45 per cent of a group of subjects on a low-carb diet reported hair loss, compared to only 21 per cent of a group following a low-fat diet. Coincidentally, my hair loss started when I was following an intermittent fasting and low-carb routine in my early-20's. Can exercise have an impact? As a personal trainer I was keenly aware of the effects that physical stress can have on the body. I knew, for example, that a lot of hard cardio would have placed stress on my body and I would have needed to reduce that during the experiment. I had already dropped my weight training, from five to six days a week to three, before I started the experiment, and I wasn't doing cardio, as I tend not to unless I'm training for something specifically. During the experiment, I continued lifting weights three times a week and walked every day. Mental stress also plays a big part, so keeping that down was beneficial. I feel like the reduction in stress gleaned from less intense exercise was 100 per cent helpful, and my body composition actually improved. Three things that didn't work Topical melatonin There are some suggestions that this might work, but I didn't stick it out as I noticed my energy levels change using it. Minoxidil While there is plenty of evidence to suggest that this drug works for many people, it irritated my scalp too much to use. Dermaroller I used a dermaroller for a while, but it can cause infection and skin damage if done excessively or incorrectly, so I currently don't use it as part of my process. The verdict In 16 weeks I noticed a significant improvement in hair growth. The thinning was reversed. I was able to grow longer hair. For anyone worried about losing their hair, I would recommend investigating natural solutions sooner rather than later when you notice thinning. I'd particularly recommend boosting your gelatine intake and using caffeine, copper peptide and Redensyl, as I did, as there are studies that back up their efficacy. If you don't want to apply potions or take supplements, the diet and exercise elements are easy wins but are likely not going to be as effective. They do, however, both offer health benefits beyond hair preservation, so they are certainly not going to do you any harm. It's been a bit of a slog, but when I look at my head of head today I'm thrilled with what I have achieved.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
Dealing with hair loss? Save 15% on the doctor-developed treatment that boosts new growth: 'The ONLY thing that has helped my hair loss!'
If hair loss has you struggling with your confidence and frustrated with a lack of effective solutions, it may be time to direct your attention to KilgourMD. The plant-based treatment system takes a multifaceted approach to diminishing hair by both stopping existing loss and stimulating new growth. With the KilgourMD Bundle, you can rely on both the Prevention Scalp Serum and Treatment Scalp Serum to leave your hair fuller and healthier with regular use. KilgourMD Bundle Take a multifaceted approach to hair loss with this powerful duo that is formulated to stimulate new growth while soothing your scalp. Packed with soothing plant-based ingredients, the products were found in a clinical trial to be even more effective than minoxidil. When you order today, you'll receive both products for an impressive 15 percent off. It's the perfect opportunity to boost your hair growth and your confidence! Save 15% Shop It's an excellent opportunity to save 15 percent on two full-size KilgourMD products. Purchased separately, they retail for $78 each. You'll get both for just $150 in this conveniently packaged bundle. The idea is that by using both products, you can take a more proactive stance against hair loss. The first step in the system is the Prevention Scalp Serum, which is formulated to nourish the scalp while minimizing the chances of further loss. It works by blocking DHT production, which is the hormone responsible for thinning the hair over time. At the same time, it can minimize damages linked to common hair loss culprits like environmental stressors and age. In a clinical trial, it was found to be even more effective than minoxidil when used with the brand's Treatment Scalp Serum (also included in the bundle). That's an impressive showing, as minoxidil is widely considered a first line of defense against hair loss. However, it can come with a slew of unwelcome side effects that make it difficult to continue with treatment. KilgourMD 's approach is far more soothing. The plant-based medley is formulated to minimize the effects of 'inflammaging' on the scalp while protecting it from irritants like ultraviolet damage. The second product in the bundle, the Treatment Scalp Serum, is formulated to restore hair to sparse spots and leave hair looking and feeling thicker and fuller. Its hero ingredient, Redensyl®, works alongside a cocktail of botanical ingredients to reduce inflammation, boost antioxidant protection, and stimulate new growth by reviving blood flow to the follicles. Shoppers are thrilled with the results, stating that the duo has made an enormous difference while giving them a big confidence increase. 'I felt like I was losing clumps every time I showered,' said one. 'This serum has truly helped get my hair back on track. I've been using it for about two months, and I'm seeing real regrowth. It's the only thing that has helped my postpartum hair loss!' Another commented, 'A game-changer for my hair. This serum is the first thing that's actually made a noticeable difference. My hair feels thicker, and I'm shedding way less.' 'My hairline is coming back!' exclaims a third. 'I've been consistent with it for about 10 weeks now, and I can see new growth along my temples. Definitely going to keep using this.' Give your scalp the TLC it deserves — and see the difference the KilgourMD Bundle can make to your hair's condition. Snap it up now to save 15 percent!
Vogue Singapore
3 days ago
- General
- Vogue Singapore
Male hair loss—what really causes it and can it be treated?
Trunk Archive | Bjarne Jonasson From the moment we're born, hair becomes intricately entwined with our identity. As the first feature we can shape and mould according to our whims, changes to its cut, colour and length often come to represent various passages of time and iterations of the self. Simply put, our manes grow with us as we grow up. But what about when we grow older? From greying to thinning, evolving hair conditions and what may feel like a diminishing of youth affect both men and women. But there's no denying that hair loss can resonate uniquely for men. In a beauty market emphasising the female audience, popular discourse tends to stop short of, say, lip colours and extensive facial regimens for men. The result? Ultimately, more attention is directed towards men's manes. More than just strands, hair can come to symbolise one's youth, virility and vitality, treasured and tended to over decades. After all, it's not for nothing that the moniker 'crowning glory' is earned. But when it starts to fall, the impacts can be felt deeply. Quiet beginnings Male hair loss typically starts subtly—the first signs of thinning at the temples or receding at the hairline. Hardly a sudden, dramatic change, androgenetic alopecia—or, less intimidatingly, male pattern baldness—affects a significant number of men as they age. Dr Sean Lim, a medical practitioner at IDS Clinic, explains: 'Most male pattern hair loss starts at the frontal hairline, slowly progressing to thinning and miniaturisation of the individual hairs at the vertex, or crown (essentially, the highest point), of your head.' But where do its causes lie? Lim points to the key role of—brace yourself—dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, a derivative of testosterone. 'Genetic predisposition influences the sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT,' Lim shares. 'The likelihood of male hair loss increases with age, also becoming more pronounced over time due to the cumulative effects of genetic predisposition and ongoing DHT influence.' Leonica Kei, a trichologist and founder of Leonica K Trichology, points to other aspects of one's lifestyle and diet that can play a contributing role. 'Chronic stress can trigger telogen effluvium, or sudden shedding,' she advises. 'Then, there's also nutritional deficiencies—especially low iron, zinc and vitamin D levels—and lifestyle factors such as a lack of sleep, smoking and harsh hair styling practices.' Inflammation or scalp disorders may also be culprits, as can certain medications and other health conditions. A path forward Not every individual experiencing male hair loss will feel the need to address it. An entirely natural process, it's a shift that can be embraced and taken in stride much like any other sign of maturation. However, for those feeling a hit on their confidence, measures can be taken. 'Hair loss often impacts self-image and self-esteem, especially in younger men or those in client-facing roles,' shares Kei. 'In our clinic, we notice that men who catch the issue early feel more hopeful and proactive, and their confidence typically gets a boost after visible improvement or even simply from having a personalised treatment plan.' To this end, both Lim and Kei advise consulting a reputable expert or clinic as a first call of action. Over-the-counter remedies and 'miracle' treatments may sound promising, but can ultimately lead to more frustration down the line. 'Accurately identifying the condition causing hair loss, and having personalised treatment recommendations, are important,' affirms Lim. Nowadays, an abundant bevy of treatments is available, from oral medications to laser therapy and topical serums. Hair growth stimulants and DHT blockers are often a first line of defence, respectively prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle and targeting the follicle-shrinking hormone. 'Other emerging therapeutic options include low-level laser therapy and microneedling—including radiofrequency microneedling—to improve scalp health and promote healthy hair growth,' Lim elaborates. Often, a combination of treatments will be prescribed. 'We combine treatments for optimal results, based on scalp condition and severity,' asserts Kei. These can extend to nourishing the roots with detoxifying, inflammation-reducing scalp treatments and home care products. Not just any will do, however. 'Our shampoos and scalp serums are trichologist- formulated with multiple forms of antioxidants to rebalance the scalp, reduce inflammation, block DHT and support growth,' shares Kei. 'Clinical studies have shown that applying antioxidants to the scalp can help reduce hair shedding.' Surgical methods of hair transplantation may also be discussed, as well as products to aid with cosmetic camouflage, from keratin fibres to semi-permanent hair extensions. Ultimately, though, it starts with expert care and targeted treatment. 'Male pattern hair loss can be partially reversed with the right care,' insists Kei, reiterating the importance of early intervention if losing hair is a concern. A crowning glory it may be, but for many who have spent the better part of their lives investing in their hair, an inevitable arc of lesser tresses can carry a certain freedom. And no matter the state of your strands, that is a confidence worth hanging on to. Pre-order your copy of the Vogue Man 'Gold' issue online or pick it up on newsstands from 13 June 2025.
Jordan News
4 days ago
- Health
- Jordan News
Discover the Causes of Hair Loss and How to Treat It - Jordan News
Learn about the main causes of hair loss, its symptoms, psychological and health effects, as well as effective medical and natural treatment methods. Hair loss patterns vary from person to person. It can be temporary and resolve once the cause is removed, or it may be chronic requiring specialized treatment. The pattern of hair loss can be diffuse across the scalp or localized in specific areas. Causes of Hair Loss There are many causes of hair loss, including genetic, hormonal, psychological, nutritional factors, as well as some medical conditions and medications: Genetic and Hormonal Factors: Androgenic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) is one of the most common causes, resulting from sensitivity of hair follicles to the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Disorders such as thyroid disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and reduced estrogen after menopause also contribute to hair loss. Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata, fungal infections of the scalp, lupus erythematosus, anemia, and psoriasis. Psychological and Physical Stress: Severe psychological stress or physical trauma such as surgery or high fever can trigger telogen effluvium (stress-related hair loss). Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of proteins and vitamins like vitamin D, iron, zinc, biotin, and B vitamins directly impact hair health. Medications: Certain treatments, including chemotherapy drugs, antidepressants, blood thinners, and some blood pressure medications, can cause hair loss as a side effect. Chemical Hair Treatments: Frequent use of hair dyes, chemical straightening, and heat styling tools weakens hair and leads to shedding. Pregnancy and Childbirth: Hormonal changes after childbirth cause temporary hair loss in many women. Aging: Hair follicles gradually weaken with age, producing thinner and less dense hair. Tight Hairstyles: Styles that pull hair tightly, like braids or ponytails, cause continuous tension that weakens hair roots. Symptoms of Hair Loss Gradual thinning at the front or crown of the scalp, the most common pattern. Circular bald patches (alopecia areata). Diffuse thinning resulting in overall reduced hair density. Large amounts of hair found on pillows or during washing. Scalp itching or inflammation, sometimes with dandruff or redness. Psychological and social impact: Hair loss can cause significant emotional distress including anxiety, depression, and loss of self-confidence, affecting social and professional life especially in youth or image-conscious environments. Treatment Methods for Hair Loss Treatment depends on diagnosing the cause and selecting the appropriate approach. Medical Treatments: Minoxidil: Topical application twice daily. Finasteride: Oral medication, effects appear after several months. Dutasteride: Used for cases unresponsive to other treatments. Advanced Therapies: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy. Low-level laser therapy. Hair transplantation. Daily Care: A protein-rich diet (meat, fish, eggs, legumes) and vitamins/minerals such as A, B, C, D, E, iron, zinc, omega-3 and omega-6 support hair strength. Proper scalp and hair care: use suitable shampoo, wash hair 2-3 times weekly, avoid hot water, tight hairstyles, and reduce heat styling tools. Natural oils and treatments: coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil, argan oil, and rosemary oil nourish and improve hair health. Lifestyle changes: exercise, relaxation techniques, quality sleep, quitting smoking and alcohol, and using products to protect from UV rays. Nutritional supplements: biotin, multivitamins, and omega-3 supplements can help improve hair condition. Integrated Treatment Steps: Consult a dermatologist to determine the cause. Conduct hormonal and vitamin tests. Treat underlying medical issues like thyroid disease or iron deficiency. Use topical creams or injections for alopecia areata. Therapeutic shampoos containing ketoconazole. Daily scalp massage for 5–10 minutes. Weekly hair masks such as egg and yogurt, coconut oil and honey, or aloe vera gel. Hair loss is a complex problem involving health and psychological factors. With accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan, hair vitality can be restored, boosting self-confidence and quality of life. اضافة اعلان
Hans India
6 days ago
- Health
- Hans India
Struggling with Hair Loss? Eliminate These 6 Everyday Foods from Your Diet
Hair fall is a common issue that affects both appearance and self-confidence. While genetics, stress, and hormones are well-known causes, your diet could be contributing more than you realize. Some everyday foods can damage hair follicles, disrupt scalp health, and hinder nutrient absorption—leading to excessive hair fall. Here's a breakdown of six common food types you should consider reducing or eliminating if you're noticing increased hair shedding. 1. Sugar Excessive sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance, which raises androgen levels like DHT (dihydrotestosterone). This hormone is known to shrink hair follicles over time, making the roots weaker and accelerating hair thinning. 2. Refined Carbohydrates White bread, pasta, and other refined carbs are quickly converted into sugar, spiking blood sugar levels. This can trigger inflammation and disrupt blood circulation to the scalp, weakening hair roots and slowing down growth. 3. Fried and Greasy Foods Foods that are deep-fried or high in unhealthy fats can clog scalp pores and affect overall scalp health. This may result in dandruff, reduced blood flow, and increased hair loss. 4. Artificial Sweeteners Some artificial sweeteners, particularly aspartame, have been linked to negative metabolic changes and potential disruptions in the hair growth cycle. Though research is ongoing, consistent intake could contribute to shedding. 5. Excessive Vitamin A While Vitamin A supports cell regeneration, too much—especially from supplements or fortified foods—can overstimulate hair follicles. This can push them into a resting state prematurely, causing noticeable hair loss. 6. High-Mercury Fish Fish like swordfish and king mackerel are high in mercury, and frequent consumption can lead to mercury buildup in the body. Elevated mercury levels have been associated with hair thinning, particularly in women. If you're noticing more hair on your brush or pillow, it might be time to evaluate your dietary habits. Reducing the intake of these six foods can help improve scalp health, support hormone balance, and promote stronger, thicker hair growth.
