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DHEA Hormone
Potential efficacity for hair loss : ⭐

My recommendation

DHEA is not beneficial for any type of hair loss. In fact, it can worsen androgenetic alopecia as it serves as a precursor to testosterone and DHT. I strongly advise seeking effective treatments instead.
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DHEA Hormone

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and the liver. It is converted into both male and female sex hormones in the body.

In medicine, DHEA may be prescribed to address various conditions such as vaginal tissue thinning, skin aging, depression, infertility, muscle weakness, heart diseases, or erectile dysfunction.

However, in the context of alopecia, DHEA is not a commonly used or popular treatment. You are unlikely to find shampoos or supplements containing it for this purpose.***In primary adrenal insufficiency, plasma dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA and DHEA sulfate [DHEAS]) levels are usually low. The optimal use of DHEA therapy and its risk and benefits are uncertain. In females with persistent symptoms suggestive of androgen deficiency, a therapeutic trial of androgen replacement with DHEA may be offered.****

 

Additionally, it’s important to note that DHEA is considered a prohibited substance in certain sports competitions.

Is it effective for hair loss?

In this article, we will explore whether taking DHEA as a supplement can help reduce hair loss. Currently, there are no studies directly linking DHEA intake and hair loss.

Based on my research, oral DHEA may potentially influence hair loss in the following way:

DHEA increases testosterone and DHT

DHEA acts as an antagonist to male hormones, so it’s clear that its use leads to an increase in testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone). A meta-analysis of 55 studies conducted by Yuanyuan Li and colleagues has concluded that taking DHEA significantly raises serum testosterone levels.

Now, when testosterone levels rise, so does the production of DHT, as approximately 10% of testosterone is continuously converted into DHT. Dihydrotestosterone is an androgen hormone naturally synthesized in our bodies from testosterone, primarily in various tissues. This conversion process is facilitated by an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase (5aR).

DHT plays a crucial role in androgenetic alopecia, as it contributes to the inflammatory processes occurring in the scalps of individuals genetically predisposed to hair loss. This leads to the gradual thinning of hair, a condition known as miniaturization. Consequently, reducing DHT formation is considered a potential strategy to mitigate hair loss

However, increasing testosterone is not particularly beneficial when dealing with androgenetic alopecia because higher testosterone levels result in a greater conversion to DHT. To address this issue, individuals may need to consider taking powerful DHT blockers or potent anti-inflammatory agents.

Closing thoughts and verdict

It’s evident that DHEA is not a hair loss treatment. Therefore, I strongly recommend against using it if you’re dealing with androgenetic alopecia. For individuals experiencing hair loss not related to androgens, taking DHEA won’t have any positive or negative effects on their hair.

It’s worth noting that DHEA is present in certain protein powders and supplements used by athletes.

Precautions & side effects

  • Possible allergic reactions in some individuals.
  • May cause oily skin, acne, and skin thickening.
  • Potential side effects include hair loss, stomach discomfort, high blood pressure, changes in menstrual cycles, facial hair growth in women, deepening of the voice in women, fatigue, nasal congestion, headaches, rapid or irregular heartbeats, insomnia, and unfavorable changes in cholesterol levels.
  • Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Treatment analyses

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