There are two ways to supplement with DHT inhibitors: topically and internally. Each method has its own distinct mechanisms of action. However, it is first important to understand why blocking DHT works to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth in the first place.
NOTE: The majority of DHT blockers in this article have NOT been tested on humans and are not FDA-approved. Consult with your doctor prior to treatment.
DHT: The Cause Of Male-Pattern Baldness?
Male-pattern baldness, or Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), is a common condition. It accounts for 95% of hair loss in men.
Scientists generally agree that the main culprit behind male-pattern balding is DHT (2). This stands for Dihydrotestosterone and is an androgen sex hormone produced from testosterone.
Testosterone, the sex hormone responsible for your “maleness”, combines with 5-alpha-reductase, an enzyme involved in steroid metabolism. This results in the production of DHT. If you have a predisposed sensitivity to DHT, it can wreak havoc throughout your body, especially your scalp.
Once there, DHT connects to the androgen receptors at the base of the hair follicles. For those who are sensitive to DHT, this leads to miniaturization of the hair follicles and, eventually, hair loss.
Theoretically, a logical possibility to stop this would be to block testosterone. While this might work to save the hair, it would result in some very unpleasant side effects: gynecomastia, decrease in strength, sexual dysfunction, infertility, and many more (3, 4, 5). Essentially, blocking testosterone will lead to a decrease in the characteristics that make you male.
The next best option is to lower DHT levels. While DHT is an essential hormone during adolescence, it has no clear function in adult males (unlike testosterone).
Below, you will find a list of DHT blockers. Some of these block DHT, while others inhibit the activities of 5-alpha-reductase, thereby preventing the production of DHT in the first place.
Regardless of their exact mechanism, all the blockers below can make a useful addition to your hair loss treatment routine.
The Two Types of Natural DHT Blockers: Explained
When it comes to blocking DHT or inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase, there are two ways to go about it. They each have their benefits and drawbacks.
Internal DHT Blockers
You take an internal DHT blocker orally. This is usually in the form of a pill or capsule. The active ingredient then enters the bloodstream and begins to interrupt the processes of DHT production and androgen receptor activity.
The levels of DHT within the body will decline. This means that less DHT is available to attach to the androgen receptors at the hair follicles. This is good for the hair follicles, but remember that internal DHT blockers are indiscriminate. They target DHT production throughout the body, and not only at the scalp.
The risk of side effects from an internal DHT blocker will depend on the dosage, as well as other factors. Regardless, internal DHT blockers have higher risks than topical DHT blockers.
If you have been researching hair loss for a while, it is likely that the first thing to find when you hear “internal DHT blocker” is finasteride. After all, it is arguable the most popular hair loss treatment drug.
We mentioned above that finasteride actually works to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase. This blocks the production of DHT.
External (Topical) DHT Blockers
If you are looking for less risk of side effects, then consider external (topical) DHT blockers.
As the name suggests, you apply external DHT blockers to the area you want to treat. They are absorbed into the skin and enter the bloodstream in order to interfere with DHT activity at the hair follicle.
The benefit to this is a smaller chance of systemic side effects. The flip side is that topical DHT blockers tend to be less potent than oral blockers. This is because the blood is generally a more effective delivery route than the skin. This can be a benefit for those who have suffered side effects from DHT blockers in the past, though.
5 Topical DHT Blockers
When you have a condition, it is common to treat the underlying cause in order to reduce symptoms and treat the condition effectively. For individuals with androgenetic alopecia, it makes sense then to treat the condition at the source and block DHT present within the scalp before it can do damage.
That is the logic behind topical DHT blockers.
Topical All-Natural Blockers
Here is a look at five topical DHT blockers you can start using today.
1: Saw Palmetto
This is a berry-producing plant native to the Americas. Researchers believe it inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase (6). This is the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone to DHT. Saw palmetto, therefore, acts as a preemptive DHT blocker.
Scientists have also tested it head-on against finasteride for hair loss. In a 2012 Italian study, 100 men with mild to moderate pattern hair loss were randomly assigned to receive either:
- the standard finasteride dosage of 1mg daily or
- 320mg of saw palmetto extract daily (7).
Treatment in either arm lasted 24 months. The assessment of efficacy was based on the evaluation of a panel of dermatologists. 38% of men in the saw palmetto group had some regrowth, compared to 68% with finasteride.
Every one of these positive responders to treatment in the saw palmetto group had minimal regrowth. The same was true for about 90% of finasteride users. A handful of men in the finasteride group had better results, namely moderate or marked regrowth.
Interestingly, the percentage of men who lost hair over the 24 months was exactly the same across both groups, namely 10%. Meaning that 90% in either group were able to at least arrest their hair loss.
The results of the study suggest that the majority of men will be able to stabilize their hair loss by supplementing with saw palmetto.
2: Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle is a plant indigenous to parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. You have probably personally experienced its ‘stinging’ effects when brushing past it. What you may not know is that stinging nettle extract is an excellent topical DHT blocker (8).
A 2011 research study considered the effects of stinging nettle on Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH). This is another condition linked to DHT, like pattern hair loss. The researchers found that nettle decreased prostate size. This was a strong indicator of its 5-alpha-reductase inhibitory effects (9).
While this first study was on rats, a previous study performed by Safarinejad studied stinging nettle’s effects on BPH in human patients (10). In fact, this was a large-scale study with 620 patients in total.
The study lasted six months, and the results were collected using various models and techniques. These included:
- International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS);
- Maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax);
- Postvoid Residual Urine Volume (PVR);
- Serum Prostatic-Specific Antigen (PSA);
- Testosterone levels; and
- Prostate size
After six months, both the IPSS and Qmax decreased significantly in the stinging nettle group. For example, the IPSS decreased from 19.8 down to 11.8. In the placebo group, it only decreased from 19.2 to 17.7.
Stinging nettle’s ability to inhibit 5AR makes it great for men with AGA.
3: Reishi Mushroom
As a newly-discovered DHT blocker, reishi mushroom is still gaining traction in the world of hair loss treatments. That does not make it any less effective at treating the underlying cause of AGA. Reishi mushrooms will actually make an excellent addition to your topical hair care routine.
In a 2005 study, researchers tested the DHT-blocking abilities of 19 different mushrooms (11). While most mushrooms did inhibit the activity of 5-alpha-reductase, Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) was the clear winner:
It actually inhibited over 70 percent of DHT. This was significantly better than the other mushrooms in the study.
By inhibiting 5AR, reishi is comparable to finasteride. Both inhibit 5AR and, as a result, reduce the amount of DHT that attaches to the hair follicles.
4: Rosemary Oil and Extract
Rosemary oil is an analgesic oil with antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. As such, it will make a helpful addition to any hair loss sufferer’s hair care routine (12, 13, 14).
On the topic of DHT blocking, specifically, animal research suggests topical rosemary extract can inhibit 5-alpha-reductase (X). This blocks DHT from connecting to the scalp’s androgen receptors and prevents miniaturization and hair loss.
According to a 2013 study, topical applications of 200 mg/mL and 500 mg/mL inhibited the conversion of 5-alpha-reductase by 82.4 percent and 94.6 percent, respectively (15). That is better than finasteride’s inhibition percentage (81.9 percent) in the same study.
5: Ecklonia Cava
An alga found off the coasts of Japan and Korea, E. Cava is a promising new lead for cessation of hair loss and the growth of new hair.
Composed of polyphenols, this anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant-packed alga is common throughout Asia. It is also a food staple in that part of the world (16, 17).
While E. Cava may make a delicious addition to your soups, its topical application inhibits 5-alpha-reductase and, therefore, DHT (18). When applied as a whole, E. Cava was shown to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase up to 61.5%. Even better, though, were the inhibition results of the polyphenol extract dieckol:
Dieckol is found in abundance within the alga. The highest concentration tested (100 mg/mL) actually proved to be just as effective as finasteride:
This means that E. Cava and its extracts are a good option to consider if you are looking to block DHT. It even contributes to the proliferation of new dermal papilla cells (19).
5 Internal DHT Blockers
Topically reducing DHT certainly has its place in the treatment of hair loss and promotion of hair growth, In the long term, however, internal DHT inhibition can be more beneficial.
Internal All-Natural Blockers
Here is a look at five internal DHT blockers that you can start using today.
1: Green Tea
Did you know that green tea extract can actually block DHT and treat the source of male-pattern baldness?
Green tea is a source of epigallocatechin (EGCG) (20). These are catechins, a type of plant phenol with a variety of beneficial properties. One such property is the inhibition of 5-alpha-reductase (21).
To reap the benefits of green tea supplementation, you have two options. You could either course increase your tea intake or consume a green tea supplement. The supplements come in capsule or powder form.
2: Flaxseed
Composed mostly of omega fatty acids and lignans, flaxseeds are a proven DHT blocker. You can use them internally for positive hair growth results (22).
Two studies on animals have shown the benefits associated with flaxseed supplementation.
The first study, in 2013, measured the effects of various plant-based lignans on DHT (23). These plants included flaxseed, sesame, safflower, and soy. They were administered orally either in powdered form or in a petroleum extract.
The study was on castrated male rats, with a focus on prostate weight (as lowered weight indicates less androgenic activity).
Flax (both the powdered and ethanol extract) proved to decrease prostate weight, as well as lower testosterone levels. These are both strong indicators of 5-alpha-reductase inhibition.
The second study, in 2014, looked specifically at flaxseed’s hair growth benefits (24).
Sixteen rabbits were split into two groups. The first group received regular rabbit feed (control), while the second group received a feed infused with crushed flax (test).
Over three months, the researchers shaved a section on the rabbits’ backs once per month. Each time they measured hair growth, and these were the results:
As you can see, the group that received flaxseed supplementation (LSI) saw improved length, width, and weight of the hair.
Scientists could not exactly pinpoint the reason for such results. However, it is likely that DHT blocking (as per the first study) is one of the main contributors.
One of the easiest ways to work flaxseeds into your routine is by adding them (milled or powdered) to your smoothies. This adds a nice boost of fiber, as well as a slightly nutty depth. You can also sprinkle it on your salads or add it to stir fry. Another option is to make your own flaxseed dressing with a bit of honey and lemon!
3: Sesame Seeds
Another source of lignans and proven inhibitor of 5-alpha-reductase, sesame seeds are another great choice to block DHT (25, 26).
In the 2013 study on flaxseed mentioned above, sesame seeds were another plant-based lignan studied (27). In fact, the ethanol extract of sesame seeds was incredibly effective at reducing prostate weight and testosterone levels in the tested rats.
This is really not a surprise, though. Sesame seeds are packed full of polyphenols, sterols, and essential fatty acids. All of these contribute to overall health and well-being (28, 29, 30).
Similar to flax, sesame seeds are very easy to incorporate into your diet. Mix a few drops of sesame oil into your smoothies, soups, and salads. Alternatively, use it in place of canola or olive oil while cooking. Add a few sesame seeds to your favorite dishes, including chicken, fish, and pork for a slightly nutty flavor.
There are numerous ways to add this supplement to your daily diet. Take a look at some of my favorite hair loss supplements here.
4: Pygeum
Pygeum is a bark from the Pygeum Africanum tree. It is believed to significantly relieve the symptoms of men who suffer from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) (31).
BPH is an enlargement of the prostate that is common in older men. It can lead to obstructive and irritative lower urinary tract symptoms (32).
As we saw, DHT is a well-known aggravator of BPH. This means that its inhibition contributes to a shrinking of the enlarged prostate and a reduction in the irritating symptoms associated with the condition (33).
This was the finding of a 1998 review study, which considered the role of pygeum bark in the reduction of BPH symptoms (34).
Men treated with pygeum bark were twice as likely as the placebo group to report improvement of symptoms. In addition, nocturnal urination was reduced by 19 percent and residual urine volume (urine remaining in the bladder) by 24 percent. Peak urine flow increased by 23 percent.
To supplement with pygeum, you can add a high-quality supplement to your day. A dosage of 100mg per day is a typical recommendation (35).
5: Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin Seed Oil (PSO) is an extract of the hulled pumpkin seed. It is a rich source of antioxidants, fatty acids, and minerals, and a great addition to any hair care routine (36, 37).
Of course, you can apply pumpkin seed oil topically. This provides gentle cleansing and is an excellent way to maintain a healthy scalp.
However, for those looking to treat male-pattern baldness, the pumpkin seed oil is most effective when ingested. Why? Pumpkin seed oil is believed to inhibit the activity of 5-alpha-reductase. When you take it orally, the oil can inhibit this enzyme most effectively.
How effective is this method?
In 2014, scientists in Korea asked this question (38). To answer it, they recruited 76 male subjects with mild to moderate AGA. Half received a supplement containing PSO (400 mg per day). The rest received a placebo capsule.
At the end of the 24-week study, 44.1 percent of the men in the supplement group saw a mild-moderate improvement in hair growth. Only 7.7 percent of the placebo group had this kind of improvement.
And here is the visual evidence that supplements containing PSO can be effective DHT blockers:
One thing to point out is that PSO was not the only ingredient within the supplement. However, it very likely did contribute to these hair growth effects. Just consider all of the benefits of PSO. These include anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic (39, 40).
Pumpkin seeds are a great snack by themselves. You can eat them by the handful, or toss them onto salads, into soups, and even blended into smoothies and juices.
How to Use Topical and Internal DHT Blockers
If you would like to add topical or internal DHT blockers to your hair care routine, there are a few options. The most common way to use DHT blockers is topical. You can put them in shampoos and solutions or even apply them directly.
There are many products already on the market with DHT-blocking ingredients. These include our very own line – Hairguard.
Such products can have positive effects on hair follicles. They are also less likely to produce side effects as with internal blockers.
But there are also ways to add internal blockers to your routine if you so wish. Perhaps the easiest way is with supplements.
Over-the-counter supplements will often contain the recommended daily dose (or close to it) of a variety of vitamins and nutrients. And some of these can even be DHT blockers, such as those containing green tea, pumpkin seed oil, and flaxseed.
You can also add many of the internal ingredients mentioned above to your smoothies, juices, and other recipes.
FDA-Approved Treatments: An Overview
We mentioned an FDA-approved DHT blocker earlier. This is finasteride, a common hair loss treatment that doctors prescribe worldwide.
Finasteride works by inhibiting the activities of 5AR, reducing the concentration of DHT in the body.
Finasteride is not the only FDA-approved treatment. There is also minoxidil, a topical solution believed to work by stimulating blood flow to the scalp.
DHT Blocker Side Effects
Before you move ahead with any of the DHT blockers on the list, it is important to consider their potential negative effects.
There is a potential for side effects when you use a DHT blocker. The risk increases with internal DHT blockers, though it is possible to experience them with topical blockers, too.
When you are suffering from hair loss, it is easy to see DHT as the enemy. This is a very simplistic view.
DHT is an androgen sex steroid that plays a major role in male sexual development. It assists in the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as body hair, facial hair, and pubic hair. DHT blockers can sometimes lower libido and decrease sexual function. This suggests that DHT plays a role in many things that make a man feel, well, manly.
Here is a closer look at the potential side effects associated with DHT blockers. They include:
- Loss of libido;
- Inability to achieve or maintain an erection;
- Inability to ejaculate;
- Loss of ejaculatory volume;
- Lowered sperm count.
In some cases, the use of DHT blockers can even cause enlarged breast tissue, testicular pain, and a rash.
This list of side effects is not meant to scare you away. It should help you to weigh up the pros and cons, however, as well as consider alternative options.
If you choose to go ahead, consider a low-dose internal DHT blocker or a topical DHT blocker. You should also consult with your doctor prior to starting a DHT blocker.
Do keep in mind that if you stop using a DHT blocker, you will likely experience increased hair shedding and hairline recession. This is because the benefits of DHT blockers only generally last as long as the treatment. Once you stop using them, your baldness will resume.
Important! Why You Must Know About DHT Sensitivity
You have now learned about the most powerful natural DHT blockers in the world. This is only a small part of the story though because high DHT levels are not the sole cause of hair loss. In fact, there is something much more important than blocking DHT: DHT sensitivity.
It is not the levels of DHT in the scalp that cause problems, but instead the sensitivity of the hair follicles. This sensitivity is linked to chronic scalp tension.
Mechanical Tension of the Scalp
Just as with the skin, there are multiple layers of the scalp that play different roles. From outermost to innermost, these layers are skin, subcutaneous, galea, and pericranium.
The galea is a fibrous, connective tissue. It covers the entirety of the scalp from just above the eyebrows (the frontalis muscle) to behind the ears (the occipitalis muscle) (48). This tissue may actually be responsible for the progression of pattern balding (49).
The tension theory of hair loss states that activation of the Hic-5 protein, an androgen receptor co-activator that improves the function of a cell’s androgen receptors, may be triggered by the mechanical tension of the galea.
But why would activation of Hic-5 mean hair loss? Because as an androgen receptor co-activator, this protein has been shown to induce androgen sensitivity in the hair follicles (50).
The solution, then, is to reduce scalp tension.
You can do so yourself with scalp massages and exercises. There are also tools that are easier and more effective. These include Scalp Tension Relaxers (STRs) such as the GrowBand (51).
By reducing tension, you can reduce your need for DHT blockers like those mentioned above.
Other Reasons You May Be Experiencing Hair Loss
There are plenty of reasons that one may suffer from hair loss, and not all of them are related to DHT. Some of these are temporary, while others are permanent. Here is a look at some of them, as well as how to address them.
Alopecia Areata
Is your hair loss patchy? Does the hair loss come on suddenly and resolve on its own? This might suggest alopecia areata.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the hair follicles. The hair in that area will often shed entirely, leaving you with an irregularly shaped bald patch. The hair loss will often resolve as mysteriously as it appeared.
Fortunately, there are various treatment options available.
The most common treatment is a corticosteroid. A topical corticosteroid is often the first round of treatment. Oral steroids like prednisone can be prescribed in persistent cases.
There is presently no cure for alopecia areata.
Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis
You may have thought that dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis were two distinct scalp conditions. These conditions are actually triggered by the same issue, but they fall on opposite ends of the spectrum.
Dandruff is the less severe of the two. It is characterized by itching, flaking, and can cause substantial psychological distress.
Seborrheic dermatitis is a more severe form of dandruff.
Both conditions are treatable, though the treatment will depend on many factors.
When formulating a treatment plan for dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, your doctor will consider the severity of your condition. They will also consider your past treatments (both successfully and unsuccessfully) and current lifestyle.
The most common treatments for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis include salicylic acid, selenium sulfide, tar-based shampoos, ketoconazole-containing shampoos, and zinc. Your doctor may also suggest lifestyle changes and changes to your hair care routine.
Hormonal Imbalance
An imbalance of hormones can wreak havoc on the body. Depending on the hormone, it can even cause hair loss.
What causes a hormonal imbalance?
The most common cause is thyroid malfunction, where the thyroid either produces too much or too little essential hormones. The conditions which can most often trigger thyroid malfunction include Hashimoto’s disease, Graves’ disease, goiter, and thyroid nodules. You can experience both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism as standalone conditions, however.
Hair loss caused by a hormonal imbalance can often be reversed by treating the underlying condition.
Illness and Medications
Your body operates like a well-oiled machine, that is until something goes “wrong.” Then the body may only operate at a limited capacity. This means that certain non-essential functions, like hair growth, will suffer.
If the illness is prolonged, or if it is particularly intense, you may suffer from diffuse hair loss as a result.
The scientific term for this is telogen effluvium. This means that hair loss occurs during the telogen phase of hair growth. It is during telogen that your hair will shed, to make room for new anagen phase hairs. If too many of your hair follicles enter telogen at the same time, the result will be visible thinning.
The treatment for your illness may sometimes trigger hair loss, too.
Chemotherapy, for example, can trigger severe telogen effluvium. This can be so severe as to result in complete baldness.
In most cases, the hair will grow back out once the illness has passed or once you have stopped taking the medication. It may take several months for this to happen. After that point, however, you should notice steady hair growth.
Poor Nutrition
While poor nutrition does not often lead to significant hair loss, it can cause just enough shedding and loss of volume to raise concerns.
If you suffer from certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as Chron’s and Ulcerative Colitis, you may suffer from malnutrition as a result of poor nutrient absorption in the gut.
The good news? Hair loss due to poor nutrition can often be treated with vitamin and nutrient supplements, as well as dietary changes.
You should get an entire blood panel from your physician so you can know what nutrients and minerals your body is lacking.
The nutrients and minerals most often linked to hair loss/growth include zinc, selenium, biotin, Vitamin D, and niacin.
Frequently Asked Questions About DHT and DHT Blockers
Here are some quick answers to the most asked questions about DHT and DHT blockers.
What is DHT?
DHT, dihydrotestosterone, is an androgen sex steroid and hormone. The hormone is a by-product, or derivative, of testosterone. It has many functions in the human body (both males and females), including sexual development, muscle growth, and even as an anti-inflammatory.
The androgen works by connecting to androgen receptors found throughout the body, including the prostate gland, skin, hair follicles, liver, and brain.
How Can I Tell If I’m Sensitive to DHT?
Are you unsure whether the cause of your hair loss is male-pattern baldness? This is a common problem among men (and women) who are suffering from hair shedding or hairline recession.
The easiest way for men to determine the true cause of their hair loss is to examine the pattern.
Men with androgenetic alopecia will experience a tell-tale pattern of balding. It will first become noticeable at the temples and hairline as the hairline recedes. The pattern will eventually form an M-shape that will only get worse with time.
It can be more difficult for women to determine if DHT sensitivity is the cause of their hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia in women typically presents as a general thinning of the hair over their entire scalp. It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish this from telogen effluvium.
When to see a doctor
If you are unsure of the cause of your hair loss, or if you would like professional confirmation, then you should visit a dermatologist. A dermatologist can examine your scalp and hairs under a microscope. This will shed light on the cause which you can then treat appropriately.
Why Am I Sensitive to DHT?
For many years, it was thought that people with pattern baldness had an excess of DHT. This is why drugs like finasteride became so popular.
The truth is that men and women with androgenetic alopecia do not necessarily have higher levels of DHT in their bodies. They will likely have a higher concentration of DHT at the scalp (which the Scalp Tension Theory of Hair Loss can explain). The true issue, though, is follicular sensitivity to the androgen hormone.
So, why are some individuals sensitive to DHT while others aren’t? We can ask the same question of other sensitivities. The answer? We don’t fully know.
If you subscribe to the Scalp Tension Theory of Hair Loss, this sensitivity may be explained by chronic scalp tension. If you subscribe to the DHT Theory of Hair Loss, then the answer may be a genetic predisposition. Or, it could be a combination of the two.
No matter why you are sensitive to DHT, one thing is for sure. You need to address this sensitivity if you wish to stop further hair loss.
Why Can’t I Block DHT Entirely?
If we know that DHT plays such a significant role in pattern hair loss, why do we not block it entirely?
As an androgen hormone with many roles, it would be detrimental to block our body’s DHT entirely. Doing so would have many immediate side effects, and there is no telling the extent of side effects from long-term blocking of the hormone.
The fact is, DHT is not all bad. You do not want to block DHT throughout the body. Instead, you should aim to reduce its presence at the hair follicles.
You can do so with some of the natural DHT blockers above, with topical finasteride, or with scalp tension relief. These methods will work to reduce DHT at the follicle without interrupting its important roles throughout the rest of the body.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that sensitivity to DHT plays a role in pattern hair loss. As such, by blocking – or minimizing – DHT you may be able to stop hair loss and even promote growth.
However, DHT should only form one part of any treatment strategy. Hair loss is a multifactorial condition. That means there are various contributing factors, aside from DHT. Check out the video below to find out more about them.
Information contained on this website has not been evaluated by any medical body such as the Food & Drug Administration. All information is for educational purposes only. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness. You must consult a medical professional before acting on any content on this website.
Very thorough and helpful articles…. Thanx
Thanks for your comment and glad I could help. Will
This article is awesome. I red it through out and took some notes for myself for preventing hair loss.
Great.
Thanks
Lot of thanks for providing such a useful knowledge.Please also explore effect on hair growth if pH increases beyond 7.36 consuming more vegetables
etc.
Hey Will, the information that you sent me is, in my opinion, my be the best way to stop hair loss, and restore health to the whole body besides the hair follicles. Thanks will; looking forward for the free booklet.
I liked this article, but I am skeptical. If this was true, then why do some plant-based diet Vegans still go bald ?
Hi John, thank you and good point. Getting alkalised isn’t everything, it’s just a small part of the picture when it comes to stopping hair loss. There are other causes that contribute too. Also, even vegans can eat unhealthy and acidifying foods, or perhaps they aren’t getting enough protein in their diet. You have to defeat hair loss from many different angles 🙂
Blood PH never goes very far from the optimal point. There is no way it will get down to 5.5 or even below 7. I don’t see any evidence presented here that shows eating these foods actually creates a change in enzyme activity. If it works at ph 5-5.5 the reaction is likely happening inside endosomes inside of the cell where the ph is supposed to be in that range.
Wow, that’s a great point requiring real objective evidence from a molecular chemistry perspective to counter. I’ll go ahead and speculate that you will not receive a rebuttal or a response.
Thank you for your objective and critical thought.
I wish this got a reply.
Great article, thanks for all the research. Now I know that the acid / alkaline balance is so important for stopping DHT I’m really going to try and focus on getting my body alkalised. I want to learn more about this subject
Incredible article, I haven’t heard this anywhere else. What is the fastest way to get your pH correct?
Vegetable juicing a couple of liters per day for a few months is a good place to start 🙂
Another way to remove DHT from your system is to take reishi (aka mushroom of immortality). You can take it as a tea by boiling the dried whole mushroom or slices, that’s what I do. It’s been proven to completely eliminate DHT from your system. You can also rince your hair with some of the leftover cooled reishi tea.
Great tip Paida, thanks for sharing.
I have already gone bald losing 40 % of total hair from my vertex & top area only backs & sides is remaining so following this article would help to re-grow my lost dead cells? or I should give up hope and go for a wig
The sooner you start revering hair loss the better.
Hi William, I happen to stumble upon your website and honestly, out of all the websites out there, this is the best one by far. I’m so grateful to you for putting such detailed info on your website for people like me. I’ve been suffering with hairloss (androgenetic alopecia)for quite a few years and shed quite a few tears..You can only imagine how devastating it is for a woman.. I just purchased the emu oil and selenium supp.so far -(praying something will finally work ?thank you so much again, all the blessings-
D
Thank you Dana. Good luck and work hard on alkalising your body.
Such an amazing site with such an amazing info. Im trying to beat MPB already 2 years but i have hair loss for maybe 7 years now. I am now Norwood 3+ going to Norwood 4 stage. Been using minoxidil with 15% concentration along with azelaic acid. I never used some essential oils, keep my diet like it was (almost pure junk) and still gained pretty good hair. However, I stopped using minox together with azelaic for some short period of time.
Then my hair turn into hell like overnight. I was paying HUGE price for not using it. I thought it might be because DHT but i was too afraid to try propecia or fin because of insane side effects. Also i’ve been doing research about some natural DHT blocker and BOOM got landed here. This here is pure gold that’s for sure. I want to ask is it ok if i use:
1. Nettle seed oil
2. Peppermint oil along with magnesium
3.Minox along with azelaic acid
4.Zync
5. Biotin
6.Reishi mushrooms (pills)
7. Completely change my diet.
8. 2 Times a week dermarolling and every day massages.
What do you think about this routine?
How much can someone return his hair with this routine if he is Norwood 3+ (almost 4). I know it’s not possible to say how much can I return but is it possible someone from Norwood 3-4 to become Norwood 2-3. Im really curious about this. BTW I started the project above and using all the ingredients that i’ve mention. I hope in 4 months I will have some results. Please tell me your opinion. And again, thanks a lot for sharing such a good and valuable info.
Very helpful article. Learned so much. Thanks
Very helpful article. This has given me new insight on male pattern baldness. I’m going to start with vegetable juicing as soon as possible. I got one question though: Are there any accessible brands that sell alkaline water, or do you have to buy a water ionizer? Thanks.
I would recommend alkalising vegetable juices rather than a branded alkaline water.
I am touched for all your info
Thank you so much !!!
Thanks Anthony
Does this really work, im 23 and my hair has been falling out like i have never experienced before. I can see my scalp through my hair and im really worried about losing my hair?
Hello Alex, this isn’t a ‘magic cure’ but over time alkalising your body will help you to retain your hair. It’s one small step in the right direction. When you put those small steps together you tip the balance towards natural hair growth – I call this ‘Hair Equilibrium.’
There is some truth to what you say.But realize it isn’t the diet causing the baldness.
Stump-tailed macaque and mottled starlings even develop male pattern baldness.
I would imagine the animals are eating a fairly health diet and avoiding Big-Macs and candy bars.
The statistics show that incidences of MPB are increasing over time. Diet is just one of those contributing factors.
Hye Will,
Love this article, but can you give some more information about which vegetables i can use ? and how much of each in the juice ? I also buy almond milk and drink this regularly every day , is this good enough ?
There is more information inside the Hair Equilibrium program. The proportions of each vegetable in the juice come down to personal preference mainly. The main point is that you drink a large quantity, enough to get your body back into a natural alkaline state. Almond milk from a bottle is okay, but it is better to make your own if possible, since shop bought almond milk probably has low levels of real almond and lots of sugar and preservatives.
Good day Will, if you recommend an alkaline diet than why is cleaning hair and scalp.with vinegar also recommended?
Its a different kind of acid. On your skin or hair, ACV is fine, since its 100% natural. Drinking lemon juice (acidic) actually alkalises the body because once metabolised the waste mineral deposits are alkaline in nature.
I’m on top of many of your ideas and recommendations already; for years in some cases. Are raw vegetables eaten in sensible amounts a comparable disadvantage over juiced vegetables? Maybe you are concerned that most of your audience is not getting enough raw vegetable influence, however, in my case, all vegetables and roots, including ginger and turmeric, are consumed uncooked. Am I lowing my chance of hair regrowth by only eating, not juicing, raw vegetables?
Am ordering your main product in a few days, but thought now is a good time to ask, in advance.
Hi Tom, raw vegetables (not juiced) are perfect, they are ideal because they also contain the fibre. However, to get the body alkalised quickly it can be beneficial to extract the juices, that way we can consume much more of the alkalising nutrients and minerals than by eating them whole and raw. Doing both is a great combination.
Great article Will.I was wondering if ACV will result to more hair loss since its acidic.I understand drinking lemon juice alkalises the body since it requires an alkaline environment for digestion but then the scalp doesn’t have this mechanism as the gut so don’t you think apple cider vinegar on scalp is dangerous?
Thank you
I think its fine – I personally use ACV a few times a week to wash my hair instead of commercial shampoos and I much prefer it.
do you use just straight ACV to wash your hair or do you add anything else?
If I don’t have any other ingredients available, ACV is fine (or if I’m feeling lazy to make it.) But adding other ingredients can help. See my article here on natural shampoos.
Hey, Will, I’m a 73-year-old woman and I have multiple health problems. I’ve been trying to get my pH to alkaline. I love veggies, fruit, and nuts but I don’t seem to get enough protein. What can I eat or juice so I get enough protein. By the way, I think a lot of my problems are from having too much DHT.
Thank you so much. This was so useful for me.
Alex Nizam
I would recommend hemp and pea protein powders added to smoothies as an excellent source of high quality, plant based protein. You can find them very easily on Amazon or a local health food shop.
Hi Will, I found that my hair start falling from past two years..i am 24 year old…in present i started medication in India…my doctor giving me some supplements and minoxidil 5%…but the results are still not good.
Acidifying foods like dairy, processed foods and meat. Inflammation can come from delayed allergic reactions from certain food groups – there is more information about this inside my newsletter.
Hello,
i am from Nepal.from more than 3 years i am facing hair loss.i have checked once in skin hospital they told me because of the DHT my hair is falling down and they gave me some medicine which is for temporary but i didn’t take cause i was looking for permanent solution . now i am having amla juice i am waiting your perfect advice.
thank you
Hey Will,
I recently purchased Hair Equilibrium and strongly recommend it to anyone interested in a better understanding of what’s causing hairloss from the inside out…
From your research; when starting this program, would it be better to start eating for your metabolic type right away, or should we concentrate strictly on alkalising the body for a few weeks before introducing the more acidic foods, that are in line with our metabolic types?
Thanks.
Hi Ricky, I would recommend first focusing on alkalising right away, and then you can introduce those foods that match your metabolic type once you feel happy with that phase.
Thanks for the quick reply, I’ve got one more question regarding alkalinity…
I’ve been successful at keeping my body alkaline during the day when I’m consuming the right foods, supplements and alkaline water. My PH hovers around 7.5 as I monitor it consistently throughout the day… But when I wake up and test my PH first thing in the morning, it sits around 5.8, and this worries me because 6 to 8 hours at this PH does my hairline no good.
Are there any suggestions you could make on keeping the body alkaline while sleeping or as alkaline as possible…
Thanks very much.
Hi Ricky, how are you testing it? I don’t believe 100% in any of those tests, realistically your bodily pH won’t change that much in such a short time. It takes month to change tissue and blood pH. Just focus on the big diet changes.
If someone cannot stomach drinking raw vegetable juice (because it makes their stomach really really upset),
Can that person focus on cooked/ steamed vegetables/ home made vegetable soups?
Or if someone is super busy will just Alkaline water be enough? 🙂
I have read that sugar ages the body prematurely, and it seems that massive weight gain and baldness sometimes go together?
Is there any study for thin people with good healthy diets being less likely to go bald?
Hi there, if you can’t stomach vegetable juice sometimes it can be sign that you have a buildup of bad bacteria in your digestive tract that are reacting to the juice. Soups are a good option, especially if they are homemade and use broth as the base.
Definitely try to avoid processed sugar where possible.
Is it dangerous for pregnant women to block DHT — with stinging nettle, and rosemary oil, say — as this hormone (so far as I know) is used in the development of the male foetus? Any information on this would be greatly appreciated. Plus, thanks for all the great advice on your website.
Hello Will,
I wanted to thank you for the effort you put into writing this. I had a few questions that I have been thinking about and would like to know what you think
1. I am trying to reverse my hair fall because my hair is very thin. I am going to buy your ebook and start on the programe and I want to know if you think it’s better to cut off all the bottom of my hair before I start. *since it’s very thin)
2. Is there any brand of dermarollers you recommend, and what needle thickness do you think is best for a beginner
3. My diet is very far away from being healthy. I tried the exfoliation method you mentioned and it helped reduce my hairfall to almost none for a few days, until I suppose all the gunk was built again (because of my horrible diet.) Would you recommend I do nothing to block the DHT externally until I fix this internally or is it fine to do both at the same time.
Thank you in advanced
Hi Mai,
1. Cutting the bottom of your hair won’t affect growth rate, but you may find it easier to manage.
2. There’s no specific brand of dermaroller that we recommend, though we highly suggest our dermastamp here. As for thickness, 1.0mm is a good start.
3. It doesn’t hurt to take a dual approach, but you’re right that unless you treat the problem internally you’ll need to continue to treat it externally as well.
Kind regards,
Steph
Lots of mixed reviews on DHT and how it might not be the culprit for hairloss after all, i train with weights 5-6 times per week but i do believe that DHT and its conversion can create hair loss, i rather have a full head of hair then the shoe shape and bigger muscles. Also most Caucasian male look terrible with a completely shaved head. I am 45 and have mild hair loss or thinning and this website is a god sent, pretty much all the supplements taken are also great for other health benefits too and you don’t go broke if you know where to find them and buy in bulk. I have experimented with drugs, and the results where disastrous, dutastiride works wonders and you will get sick regrowth because it does block both DHT not only one like finastiride but man will you suffer the side effects, i was full of water retention, i took some AI blocker and i felt worst, my face was puffy and swollen and with minoxidil my hair was dry and full of dandruff. I believe if you do not have full blown male pattern baldness the cures offered here will work. Combining saw palmetto pumpkin seed oil and matcha smoothies will help by blocking some of the DHT without having low libidio weigh gains, pumpkin seed oil is a diuretic too found when taking this i have more trips to the bathroom, i have added DIM as a natural estrogen regulator not sure about the studies but so far i don’t seem to retain water like i did on the hair loss drugs. Topical is peppermint oil this stuff works i feel it tingling and hot, magnesium oil and just added melentonin oil too, with jojoba oil, i will be doing a 6 month regiment on this and i am sure i will be very pleased with the end result. I have upped my vitamin D3 intake to 5000IU a day, i take a collagen, MSM vitamin C mixture i had back pain from ligament so it helps a lot, and started to use the herb ashwanghada which helps with stress and lowers cortisol level…… lets see how things go thanks again Will i think 2017 is going to be a great year for hair regrowth
Thanks a lot, great article.
Thank you so much for your hard work as a researcher for this information. I will purchase your program as soon as possible! God bless!!!
Thanks KD, I really appreciate it. Purchasing the program helps us to keep the website running and keep our research unbiased and as in-depth as possible.
Thanks for your comment Greg. Yes less shedding is one of the ways you can see how well any treatment is working (although this isn’t always the case, since shedding can sometimes be unhealthy hair being replaced!) but I’m sure it’s a good sign in your case. Keep it up because the body takes longer than you think to come back to its natural alkaline state!
I can agree with Will’s discovery. I made this discovery myself quite by accident and went more vegetarian approximately two years ago BUT a major find was the H2GO Water Filter which gives me around 9 pH from the tap. Purchased less than six months ago. As soon as I used it the effect was similar to taking Astaxanthin 12mg for the first few days. The Kapow effect! Hair was still thin but with less shedding. Early days maybe? I was also Ozonizing my water to kill most all bacteria before using my H2GO.
Then around five weeks ago I got very lazy with my diet. Saving money. Going to Poundland buying pre-cooked hot dogs, low cost everything, Fray Bentos ready made pies, HP Baked Beans. Really cheap! Hardly any vegan , forgetting the H2GO and using my Brita Filter all of the time because it was quicker. Gave a pH of around 6.5 from the tap. The tap water here being around 7.2pH.
Next. Shedding hair like never before! Just last week. Quickly got some Magnesium Oil as I read about this article. I was told of the benefits but ignored the information a year ago and back to the better routine as before. Already fair results after a couple of lukewarm shampoo’s with some of Will’s recommended Oil’s and Avocado. Very I recently added Catalase for greying hair and possible re-growth as well as Astaxanthin 12mg which I also dropped using round 10 weeks ago. Must be of Hawaiian extract for best result.
Overall I would concur that the H2GO water purifier raising the pH was a good deal at £60.00 a unit.
Don’t drop it if you get one. They might easily break. Seems a little fragile! I feel I could drop most all other supplements’ and oils in favour of a High Alkaline Water if I had to make a financial choice. I just know it works.
I started loosing my hair in 2012. I also developed a dry scalp. I was told recently that it was due to the fluoride in my water. I started using a sulfate free shampoo mixed with Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap the past three months and also rinsed with apple cider vinegar once a month. I have a lot of short hairs around the top of my forehead now and my scalp has improved about 75% between March and August of this year. I was wondering if your list of mixtures would work for my mother. She has had hair and scalp issues as well as breast cancer so one breast was removed. I know that an alkaline diet would have helped if she had started it early enough but I would like to help her keep her total body healthy.
Thank you for all this great information. Question, I use Just For Men hair color about every 6 weeks to take out the gray. Is this going to make me lose more hair and if so, is there a better/safer method to get rid of gray hair? Thank you
Hi Rick, this is an interesting question; yes I think that Just For Men would contribute to hair loss, just through the sheer amount of chemicals. It may only be a small effect, but when it comes to the hair, over time this can make a big difference.
I’m not sure about how to prevent gray hair. That would be something interesting to look into. I have heard that a diet with plenty of colourful micronutrients from plants (think colourful foods, rather than the typical beige diet) can help.
Will
Very good article I enjoyed reading it
I had a friend that took nettle orally and he had a major, major bleeding problem. It was attributed to this. Is this an issue for topical use? I doubt it enters the blood. I will be using it after my weekly derma 1mm roller, so i am a bit concerned. I read that the little holes close up after 30 minutes, so i have NO problem waiting that long to avoid anything.
how to make body inernally and externally and my hairs resistant against fungal infection
I am having hair loss since 6 Years with itching scalp. Can you please suggest some solution for that as well?
Hello Eddy, you might find this article useful about itchy scalp and hair loss.
Hi..is there any ready product in the market that you recommend? Some clinics now offer plan based on the same theory targeting scalp and using tablets what do you think? Finally, can we prevent male sexual functions from being affected ? Thanks a lot
Additionally to everything u wrote (especially the alkaline diet) are cold showers beneficial for your hair
Secondly could the process of Nofap be considered as another natural way of blocking or inhibiting Dht production?
It’s tough that so much food we consume is acidic…. That’s a big change to go through to become alkaline again.
Changing to an alkaline diet is a big change, but it’s so worth it for the benefits. Vegetable juices are the most efficient way to quickly alkalise your body.
hi please tell me the process how to apply the DHT natural blocker saw pemetto , please
The overall conclusion is that I suggest not using blockers such as saw palmetto internally. They are most effective topically (i.e. stopping DHT directly on the scalp.) This is one of the reasons we use rosemary oil in our GRO2 product – it inhibits 5AR very effectively.
Hello Will, great information. I am trying hard to decrease the amount of DHT production in my body. But still having hair fall, so I guess it is the sensitivity of my hair follicles. Can you please suggest me how to solve this issue.. Thanks
Hi Devajit,
I would recommend you check out this in-depth post written by Will on his own hair regrowth journey: https://www.hairguard.com/how-to-regrow-your-hair-naturally/
Regards,
Steph
very nice artical this information cannot be find in any sites…. gbu will 🙂
Really good article,I’ve tried the saw palmetto method and the result are quite shocking.Its been 4 week since I started applying the saw palmetto mixture n my hair got thicker but at the same time there are some hair fall going on maybe around 15 to 25 hair strands per day compared to pre treatment which is 50+.Is it normal?
Thanks Stanley, well the number of hairs falling each day is reducing, which is a good thing. Don’t become obsessive about counting them though because this will only stress yourself out. Keep with it, because hair growth can take a long time.
Hi Will,
Amazing article with tons of information at a single place. Just wanted to know if you also have a natural ways for promoting facial hairs..
Thanks Vik, mmmh, I never looked into promoting facial hair, so I wouldn’t really have a good idea about what works.
This is a fantastic, informative article. Thank you SO MUCH!
Thanks Lisa 🙂
Great article! You did an excellent job of explaining why an alkanine diet is important as well as how to achieve it. You made it clear that hair loss is a sign of larger issues. Thank you .
I will pass these articles on to my family and friends.
Thanks for your support Joan 🙂
You are generous
Thank you for sharing
I have hairloss problem due to this i have less interest in life what can i do to solve this issue
There are lots of attractive and happy people with no hair, so please don’t worry too much. You shouldn’t lose your interest in life just because of your hair. With that said, there is still a lot you can do to stop any further loss and to also initiate regrowth.
Hi prabakaran, I am using an hair regrowth oil and it seems to be working. Where are you from?
What oil is it
Lype pls tell me the name of the oil.
Hi, lype
I am kiran from India with male pattern baldness, will you share with me what kind of hair growth oil you have been using as you posted in reviews column
Which hair oil you apply?
Don’t tout a product if you’re not going to share what it is
Awesome article + Very informative! Thanks a lot!
Great article!!
Hi Steve, your comment is very shocking for me, and I think maybe I should follow the tips you mentioned. Do you have any websites about these great tips? I’d like to know more about curing the hair loss problem. Thank you.
This article’s fascinating.
A few months ago, I tried commercial carrot juice for the first time, which was as grim as I’d expected, but more recently, I sipped the same brand’s ‘organic’ version, which was so delicious I drank nearly the whole bottle in one go.
I was put off further veg juice drinking, after reading how dangerous *fruit juice* is to one’s liver.
Maybe it’s worth trying again …
And making your own veggie juice is also rewarding. You can mix in different veggies (as well as ginger and lemon) until you find a taste you like.
Hi Will,
Is juicing and using a nutribullet same same, or should the pulp be discarded?..eg. when juicing.
Hi Andrew,
If using the nutribuller/blender in place of a juicer, Will recommends straining the blend through a sieve/cheesecloth. This will remove the pulp, which the juicer automatically does.
– Steph
Tons of information, will try to find which suits me. Thank you
Please let me know if female hair loss can be treated the same way. What can I do to promote hair growth. I’m 60 and am experiencing thinning hair in an alarming rate. I see bald spots coming out. I’m upset by this and don’t know what to do. I don’t want to use rogaine or minoxidil. I’m afraid of these chemicals and their affect on my heart. Please help.
Hi,
I suggest you check out this in-depth guide here: https://www.hairguard.com/scalp-secrets/
– Steph
Hi Will, many thanks for your excellent job.
I had a hair transplant (FUE) one month ago, and I have two questions.
Is it safe to wash my hair with apple cider vinegar? What about magnesium oil? I tried the latter but maybe it is too soon due to my condition, as I still have some scars that need to heal.
Beside this, do you have any suggestion to favor the success of my hair transplant procedure in the next months?
Best,
Hi Max,
In regards to your first question, I’d recommend you speak with your surgeon.
As for how to ensure success, it’s important to increase blood flow to the scalp. This will provide the follicles with the blood and nutrients they need to thrive.
You can do so with scalp massage and microneedling.
Steph
Hi Will! but it’s equ
What an exciting site technically, and it’s equally well communicated complete with fun, original illustrations! I’ve done hair for 37 years … thriving all along, but more and more clients are experiencing hair loss which makes my job way hard in to so fun ways. It’s starting much in people much younger than in previous years, too.
I’m in the process of restructuring my biz to do more hair loss treatment. I’ve been working at treatment of my own severe case of Lyme Disease for the past 30 years …. an electromagnetic machine I purchased and continue to benefit greatly from for the past 11 years has been more effective than many stringent, toxic medical treatments I’ve had. My thinning hair came in in an unnaturally rapid way, all over my body but not any more than was natural for me. I wasn’t even targeting hair growth, however there are frequencies which do.
Would there be a chance I could reach you by phone at some point, at your convenience? Just would love to hear some of your thoughts on my thoughts after studying your site for a week if you’re at all inclined. hahaha
Thanks so much for your wonderfully organized and engaging work.
Kris
Thank you so much
Hi Kris, thanks for your comment and your sharing your experience. You can contact me by emailing will (at) hairguard.com. Regards.
Hi Will,
Thank you very much for the information indeed! Since I can`t find your email on this site, I use this to ask a few questions about the 4 secrets. What is the exact order to use the peppermint oil, rosemary oil and magnesium? Can I throw them all together and massage them into my scalp before taking a shower? Or some oils better suited after you wash your hair?
Any help would be great!
Kind regards, Tom
Hi Tom, if you want to use PEO, REO and mag oil I would recommend using our new Gro2 product. The best way is to massage the mixture into your scalp before bedtime and then rinse out in the morning. It’s important for the ingredients to be in contact with the scalp for as long as possible. This increases the efficacy of the oils.
Thanks!
Bro,you are an absolute genius.Thanks a lot.This article is world class and I literally mean it.
Thank you Riham, I appreciate your support. We are always trying to make our guides better and more effective, I’m glad this has helped you 🙂
Excellent article. I was wondering there must be some connection with ph level of body and DHT. You article not only cleared that concept but also gave additional information and knowledge.
Now I can relate that why my hair lose started after my dengue treatment 7 years back. They are so much thin hairs which appears baldness in today’s date.
I have to regrow all them back.
Thanks.
How do hair dyes effect regrowth plan and do the natural ingredients like lemon bleach or fade the colour.
Hair dyes can damage the hair and scalp. For one, a dye can affect the natural pH and microbiome of the scalp. It is not recommended to colour your hair. I would expect that lemon would probably slightly fade the colour.
Is using a natural hair dye like Henna safer??
Hi Paula,
While we haven’t done too much research on the topic, you may find this post helpful: https://www.hairguard.com/color-dye/
– Steph
Very good information mr.will ,I have male pattern baldness ,no article ever suggested these info about DHT as yours,I would have overcome my baldness if it was 8 years earlier, but better late than never, I will try to improve by pH balance improve my health,
Thank you bro.
Thanks Kiran. It should help you, but remember that minimising DHT isn’t everything, it’s only one part of the equation to regrow your hair.
At this point I am at a lose. I eat healthy. I do not drink or smoke and I am at a loss on how to stop my hair from falling out. I wash my hair every 3 days with Do terra shampoo. I use a mixture of oils on my scalp and massage my head. I also use ACV on my hair once a week. I am losing my hair the most at the crown of my head. I air dry after wash/rinse. I will finger out hair or sometimes use a larger tooth comb.
Hi Teresa,
Thanks for your comment.
I would recommend you check out this guide on hair regrowth: https://www.hairguard.com/scalp-secrets/
– Steph
I’ve noticed a great divide within this discussion. A lot of people will tell you to apply a typical solution and leave it at that. Others will tell you to only test the system (the body). I think it’s silly not to do both. Unless you have a rare condition that is causing your hair to fall out, and even then. I mean when I discovered the detumesence research paper I also stumbled upon a guy who used that info. He said that by changing his diet to a highly anti-inflammatory one and massaging his scalp help regrew his hair line -with photographic evidence to prove it.
Great article! Just checking to see if this also applies to women that are seeing hair loss in the same manner as male pattern baldness. Also, due to medical reasons, I went into menopause prematurely and my hair loss increased gradually since onset. Would my hairloss be treatable?
Hi FB,
In many causes, the information shared on the blog will apply to women as well as men.
There are a few special considerations, though. Here’s a post on menopause and hair loss that you might find helpful: https://www.hairguard.com/menopause-hair-loss/
Steph
I was injected with a 200mg pellet of testosterone along with 100mg pellet of estrogen to control post menopause symptoms. The hot flashes totally disappeared. After 4 months my hair started falling out. I had long thick hair which took two turns of band to wrap pony tail. Now it takes four turns and hair sheds all day; more in vacuum! My blood level of testosterone is 150. What can I do. Naturepath recommends quality saw pawmetto, but changing diet seems important, too. What do you recommend for 60 yr old woman?
Hi Cathy,
Thanks for your question!
I think the naturopath is right in this situation, and I would recommend you check out this post on the topic: https://www.hairguard.com/best-diet-for-hair-loss/
Regards,
Steph
I just eliminated the fat burner i was taking and also put a hold on creatine, both known to cause hair thinning because this is what i have. I am using magnesium, jojoba, peppermint, melatonine on the scalp and matcha, pumpkin seed oil and saw palmetto internal. I also changed my diet to a more ketogenic approach. Lets see how things go, i guess i did not get results before because of the fat burner that stresses the body and scalp. I took dutastiride for fina for a year they both work also with minoxidil but honest low libidio, weight gain and water gain puffy face not for me, full head of hair is not worth all those side effects i rather try the natural way.
Hi Yannick, thanks for your comment. That sounds like a good combination. The melatonin addition is an interesting move. Let me know how it goes with that. Remember though, blood flow to the scalp is crucially important, so, as well as these steps you’ll need to incorporate scalp massages and exercises into your regime too. Without these massages and exercises, I predict you will be able to stop further loss, but regrowth will be unlikely.
Does scalp massage remove dht??
Hi Wassy,
There is no evidence to suggest this, though scalp massage does have many other benefits. These include increasing blood flow and reducing calcification. You can learn more about those here: https://www.hairguard.com/scalp-secrets/
– Steph
Can I use a blender instead of a juicer?
Hi Kari,
Yes, but you’ll need to follow an additional step to remove the pulp and fiber.
Once you’ve run the ingredients through the blender, you’ll need to use a cheesecloth or sieve. It’s still not as effective as the juicer, but is should work.
Regards,
Steph
Hi Tereza, thanks for your detailed comment. I’m slightly hesitant to offer too much advice because I have focused on male hair loss in my research. Im not 100% up to speed on female hormones etc. Stress could be playing a role, but it does sound like it could be connected to diet change. I would make sure you don’t have any deficiencies such a vitamin K2 which is found in things like grass fed butter and free range eggs. Something like hydrolysed marine collagen might also be a useful supplement for you. I think that scalp massages and exercises would be useful to some degree, but you would need to fix the underlying issues first. If you are lifting weights you really need to make sure you’re getting enough protein. From a plant based diet this will be hard work chomping through a lot of fibre to get what you need. Would you be okay with taking bone broth?
Will
Based on what you described Tereza – I would definitely increase your consumption of raw animal fats, including (if available) raw butter, raw cheese, raw egg yolks, raw fish… as natural and organic as possible, and increase other raw plant based fats as well. You can consume these fats with a little raw (unheated/unfiltered) honey if desired. I thinks it’s safe also for me to suggest 12-24oz of fresh green juice daily, and reduce (or eliminate) all grains and refined sugars. Personally I follow a modified-primal type approach to eating and have coached hundreds of people to better health modifying this method. Best of health and vitality to you!!
Hey Will thanks for putting all this together, I’ve been following your hair equilibrium plan for 3 weeks now and I’m starting to see results! I was just wondering if men who suffer from male pattern baldness and bph have higher amounts of dht and or 5ar in their system then men who don’t, and how is bph related to balding?
Any comments on hair brushing? I’ve been told that it’s not necessary and can damage the scalp. However, I’ve also been told that using a natural brush will stimulate the scalp and increase blood flow. When I do brush, I notice my scalp is pretty red and tingling, but the brush is also full of hair so I’m not sure if it’s helping or harming.
Hi Jennifer,
I’d say if you’re brushing to the point of redness, then you’re brushing too hard.
You’re right that the use of a natural brush can stimulate blood flow. But it’s important to avoid going too far in the other direction and causing more hair fall.
Regards,
Steph
This vinegar is fantastic. Scalp feels so revived and somehow warm not even massages make such sensation But after the apple cider vinegar leaves a smell of rotten apples. I just use some soap to take off odour but its said here that shampoo is bad. Well any other choice?
Hi Kian, yes ACV is great for the scalp. Some people find the smell off-putting though. I wouldn’t use soap to get rid of it. Just rinse thoroughly and the smell should disappear quickly. Make sure you use a high quality brand. Organic and raw. Here’s more about apple cider vinegar.
is drinking V8 vegetable juice good for alkaline?
Its probably better than nothing (or other commercial alternatives) but nothing beats freshly made juice. I presume it’s pasteurised? Again, better than nothing, but if you can make your own, do that.
Thank you so much for this article and all others on your website. They are all truly incredible! It’s so comprehensive and well explained. I can’t thank you enough for charing your knowledge!!!
Hi Will, can i use white vingar instead of apple cider vinegar.Will it give me the similar effect.If yes then how to use white vinegar for dandruff and to balance the scalp’s desired ph?
Hi Ember, I haven’t tried white vinegar. I would definitely try and stick to ACV if possible. Why wouldn’t you, it’s cheap and readily available in most supermarkets.
Hi Kate, I certainly think that good digestion is very important for overall health. Too often we eat incompatible food combinations that make the digestive process very slow and inefficient. I’m not sure how you can directly stimulate more stomach acid, but I would suggest if you’re eating animal proteins then keep the meal as simple as possible (ideally just lots of veggies.) You could also try taking a little bit of apple cider vinegar before your meal and see if it helps digestion.
Will
Hello
What about fenugreek.I have heard of fenugreek blocking dht in the body if used topically as well as orally.
Hi Shreyansh,
Thanks for your question!
You’re right that fenugreek has often been used for hair growth. We’ve mentioned it a few times on the blog, like this article here: https://www.hairguard.com/vatika-oil-hair-growth-results/
But a fenugreek study is a great idea for an upcoming article.
Thanks!
Steph
Hi Tereza 🙂 A plant-based diet can be high in copper, so I’d suggest you look at supplementing zinc picolinate for a while and see if that improves the situation. You should aim for a ratio of zinc to copper between 8:1 to 10:1. Also, try omega 3, and Vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 can be another reason for hair loss.
Hope that helps! 🙂
Hi will
Great article
It really works it feels good from inside having an alkalised diet
But now days I am facing scalp buildup problem
Would u suggest some good shampoo or anything to get rid of that????
Hi Sam,
I think this article will prove helpful: https://www.hairguard.com/white-buildup-on-scalp/
Regards,
Steph
Hey,
I was reading your blog and noticed you present so many methods to fight MPB that its easy to get lost. I dont really want to put like 10 different oils every day + fancy shampoons and so on. I want to use 1 simple method involving shampoo and maybe some topical mixture. Which one is the best? I have oily and irritated/itchy scalp. What do you think is currently the best setup to use?
Hi Patryk, I understand, we write articles that cater to people’s questions, it doesn’t necessarily mean these are the best methods. You say you have an oily and irritated scalp, so the first thing I would recommend is getting your diet optimised. After you’ve done this, start a regime of scalp massages every day to reduce scalp tension. Since pretty much everyone uses a shampoo, you might as well use one that helps – in this case I would recommend our Caffeine Shampoo.
regards
Will
Hi Will,
My diet is actually pretty good. I am eating very healthy: all organic, lots of veggies and smoothies, no sugar no pizza etc.
So, just scalp massages and that shampoo to fix my problem? I think I was using some organic coffeine shampoo at some point and it didnt do anything.
Besides that fact that this article is accurate and informative. I really appreciate that it’s free. Its not so much the depth of the research but that fact that it provides a general guideline to better lifestyle in terms of taking care of the body. I appreciate that I did not have to go through a million steps including buying a so called “Secret DVD to learn hot grow you hair back” kind of thing. Thanks very much for this article I appreciate.
Thanks so much for your support, Keith!
I really think you should get a blood test for your hormones. Low progesterone may be the answer. Continue on your plant based diet.
Hi, I have been using various DHT blockers for many years but have noticed all have given negative side effects. I do not believe it when some people say they have not experienced any side effects. DHT must be present in our bodies for many reasons; it is not healthy to block DHT at all. Most people who have baldness have genetic issues where hair falls out due to DHT sensitivity in certain parts of the scalp, not because they have more DHT than others. My question is what is the most effective topical lotion which does not block or interfere in DHT? Is there such a product? And how much of the topical DHT blockers enter the bloodstream and thus enter the rest of the body.
Kind Regards,
Hi, I understand where you are coming from. You should focus on increasing blood flow then, since this will have a knock-on affect of reducing DHT in the scalp anyway, in a completely natural way. So topical vasodilators and magnesium oil which reduces calcification (in turn increasing blood flow!).
hello will which product do you consider better?
one with
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens small) (berries) 564 mg *
Pygeum africanum (bark) 464 mg *
Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)(leaf) 264 mg
or another with
Zinc USP (from zinc oxide) 10 mg 67%
Selenium (from l-selenomethionine) 100 mcg 143%
DHT Blocker Proprietary Blend:
Phytosterol Complex (soy), Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) (berry) (from 4:1 extract), Pumpkin Seed (Curcurbita pepo) (seed), Quercetin.
300 mg *
He Shou Wu (Fo-ti) (Polygonum multiflorum) (root) (from 12:1 extract) 100 mg *
Kudzu Soy Isoflavones Blend:
Kudzu Root (Pueraria lobato) (root), Soy Isoflavones (Glycine max) (seeds)
20 mg *
Lycopene 2 mg
I wonder if drinking bone broth is the same as taking a collagen supplement.
What’s the difference between gelatin and collagen?; Are they the same?
What foods are rich in gellatin?
Thank you very much
Regards
Hi Alberto,
I believe you’ll find this post on collagen and hair health helpful.
– Steph
Hi, I’m 25 and suffering from hairloss from last 7-8 years. I’m almost bald from top n front. It’s not genetic as none in paternal or maternal relatives is having hairfall issue, but still the hairfall and thinning isn’t stopping in years. A white mud kind of greasy material forms over the time on my scalp and no shampoo or lotion could help me but getting shaved remains the only solution. But within 1-2 weeks it again starts forming.I don’t know what’s the problem. This mud has eaten all my hairs. Even doctors don’t understand my issue. Please help.
Hi Sam,
That sounds to be a fungal/yeast infection. I recommend you check out this post: https://www.hairguard.com/fungal-infections/
You may also have more luck with a dermatologist, as opposed to your general physician.
– Steph
Would onion juice mixed with peppermint oil applied onto the scalp work? If so how often should I do it and should I leave it in all night?
Hi G,
When using essential oils (such as peppermint), you should always use a carrier oil to dilute it.
Instead of onion juice and peppermint, I would recommend a mixture of mineral oil (90%), peppermint oil (6%), and rosemary oil (4%).
– Steph
Great information will take everything on board and test out I’m actively applying onion juice to my hair and taking biotin and saw palmetto whole berry tablets as well as massaging my scalp for the last month have seen a increase in growth of hair but will put this alkaline balance to the test I have been on watermelon juice for the past week too so will be keeping that up
decrease your sugar consumption and don’t be heavy on carbs they turn into sugar raising your insulin inflammation and dht 5 alpha reductase
Hi,
You might need to do more reasech on indian gooseberry, henna and curry leaves. They are also good for hair growth.
Why is Saw Palmetto not included as part of internal DHT blocker? Also, what are your thoughts on He Shou Wu or Fo-ti for hair loss?
Hi Deniz,
You can use saw palmetto internally, though it appears to work topically much more effectively.
As for fo-ti, I recommend you read this post: https://www.hairguard.com/chinese-medicine-helps-regrow-hair/
– Steph
Hello Teresa Im guessing its menoupause, try to balance the hormones, vitex and black cohosh will do it, and there is alot of supplements for that too. Well my sister and brother in law started vegan last year, I have notice they lost weight and have no cholesterol but my sister is looking older than me and wrinkly she doesn’t drink much water she believes she gets all she needs from veggies and fruit which I disagree, also when you go on a whole food plant based diet are you getting your protein in every meal by adding chick peas, lentil, black beans or kidney beans, hair does use a lot of protein and its need to repair damage from any disease, specially after age 30,
or else the body will start by eating the toxins then the fat and finally the muscles and fat from breast. Hope this info helps.
Hey. I am suffering from Male pattern baldness for 4-5 years. I read your article with the pro-DHT blocking food arguments. However, I also read about how this is all a myth generated in the market by the hair supplement industry and no such DHT blockers can work. I have tried every possible solution there was in the market. How do I trust the effectiveness of your suggestions, given that no such credible evidence is there and only internet generated blogs?
Really hope to get a reply from your sir.
Hi Abhinav,
I would argue that there’s TONS of evidence which goes to show the use of DHT-blocking ingredients can be beneficial in lowering DHT levels (and, as a result, fighting hair loss). However, it helps to look at the research on individual ingredients. For example, you can find articles on many different ingredients used to block DHT over on the archives page: http://www.hairguard.com/blogstream. The articles will then have links to scientific studies that have been carried out.
– Steph
What about other nuts that are alkaline…cashews,peanuts,raisins..do they fall under alkaline foods?
Hi Will. Very great article indeed. Thank you so much. My question is you do not seem to concern about the pH of the baking soda & ACV shampoo, which has about 7 and the scalp has a lower pH level of 4.5-5.5. Will the frequent use of this shampoo be affecting negatively the scalp?
Hi Charcott,
Great question!
There are many benefits to apple cider vinegar, even though it does have a high acidity. You can learn more about its benefits for hair growth here: https://www.hairguard.com/apple-cider-vinegar/
Regards,
Steph
Hello Will,
I have for the first time in the past 4 years been able to reduce my hair fall down to 20-100 strands a day by following a regimen you have described above. I notice small hairs sprouting on the top of my head, that are close to 2 inches now. Although, I have lost a lot of hair in the back of my head that are not as responsive as the top of my head. I am still not sure if i have chronic telogen effluvium or androgenic alopecia because both my parents are close to 60 and have head full of hair. Anyhow, I increased the intake of vegetables/fruits (both raw & juice), flax seeds and coconut oil in the diet and have been having ginger/lemon juice before every meal to increase stomach acid as well. I have also included a probiotic supplement with my second meal and have been mindful about processed sugar, wheat and dairy mostly. If i actively maintain this regimen, do I have a good chance of regaining the thickness? And what is the timeline I can expect to reactivate the dormant hair follicles, 6 months, 1 year or 2 years? By stopping the abnormal hair loss and combining with scalp exercises and rosemary oil massage, can we switch the body to recover the dormant hair follicles or the best i can hope is to maintain what i have left?
I really appreciate all your help.
Hi Kittu, I would say that you have a good chance of increasing thickness and density with your current regime that seems to be working. I would emphasise scalp massagea/exercises especially at this point, since this will really help you to reduce calcification and fibrosis and increase blood flow to the new hair.
Hello!
Thanks for sharing this info.
Sounds like Rosemary is the way to go! 1 ingredient, 1 step!
Please let me know if that is a fair assumption.
Hi Carlos,
You’re right that rosemary is an excellent addition to your hair care routine.
However, keep in mind that other techniques (especially scalp massage and dermastamping) are just as critical to the health of your scalp.
– Steph
I purchased Grogenix elixir, Anti Hair loss essentials and the Caffeine shampoo….can’t wait for it to arrive so I can get started.
Thank you Tucker. You’re going to love the results. Let us know how it goes.
I m 28 year old. I have been suffering from genetic male baldness from quiet a long time but it has started become more evident to me four years back. Though I have not turned complete bald yet, my scalp is visible under sunlight and because of thinning it’s become more apparent that situation is turning worse day by day.
I also gave try to finasteride but I felt to gone through some side effects which are gone when I stopped taking those.
Though, you have given several solutions to deal with dht problems could you please recommend me the starting point for the treatment.?As per my understanding I decided to give try for apple cider vinegar as shampoo, saw palmetto/ stinging nettle as topical solution and alkaline juices. Please suggest whether it is the right way to start or would love to hear and follow any new way you would suggest.
Hi,
I think you’ll find this guide helpful: https://www.hairguard.com/scalp-secrets/
While the steps you’ve taken are a great start, you’ll also want to incorporate massage and dermastamping into your routine, as well. This increase blood circulation which is crucial to regrowth.
– Steph
Hi Will is it better for a woman to use saw palmetto topically to only target DHT in one area
Hi Di,
For both men and women, it’s best in many cases to target DHT topically: https://www.hairguard.com/best-natural-dht-blockers/#5-Topical-DHT-Blockers
This reduces the risk of side effects (even though they are rarer with natural ingredients).
– Steph
Are the shampoo and elixir you sell on your site as a good alternative to the homemade solutions you recommend here and in the program?
Hi Liz,
Yes!
In fact, the products were created with the purpose of replacing the homemade recipes on the blog and in the Program. It makes it a lot easier for many people if they can just purchase the healthier alternative shampoo instead of making it at home.
– Steph
Hi Will,
How do you feel about adding in Progesterone into ones regime. I have done alot of research about hair loss. It seems as we age testosterone goes down as well as Progesterone. The more I read about Progesterone the more i like what it can do. It is a very potent adrogen inhibitor, boosts testosterone, and lowers etrogen. Of course taken in the right quantities. How do you feel about Progesterone? Thanks
Hi Jeremiah,
We’ve actually written an article on progesterone which you can find here: https://www.hairguard.com/can-low-progesterone-cause-hair-loss/
Regards,
Steph
Is your program compatible with a person with insulin resistance?
My doctor says my hair loss is Androgenetic Alopecia (female pattern hair loss)
I have had it for 5 years. I am scared if I use anything other than my natural
brand shampoo and conditioner my hair will get worse. I also have Seborrehic
Dermatitis. I have cleared up the Seborrehic Dermatitis with my shampoo
100 % Pure Shampoo Burdock and Neem and a good diet. I am also on Hair vitamins and Ovasitol for Insulin Resistance.
My hair is still the same. (patchy on top and crown.) Maybe a bit worse, but hard to tell??
Do you think any of your products or program could help me?? If so, which part?
Thanks, Judy
Hi Judy,
There’s no reason our Program cannot be altered to fit your dietary needs. Of course, you should consult with your doctor before making any dietary changes.
If you’ve gotten your SD under control, then it seems you now need to work on tackling the AGA. I recommend you check out this guide for more information: https://www.hairguard.com/scalp-secrets/
– Steph
I Have used the saw palmetto solution and appears to not work on my hear as it has been 2 months
Honestly if the only change you make is adding a simple topical solution to your regime you can’t expect big results. Saw palmetto helps inhibit DHT, but this is only one of the 7 pillars of hair loss. You need to tackle the other 7 as well as optimising your nutrition and lifestyle to see the best results.
Hey Will great information can drinking baking soda make you alkaline as well? From what i researched it can but obviously the best is to get alkalizing minerals etc But can it be a temporary fix until your body naturally becomes more alkaline from the diet change? Thanks so much
I don’t really recommend it, since it is devoid of nutrients, minerals and enzymes. Fresh vegetable juices are the best way to go as far as quickly alkalising your body.
Hi Will,
What makes you think your SCALP ELIXIR is better than Minoxidil since millions of users have acknowledged the efficiency of Minoxidil ?
Hello Jim, I’m not saying it’s better or worse, but for most of the readers of this website, we prefer not to use a chemical everyday on our body. The side-effects of minoxidil are well documented and severe, and they get worse over time.
Is this treatment FDA approved?
Hi this article is very useful for me.
Need to clear one doubt I use finasteride topical solution for past 3 months. At present I stop the drug due to shedding of more hair but there is a small hair regrowth occur after shedding. May I use DHT Blocker internally that u prescribed as more pH value alkaline base.
Weather hair regrowth possible or not I am 26
Hi Jafar,
Whether hair regrowth is possible will depend on how long hair fall has occurred, and whether your follicles are still alive.
You can absolutely use on the DHT blockers mentioned in this article. However, Will also strongly recommends scalp massages and microneedling. This increases blood flow to the scalp which is crucial for regrowth.
– Steph
How often should I use the vinegar cleanse?
Hi Timothy!
While ACV is good for your scalp, it shouldn’t be used more than 2 – 3 times (preferably 2) per week. Any more often can dry out your scalp.
– Steph
Hi Stephen,
You can use a smoothie machine or nutribullet. However, you’ll need to strain the juice through a cheesecloth or strainer to remove any excess pulp/skin/etc. from the blend.
– Steph
There is a area on my hairline where the hair doesn’t grow past a few cm(not baby hairs) while the rest of my hair grows normal. Do you have any tips on how I can reverse this short hair cycle on that area?
Hi Mark, interesting question. It depends on which part of the scalp this is. One thing that could help make existing hairs grow thicker and bigger could be LLLT therapy such as a laser cap. It might be worth a try.
Hi Will
Recently started your plan (so to speak) and purchased the products. But I have one question of the hair exfoliate/peel you make up. You talk about peeling off the remaining mixture, but my mixture of cucumber, ginger, celtic sea salt and black charcoal is literally water like. I was expecting something more like a paste. Is this right?
Hi Paul,
Yes, that’s right.
As the peel dries, it should become possible to peel from the scalp.
Regards,
Steph