Natural vs. Finasteride : Best DHT Blocker to Prevent Hair Loss
|
Did you Know: Dihydrotestosterone -aka DHT- is the Cause of Hair Loss, resulting in 80% of Male Pattern Loss being DHT related?
What is DHT and how exactly does it cause hair loss?
80% of all men experience androgenetic or male pattern hair loss in their lifetime. As the name suggests, the androgen DHT or dihydrotestosterone is what causes it and and therefore an effective DHT Blocker is critical to preventing male pattern hair loss.
A Shortened Anagen: The anagen phase is the only one in which the hair is attached to the blood supply and can receive nutrients and oxygen to grow. Once a hair enters the telogen phase, it takes approximately 3-4 months until it is shed. The shortening of the anagen phase means that with each growth cycle, the hair grows back shorter and finer.
Reduced Blood Supply: DHT can also affect the amount of blood supply being directed towards the hair follicle. Without proper nutrients and oxygen, the hair cannot grow as thick or healthy.
Increased Inflammation: Prolonged exposure of DHT can also lead to scar tissue being formed around the hair follicles. The inflammation surrounding the hair can create an unsuitable environment for growth and could also lead to permanent hair loss in the future.
On This Page
Natural vs. Finasteride DHT Blockers
In this blog, we'll compare Natural DHT blockers vs Finasteride for hair loss prevention. We will delve into how each works, its benefits and side-effects, where to buy, and costs! So read along to make the best informed decision for yourself.
1. Finasteride
Propecia, a name brand for the generic drug Finasteride, is an FDA-approved medication designed to slow, halt, and potentially reverse hair loss by diminishing the levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body. DHT plays a crucial role in sexual development during puberty.
A. Mechanism of Action:
DHT is derivative of testosterone, but this conversion needs the enzyme, 5-alpha reductase to occur. Finasteride, sold by Keeps, Hims.com, Roman, and several other name brands works by inhibiting the Type II 5-alpha reductase enzyme which converts testosterone into DHT. thereby reducing DHT levels throughout the entire body.
B. Side Effects of Finasteride
- Decreased Libido
- Compromised Erections
- Impotence
- Depression
- Problems with orgasm
- Low ejaculation volumes
- Gynecomastia
The risks of finasteride are so rampant that there is a global health organization called PFS - Post Finasteride Syndrome Foundation which is solely dedicated to researching and educating the public on the risks of taking finasteride. Natural DHT blockers, on the other hand, are generally considered safe and have fewer reported side effects.
C. Costs
Generic or brand finasteride ranges from $10 to $40 a month, depending on where you buy and whether it is generic or branded. You will most likely need a prescription to get this medication even if it's through a online tele-health brand.
2. Natural DHT Blocker
Fortunately, there are several natural DHT blockers on the market that use clinically studied plant-based ingredients which are as effective, if not more, in blocking DHT without the harmful side-effects.
A. Mechanism of Action:
Studies have shown that these ingredients such as saw palmetto reduce 5-alpha reductase activity, and consequently, the levels of DHT in the hair follicles. Fatty acids in pumpkin seed oil, and stinging nettle and pygeum bark are extremely effective in inhibiting DHT as well.
B. Natural DHT Blocker - Clinically studied ingredients
- SAW PALMETTO BERRIES EXTRACT: Keep testosterone levels balanced. Saw palmetto has the power to stop the conversion of testosterone into DHT, making it beneficial for hair growth
- STINGING NETTLE ROOT: Several active compounds such as lectins, histamine, sterols, glycosides, polysaccharides, essential vitamins and minerals. They neutralize free radicals in the scalp and block DHT.
- PUMPKIN SEED EXTRACT: Contains phytosterol beta-sitosterol that prevents conversion of hormone testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme 5-alpha - reductase which converts testosterone to DHT.
- CURCUMIN: Curcumin is considered an effective means to treat hair loss and stimulate hair growth by decreasing high levels of DHT. Curcumin can combat hair loss because it has the ability to suppress abnormal androgen receptor (AR) expression.
- PYGEUM BARK POWDER: It is an herbal supplement taken orally. It's well known as a potentially beneficial treatment for an enlarged prostate and prostatitis due to its DHT-blocking ability. Because of this, it's also thought to be a possible treatment for DHT-related hair loss.
- BETA SITOSTEROL: Beta sitosterol is thought to prevent hair loss by inhibiting the production of the androgen DHT. DHT is the androgen responsible for male pattern baldness, and by stopping the production, hair loss should in turn stop or at least slow down.
C. Convenience
For many natural DHT blockers are more compatible with their holistic lifestyle. Younger men specially are reported to be more skeptical about the sexual side-effects of finasteride and therefore are naturally more open to trying something natural first.
Moreover, Finasteride requires a prescription which adds one more step of work that needs to be done. Finally, if and when discontinued, results in immediate hair loss, but the side-effects may continue for a longer period.
Natural DHT blockers on the other hand can be purchased conveniently OTC or online and if discontinued, result in gradual reversal of the gain. Any mild-side effects if at all, reverse immediately.
D. Costs
Most natural DHT blockers pricing is pretty comparable to their drug alternatives. The HairSmart All-Natural DHT Blocker is only $39 a month which is very competitive compared to other natural DHT Blockers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both natural DHT blockers and finasteride offer viable solutions for combating hair loss by inhibiting the effects of DHT. Finasteride is a powerful medication with proven efficacy but comes with potential side effects that may concern many users. Natural DHT blockers such as the HairSmart Protect DHT Blocker on the other hand, provide a holistic approach with fewer side effects, making them a popular choice for those seeking a more natural solution. Ultimately, the choice between these options depends on individual preferences, tolerance for side effects, and lifestyle compatibility. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.
Prerna Khemka
Our founder, Prerna Khemka, confronted hair loss in her twenties. Fueled by a profound passion for Ayurveda and equipped with insights from Western technology, she embarked on a transformative odyssey. Determined to find a solution that resonated with her cultural roots, Prerna delved into extensive research and innovation. The result? A line of clean, effective products that not only revived her own hair but also empowered countless others facing similar challenges.
