Does Testosterone Cause Hair Loss? Simple Explanation

How Is Testosterone Linked to Hair Loss?

Testosterone alone doesn’t cause hair loss. The real issue is a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which is made from testosterone by an enzyme (a form of protein) in the body.

DHT affects people differently. If your hair follicles are genetically sensitive to DHT, they can shrink over time. This leads to thinner hair that grows more slowly and eventually stops growing altogether.

According to research, androgenetic alopecia affects up to 80% of men and 50% of women over their lifetime, and DHT plays a central role in its development.

So, it’s not the amount of testosterone that causes hair loss; it’s how your body uses it and how your hair responds to DHT.

Does Testosterone Therapy Cause Hair Loss?

Testosterone therapy (also called TRT) can increase the amount of testosterone in your body. As testosterone levels go up, more of it may be converted into DHT.

However, not everyone on TRT experiences hair loss. The outcome depends on your DHT levels, genetics, and how sensitive your follicles are.

If you’re taking testosterone and noticing changes in your hair, it’s a good idea to check your hormone levels and talk to your doctor about options.

Can Low Testosterone Cause Hair Loss?

Low testosterone affects hair differently.

It may lead to less body or facial hair, but it usually doesn’t cause scalp hair loss. If you have low testosterone and you’re losing hair on your head, it’s likely caused by something else - like genetics or stress.

Raising testosterone doesn’t always regrow lost scalp hair. Once follicles shrink from DHT, they may stop producing strong hair, even if testosterone levels are back to normal.

What Else Can Cause Hair Loss?

Hair loss isn’t always about hormones. Other common causes include:

• Aging
• Stress
• Poor diet
• Illness
• Genetics

Sometimes, these things work together. That’s why it’s important to look at the full picture.

How to Prevent Hair Loss While Taking Testosterone?

If you’re planning to start testosterone therapy and want to lower your risk of hair loss, early action can make a difference.

Here’s how to protect your hair before or during treatment:

• Start with the lowest effective dose. Higher testosterone can lead to more DHT, especially in people who are genetically sensitive.
• Watch for early signs of shedding. Thinning at the crown or temples may be a signal to act sooner.
• Ask your doctor to monitor DHT levels. This can help detect unwanted changes before they affect your hair.
• Discuss preventive options. These may include topical or natural approaches that support scalp health and reduce DHT impact.

What to Do if Hair Loss Has Already Started?

There’s no permanent cure for hormone-related hair loss, but there are ways to slow it down, protect existing hair, and sometimes stimulate partial regrowth, especially if you act early.

• Eat a healthy, nutrient-rich diet. Focus on protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins like B7 (biotin).
• Avoid harsh hair products and tight styles. Treat your scalp gently.
• Manage stress. Ongoing stress can worsen shedding.
• Explore DHT-reducing options. These may include natural, topical, or prescription-based approaches.
• Consider non-invasive procedures. Laser therapy and platelet-based treatments may help stimulate growth in some people.

Results take time and vary from person to person, but an early start gives you the best chance to protect your hair while continuing testosterone therapy.