Questions on DHT level and hair loss

Someguy · Apr 7, 2015

I've been on TRT for around 7 months total, the last few months on an increased dose of 200mg cypionate per week (100mg 2x per week.) I just had my DHT tested for the first time. Result:

DHT 816 (Range: 112-955 pg/ml)

So I'm within the reference range, but right near the top. I have noticed a big increase in body hair, particularly on my back and upper arms, since increasing my testosterone dosage. I also think (but am not 100% sure yet) that I'm noticing some thinning along the front of my hairline. Obviously I don't want this to happen.

To complicate matters, I've recently (after the blood was drawn for this DHT test) added HCG to my protocol. I understand this can increase test and e2. I assume it also increases DHT?

Could a DHT level of 816 cause hair loss?

Would cutting down my testosterone dose be the best move here to reduce DHT and stop hair loss?

Nelson Vergel · Apr 7, 2015

I doubt that decreasing DHT by decreasing dose will make anything better when it comes to body hair growth and scalp hair loss (unless you go to hypogonadal blood levels again).

You should avoid Propecia since it has been linked to ED.

I would accept the body hair growth. For your scalp, use Nizoral shampoo (ketoconazole is a DHT blocker) every day and generic Rogaine foam. It takes at least 3 months to see effects, though.

Here are some fancier prescription hair growth gels:

https://www.excelmale.com/?s=46-Options-for-Hair-Loss-Beyond-Propecia

Someguy · Apr 7, 2015

Thanks. I'm fine with the body hair growth. I'm not at all ok with losing the hair on my head. I'm on a relatively high testosterone dose that's keeping my total testosterone level pretty high. All of my other labs are fine, but I'd lower my testosterone dosage if it would stop the hair loss. If it won't then there's no point in lowering the dose.

I'll definitely stay away from propecia and related DHT blockers. Way too many horror stories out there. With Nizoral shampoo, I've heard conflicting reports. I've heard some people say it stays local to the scalp and doesn't cause systemic issues. I've heard other people say that your body absorbs it and some people get long term or permanent ED from it just like with propecia. Any insight?

CoastWatcher · Apr 7, 2015

As to Nizoral, I have heard the complaints you mention. However, I have been using the 2 percent Nizoral along with Rogaine five percent for three years and have stopped the thinning at my crown. I am using a slightly modified version of Gene's Nitric Oxide Stack, along with t-enth, and have no ED issues.

Good luck!