Why DHT is causing your hair loss...

Good morning. It’s Saturday, Feb. 22, and we’re covering the connection between DHT and Hair Loss. First time reading? Join other ladies who are thriving with PCOS. Sign up here.

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The Essentials

Ladies, let’s talk about the villain behind PCOS-related hair loss—DHT. If your once-thick ponytail is looking more like a wispy thread these days, this sneaky hormone is probably to blame.

But don’t panic—today, we’re breaking down DHT, why it’s sabotaging your hairline, and how to fight back naturally (without the sketchy side effects of prescription meds).

Let’s get into it.

What the Heck is DHT, and Why is it Ruining Your Hair?

Alright, science mode: DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) is a supercharged version of testosterone that your body makes with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. It’s great if you’re trying to grow a beard or bulk up. Not so great if you’re just trying to keep your hair attached to your scalp.

For women with PCOS, higher androgen levels (aka more testosterone floating around) mean more DHT, which loves to shrink your hair follicles until they stop producing hair altogether. It’s like a slow-motion unsubscribing from your scalp. Rude, right?

Now, some people turn to medications like finasteride (a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor) to block DHT and stop hair loss. But here’s the catch:
✔️ It works… kind of
❌ It comes with hormonal side effects (we’re talking mood swings, irregular cycles, and even lower libido)
❌ It’s not always a PCOS-friendly solution

So what’s the alternative? Natural DHT blockers that work with your body instead of against it.

Let’s talk about the MVPs.

1. Saw Palmetto: Nature’s Finasteride 🌿

If finasteride had a plant-based twin, saw palmetto would be it. It blocks 5-alpha reductase, meaning less testosterone converts into DHT.

How to Use it:

• Supplements: Take 160–320mg daily for best results

• Topical: Some scalp serums include saw palmetto (great for direct action!)

Side Effects to Watch For:

• Can lower libido in some women (it’s blocking DHT, after all)

• Might interfere with birth control pills

💡 Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a natural alternative to finasteride, this is your best bet.

2. Pumpkin Seed Oil: Your Hair’s New Favorite Snack 🎃

Pumpkin seeds aren’t just for Instagram-worthy fall lattes. The oil is packed with zinc and fatty acids that block DHT while reducing inflammation in the scalp.

How to Use it:

• Oral: 1–2 tablespoons of cold-pressed pumpkin seed oil per day

• Topical: Massage into the scalp 3x a week (mix with rosemary oil for a power duo)

Side Effects to Watch For:

• May lower blood pressure (great for some, not for others)

• Mild digestive issues if taken in excess

💡 Bottom Line: Pumpkin seed oil is an easy, food-based way to block DHT while keeping your scalp happy and hydrated.

3. Green Tea (EGCG): The Antioxidant Powerhouse 🍵

You know green tea is good for you—but did you know it’s a secret weapon against DHT? It contains EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate), a compound that helps reduce DHT levels and promotes hair growth.

How to Use It:

• Drink 1–2 cups a day for internal benefits

• Make a DIY scalp rinse (brew strong green tea, let it cool, and pour over your scalp before washing)

Side Effects to Watch For:

• Contains caffeine—so if you’re caffeine-sensitive, limit intake

• May lower iron absorption, so don’t drink it with meals

💡 Bottom Line: Sip your way to healthier hair—plus, it’s great for metabolism and inflammation, so double win.

4. Spearmint Tea: The Ultimate Androgen Balancer 🍃

If you struggle with high testosterone, excess facial hair, AND hair thinning, spearmint tea is about to become your new best friend. Studies show it can lower free testosterone levels, which means less DHT floating around.

How to Use It:

• Drink 2 cups a day for best results (bonus: it can help clear hormonal acne, too!)

Side Effects to Watch For:

• Can lower testosterone too much if overused

• Not recommended if you have very low androgens already

💡 Bottom Line: If you’re dealing with both hirsutism (excess hair growth) and hair loss, this is a must-try.

5. Flaxseeds: The Hormone Whisperer 🥄

Flaxseeds are full of lignans, plant compounds that help regulate estrogen and reduce DHT production. They’re also loaded with omega-3s, which reduce scalp inflammation and support hair growth.

How to Use It:

• Add 1–2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal

• Sprinkle on salads or mix into baked goods

Side Effects to Watch For:

• Can affect estrogen balance—not ideal if you’re on hormone therapy

• High in fiber, so start slow to avoid digestive drama

💡 Bottom Line: Flaxseeds help balance hormones and block DHT—plus, they’re great for gut health.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Try?

Honestly? Why not all of them. The best way to fight PCOS hair loss is a combination approach—because your hormones aren’t simple, so your solution shouldn’t be either.

Your DHT-Blocking Hair Plan:

✅ Start drinking spearmint tea or green tea daily
✅ Add flaxseeds and pumpkin seed oil to your diet
✅ Try a saw palmetto supplement (especially if you’re not on hormonal birth control)
✅ Use a DHT-blocking scalp treatment (rosemary oil + pumpkin seed oil + saw palmetto)

Give it 3–6 months, and you’ll start seeing a difference.

Hair loss can feel overwhelming, but you can fight back—without nasty side effects or a pharmacy bill.

Now, tell me: Have you tried any of these DHT blockers? Do you have your own secret hair growth hack?

Hit reply and let me know! Also, what part of PCOS do you want to deep-dive into next week?

Let’s fix our hairlines together. ✨

^{Why PCOS Queens? I want to save you the energy and time in researching and instead give you the shortcut to managing PCOS. I want to help you avoid feeling self-conscious and thinking you have to accept how things are. I want to help you overcome the worst of your symptoms, feel empowered and discover your inner strength. I want to hand you the keys to take back control of your life.}

*Disclaimer: Every women is unique, and this information is provided for educational purposes only. I share summarized research data and personal experience, but this should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance on your specific health needs.