If you're a man who goes to the gym regularly, you've probably noticed that some of your fellow lifters are starting to lose their hair.
And it’s difficult to wrap your head around (pun intended), but some of those going bald might be the most jacked…
But wait a minute, aren’t these guys that won the genetic lottery practically drowning in testosterone?
Hair loss is often linked to low testosterone, but this anecdotal evidence starts to paint a very different picture.
If that’s the case, then does that mean that high levels of testosterone are linked to hair loss, or is low levels - or something else completely?
What’s more, if you're starting to see more hairs in your drain than usual, you might be even more invested in the potential connection between testosterone and hair loss.
So, to help, here's a deep dive into understanding what's going on and whether testosterone and hair loss are linked or just one big coincidence.
Testosterone and hair loss: is there a connection?
Hair loss due to age is a pressing concern for many men. Hair loss is often associated with lower testosterone levels, which contradicts the earlier information.
This can be a significant source of insecurity and distress. But despite popular perception, the phenomenon is more complex.
Much of the evidence linking testosterone to hair loss is anecdotal, meaning that more research is needed for a definitive answer. However, scientific research sheds light on the potential connection between the two.
Studies have revealed that some areas of the scalp are significantly androgen-dependent, which means they react to hormones like testosterone and other related chemicals, such as DHT.
While this doesn't necessarily mean increased testosterone levels will lead to hair loss, further study into this relationship could answer why many men without traditional risk factors for male pattern baldness experience profound hair thinning.
When you increase your testosterone, chemicals such as DHT also grow. DHT is an androgen that affects the hair follicles on your scalp and head.
Unfortunately, the effect of DHT on your hair is negative, as it damages these follicles, shrinking them while also putting them into a rest phase, which can cause baldness and hair loss after time.
In addition, some men's hair is genetically coded to be influenced more by DHT than others, meaning that lower hormone levels can still cause issues.
Understanding why men with high testosterone are affected by hormone-related hair loss could help us develop treatments that promote hair growth in those who previously have not been so lucky.
How to prevent hair loss if you have high levels of testosterone
If you have high testosterone levels due to taking steroids or because of a large body mass, don't be dismayed. There are proactive solutions to maintaining healthy hair.
The initial step is to speak to your doctor and ask about the various medical treatments you can take, such as medications or laser therapy. You'll also need to consider an overall healthy lifestyle: keep hydrated, reduce stress, exercise regularly, and eat a nutritious, protein-rich diet with essential vitamins for growth.
Finally, adjust your grooming routine if needed – using lighter shampoos and avoiding harsh styling agents that could be drying out your scalp. By taking these steps, you'll have a good chance of protecting your hair from further loss and restoring it to perfect health.
Having high testosterone can be beneficial for men in some aspects of life. It helps you maintain muscle, increases energy, and boosts your sex drive. In addition, hair loss doesn't have to be a side effect of high testosterone. By following these suggestions, you can cling to your luscious locks.
What else causes hair loss?
Your testosterone levels aren't the only things that cause hair loss to occur around your body. Although it can be a massive factor, as it impacts your DHT levels which can harm your follicles, there are other reasons you may experience hair loss.
Some of the other factors that can cause hair loss in men include:
- Stress - When you're stressed, you can experience various types of hair loss. The most common type is where your hair follicles are put into a resting phase, meaning they don't grow. This can give your hair a thinner appearance, and after continuous stress, baldness can occur.
- Family history - This is the most common cause of hair loss, as this condition is hereditary and is passed down from generation to generation. If your parents or grandparents suffer from baldness, you'll likely go through hair loss as you age.
- Medication - Taking some forms of medication for other issues can cause you to experience hair loss as a side effect. Some of the most common types of medication which can cause hair loss include drugs for cancer, depression, heart problems, gout, and high blood pressure.
- Certain hairstyles - Although it is an issue that is more common in women, certain hairstyles that can pull your hair tight, such as pigtails, cornrows, and braids, can cause traction alopecia. Plus, subjecting your hair to hot air can cause damage to your hair, stopping it from growing.
How to combat hair loss?
If you're already in a situation where your hair is falling out, you need to act fast to combat it and regain your hair.
A few things you can try include
1. Minimise Stress
One of the best ways to combat hair loss is to minimise stress. Stress can cause various physical and emotional problems, including hair loss.
When you're under pressure, your body produces a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol can interfere with producing new hair cells, leading to hair loss. Exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to reduce stress.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is also crucial for preventing hair loss. A diet high in vitamins and minerals will help keep your hair healthy and strong. Foods particularly beneficial for hair health include salmon, dark leafy greens, eggs, and nuts.
3. Avoid Hot showers
Hot showers can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it more susceptible to damage and breakage.
When washing your hair, use lukewarm water instead of hot water, and avoid harsh shampoos or conditioners.
4. Use Gentle Hair Care Products
If you are experiencing hair loss, using gentle hair care products that will not further damage your hair is essential.
Look for products that are sulphate-free and free from other harsh chemicals. You should also avoid using heat-styling tools such as curling irons or blow dryers, as these can further damage your hair.
5. See a Dermatologist
If you are concerned about your continuing hair loss, it is vital to see a dermatologist who can determine the root cause of your hair loss and recommend treatment options. Various treatments are available for hair loss, including medication, surgery, and topical treatments.
Foods that can help reduce hair loss
Eating the right foods and cutting back on processed, sugary ones is an underrated but effective way to reduce hair loss.
Foods packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals can be enormously beneficial in slowing or even preventing hair loss.
While it won't mend a receding hairline overnight, focusing on eating natural food you cook for yourself can bring tremendous results. Quit reaching for that candy bar when your energy lags; instead, choose some of the following if you want to maintain a good head of hair:
Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of both protein and biotin, two essential nutrients for healthy hair. Biotin deficiency is one of the leading causes of hair loss, so eating eggs can help to prevent this. Eggs are also a good source of iron, which is necessary for proper hair growth.
Oysters
Oysters are a good source of zinc, a mineral that is essential for healthy hair. Zinc deficiency is one of the leading causes of hair loss, so eating oysters can help to prevent this. Oysters are also a good source of protein and iron necessary for proper hair growth.
Salmon
Salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids essential for healthy hair. Omega-3 fatty acids help keep the scalp moisturised, preventing hair loss. Salmon is also a good protein and vitamin D source, which are necessary for proper hair growth.
Spinach
Spinach is a good source of iron, an essential mineral for proper hair growth. Iron deficiency is one of the leading causes of hair loss, so eating spinach can help to prevent this. Spinach is also a good source of folate and vitamins A and C, all necessary for healthy hair.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps to keep the scalp healthy. Beta-carotene deficiency has been linked to hair loss, so eating sweet potatoes can help to prevent this. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of vitamins C and E for healthy hair.
Natural supplements for hair loss prevention
You may need natural supplements if you're searching for hair loss prevention solutions. Natural ingredients derived from plants can provide powerful ingredients and antioxidants that promote healthy new growth and nourish the scalp, helping to keep existing locks strong while encouraging new ones to sprout.
Whether your particular formula includes saw palmetto or biotin, natural supplements can offer a range of solutions to suit just about any lifestyle. And with an array of options on the market today, it's easy to find something that's affordable and suitable for your situation.
That said, as DHT caused by high testosterone is a significant factor in hair loss, you should also take something that can help you raise your testosterone to build mass without the risk of hair loss.
When to see a doctor about hair loss
Experiencing hair loss can be a stressful and upsetting situation to be in, but understanding when to see a doctor is essential.
Even though hair loss can sometimes be a sign of ageing or hormonal changes, seeking help from a professional as soon as possible is essential to ensure it doesn't develop into something more serious.
If you have noticed that your hair is thinner than usual, has ongoing patchy patches, or excessive shedding, then it would be beneficial to make an appointment with your doctor. A medical professional can assess the problem and offer helpful advice and treatment options.
Deciding to consult with a doctor won't prevent hair loss altogether but may help reduce further thinning and assist in finding ways of restoring lost hair.
Don't lose your head (or hair)
As we've seen, there's a definite link between testosterone and hair loss that cannot be overlooked. When testosterone levels exceed the normal range, the result can often be increased hair loss due to the DHT that is also increased alongside it.
However, these high levels of testosterone are often linked to illegal steroids, that boost your levels to an unnatural level. And supplementing to bring your t-levels up to a normal range with a legal supplement such as Testoprime will help support functioning without risking hair loss.
Fortunately, with proper nutrition, natural supplements, and medication, when necessary, you can take proactive steps to ensure your locks remain lush and full.
If your hair loss persists or increases despite these measures, it's vital to seek professional medical advice as soon as possible. While testosterone levels may contribute to hair loss, they don't have to spell disaster – with care and attention, your head of healthy locks can remain intact for years to come.
