Anybody know the effects of DHEA on hair if anything? Does it bear a relationship to hairloss at all as a precursor? thanks,wwh

WWH welcome back...nothing like those european hunnies !

What is DHEA ?

I hope this helps; only one study; you can draw your own conclusions; maybe other studies out there.

Used primarily by anti-aging groups, "progressive" doctors and athletes.
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that is a precursor primarily of androgens (male hormones) but also of estrogens (female hormones). Blood levels of DHEA peak at about age 20 and then steadily decline.


Pitts RL. Serum elevation of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate associated with male pattern baldness in young men. J Am Acad Dermatol 1987 Mar;16(3 Pt 1):571-3

Eighteen men aged 18 to 32 with rapidly progressive male pattern baldness had serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and testosterone measured. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels were elevated in all patients, ranging from 340 to 730 micrograms/dl. The patients were otherwise healthy and serum testosterone levels were within normal limits. A control group of men of similar age without hair loss had lower dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels ranging from 124 to 300 micrograms/dl (p less than 0.005). The biochemistry of androgens, particularly dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, suggests that adrenal hyperactivity may initiate alopecia in young men who are genetically susceptible.



Edited: 04/13/2003 at 05:13 PM by Hair Loss Help Moderator