The Fast Facts
- DHT-blocking shampoos contain ingredients like saw palmetto, ketoconazole, and pumpkin seed oil that may help prevent hair loss by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels on the scalp.
- Androgenetic alopecia affects around 50 million men in the United States and occurs when DHT connects to hair follicle receptors, causing them to shrink and leading to hair thinning.
- Hims Thickening Shampoo uses saw palmetto to target DHT and claims to promote volume and moisture.
- Best DHT-blocking shampoo and conditioner: Happy Head Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner | Skip to review
Certain shampoos and treatments are formulated to block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a sex hormone that plays a role in hair loss. These DHT blockers may help prevent hair loss. We combed through (pun intended) dozens of DHT blocker shampoos to find the best options out there.
Keep reading to see our picks and learn more about DHT.
While there are many products on the market with ingredients that companies claim block DHT, not all of them are supported by research.
We looked for products from reputable brands that contain DHT-blocking ingredients with the most significant research behind them, including:
- Saw palmetto: Saw palmetto is an extract from the berries of a palm found in the southeastern U.S. Shampoos designed to thicken hair with saw palmetto may help lower DHT levels, unclog hair follicles, and boost hair regrowth. Although more research on saw palmetto is needed, a
2020 review of existing research found that it can offer modest enhancement of hair regrowth. - Finasteride and minoxidil: Finasteride is a generic form of Propecia, a prescription treatment for male pattern baldness. Minoxidil is a generic form of Rogaine, a well-known topical treatment targeting the crown of the head.
Research has shown that these ingredients are helpful in slowing the progression of male pattern hair loss, but they only help with partial regrowth. - Ketoconazole: Ketoconazole is most popular for its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why it’s usually used to treat infections or certain conditions, like seborrheic dermatitis. A
2020 systematic review of two animal studies and five human studies found that ketoconazole may be an acceptable treatment option for androgenetic alopecia. - Pumpkin seed oil: Pumpkin seed oil is a natural oil that may have a positive effect on hair growth. It works by stopping testosterone from creating DHT. An older
2014 study reported that men who took 400 milligrams (mg) of pumpkin seed oil daily for 24 weeks saw a 40% increase in hair growth.
We also included some products that contain certain essential oils that have potential as DHT blockers. These don’t have as much research behind them, but they may be helpful.
As a part of our product vetting process, we consider:
- the product’s composition, ingredients, and overall quality
- any third-party certifications
- the company’s reputation and business practices
- marketing claims
- customer reviews
Androgenetic alopecia — also known as male pattern baldness — is one of the more common culprits behind hair loss among men.
Although other genders can also experience this type of hair loss, it’s less common. Around 50 million men in the United States experience this condition, compared to 30 million women.
Testosterone is converted to DHT thanks to an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase (5-AR). After it gets rolling through the bloodstream, DHT is able to connect to receptors on the scalp’s hair follicles, making them shrink.
- less dense hair
- inhibited regrowth
- overall appearance of a less-than-full head of hair
How often should DHT-blocking shampoo be used?
Brands often claim it is best to use DHT-blocking shampoos daily. However, you should follow the instructions on your chosen product and reduce or stop use if you experience side effects.
It can take a few weeks to months for DHT-blocking shampoos to have their full effect.
You’ll notice this lineup of ingredients in most of our picks. These have the most evidence behind them as DHT-blockers:
- saw palmetto
- finasteride and minoxidil
- ketoconazole
- pumpkin seed oil
Other ingredients that don’t have as much research behind them include:
- green tea extract
- tea tree oil
- rosemary extract
Beyond DHT-blocking ingredients, keep an eye out for strengthening ingredients, such as biotin and keratin, and moisturizing ingredients, such as coconut and argan oil.
If you have dry or curly hair, you may want to choose a shampoo that doesn’t contain sulfates, as these can be drying.
DHT-blocking shampoos are generally considered to be safe. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of, including various types of skin irritation.
If you have sensitivities or allergies, be sure to perform a patch test before applying the shampoo to your entire scalp. To do this, dab some shampoo on the inside of your wrist and wait 24 hours to see if you experience any signs of irritation.
Keep in mind that even natural ingredients can lead to irritation or allergic reactions.
It’s also best to look for formulas without harsh chemicals and free of sulfates and parabens.
Hair loss is common as we age, but it has many other potential causes. Stress, hormones, illness, infections, and medications can all play a role in thinning hair. It’s important to seek advice from a medical professional if you’re concerned.
If your hair loss is sudden, patchy, or involves body hair, it could be due to an underlying medical condition that needs diagnosis and treatment.
Likewise, if you have other symptoms along with hair loss, such as itching, burning, or pain, consider talking with a doctor for their advice.
Hair loss can also be a side effect of certain medications. If you’re taking meds or have recently started a course of treatment, check with a doctor or a pharmacist to see whether hair loss is a possible side effect.
Because stress and anxiety can also contribute to hair loss, speak with a healthcare professional if you’re having trouble coping with any mental health challenges. They can rule out underlying medical causes. They can also refer you to a therapist or counselor who can help you manage your mental health.
In most cases, hair loss is not a sign of a serious health problem. But talk with a doctor if you’re worried about hair loss, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms or affects your quality of life. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend treatment options.
Research shows that ingredients in DHT-blocking shampoos can encourage hair growth. However, effects may be modest, and hair loss may return if you stop using the shampoos in some cases.
It may be beneficial to combine a DHT-blocking shampoo with a prescription hair loss treatment if your doctor thinks it may work for you.
If your hair loss isn’t related to DHT, these shampoos might not work for you.
It may take a few months of consistent use, alongside a prescription treatment plan, to see results.
People experiencing male pattern baldness can chat with a doctor about preventive treatments like:
- minoxidil (Rogaine)
- finasteride (Propecia, Proscar)
- follicular unit transplantation (a hair transplant including underlying tissue)
- follicular unit extraction (a hair transplant including only follicles without using connecting tissue)
There are also other options for hair loss prevention at home, such as:
- trying scalp massage, which may encourage hair growth
- using essential oils for hair growth, like peppermint, Chinese hibiscus, ginseng, and jatamansi
- using a soft brush made of natural fibers
Low-level light therapy has also been shown to stimulate cell growth and repair.
There are also a few things to avoid, such as:
- using heat tools on your hair
- chemically treating or bleaching your hair
- using harsh shampoos that can strip your hair of its natural oils
- wearing hairstyles that pull tightly on your hair
Ingredients often included in DHT-blocking shampoos include saw palmetto, finasteride, minoxidil, ketoconazole, and pumpkin seed oil.
DHT-blocking shampoo aims to reduce DHT levels, often by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase activity.
DHT is a sex hormone associated with male characteristics. It’s also a common reason for hair loss. Shampoos that work to block DHT may help improve hair loss.
Always perform a patch test before applying any new product.
Consider talking with your doctor to see if a hair loss treatment plan may be a good idea to use alongside a DHT-blocking shampoo.