People who need a dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blocker to treat hair loss can find the best one by looking at the extent of hair loss, drug interactions, how and when the blocker is used and reviewing current medical information. These methods cannot guarantee that the blocker will work, but they help consumers make an educated decision about the safety and researched effectiveness potential of the product. The steps are necessary because no two people have the exact same physiology, DHT levels or prescriptions that could react with the DHT blocker.
The first step in choosing a DHT blocker is to assess the level of hair loss. People who are experiencing only very mild thinning of hair likely do not have as much ongoing DHT production. They therefore do not need a blocker that is extremely strong. If hair loss is severe, however, DHT production might be higher, requiring a more potent blocker.
Next, look at the potential for interaction between the DHT blocker and any other medications, including herbal ones. DHT blockers can impact the effectiveness of these drugs or result in deficiencies. For instance, saw palmetto, an herb recommended as a DHT blocker for hair loss, can impact drugs such as aspirin and even multivitamins. Even though many DHT blockers still are being researched for hair loss effectiveness, doctors do have interaction information on a large number of blockers available.
Once it's clear the DHT blocker is suited to the level of DHT production and current medication needs, check the frequency of use. DHT blockers that require more frequent dosing can be troublesome to remember and can become tedious to apply or take. The best DHT blockers do not require an enormous change in a person's routine.
In addition to use frequency, look at the DHT blocker application or intake process. For instance, for someone who has trouble swallowing pills, an herbal extract that could be mixed in foods or a topical shampoo might be better. Conversely, pills might be better for someone with drier hair, as shampooing too frequently can dry hair.
The last step is to look at as much medical information about the DHT blocker as possible, as well as reading product reviews and talking with a physician. Many DHT blockers, particularly those of herbal origin, have little research to back up claims of effectiveness for hair loss. Many also are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This does not mean the DHT blockers don't work as claimed or are unsafe. It just means that doctors need more information before they are able to recommend a proper dosage or combat side effects.