Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT for short) is a particularly effective male sex hormone that is produced in the body from testosterone (the most important male sex hormone). This happens with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into its active form DHT.
DHT plays a central role in the development of male sexual characteristics during the embryonic phase and puberty – for example in the development of the external sexual organs, body hair and the voice. DHT also influences many functions in the body in adulthood, for example the growth of body hair, skin fat production(sebum production) and the function of the prostate.
However, DHT is also associated with certain health problems:
- Excessively high DHT levels can trigger androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss).
- DHT is also a factor in the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia (benign enlargement of the prostate).
In certain medical contexts – for example in the treatment of hair loss or hormone-related skin problems – the effect of DHT is specifically reduced by medication(5-alpha-reductase inhibitors).
This content is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment recommendations. It is in no way a substitute for a professional examination or treatment by a licensed physician. If you have any health complaints or uncertainties, please always consult a medical professional – especially if you have any questions about intimate surgery or sexual health.
