Hair follicles undergo a cyclic process of growth, rest, and shedding. Excess DHT shortens the growth cycle. Over time, it results in thinner, weaker hair that eventually ceases to grow, leading to visible hair loss.

In men, it typically starts with a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, eventually progressing to partial or complete baldness. Women, on the other hand, typically experience diffuse hair thinning across the top of the scalp.

Unived’s DHT blocker not only targets DHT but also contains nutrients and antioxidants that nourish the hair follicles. These ingredients help strengthen the follicles, improve circulation to the scalp, and support the growth of thick, healthy hair.

Beta-sitosterol: Beta-sitosterol has been found to inhibit the activity of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which helps to limit the production of DHT in the body (1).

Pumpkin seed extract: Pumpkin seed extract contains phytosterols, including delta-7-sterols, which have been found to effectively inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase which in turn reduces DHT levels (2).

Zinc: Zinc has been shown to inhibit the activity of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Therefore it helps to limit the production of DHT in the body. Zinc deficiency is associated with hair loss and shedding (3).

Green tea extract: Green tea is rich in antioxidants. The polyphenol (EGCG) present in green tea has shown the potential to inhibit the 5-alpha reductase enzyme in laboratory studies. Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties (4).

Vitamin D: Research has shown that individuals with androgenic alopecia, a form of hair loss characterized by progressive thinning, often exhibit low levels of vitamin D in their bloodstream. Vitamin D plays a significant role in the differentiation of keratinocytes and the establishment of a healthy hair growth cycle. In fact, hair follicles are known to have a high concentration of vitamin D receptors, suggesting that a deficiency in this vitamin may impact hair growth (5).

Grape Seed Extract (proanthocyanidins): Grape seed extract is rich in antioxidants. By reducing oxidative stress, grape seed extract may support a healthier scalp environment for hair growth (6).

Some studies suggest that grape seed extract may help improve blood circulation. Better blood flow to the scalp ensures the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles, which are crucial for optimal hair growth and health (6).

References:

1. Zamani, P., Mokhtari, O., & Dehghanian, F. (2021). Identification of beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol as possible inhibitors of 5 alpha-reductase 1: an in-silico study. Precision Medicine and Clinical OMICS, 1(1).

2. Cho, Y. H., Lee, S. Y., Jeong, D. W., Choi, E. J., Kim, Y. J., Lee, J. G., ... & Cha, H. S. (2014). Effect of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine, 2014.

3. Kil, M. S., Kim, C. W., & Kim, S. S. (2013). Analysis of serum zinc and copper concentrations in hair loss. Annals of dermatology, 25(4), 405–409.

4. Kwon, O. S., Han, J. H., Yoo, H. G., Chung, J. H., Cho, K. H., Eun, H. C., & Kim, K. H. (2007). Human hair growth enhancement in vitro by green tea epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Phytomedicine, 14(7-8), 551-555.

5. Almohanna, H. M., Ahmed, A. A., Tsatalis, J. P., & Tosti, A. (2019). The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatology and therapy, 9(1), 51–70.

6. Dhariwala, M. Y., & Ravikumar, P. (2019). An overview of herbal alternatives in androgenetic alopecia. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 18(4), 966-975.