Androgenetic Alopecia and Nutrition
Anna Schmidt
2026-03-23
10 min. read
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Androgenetic alopecia affects as many as 80% of men and 50% of women, being one of the most widespread forms of hair loss. It has predominantly a genetic basis, nevertheless, little is known about the influence of environmental factors on the development of this condition. Among them, nutritional intake may have an impact on the state of the hair and on the course and extent of androgenetic alopecia.
Androgenetic alopecia: etiology, pathophysiological mechanisms, and prevalence across genders
Androgenetic alopecia, commonly referred to as male-pattern baldness, represents one of the most prevalent dermatological conditions characterized by progressive hair thinning and loss, affecting both men and women across various age groups. Its development is intrinsically linked to genetic predispositions and hormonal imbalances—specifically, an elevated activity of androgens within the circulatory system. A defining feature of this disorder is the gradual shortening of the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle, coupled with a prolongation of the telogen (resting) phase, during which hair follicles undergo miniaturization and eventual shedding. The primary pathogenic mediator is dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a potent metabolite of testosterone synthesized via enzymatic conversion by 5-α-reductase types I and II in the skin. Notably, in women with androgenetic alopecia, serum androgen levels frequently remain within reference ranges or exhibit only marginal elevations; however, hair follicles demonstrate heightened sensitivity to these hormones, leading to clinical manifestations of the condition. Furthermore, the etiology in female patients may be compounded by coexisting endocrine disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), pituitary gland dysfunctions, functional or metabolic hyperandrogenism (e.g., associated with obesity or insulin resistance), which amplify androgenic effects at the follicular level and exacerbate hair loss.
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