Does Low Testosterone Treatment cause Hair Loss?
When men look into reversing Low T, they often ask, does Low testosterone treatment cause hair loss? This is a great and important question. For starters, testosterone is a male hormone responsible for the development of male physical characteristics such as body hair, muscle mass, and deep voice. It is also essential for sperm production and sexual function. However, as men age, their testosterone levels decrease, leading to a condition known as low testosterone or low T. Low T can cause various symptoms such as decreased libido, fatigue, and hair loss. In this blog, we will discuss the relationship between testosterone treatment and hair loss, why men with low T go bald, what happens when they start testosterone treatment, and what men can do to combat hair loss.So, Does Testosterone Treatment Cause Hair Loss?
One of the most common concerns of men with low T is balding. The good news is that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is unlikely to cause hair loss. In fact, studies have shown that TRT may help prevent hair loss and even promote hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). Male pattern baldness is a genetic condition that causes hair loss on the scalp, and it is primarily caused by the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a derivative of testosterone that binds to hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually stop producing hair. TRT can actually reduce the production of DHT by converting it into a less harmful form. Therefore, TRT can at times be beneficial for men with male pattern baldness. However, TRT can cause hair loss in men who are not predisposed to male pattern baldness. This type of hair loss is called telogen effluvium, which is caused by an interruption in the hair growth cycle. TRT can cause a shift in the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding of hair. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and resolves once the body adjusts to the new hormone levels.Why Do Men with Low T Go Bald?
As mentioned earlier, male pattern baldness is primarily caused by the hormone DHT, which is a derivative of testosterone. However, the relationship between low T and male pattern baldness is complex. Low T does not cause male pattern baldness directly, but it can accelerate the process in men who are genetically predisposed to it. Low T can cause a decrease in hair density, which is the number of hairs per square centimeter of the scalp. This is because testosterone is necessary for hair growth and maintenance. When testosterone levels decrease, hair growth slows down, and hair follicles shrink, leading to thinning hair. Low T can also cause an increase in body fat, which can contribute to hair loss. Fat cells convert testosterone into estrogen, which can interfere with hair growth. Additionally, excess body fat can cause inflammation, which can damage hair follicles.What Happens When Men with Low T Start Testosterone Treatment?
When men with low T start TRT, they may experience various changes in their body, including their hair. TRT can cause an increase in body and facial hair growth, which is a desirable effect for many men. However, it may also cause an increase in hair shedding, especially during the first few months of treatment. As mentioned earlier, TRT can cause a shift in the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding of hair. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and resolves once the body adjusts to the new hormone levels. However, some men may experience persistent hair loss, which may require further evaluation. Men who are genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness may experience an acceleration of the process when they start TRT. This is because TRT can increase the production of DHT, which can shrink hair follicles and cause balding. However, as mentioned earlier, TRT can also reduce the production of DHT by converting it into a less harmful form.There are several things that men can do to combat hair loss when on testosterone replacement therapy (TRT):
- Use hair loss prevention products: There are many hair loss prevention products available in the market, such as minoxidil and finasteride. These products can help slow down or even stop hair loss.
- Eat a healthy diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly biotin, zinc, and iron, can promote healthy hair growth. Men should aim to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains in their diet.
- Manage stress: Stress can contribute to hair loss, so men should try to manage their stress levels through exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage hair follicles and contribute to hair loss.
- Use a gentle shampoo: Using a gentle shampoo can help prevent hair breakage and damage. Men should avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals or sulfates, which can strip the hair of its natural oils.
- Get regular check-ups: Men should get regular check-ups with their doctor to monitor their hormone levels and ensure that their TRT is not causing any adverse effects.
Does Low Testosterone Treatment cause Hair Loss?
sa_admin March 8th, 2023
Posted In: Low T Info
Tags: alopecia, androgenetic alopecia, bald, DHT, dihydrotestosterone, estrogen, finasteride, hair loss, low t, male pattern baldness, minoxidil, telogen effluvium, testosterone
9 TRT Mistakes You Should Know
Here are some of the most common TRT mistakes that patients and even doctors make when following a testosterone therapy.
TRT Mistakes #1: Choosing a treatment plan that does not suit your personality or lifestyle
Many TRT doctors only prescribe the testosterone protocol they are comfortable or familiar with, whether it is gel, injection or even pills. However, not all protocols fit every person’s personalities or lifestyles. For instance, if you sweat a lot or do lots of workout, using transdermal patches or creams won’t be as effective as testosterone injection as the testosterone content of transdermal patches won’t be completely absorbed.
Another thing, if you are afraid of needles, testosterone injection will surely be the most uncomfortable situation. Say, you are fine with needles, but what if your doctor does not want to teach you how to inject on your own? Do you have time to drive to his office every week for your injection? Does it fit in with your schedule?
Look for a doctor who knows all TRT protocols and is diligent to ask you about your personality and lifestyle. Otherwise, you might end up discontinuing a TRT protocol because it didn’t suit your lifestyle, your work or your personality.
TRT Mistakes #2: Taking the wrong dose
When you encounter a person who speaks that TRT didn’t work for him, it often has to do with the dosage. You have to understand that testosterone replacement therapy varies from patient to patient. A dosage that could increase a person’s total T to 700 may only bring your up to 400. In addition, a total testosterone level of 700 might be enough for one person, letting him enjoy all the benefits of TRT but for you, it might not be enough.
The dosage and its frequency have to be adjusted from time to time so you make the most you can out of TRT.
TRT Mistakes #3: Cycling testosterone
Maybe because of reading too much bodybuilding magazines, some patients assume that testosterone should be cycled. Cycling is only suitable for users of anabolic steroids whose main goal is to add more muscle mass or enhance performance. However, it is not appropriate for TRT.
Simply put, when you use TRT, your testes take a rest from manufacturing testosterone. If you just stop TRT immediately, you are left with nearly zero testosterone in your body, and at this point, everything goes south. Decreased libido, weight and depression set in. This means that all the benefits you enjoyed with TRT revert. If you decide to stop using testosterone for some reason, work with your doctor to ensure you’re doing it effectively and safely.
TRT Mistakes #4: Wrong Management of Possible Side Effects
Nearly all possible TRT side effects can be managed easily, whether they include hair loss, acne, moodiness or an increase in hematocrit or PSA (prostate-specific antigen). It is important to manage these side effects effectively as it is necessary for the long-term success of your testosterone therapy.
Of course, no one wants to experience these side effects through TRT only to be replaced by another set of side effects. Oftentimes, it is only a question of dosage adjustment or the delivery system but they may sometimes require extra medications.
TRT Mistakes #5: Not living a testosterone-friendly life
Smoking, being overweight, drinking in excess, not having enough sleep, avoiding exercise and taking blood sugar for granted are some of the biggest TRT mistakes that you should avoid. These shouldn’t be part of your lifestyle. Testosterone replacement therapy can create a 180 degree turn in your life. It can make you feel like in your 20s or 30s.
All those bad habits mentioned can greatly deplete your testosterone reserve and no amount of TRT can compensate to offset such kind of lifestyle. It’s best to practice as many healthy habits as possible to make your TRT experience better.
TRT Mistakes #6: Poor compliance
Testosterone therapy requires 100 percent commitment. Like any medication, if you forget to inject or rub cream after a morning shower, it’s not going to give you its expected results. Failing to administer or apply it and it will not work and the long-term outcome will be compromised and unsatisfying.
In addition, poor compliance to TRT has its own inherent consequences. When your T levels keep on fluctuating from highs to lows, you could experience possible swings in your performance, energy and functionality.
There are lots of ways to help you remember your application or injection schedule. You can mark your calendar beforehand, place notes on your fridge or use mobile apps. Find one that will work for you.
TRT Mistakes #7: Choosing the wrong doctor
Today, more and more dentists now provide Botox injections, but that is definitely not part of their training and they are not more qualified, as far as education is concerned, to provide Botox more than a plastic surgeon or a dermatologist. But many dentists see it as a way to augment their income.
On a similar note, many doctors have joined the TRT bandwagon. They do not have the expertise to give testosterone, but they simply do it as a way to increase their income. The problem is, there’s more to TRT than just giving a prescription. Testosterone therapy isn’t just simply elevating your T levels, it is helping your patients find their optimal T levels.
Further, you need one who is knowledgeable in managing any possible side effects of TRT, including other aspects of the TRT science such as the adjunctive therapies.
Finally, you need one who applies what he prescribes. In this case, a doctor who is under TRT himself, who lives a healthy lifestyle and exercises, has the firsthand knowledge into TRT compared to a conventional doctor who only prescribes TRT on the side.
Consider the possible costs before choosing a doctor as well. Do your own homework in finding the right doctor for you.
TRT Mistakes #8: Overlooking estrogen levels
As mentioned in Number 2, the leading cause for having less stellar results with TRT is wrong dosage. The second most common problem among patients who say TRT didn’t work for them is the failure to keep track of their estrogen levels.
When the body metabolises testosterone, it turns into other chemicals such as DHT (Dihydrotestosterone) and estradiol. Estradiol is a metabolite of estrogen, the major hormone in women. Though men require a certain level of estrogen to maintain vascular health, excessive levels can cause gynecomastia, weight gain, extra body fat and subtle mental changes. Excessive estrogen can also hinder the benefits of TRT.
This problem can be very easy to control, but first, you have to find a capable TRT doctor to recognize and fix it.
Hormone Therapeutics Testosterone Therapy
Being a leading provider of low testosterone therapy solutions, we are always looking for newer ways to improve blood testosterone levels for our patients. We believe on improving testosterone levels with not only different testosterone treatment options that we offer, but also with diet, exercise, and therapeutic methods. Over the years, we have seen that our patients have greatly benefited from our Low-T therapy and treatment solutions, and our network of patients have grown across across all major cities of United States, including: Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, Chicago, Jersey City, and Seattle.
If you or a loved one is dealing with low blood testosterone levels, contact us today to get a free evaluation of your Low-T symptoms and see how our treatment options can help you with your low testosterone.
Sign up today and Get our ebook, ‘Naturally Increase Your Testosterone Levels’ absolutely FREE.
9 TRT Mistakes You Should Know
Saleamp Design January 20th, 2017
Posted In: Testosterone Therapy
Tags: cycling, DHT, dihydrotestosterone, dosage, dose, E2, estradiol, estrogen, gynecomastia, testosterone, testosterone mistakes, testosterone protocols, Testosterone replacement therapy, testosterone side effects, testosterone therapy, TRT, TRT dose, TRT mistakes, TRT protocols, TRT side effects
Aromatase inhibitor benefits and side effects as part of Testosterone Therapy
Any significant research into TRT will likely also discuss aromatase inhibitor and estrogen management. You will definitely find this on the ‘Bro-Science’ bodybuilding sites focusing on bulking and supraphysiological dosages of testosterone and other anabolic-androgenic steroids that aromatize to estrogen and estradiol.
What is an aromatase inhibitor and what does it do?
Aromatase is the enzyme complex that converts androgens like testosterone into estradiol in men. Weight gain and aging increase the risk for testosterone conversion into estradiol. Estradiol is the “bad estrogen”, responsible for issues including (often) prostate issues, gynocomastia and erectile/libido/hormonal problems. Men find aromotase in their fat cells and as they expand our estradiol will find itself increasing at the same time our testosterone levels dwindle.
An aromatase inhibitors binds to aromatase, disabling it.
Why take an aromatase inhibitor?
AIs will reduce Estradiol levels. Symptoms of high estradiol include gynecomastia (male breast development and enlargement) and edema (fluid retention in the extremities).
Avoid or Reverse Gynecomastia – Estradiol plays a major role in gynocomastia and an AI like Arimidex (anastrozole) – occasionally letrozole is used – is quite effective in managing estradiol levels. The most important thing is to blood test and measure the estradiol levels and look at is on it’s own and as a % of Total Testosterone levels. if a man goes over a total testosterone of about 600 ng/dl, he will very likely need an aromatase inhibitor. The symptoms for elevated estradiol can mimic those for low testosterone, including mood issues, low libido, erectile dysfunction and other estrogenic side effects.
Did you really want to see a before pic?
Clinical research has looked into the use of aromatase inhibitors as an option to testosterone replacement in older men, and to delay bone closure in adolescent boys who are short, to allow them to gain more height.
Is Estradiol important? Role in men of Estradiol:
Since Estradiol is known as a female hormone and elevated levels can cause gynecomastia or edema, many men believe they need to eliminate or suppress it. This is not true, the body produces estrogens in men because we need it.
Estradiol is important in determining bone mineral density in men. Low levels may lead to bone loss and osteoporosis in elderly men. Low estradiol levels increase fat and decrease sex drive and erectile function.
We do not know the optimal estreadiol range but do know that low levels are not good. We also believe taking anastrozole without clinically diagnosed high estradiol levels and symptoms (gynecomastia and edema) can be counterproductive for men on testosterone therapy. Get your advice from a trained HRT/TRT physician and not someone in the gym or a “Bro-science” website.
Potential side effects of Aromatase inhibitors
Aromatase deficiency has been linked to increased insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Animal studies have shown that an absence of aromatase in male rats increases insulin resistance as well as body fat, and “fatty liver” develops. When young, healthy men were given an aromatase inhibitor, they developed slightly increased body fat, particularly within the waist (i.e., intra-abdominal fat). This type of fat is associated with the development of metabolic syndrome, which includes insulin resistance.
Patients with low testosterone should be wary of automatically using aromatase inhibitors, due to a number of potential metabolic effects. For the AAS using bodybuilder, aromatase inhibitors can be necessary to combat aromatization from supraphysiologic testosterone and other AAS dosages. The most important thing is to work under the guidance of a trained HRT/TRT physician and get tested regularly.
Aromatase inhibitor benefits and side effects as part of Testosterone Therapy
Saleamp Design September 13th, 2016
Posted In: Low T Info
Tags: aromatase, benefits to your body, erectile dysfunction, estradiol, estrogen, hormone replacement therapy, hypogonadism, low t, low testosterone, sex drive, testosterone
Estrogen Monitoring – Estradiol Must Be Monitored During Testosterone Replacement Therapy
What is testosterone replacement therapy? How does Estrogen effect my testosterone levels or how I feel? What is Estradiol or E2 and what do I need to know about estradiol monitoring? Why is it important to monitor estrogen level before getting TRT? What if my estrogen level is elevated, should I still be treated or not? What are the downsides of TRT? Is it dangerous?
These are some of the most common questions most men ask during testosterone replacement therapy. Read below to know more about this treatment.
What is Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a medical treatment that aims to restore hormone levels back to a normal range without any significant side effects or safety concerns. More importantly, it should alleviate the symptoms associated with the hormone deficiency.
The ultimate goal of TRT is to regain and maintain the highest quality of life, compress major illnesses and reduce disability; and add life to years.
Estradiol Monitoring: Why is it important to monitor estrogen level before getting Testosterone Replacement Therapy?
As a Man’s testosterone level decreases, typically his estrogen levels are increasing. Testosterone replacement therapy can also lead to elevations in estrogen level in some men who convert a portion of their testosterone supplementation to Estradiol. In some cases, the level could be above the normal range. While TRT is not about jacking up a man’s testosterone, it should also not be about suppressing his Estrogen or Estradiol/E2.
When the estrogen levels increase, a person may develop breast or nipple tenderness (gynecomastia), which may call for the use of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) – a potent estradiol-suppressor that is primarily used as an adjuvant treatment for breast cancer by lowering estrogen and thereby reducing the stimulation of estrogen receptors in such disease.
Some doctors prefer stopping TRT first when symptoms of high estrogen levels are becoming apparent rather than managing it through AIs. Many doctors, and Broscience websites, promote the absolute use of aromatase inhibitors during TRT despite the absence of symptoms or signs of increase estrogen or Estradiol. They believe that keeping a relatively low estrogen concentrations can boost the effectiveness of TRT and improve male health. This approach, however, can cause other problems.
We at Hormone Therapeutics follows medical protocols and believe in treating the symptoms and the blood tests. The Total Testosterone:Estradiol ratio needs to be kept below 5%. We believe in monitoring and maintaining this level.
What if my estrogen level is elevated, should I still be treated or not?
Estrogen levels in some men administered with aromatase inhibitors have levels that sink below 40pmol/L, which may pose increased risk on bone health, energy and emotional health.
Perhaps the only study that can compare the use of TRT with and without anastrazole were in men diagnosed with hypogonadism, hyposexuality and epilepsy. The first trial revealed a positive effect on the sexual interest with the addition of testolactone therapy.
On the second trial that involves men reported an increase in libido among men treated with anastrazole and testosterone alone. However, this trial didn’t attain statistical significance because some men from the T-alone group also reported increase in sexual interest despite an increase in their estrogen.
However, these studies must be taken with caution because it isn’t clear how the group compares with the bigger group with low-T. This group were also treated with antiseizure drugs which increases SHBG (Sex hormone-binding globulin) – a glycoprotein that attaches to the two sex hormones, estrogen and androgen.
Therefore, there is no solid evidence to support the claim that the use of aromatase inhibitor in conjunction with TRT provides benefits more than that provided by TRT alone.
Do You Need Help?
Hormone Therapeutics is the leading national company assisting men who want to get their lives back through Hormone Replacement and Testosterone Replacement therapy. Our local physicians are ready to treat you anywhere in the entire country. Hormone Therapeutics is pioneering an easier, cost efficient and more private way for you to work with our clinical advisors and physicians from the privacy of your home or office after your local physical exam confirms you have one of the symptoms of Low T.
Contact us today and our clinical advisors will work with you on a hormone therapy program that may include prescribed hormones, exercise, nutrition and sleep programs to reclaim your vitality.
Estrogen Monitoring – Estradiol Must Be Monitored During Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Saleamp Design March 22nd, 2016
Posted In: Testosterone Therapy
Tags: anastrazole, breast enlargement, estradiol, estrogen, gynecomastia, hormone replacement, hypogonadism, low t, low testosterone, nipple sensitivity, testosterone, Testosterone replacement therapy, testosterone therapy, TRT
