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Androgens are a group of steroid hormones that play an important role in the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics, although they are found in both men and women. Testosterone is one of the best known androgens. These hormones are crucial for puberty, promote the growth of body and facial hair, influence libido and support muscle and bone mass.
In connection with hair, androgens have a direct influence on hair growth and hair density. They can have both promoting and inhibiting effects on hair in different parts of the body. For example, androgens promote the growth of facial, chest and pubic hair, while at the same time they can lead to a reduction in scalp hair. This phenomenon is at the heart of androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, in which an increased sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone, leads to a gradual miniaturization of hair follicles and eventual hair loss.
The effect of androgens on hair is complex and varies depending on the region of the body, hormone levels and individual genetic predisposition. In some people, increased androgen activity leads to increased body and facial hair, while in others it can lead to hair loss on the head. Treatment for hair-related conditions associated with androgens may include medications that reduce or block the effect of DHT on hair follicles to slow or reverse hair loss.
