Can High Testosterone Levels Lead to Hair Loss?

Can High Testosterone Levels Lead to Hair Loss?

• January 13, 2026
• Dr Paul Spano

Last updated on January 20, 2026

Testosterone often becomes the focus when men or women notice changes in their hair. Many people search for answers to questions such as: ‘Does high testosterone cause hair loss?’ or ‘Is baldness a sign of high testosterone?’

The relationship between testosterone and hair loss is more complex than it first appears. Genetics, hormone sensitivity, age and individual health all influence how the scalp responds to hormonal changes.

Here’s insight into current research, practical insights and what you can do if you are experiencing thinning linked to hormonal shifts. It applies to men, women and people undergoing gender affirming care.

Understanding Testosterone and Its Role in Hair Biology

Testosterone circulates in the body at varying levels depending on sex, age and health. The hormone itself does not directly cause hair loss. The key factor is how the body converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, often called DHT.

Some people inherit androgen receptors that respond strongly to DHT at the hair follicle. This increased sensitivity shortens the growth phase of the hair cycle. Over time, the follicles become smaller and produce finer strands. This process is known as androgenetic alopecia.

The question ‘Does high testosterone cause hair loss?’ has been studied for decades. Most research shows that high testosterone alone is not the main issue. Instead, the pattern of thinning depends on whether the follicles are genetically sensitive to DHT. This explains why two people with similar hormone levels can have completely different hair patterns.

What the Research Says

Research on testosterone and hair loss shows that hormones influence thinning, but they do so within a framework shaped by genetics and follicle sensitivity. Studies consistently find that people with androgenetic alopecia have follicles that respond more strongly to DHT, even when hormone levels are within a normal range.

This sensitivity drives miniaturisation and determines the pattern of loss. Evidence also shows that adjusting hormone levels can change the rate of shedding, although it cannot alter inherited follicle behaviour. These findings guide modern treatment planning and help set realistic expectations for patients.

Hormone Therapy and Hair Thinning

People taking testosterone as part of gender affirming care often ask how to prevent hair loss while taking testosterone. When testosterone levels rise, DHT also rises. If the follicles are sensitive, thinning may begin or progress. Not everyone responds the same way. Some experience rapid change, while others maintain stable hair density.

Medical support is essential when managing hormone therapy. Early assessment helps determine your risk profile and allows you to explore preventative strategies. Clinics like Hair Transplants Melbourne offer tailored guidance for people undergoing hormonal care to help protect hair where possible.

Other Factors Linked With Thinning

Hair loss rarely rests on one cause. Even when hormones play a role, additional factors can influence the rate of shedding.

• Scalp health. Inflammation, buildup, or skin conditions may reduce follicle performance.
• Stress. Short-term or prolonged stress can shift hairs into a resting phase, creating temporary shedding.
• Nutrition. Inadequate protein, iron, zinc, or vitamins can affect growth quality.
• Age. As ageing continues, the growth cycle shortens and follicles become less resilient.

Any assessment should consider these influences alongside testosterone and hair loss.

How to Protect Hair When Testosterone Levels Are High

If you worry about how to prevent hair loss while taking testosterone, early action offers the best chance of keeping follicles active for longer. Strategies vary depending on your circumstances. A hair restoration doctor can assess the scalp, genetic pattern and contributing factors to create a plan that supports long-term results.

Common approaches include:

• Strengthening existing hair through regenerative treatments. Options such as Liquid Hair Therapy, growth factor treatment, exosome therapy, or Regenera stem cell treatment can help stimulate growth where follicles are still active.
• Maintaining scalp health. Treatments that reduce inflammation or improve circulation support healthier growth conditions.
• Prescription hair loss medications. These can help slow the effect of DHT on the follicles for many people.
• Transplantation when areas no longer respond. FUE and FUT hair transplants offer permanent redistribution of resistant follicles. Results look natural when performed by skilled surgeons and can address thinning in men, women and transgender patients.

The best approach depends on individual goals and the condition of the scalp. Hair Transplants Melbourne offers detailed consultations to help determine the most effective combination of treatments.

When Hormone Levels Are Not the Only Issue

People sometimes assume hormones are the sole cause of their thinning. In many cases, genetics remains the primary driver. Testosterone may influence the rate of loss, but it does not determine the underlying pattern caused by alopecia.

A doctor can order blood tests, review medical history and assess the scalp to determine whether hormones, stress, nutrition, illness, or hereditary factors are contributing. This thorough approach prevents unnecessary guessing and helps you choose targeted treatments.

Get Medical Hair Growth Treatment Options at Hair Transplants Melbourne

If hormonal changes are causing thinning, you can explore several medical and surgical treatments, including hair transplantation, growth factor and exosomes therapy.

A personalised plan can combine these approaches for stronger long-term results.

If you notice changes, it’s best to get medical advice early. A hair loss doctor can check for underlying causes and guide you toward treatments that deliver the best possible results. Contact us to book an appointment today.

FAQs

What are the signs of high testosterone?

Some people may notice acne, increased body hair, or changes in scalp hair when testosterone rises. These signs vary widely and do not always indicate a problem. If you worry about testosterone and hair loss, a clinical assessment can help. Hair Transplants Melbourne provides personalised advice and a full range of treatments. Contact us for an appointment.

How do testosterone treatments affect hair?

Testosterone therapy can increase DHT in some people. If follicles are sensitive, thinning may occur. A professional can help plan how to prevent hair loss while taking testosterone. Hair Transplants Melbourne supports patients with regenerative and surgical treatments. Chat to our team today to arrange an assessment.

Can women lose hair due to high testosterone?

Women with elevated testosterone may notice pattern thinning, especially if follicles are sensitive to DHT. Medical investigation is essential to confirm the cause. Hair Transplants Melbourne offers treatments suitable for women experiencing hormonal hair loss. Book a consultation to discuss your options.

Does low testosterone cause hair loss in men?

Low testosterone may influence overall hair quality but rarely causes patterned thinning. Genetic factors remain the strongest influence. A clinical assessment helps identify the cause and guide treatment. Hair Transplants Melbourne offers a full range of non-surgical and surgical solutions, so book a consultation today.

Can testosterone-related hair loss be reversed?

Early treatment may improve or stabilise thinning if follicles remain active. Options range from regenerative therapies to surgical restoration. Results vary, so professional guidance is essential. Our hair transplant clinic provides personalised care and advanced treatment options. Book a consultation in Melbourne.