What Is A DHT Blocking Shampoo?

DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a male sex hormone derived from testosterone. It blocks and shrinks the hair follicles and prevents hair growth. This leads to hair thinning and baldness. A DHT blocking shampoo can help reduce the hormone’s harmful effects on your follicles, preventing hair loss. It is more effective if you let the product sit on your scalp for a few minutes before rinsing off. However, always use a DHT blocking shampoo following a doctor’s advice. Although no magical remedy for hair loss, certain ingredients have shown proven benefits. Let’s have a look at the ingredients found in a DHT blocking shampoo.

What Are The Ingredients In An Anti-DHT Shampoo?

 Ketoconazole: This antifungal ingredient is mostly found in anti-dandruff shampoos. It plays an active role in controlling dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. Using 2% ketoconazole shampoo can effectively prevent DHT from damaging your hair and treat androgenetic alopecia. Saw Palmetto: It exhibits DHT-blocking and anti-inflammatory properties. This herbal ingredient inhibits testosterone and DHT from binding with 5-AR receptors. Rosemary Oil: According to a study, rosemary oil helps promote hair growth and treats an itchy scalp. Pumpkin Seed Oil:Research shows that pumpkin seed oil can block the action of 5-AR, which produces DHT from testosterone. Thus, it helps treat hair loss and baldness caused by high levels of destructive DHT. Tea Tree Oil: This ingredient with anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties fight fungi that can cause scalp irritation.

The next section lists the 15 best DHT blocking shampoos available online. Keep reading.

15 Best DHT Blocking Shampoos

1. Best Overall: Honeydew Biotin Shampoo

The Honeydew Biotin Shampoo is a natural formula for thicker and healthier hair growth. It is infused with essential oils that nourish your hair from the roots to the tips and prevents thinning. This shampoo contains biotin, coconut oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, tea tree oil, olive oil, evening primrose oil, and keratin zinc pyrithione. Biotin promotes thicker hair growth, strengthens hair shafts, stimulates keratin, and targets hair follicles. Tea tree oil has cleansing, antibacterial, and anti-microbial properties that help unclog scalp pores. Argan oil protects your hair from free radical damage, while Vitamin E moisturizes your scalp. This shampoo also eliminates dirt and oil and prevents dandruff. Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, Jojoba oil, Argan oil, Tea tree oil, Evening primrose oil, and Keratin zinc pyrithione Pros

 Suitable for all hair types  Made with eco-friendly ingredients  BPA-free  Color safe  Hypoallergenic  Sulfate-free  Cruelty-free  Paraben-free

Cons

 Makes the hair frizzy

2. Best Hypoallergenic: Pura D’OR Anti-Thinning Shampoo

The Pura D’Or Anti-Thinning Shampoo stops hair thinning and prevents hair loss. The plant-based formula is rich in DHT blockers like saw palmetto and nettle extract, which promote hair growth and thickness. This shampoo is a potent combination of argan oil, amla oil, tea tree, niacin, pumpkin seed oil, rosemary oil, green tea extract, hibiscus flower oil, vitamin E, black cumin seed oil, pygeum bark extract, biotin, lemon peel, clary sage, red Korean seaweed, and He Shou Wu. These natural ingredients remove DHT, promote healthy hair growth, purifies the scalp, improves circulation, nourishes your hair, reduces itchiness, and eliminates scalp buildup. Key Ingredients: Nettle extract, Saw palmetto, Argan oil, Amla oil, Niacin, Tea tree, Pumpkin seed oil, Rosemary oil, Green tea extract, Hibiscus flower oil, Vitamin E, Lemon peel, Red Korean seaweed, Clary sage, Pygeum bark extract, Biotin, He Shou Wu, and Black cumin seed oil Pros

 Safe for color-treated hair  Works on all hair types  Hypoallergenic  Vegan  Gentle formula  Cruelty-free  Gluten-free  Paraben-free  Sulfate-free

Cons None

3. Best Daily Use: Ultrax Labs Hair Surge Hair Recovery Stimulating Shampoo

The Ultrax Labs Hair Recovery Stimulating Shampoo helps promote hair growth and nourishes your hair. It contains caffeine, which helps stimulate the life cycle of the follicles, blocks DHT, and prevents hair loss. Ketoconazole, an antifungal and anti-inflammatory ingredient, reduces dandruff and saw palmetto blocks 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT. Key Ingredients: Caffeine, Ketoconazole, and Saw palmetto Pros

 Reduces dandruff  Suitable for daily use  Clinically-tested  Cruelty-free

Cons

 Expensive  Unpleasant fragrance

4. Best For Color-Treated Hair: Pure Biology Premium Hair Growth Shampoo

The Pure Biology Premium Hair Growth Shampoo strengthens your hair and reduces hair loss. It is infused with biotin that stimulates healthy hair growth. Saw palmetto and green tea extracts prevent hair fall. This shampoo also contains keratin, hydrogenated castor oil, coconut oil, vitamin B, vitamin E that nourish your hair. Grapefruit seed oil, lemongrass oil, lemon peel oil, rosemary leaf oil, castor oil has antiseptic properties. Soybean oil help retain hair moisture, and hydrolyzed wheat protein thickens the hair and adds volume. This product is formulated with Amino Kera NPNF Keratin complex that revitalizes dry, dull hair. Procapil helps strengthen your hair. Apigenin and oleanolic acid treat alopecia and block DHT. Key Ingredients: Saw palmetto, Biotin, Keratin, Castor oil, Coconut oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin B, and Green tea extract Pros

 Safe for color-treated hair  Sulfate-free  Paraben-free  Non-GMO  Cruelty-free  Suitable for all hair types

Cons

 Expensive  Contains gluten

5. Best For Damaged Hair: ArtNaturals Argan Oil Shampoo

The ArtNaturals Argan Oil Shampoo contains DHT blockers, proteins, and botanical oils that stimulate the scalp. The rich blend of argan oil, aloe vera, and rosemary stimulates hair cell renewal and growth. This shampoo revitalizes your hair and supports a healthy scalp. Argan oil promotes hair growth, reduces hair loss and thinning, treats split ends, and provides hydration. It contains white willow bark that exfoliates the scalp, unclogs pores, removes dirt and excess oil, reduces sebum formation, and nourishes the hair. Burdock root nourishes your scalp and strengthens the hair. Key Ingredients: Argan oil, Aloe vera, White willow bark, Burdock root, Rosemary, and Thyme Pros

 Sulfate-free  Paraben-free  Phthalate-free  Silicone-free  Dye-free  Vegan  Color-safe  Eco-friendly

Cons

 Makes the hair oily

6. Best Vegan: Hairgenics Pronexa Hair Regrowth Therapy Shampoo

The Hairgenics Pronexa Hair Regrowth Therapy Shampoo supports healthy hair growth and nourishment. It prevents hair loss and strengthens your hair. This DHT blocking shampoo contains aloe vera extract, saw palmetto extract, biotin, and seaweed extract. It also is enriched with vitamin B5 and hydrolyzed silk protein. The collagen peptide builds hair protein, strengthens the hair, and prevents premature graying. Biotin promotes healthy hair growth, provides hydration, prevents dryness, and increases hair elasticity. Aloe vera and seaweed extracts deeply moisturize your hair strand and reduce thinning and shedding. Saw palmetto effectively reduces DHT production, prevents hair loss, and adds volume to your hair. Key Ingredients: Aloe vera extract, Saw palmetto, Biotin, Seaweed extract, Vitamin B5, and Hydrolyzed silk protein Pros

 Vegan  Cruelty-free  Gluten-free  Paraben-free  Sulfate-free  Suitable for all hair types  Value for money

Cons

 Expensive  The pump dispenser may malfunction

7. Best For Shiny Hair: WOW Skin Science Coconut Milk Shampoo

Enhance the natural shine of your hair with the WOW Skin Science Coconut Milk Shampoo. It is enriched with coconut milk that moisturizes your hair. Saw palmetto stimulates hair growth, and nettle leaf extract combat baldness, inflammation, and scalp irritation. Saw palmetto and nettle leaf extracts also prevent hair loss. These ingredients also enhance the blood supply of the hair and scalp. This shampoo contains essential nutrients like vitamin E, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and copper. The gentle formula prevents hair thinning, promotes hair growth, nourishes the roots, and makes your hair glossy. Key Ingredients: Coconut milk, Saw palmetto, and Nettle leaf extract Pros

 Dermatologist tested  Sulfate-free  Silicone-free  Paraben-free  No added colors  Salt-free  Hypoallergenic

Cons None

8. Best Nourishing Formula: Hairgenics Propidren Hair Regrowth Shampoo

The Hairgenics Propidren Hair Regrowth And DHT Blocking Shampoo is specifically designed for hair thinning and baldness. It contains biotin, keratin, and other powerful DHT blockers that help prevent hair loss. Biotin improves hair keratin structure, enhances hair elasticity, and minimizes breakage. This shampoo helps thicken your hair and provides nourishment, fullness, and shine. It also contains saw palmetto, an effective DHT blocker that reduces hair loss and promotes hair regrowth. Hydrolyzed silk protein with moisture-binding properties locks the hair moisture and makes your hair silky smooth. Key Ingredients: Biotin and Keratin Pros

 Cruelty-free  Vegan  Long-lasting  Value for money

Cons None

9. Best Organic Formula: Tree To Tub Soapberry For Hair Nature’s Shampoo

Tree To Hub Soapberry For Hair Nature’s Shampoo is made with 100% organic handpicked botanicals. The unique potent formula promotes hair growth and reduces hair fall. Soapberry cleanses the hair deeply and maintains its natural pH balance. Saw palmetto and pumpkin seed oil nourish the hair and promote thickness. This shampoo contains vitamins A, B3, B5, C, D, E, biotin, caffeine, and rosemary. Argan oil, sage, and aloe vera extract have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that prevent free radical damage. These ingredients protect the scalp from dandruff and stimulate hair growth. The refreshing eucalyptus and tea tree essential oils reduce scalp inflammation and create an ideal environment for hair growth. The organic chamomile extract help soothes your irritated scalp. Key Ingredients: Saw palmetto, Biotin, Caffeine, Argan oil, Sage, Aloe vera extract, Eucalyptus oil, Tea tree essential oil, and Chamomile extract Pros

 Sulfate-free  Paraben-free  DEA-free  MEA-free  Gluten-free  No artificial fragrance  Dermatologist recommended  Cruelty-free  Eco-friendly  Safe for kids

Cons None

10. Best For All Hair Types: Amplixin Stimulating Shampoo

The Amplixin Stimulating Shampoo prevents baldness and receding hairlines. It contains caffeine, acetyl-tetrapeptide-3, and red clover, which help achieve thicker hair. Caffeine increases blood circulation to the scalp, strengthens the hair roots, and stimulates keratinocytes. Red clover flower extract makes your hair stronger and treats scalp irritation and dandruff. The peptide complex acts as a strong DHT blocker, reducing hair fall and stimulating thicker hair growth. Sage leaf extract stimulates blood circulation in the hair. The essential vitamins and minerals help revive your dull hair. Key Ingredients: Rosemary oil, Caffeine, Peptide complex, Jojoba oil, Saw palmetto, and Red cloverPros

 100% natural formula  Suitable for all hair types  Safe for daily use  Cruelty-free  Sulfate-free  Paraben-free

Cons None

11. First Botany Cosmeceuticals Biotin Hair Loss Shampoo

The First Botany Cosmeceuticals Biotin Shampoo contains 14 DHT blockers – biotin, Korean red ginseng, argan oil, nettle extract, hibiscus oil, niacin, turmeric compounds, and saw palmetto. Biotin strengthens the hair, niacin increases blood circulation, and promotes healthy hair growth. Korean red ginseng reduces the effect of testosterone-related hair fall and helps in keratinocyte regeneration. Hibiscus oil nourishes the hair, imparting luster and volume. This shampoo also contains He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti), a Chinese medicinal herb that prevents hair loss. It helps hydrate and detoxify your hair and scalp. Key Ingredients: Biotin, Saw palmetto, Korean red ginseng, Hibiscus oil, Niacin, Nettle extract, Argan oil, and Turmeric compounds Pros

 Suitable for daily use  Sulfate-free  Paraben-free  Long-lasting

Cons

 Unpleasant smell

12. Clinical Effects Hair Therapy Shampoo

This Hair Therapy Shampoo by Clinical Effects revitalizes and nourishes your hair, promoting healthy hair growth. It contains Baicapil, which reduces hair loss and enhances hair density. AnaGain and biotin help rejuvenate your hair and scalp. This product contains essential oils that minimize the effects of DHT and reduces hair thinning. Key Ingredients: Biotin, Baicapil, and AnaGain Pros

 Cruelty-free  Non-GMO  Long-lasting  Value for money

Cons None

13. Hair Restoration Laboratories Professional Strength Hair Restore Shampoo

The Hair Restoration Laboratories Professional Strength Hair Restore Shampoo boosts hair growth. It prevents hair loss, thinning, and breakage and stimulates thicker, healthier hair growth. This shampoo contains pumpkin seed oil, green tea extract, caffeine, pea extract, ketoconazole, saw palmetto, cayenne fruit extract, biotin, black seed oil, and pygeum bark extract. The DHT Halting Technology, a potent blend of oils, amino acids, and nutrients, improves hair growth and blood circulation. Note: Used it 2-3 times a week for best results. Key Ingredients: Pumpkin seed oil, Green tea extract, Caffeine, Saw palmetto, Ketoconazole, Biotin, Black seed oil, Pygeum bark extract, Cayenne fruit extract, and Pea extract Pros

 Suitable for daily use  Clinically tested  Cruelty-free  Sulfate-free  Paraben-free  Phthalate-free  Silicone-free

Cons

 Overpowering scent

14. Shiny Leaf DHT Blocker Shampoo

The Shiny Leaf DHT Blocker Shampoo promotes thick hair and treats hair loss. It is enriched with rosemary oil which is a botanical, anti-hair loss treatment. Asparagus extract, a vegetable-based extract, blocks DHT. Biotin stimulates healthy hair growth, vitamin E combat radical damage, and castor oil revives weak hair. This shampoo not only restores shine and volume but also makes your hair more manageable. Key Ingredients: Rosemary oil, Asparagus extract, Hyacinth orchid extract, Biotin, Vitamin E, and Castor oil Pros

 Suitable for all hair types  Color-safe  Can be used daily  Cruelty-free  Sulfate-free  Paraben-free  Silicone-free

Cons

 Takes time to show results

15. Club Roots Hair Growth Shampoo

The Club Roots Hair Growth Shampoo is a potent blend of natural ingredients with DHT blockers that help reduce hair loss. It contains apple stem cells, resveratrol from grapes, caffeine, biotin, lupine protein, soybean isoflavones, red Korean ginseng, and burdock stem cell extract. The resveratrol extracted from grapes protects your hair from free radical damage, strengthens your hair, and prevents premature graying. Apple extract volumizes your hair, and lupin protein inhibits 5-alpha reductase enzyme. Key Ingredients: Apple stem cells, Caffeine, Resveratrol, Burdock stem cell extract, Red Korean ginseng, Biotin, Lupine Protein, and Soybean isoflavones Pros

 Soothing fragrance  Paraben-free  Sulfate-free  Cruelty-free  Suitable for all hair types  Gentle formula  Non-drying

Cons None Here are a few tips that might help you pick the right DHT blocking shampoo.

How To Choose A DHT Blocking Shampoo – Buying Guide

Read The Ingredients Label

Go through the ingredients label thoroughly. DHT blocking shampoos should contain ketoconazole, biotin, rosemary oil, or pumpkin seed oil. Also, make sure the product is free of any harsh chemicals that might damage your hair and aggravate hair loss.

 Read The Claims

Such shampoos Often make tall claims such as “restoring your hair completely in 2 weeks” or “visible improvement in a few washes.” You should always verify such claims by going through the reviews.

 Cost

Most people assume that an expensive product is more effective. But this is not true. Although some costly shampoos show promising results, the price should not be a determining factor. Even a budget-friendly shampoo can help you with the issue.

 Try The Product

The possible way to know if a shampoo will work for you is to try it out. Some DHT shampoos are affordable, but many brands offer a money-back guarantee if you are not seeing results within 90 days. So try the shampoo for 3-6 months to check if it suits your scalp and hair type. DHT blocking shampoos can be used like any other regular shampoo. But to obtain quick and effective results, follow the steps mentioned below.

How To Use DHT Blocking Shampoos

 Wash your hair with cold or lukewarm water.  Take the required amount of product and apply it to your scalp and hair.  Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing. If you allow it to sit for a while, you are likely to get effective results.  Wash your hair thoroughly.  Use the shampoo twice a day or as written on the label.

Let’s now look at the potential benefits of a DHT blocking shampoo.

Benefits Of An Anti-DHT Shampoo

 Reduces the DHT attached to your hair.  Prevents future hair loss.  Promotes healthy hair growth.  Strengthens your hair.  Balances the pH level of your scalp and hair.

Note: To double up the benefits of a DHT blocker shampoo, you can intake a DHT blocker supplement. However, consult a doctor before consuming any dietary supplement. DHT blocking shampoos can have the following side effects.

Side Effects Of DHT Blocking Shampoos

 Scalp irritation  Skin blisters  Rashes  Changes in hair texture  Skin dryness  Itchiness on the scalp, forehead, and hairline

Note: If you experience severe side effects or discomfort, stop using the shampoo immediately and seek medical help.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Oyendrila Kanjilal, the author, is a certified skin care coach with considerable expertise in hair care. After a thorough analysis, she highlights the benefits of the DHT-blocking shampoos in preventing hair loss and how they should be used for maximum results. She has narrowed her search to the top 15 best shampoos after conducting comprehensive research and analyzing numerous reviews. The shampoos prevent hair loss while promoting hair growth. Tere Pruett, certified trichologist, recommends, “If you are experiencing hair loss, it is best to see a trichologist so that they can find out the root cause of the loss and therefore offer the best treatment for that type of alopecia.” How often do you use DHT blocking shampoos? Use DHT blocking shampoos twice a week. You can also follow the recommendations of your dermatologist. Do DHT-blocking shampoos really work? Yes. DHT-blocking shampoos prevent the accumulation of DHT in the hair follicles and reduce hair fall. How often should I use DHT-blocking shampoo? Use DHT-blocking shampoo daily to reduce hairfall and stimulate thicker hair growth. Let the shampoo sit on the scalp for some time before rinsing it to gain the best results quickly. How long does it take for DHT-blocking shampoos to start to work? DHT-blocking shampoos start working instantly in eliminating the DHT from the hair follicles. However, the shampoos start showing visible results after six months of use. What are the signs of high DHT? Some common signs of high DHT level in the hair are: •  Acne •  Excessive hair loss at your temples and crown •  Thin hair strands What are the most powerful DHT blockers? The most potent DHT blocker is blueberries. The vitamin C and flavonoids in the berries stimulate blood circulation, and the proanthocyanidins boost hair growth. Can washing your hair daily somehow reduce DHT? Yes. Washing and cleansing the scalp with DHT-blocking shampoo daily effectively reduces DHT. In addition, it exfoliates the pores, fills them with good nutrients, and increases hair growth. Can I naturally reduce DHT? Yes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is effective in naturally reducing DHT. Engaging in daily exercises, including scalp massages, reducing stress, taking enough rest, and excluding tobacco, are essential to prevent the contact of DHT with the hair follicles.

Sources

Best Ketoconazole Shampoos Of 2022 For An Itch-Free Scalp Bestselling Caffeine Shampoos For Hair Growth – 2022 Best Biotin Shampoos You Should Definitely Try In 2022 6 Best DHT Blocker Foods For Hair Loss