DHT - Female

What Is DHT?

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen produced from testosterone and androstenedione by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Unlike testosterone, DHT cannot convert into estrogen. It’s synthesized in tissues including skin, liver, and ovaries, and although known for male traits, it also shapes several aspects of female physiology.

Normal and Optimal DHT Levels

Women typically exhibit DHT levels between 0.00 and 20.00 ng/dL (0.00–0.69 nmol/L), with an optimal range of 3.00–15.00 ng/dL (0.10–0.52 nmol/L). Staying within this window supports hormonal balance and minimizes androgen-related symptoms.

DHT Across the Lifespan

After menopause, ovarian androgen production declines, causing DHT levels to drop. While lower DHT isn’t usually symptomatic, it can serve as a marker for cardiovascular function and stroke risk in postmenopausal women.

Clinical Implications of Elevated DHT

When DHT exceeds its optimal range, women may experience:

• Acne: DHT stimulates sebaceous glands, increasing oil production.
  
• Hirsutism: Excess hair growth in male-pattern areas.
  
• Masculinization: Deepened voice, increased muscle mass.
  
• Menstrual Irregularities: Including amenorrhea linked to high androgenicity.

   

Underlying conditions such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can amplify 5-alpha-reductase activity, further raising DHT and exacerbating symptoms.

When DHT Falls Below Optimal

Though uncommon, very low DHT levels may correspond with reduced androgenic support for bone and skin. Monitoring DHT alongside markers like Bone Health can guide proactive strategies to maintain integrity of connective tissues.

Factors That Skew DHT Measurements

• Time of Day: Hormone fluctuations may influence readings.
  
• Stress: Alters adrenal androgen production.
  
• Diet & Lifestyle: Nutrition and exercise can shift enzyme activity.

   

Confirm sample timing and patient lifestyle when interpreting labs.

Medications Influencing DHT

• Increase DHT: Anabolic steroids and testosterone therapy can elevate levels.
  
• Decrease DHT: 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride) and anti-androgens (spironolactone) block DHT synthesis or action.

   

Managing DHT Imbalances

A functional medicine practitioner focuses on underlying drivers—balancing blood sugar, optimizing liver detox pathways, and incorporating lifestyle interventions to regulate DHT naturally. Nutrient support, stress reduction, and tailored supplementation may complement medical therapies.

In conclusion, integrating DHT assessment with a comprehensive health plan—guided by a functional medicine telehealth provider in Florida—enables targeted interventions that address root causes. Combining precision biomarker profiling with personalized nutrition, stress management, and therapeutic modalities fosters cellular resilience, preventive care, and longevity. Explore our Regenerative Medicine service to further support your hormonal health journey.

Further Reading

• Rittmaster, R. S. (1995). Clinical relevance of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone metabolism in women. American Journal of Medicine, 98(1A), 17S-21S. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7825635/

• Tripathi, S. V., & Bhatia, N. (2025). Anti-androgen therapy for the treatment of female pattern hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 92(5), 987-1001. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40345536/

• Trüeb, R. M., & Wadhwa, S. L. (2020). Finasteride and its potential for the treatment of female pattern hair loss. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology, 6(2), 102-111. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7060023/

• Wang, Y., et al. (2023). Dihydrotestosterone induces arterial stiffening in female mice. Hypertension, 81(2), 345-355. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798163/