Androgenetic hair loss is often associated with elevated levels of a hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) at the scalp. DHT binds to androgen receptors within hair follicles, terminating the hair growth cycle prematurely. This negatively impacts hair quality and results in hair loss.
Individuals with a genetic predisposition are at greater risk of experiencing premature hair loss when DHT levels become elevated. Some individuals may also have a component of higher androgen receptor concentration in the scalp, which may contribute to hair loss even when DHT levels are within the normal range.