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Does Folexin Block DHT? Or Is It a Myth?

By Fernando Hardin • Updated on

Fernando Hardin
Fernando Hardin, Celebrity Hair Expert

Expertise: Hair Style Analysis, Hair Color, Hair Care

Fernando is a hairstylist and writer who loves to talk about celebrity hairstyles. He uses his years of experience to write about the latest hair trends in the celebrity world.

Folexin is one of the natural hair growth supplements brand produced by the US company: Vita Balance Inc.

Interestingly, Folexin isn’t the original name of the supplement. It was called Foligen when the company first launched it in 2017, but they decided to rename it in 2018 due to similarities with other supplements available on the market.

Used for women and men, Folexin promotes natural hair growth and enhances the overall condition of the hair. It relies on natural nutrients–such as vitamins and minerals–to introduce its effects.

Today’s article takes a closer look at a particular action that’s often associated with Folexin. So if you’re wondering “Does Folexin Block DHT?”, keep reading to find out!

What Is DHT?

Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, is a hormone that occurs when the body uses an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase to alter the structure of the testosterone hormone.

High levels of DHT are the primary culprit behind male pattern baldness. Once this hormone attaches to certain receptors in the scalp, it causes the hair follicles to shrink and deteriorate.

Recently, research has shown that elevated DHT levels are also a main factor in hair loss in women.

Is Folexin a DHT Blocker?

Folexin
Folexin/Pinterest

No, Folexin is not a direct DHT blocker. But it has the ability to lower DHT levels within the body, or at least keep them at a normal value.

Direct DHT blockers like finasteride work by preventing the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

On the other hand, Folexin contains a proprietary blend of vitamins, minerals, and natural plant extracts that help counteract some effects of DHT from within the body.

How Does Folexin Decrease DHT?

So what exactly are those nutrients with anti-DHT properties? In Folexin, these are mainly saw palmetto and stinging nettle.

Here’s a breakdown of the effects of both ingredients on DHT:

Saw Palmetto

The herbal extract of saw palmetto (also known as Serenoa repens) comes from a small palm tree and has been part of Native American medicine for a long time.

Saw palmetto is believed to help prevent hair loss by interrupting the action of 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. 

By comparing the effectiveness of saw palmetto against hair loss in males to that of a medication called finasteride, it was found that saw palmetto could inhibit 5-alpha reductase and increase hair growth.

Although studies show that saw palmetto isn’t as effective as finasteride (38% vs. 68% hair loss improvement), it’s still quite promising as a natural remedy.

Another 2014 study evaluated the efficacy of saw palmetto in treating hair loss in men. Results showed that 25 patients experienced an increase in hair count by almost 12%.

An older study that was carried out in 2002 demonstrated the possible effectiveness of saw palmetto in inhibiting the action of 5-alpha reductase. 

A highly positive response was observed in 6 out of the 10 participants (males aged between 23 and 64) who were given treatment containing saw palmetto extract.

Results from both studies offer evidence of the efficacy of saw palmetto in lowering DHT levels. It’s a promising alternative approach that could be valuable for individuals interested in taking the natural path to hair regrowth. 

How Much Saw Palmetto Should You Take to Reduce Hair Loss?

The FDA hasn’t officially set a recommended daily dosage of saw palmetto since its action against hair loss is yet to be conclusively proven.

However, based on the recommendation mentioned in this article by the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery (320 mg per day), we can assume that the concentration present in the daily serving of Folexin is safe to consume.

Stinging Nettle

Although not as researched or as talked about as saw palmetto, stinging nettle–botanically referred to as Urtica dioica–also offers potential efficacy in lowering DHT levels.

A study conducted in rats showed notable inhibition of the activity of 5-alpha reductase.

It’s clear that more research needs to be done on stinging nettle, but this makes for a solid basis to assume possible benefits in hair loss reduction.

How Much Stinging Nettle Should You Take?

Similar to saw palmetto, the FDA hasn’t officially set a recommended daily dosage due to a lack of sufficient proof of efficacy.

That said, it seems that taking up to 1,200 mg a day is considered safe. As such, we can conclude that the concentration you get from Folexin per day is also safe.

So, as per our research, Folexin doesn’t directly block the action of DHT. However, the supplement does contain natural nutrients with potential efficacy in lowering DHT levels by inhibiting the activity of 5-alpha reductase; the enzyme that turns testosterone into DHT.

Disclaimer: We are not health experts and this article does not provide any health advice. The insights in this article are based on the author’s personal experiences, research from trusted sources, and user feedback. We strongly recommend consulting with your doctor before starting any supplements.

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