Best Natural DHT Blockers for Hair Growth Without Side Effects

To fight back hair loss, many people turn to DHT blockers. But here’s the catch: while prescription treatments like finasteride are effective, they can come with some frustrating (and sometimes serious) side effects. That’s why so many are now exploring safer, gentler alternatives—like using a natural DHT blocker instead.

In this guide, I’ll break down exactly how DHT affects your hair, the difference between medical and natural DHT inhibitors, and what to look for when choosing the best DHT blocker for your needs. I’ll also dive into popular options like DHT blocking shampoos, and why finding the right DHT blocker for women is especially important. And of course, I’ll cover common DHT blocker side effects so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

Let’s explore how you can support healthier, fuller hair—naturally.

What is DHT?

DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone derived from testosterone. It plays an important role in male development during puberty, influencing things like facial hair, body hair, and even prostate growth. The body creates DHT with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into its more potent form—DHT.

While DHT has essential functions, it’s also closely linked to DHT hair loss. When DHT levels become too high, especially in the scalp, it can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle. This is where natural DHT blockers and dihydrotestosterone blockers can help.

How Does DHT Affect Hair Loss?

So, how exactly does DHT cause hair to thin or fall out? When too much DHT binds to receptors in your hair follicles, it gradually shrinks them. As the follicles shrink, the hairs they produce become shorter, finer, and more brittle—until they eventually stop growing altogether.

This pattern is common in both men and women, though it can look different depending on your hormones and genetics. Men usually notice a receding hairline or bald spots. Women may see thinning around the part or crown. If this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with DHT hair loss.

While hair loss is tough, the good news is that identifying the cause—like DHT—is the first step toward treating it. Coming up, I’ll explore the best natural DHT blockers that can help you support healthy, thicker hair without harsh medications or unwanted DHT blocker side effects.

Note that there are also other causes behind hair loss, beyond DHT. Explore also our articles on how stress affects hair loss, what alopecia areata is, and, in the case of women, how postpartum hair loss and menopausal hair loss work.

7 Best Natural DHT Blockers

If you’re looking for a gentler way to fight DHT hair loss, turning to a natural DHT blocker is a smart move. Products that use plant-powered ingredients offer a safer alternative to medications—without the common DHT blocker side effects.

One standout collection doing just that is the Grow Perfect™ product range. These formulas combine some of the most researched natural DHT inhibitors to support healthy hair growth while nourishing the scalp. Here's a look at the ingredients—and the products that use them.

Capixyl™

Capixyl™ combines a biomimetic peptide (acetyl tetrapeptide-3) with red clover extract, which contains biochanin A, a plant compound believed to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase—the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. Data suggests that it supports fuller, healthier hair when used consistently.

Capixyl™ is one of the key active ingredients in the potent Grow Perfect™ Hair Growth Serum.

RootBioTec™

RootBioTec™, made from basil root extract, is designed to reduce hair loss by suppressing 5-alpha-reductase activity. In an in-vitro study, it was shown to reduce DHT production in human dermal papilla cells by 18% (Mibelle Biochemistry).

You’ll find it in the Grow Perfect™ Hair Growth Serum, Thickening Spray, and Thickening Mousse.

Caffeine

Caffeine may help protect hair follicles from the effects of DHT. A 2007 in-vitro study found that caffeine stimulated hair shaft elongation and counteracted DHT-induced growth suppression in human hair follicles.

This makes it a common addition in DHT blocking shampoos and treatments. In fact, all of the Grow Perfect™ products contain either pure caffeine or coffee seed oil, which is rich in it.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is a popular natural DHT blocker with growing evidence behind it. A study found it performed similarly to minoxidil (a common hair growth drug) over six months when used for androgenetic alopecia. It’s believed to improve circulation and reduce DHT’s impact on follicles.

Organic rosemary oil is featured in nearly every Grow Perfect™ product, including the Shampoo and Conditioner, Thickening Spray, Thickening Mousse, and Hair & Scalp Oil.

Redensyl®

Redensyl® is a patented compound made from plant extracts, zinc, and glycine. It’s not a dihydrotestosterone blocker in the traditional sense, but it’s a hair growth activator that targets stem cells in the hair follicle. Early studies have shown promising results reducing hair fall and promoting density.

This promising ingredient is included in the Grow Perfect™ Hair Growth Serum.

Spearmint Oil

Some research suggests that spearmint may help lower free testosterone levels in the body. While direct evidence of spearmint oil acting as a dihydrotestosterone blocker on the scalp is still limited, its anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable addition to any hair care routine aimed at soothing the scalp and supporting growth.

You can find spearmint oil in the Grow Perfect™ Thickening Spray and Thickening Mousse, where it works alongside other natural DHT blockers.

AnaGain™

AnaGain™ is a plant-based active derived from organic pea sprouts. It works by activating specific signal molecules in the dermal papilla cells that are involved in initiating the growth phase of hair. By reactivating hair growth, AnaGain™ helps the hairs to keep their original density and thickness.

While it isn’t a traditional DHT blocker, it’s a popular addition to natural DHT blocker formulas—especially for those seeking a more holistic approach to DHT hair loss. It’s included in the Grow Perfect™ Shampoo and Conditioner, Thickening Spray, Thickening Mousse, and the potent Hair Growth Serum.

Medical DHT Blockers

When it comes to treating DHT hair loss, pharmaceutical options like finasteride (Propecia) and dutasteride (Avodart) are often presented as gold standards. These medications work by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT)—the hormone largely responsible for shrinking hair follicles over time.

While their mechanism is clinically proven, the full picture is far from perfect.

Prescription vs. Natural DHT Blockers

Medical dihydrotestosterone blockers can slow or stop hair loss for many users, but they also come with well-documented risks. Finasteride, for instance, has been linked to sexual side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and mood changes—even after discontinuation in some cases. Dutasteride, being more potent, may carry an even higher risk.

In contrast, natural DHT blockers—like those found in the Grow Perfect™ range—aim to support hair health without interfering with the body’s hormonal balance. They offer promising, scalp-focused alternatives that are generally well-tolerated and safe for long-term use.

Who Should Consider Pharmaceutical Options?

Pharmaceutical DHT blockers may be appropriate for those with advanced hair loss who haven’t responded to natural treatments and are fully informed of the potential side effects. They’re also more commonly recommended for men, as these drugs are not typically safe for women, especially those who are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Still, even in more severe cases, many users prefer to start with a natural DHT blocker approach first—giving their hair a chance to recover without the long-term commitment or systemic impact of prescription drugs.

In short, while medical treatments do work for some, they’re not without cost. If you're looking for a DHT blocker for women, or just want to avoid the risks that come with hormone-altering medications, nature may have already given us a gentler, smarter solution.

Best DHT Blocking Shampoos and Treatments

A solid hair care routine plays a big role in managing DHT-related hair loss—especially when it's built around natural DHT blockers. Unlike pharmaceuticals, these topical treatments work at the scalp level to reduce the effects of DHT without disrupting your hormones. The key is choosing the right ingredients—and the right formulations.

The Grow Perfect™ product line is a great example of how multiple clinically backed ingredients can come together to support fuller, healthier-looking hair.

Grow Perfect™ Shampoo

This multi-action DHT blocking shampoo combines AnaGain™ and organic rosemary oil, two powerful natural DHT inhibitors that are clinically shown to improve hair density and reduce shedding. It gently cleanses while creating an ideal environment for growth by stimulating the scalp and encouraging microcirculation.

Grow Perfect™ Conditioner

Formulated with AnaGain™, energizing caffeine, and rosemary oil, this conditioner strengthens strands, slows shedding, and supports regrowth. These ingredients also help improve blood flow to the scalp—delivering the nutrients needed for stronger, thicker hair over time.

Grow Perfect™ Hair Growth Serum

A highly concentrated hair growth serum featuring Redensyl®, Capixyl™, RootBioTec™, AnaGain™, and caffeine—a powerhouse blend of natural DHT blockers and follicle-activating ingredients. This vegan formula absorbs deeply into the scalp to support visible improvements in thickness and reduced shedding within weeks.

Grow Perfect™ Thickening Spray

This lightweight, leave-in spray uses RootBioTec™ and spearmint oil to soothe the scalp, promote circulation, and reduce hair fall. It also gives an instant boost of volume—perfect for fine or thinning hair that needs lift and density.

Grow Perfect™ Hair & Scalp Oil

Designed as a pre-wash treatment, this 100% natural oil blend includes organic rosemary oil and coffee seed oil (rich in caffeine), offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It preps the scalp by locking in moisture, calming irritation, and supporting healthy roots.

Grow Perfect™ Thickening Mousse

A 2-in-1 styling and treatment product that offers both immediate volume and long-term growth benefits. With AnaGain™, RootBioTec™, rosemary oil, spearmint oil, and caffeine, this mousse helps fight DHT hair loss while styling your hair with a fuller, more textured look.

Together, these formulas give you a complete, layered defense against DHT-related hair thinning—all without the harsh side effects of medical treatments. Whether you're looking for a DHT blocking shampoo, a serum, or a scalp oil, Grow Perfect™ offers a natural, effective way to support thicker, healthier hair.

DHT Blocker Side Effects

Not all DHT blockers are created equal—especially when it comes to side effects. While natural ingredients generally have a strong safety profile, pharmaceutical options like finasteride and dutasteride come with more serious risks that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Common Side Effects of Medical DHT Blockers

Prescription dihydrotestosterone blockers work systemically, which means they don’t just affect hair follicles—they can influence hormones throughout the body. Reported side effects include:

• Reduced libido or sexual dysfunction
• Erectile issues
• Mood changes, anxiety, and depression
• Brain fog or fatigue
• Breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia)
• Potential long-term hormonal imbalances

For some, these side effects resolve after stopping the medication. But in others, symptoms can persist—a condition sometimes referred to as post-finasteride syndrome. While still debated in the medical community, its existence is enough to make many people cautious.

Natural DHT Blocker Side Effects

By contrast, natural DHT inhibitors such as rosemary oil, caffeine, and plant-based actives like Capixyl™ and RootBioTec™ work topically or through milder biological pathways. They support the scalp and follicles without interfering with systemic hormone levels. Side effects are rare, and if they do occur, they’re typically limited to mild scalp irritation or sensitivity—often related to overuse or a reaction to essential oils.

This is one reason why the Grow Perfect™ line is a great starting point for anyone exploring the best DHT blocker for women or for those wanting results without the risks. So if you're just beginning to address DHT hair loss, starting with a natural DHT blocker may be the safer, smarter choice. You can always escalate to medical treatments later if needed—but it’s harder to undo the effects of harsh drugs once they’ve impacted your system.

DHT Blockers for Women

Women experience DHT-related hair loss too—especially during hormonal shifts like menopause, pregnancy, or conditions like PCOS. Although women have lower testosterone levels than men, they still produce dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can shrink hair follicles and cause gradual thinning around the part line or crown.

Medical DHT blockers like finasteride and dutasteride are generally not recommended for women—especially those who are pregnant or of childbearing age—due to the risk of serious side effects, including hormonal disruption and birth defects. That’s why many women are now searching for a DHT blocker for women that’s both effective and safe. Natural alternatives offer a gentler approach to supporting hair growth without interfering with hormones.

Ingredients like rosemary oil, caffeine, RootBioTec™, and Capixyl™ help reduce DHT activity at the follicle level—without the risks that come with prescription medications. They are a perfect choice if you’re looking for a DHT blocker for women that works with your body, not against it.

Ways to Promote Hair Growth Naturally

Using a natural DHT blocker is a great foundation—but healthy, fuller hair also depends on your daily habits. If you're serious about reversing DHT hair loss, here are some simple, science-backed ways to support your hair growth journey from the inside out.

Hair Supplements

Your hair needs the right nutrients to grow. Look for hair supplements that include biotin, zinc, and selenium. These support healthy hair from within and may help reduce shedding, especially if your loss is related to nutrient deficiencies.

Scalp Massage

Scalp massage improves circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. Just 5 minutes a day—either with your fingers or a scalp massager—can help stimulate growth. For even more impact, try massaging in your Grow Perfect™ Hair & Scalp Oil before shampooing.

Manage Stress Levels

Chronic stress can spike hormones like cortisol, which may worsen DHT hair loss. Support your mental well-being with stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, nature walks, or simply getting enough sleep each night.

Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

Hair thrives on a balanced diet. Prioritize protein, omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and seeds to nourish your strands from within. Staying hydrated also helps keep your scalp healthy and less prone to dryness and irritation.

Avoid Harsh Hair Habits

Frequent heat styling, tight hairstyles, and chemical treatments can all contribute to breakage and thinning. Keep your hair care and styling gentle, avoid sulphates, opt for air-drying when possible, and use soft scrunchies or clips that don’t pull on the roots.

Healthy hair growth is a holistic process—and the more supportive habits you build into your daily routine, the better your results will be. Combine these tips with effective natural DHT inhibitors, and you’ll give your hair the best possible chance to grow stronger, thicker, and healthier over time.

FAQs on DHT Blockers