This absence of standardized guidelines poses significant risks, particularly regarding potential adverse effects such as cutaneous cosmetic conditions like hair loss, which remain a prominent concern. Furthermore, studies are lacking on the efficacy of available hair loss medications, such as finasteride and minoxidil, in preventing hair loss among AAS users, especially those on high doses of testosterone. Previous research has also been inconsistent in specifying the type of serum testosterone levels measured, utilizing various units and methods of analysis. Prevalence of hair‐related side effects in users of androgenic and anabolic steroids However, roughly 3.5 months later, reports of alopecia rose to 12% by the final week of the AAS cycle, with 5% of participants reporting increased scalp hair growth. Similarly, Smit et al. conducted a quantitative 1‐year prospective cohort study in the Netherlands using self‐reported data from 100 men.27 Initially, 2% of participants reported alopecia and no increased hair growth. The hormone is usually given through your skin as a gel or a patch or injected into your muscle. Your ideal level of testosterone is difficult to calculate. Testosterone is the major sex hormone in men. You may be interested in natural testosterone boosters instead. Testosterone levels naturally decline as you age. And an increased risk of heart Contact us at if you see an error. Every article is rigorously reviewed by medical experts to ensure accuracy. We source research from peer-reviewed medical journals, top government agencies, leading academic institutions, and respected advocacy groups. The Edge upholds the highest standards of health journalism. Today, hair transplants produce natural-looking results. Finasteride blocks the conversion of testosterone to DHT. This is why it’s critical to have your T levels tested frequently, and to work with your doctor to get your dose right. Overall, while some studies suggest a correlation between higher testosterone levels and specific hair loss patterns, others fail to find a significant association. The association between testosterone levels and hair loss has been investigated through various studies with inconclusive results. Testosterone, a cornerstone hormone in male physiology, exerts significant influence through its conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) via the enzyme 5α reductase or aromatization to estrogen.13 Both testosterone and DHT predominantly bind to intracellular androgen receptors, primarily located within the dermal papilla and hair bulb, with DHT exhibiting approximately five times greater affinity. There may be extra risks for women with cardiovascular or liver disease, or certain types of cancer. Menopause is often the reason why women experience a change in their sex drive. Menopause, which occurs as a woman ages, can lead to a lower amount of testosterone produced by the ovaries. Testosterone levels are measured and reported as nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). I have been with them for over a year now and feel terrific getting my levels in check. Very attentive and helpful to my health and needs.