Speaker: Kenneth Proefrock, NMD This session will provide clinicians with a concise overview of the complex biochemical processes governing hair follicle cycles and the development of androgenetic alopecia. The presentation will focus on the role of androgens, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), in influencing hair growth, specifically how these hormones can shorten the anagen (growth) phase, leading to finer, thinner hair. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the enzymatic pathways involved, including 5α-reductase and cytochrome P-450 aromatase, and how these enzymes contribute to local androgen production within hair follicles and sebaceous glands. The session will highlight the clinically relevant differences in enzyme activity and androgen levels between men and women, and even between different scalp locations within the same individual, which may explain the observed variations in hair loss patterns. This knowledge will provide a foundation for developing more targeted and effective treatment strategies for androgenetic alopecia in both male and female patients.   

Related product: The PowerPoint for this recording is available here: 2025 Southwest Conference Book Download (PDF)

 Also available in video (for purchase separately on Vimeo)

Continuing Education:

Naturopathic Physicians: This recording has been approved for 0.5 general + 1 pharmacy CME credits by   

• Oregon Board of Naturopathic Medicine (OBNM)
• Arizona SUHS (Sonoran University of Health Sciences)

Medical Doctors, Osteopathic Doctors and Nursing: This recording has been approved for 1.5 Prescribed Credits by

• American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)

More information on our Continuing Education Program