DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone the body makes from testosterone. In people with a genetic predisposition, DHT binds to receptors in scalp hair follicles and gradually miniaturises them, producing the thinning seen in pattern hair loss.
Several hair loss treatments work by lowering DHT production or blocking its effect at the follicle. Because these medicines affect hormones, they are prescription only in Australia and are started after a medical assessment.