If you’re experiencing hair thinning or loss, you’ve probably come across saw palmetto in your search for solutions. This natural extract has gained attention as a potential DHT blocker for women, but does it actually work? Here’s what science says about saw palmetto for women’s hair loss, and whether it deserves a place in your routine.
Understanding DHT and Female Hair Loss
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a hormone created when testosterone is converted by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase.
According to the Cleveland Clinic DHT binds to receptors in your scalp, causing hair follicles to shrink over time — a process known as follicle miniaturisation.
While DHT is best known for its role in male pattern baldness, it also contributes to thinning in women, particularly at the crown or along the parting line.
As the National Center for Biotechnology Information explains, when DHT levels rise, hair gradually grows thinner and eventually stops altogether.
This is where natural DHT blockers like saw palmetto come in.
What Is Saw Palmetto?
Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is a palm tree native to the south-eastern United States. Its berry extract has been used in herbal medicine for centuries, especially for men’s prostate health. More recently, scientists have studied it as a saw palmetto supplement for hair loss, because of its ability to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, the enzyme that produces DHT.
Some brands also include saw palmetto in topical serums and shampoos, marketed as hair growth saw palmetto treatments, though most research focuses on oral supplements.
The Science on Saw Palmetto and Hair Loss
Clinical Evidence
A 2020 systematic review in Skin Appendage Disorders looked at five clinical trials on saw palmetto and hair loss. Researchers found promising results across different formulations, including:
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60% of patients reported improved overall hair quality
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27% increase in total hair count
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83% of patients showed greater hair density
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52% experienced stabilisation of hair loss progression
However, most participants were men with androgenetic alopecia. The authors highlighted that evidence on saw palmetto for women’s hair loss remains limited, though it was well-tolerated with no serious side effects.
How It Works
Saw palmetto is thought to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, lowering DHT levels in the scalp. By reducing the impact of DHT, it may help protect follicles from shrinkage and support healthier regrowth.
Does Saw Palmetto Work for Women?
The answer is: maybe, but we don’t know for sure yet.
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Limited female-specific research: Most clinical trials have focused on men.
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Multiple causes of hair loss: Female thinning can also be triggered by menopause, postpartum shifts, stress, nutrition, or thyroid issues. In these cases, a natural DHT blocker alone may not solve the problem. That doesn't mean Saw Palmetto is not worth trying, and combining it with other hair care treatments may be the most effective use case.
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Individual response varies: As with many supplements, genetics and root cause determine results.
In other words: saw palmetto may support women with confirmed DHT-driven pattern hair loss, but it’s unlikely to be a complete solution on its own.
A Holistic Approach to Female Hair Loss
Even if saw palmetto reduces DHT, female hair loss is usually multi-factorial. That’s why experts recommend a more rounded approach:
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Minoxidil: The only FDA-approved topical treatment for female pattern hair loss. Clinical trials published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology showed significant regrowth with both 2% and 5% formulations after 4–6 months (Blume-Peytavi et al., 2011).
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Professional scalp treatments: Clinically formulated products support follicle health and enhance absorption of treatments.
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Nutrition: Iron, vitamin D, and B vitamins play a major role.
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Stress management: Chronic stress can trigger telogen effluvium (temporary shedding).
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Expert consultation: A trichologist or dermatologist can identify whether DHT is the real driver.
The Bottom Line
Saw palmetto is one of the most researched natural DHT blockers, and studies suggest it can support hair regrowth, but almost all data comes from male-focused trials. For women, it may play a supporting role in managing DHT-driven hair loss, but it shouldn’t be seen as a standalone cure.
The most effective approach is combining supplements, evidence-based treatments, scalp health support, and professional guidance. That way, you’re addressing every possible factor contributing to thinning hair, not just one.
Looking for clinical alternatives? Explore SST UK’s range of scalp treatments, formulated with clinically proven ingredients, to help create the right environment for regrowth.
