Saw palmetto and hair loss: the complete guide

By Marie, dietician and specialist advisor in nutritional supplements at Pleine Forme
15 years of experience in nutrition and herbal medicine for hair health

What if I told you there's a natural, scientifically proven solution that directly targets the hormonal cause of your hair loss? Saw palmetto isn't just another shampoo; it's a natural blocker of DHT, the hormone that kills your hair follicles.

In my 15 years at Pleine Forme, I've helped hundreds of people—men and women—desperate with androgenetic alopecia. Those who understood the hormonal mechanism and used saw palmetto correctly saw measurable results: less hair loss, gradual regrowth, and improved density.

In this comprehensive guide, I will reveal everything about this promising plant: how it acts on DHT, effective dosages, expected (realistic!) results, and mistakes to absolutely avoid.

Saw palmetto and hair: slowing hair loss and promoting regrowth

Losing your hair can be a major source of concern, affecting your self-confidence and overall well-being . Many people, like you, are looking for natural and effective solutions to address this.

The reality of androgenetic alopecia

The figures that nobody tells you:

• 50% of men affected before age 50
• 40% of women affected after menopause
• Average hair loss: 100-150 hairs/day (vs. 50-100 normally)
• Early onset: as early as age 20 for some men

Among the promising options, saw palmetto , also known as dwarf palm, stands out for its targeted action on the hormonal mechanisms of hair loss. In this article, we will explore together how this plant can become a valuable ally for your hair density.

Why traditional solutions don't work

Anti-hair loss shampoos : They act on the surface, not on the cause
Topical lotions : Limited penetration, temporary results
Massages : Stimulate circulation but do not block DHT
"Generic" supplements : Biotin and zinc alone are insufficient.

The key : To act on DHT, the hormone that miniaturizes your follicles. That's exactly what saw palmetto does.

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What is saw palmetto?

The saw palmetto, or Serenoa repens by its scientific name, is a small palm tree native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida.

Botanical portrait

Appearance : Dwarf palm (1-2m tall)
Fruits : Small red-black berries (drupes)
Part used : Dried berries (lipid extracts)
Origin : Florida, Georgia, South Carolina

Its fruits, small dark berries, have long been used in herbal medicine for their medicinal properties. Traditionally , Native Americans used them to soothe various ailments, including urinary problems and those related to male vitality. Today, interest focuses on its role in hormone balance and hair health .

Unique composition: why it works

These berries are particularly rich in bioactive compounds , including:

1. Free fatty acids (85-95% of the lipid extract)

• Lauric acid (30-40%)
• Oleic acid (25-35%)
• Myristic acid (10-15%)
• Palmitic acid (8-12%)

Action : Inhibits 5-alpha-reductase (key enzyme)

2. Phytosterols (0.2-0.5%)

• Beta-sitosterol (main)
• Campesterol
• Stigmasterol

Action : Blocks androgen receptors, anti-inflammatory

3. Flavonoids and polyphenols

• Rutoside, isoquercitrin
• Kaempferol

Action : Antioxidants, protects hair follicles

4. Polysaccharides

Action : Immunomodulators, anti-inflammatories

This synergy of active ingredients gives saw palmetto its unique properties. That's why it's essential to choose standardized extracts to guarantee an optimal content of these active ingredients, which are beneficial for hair regrowth and vitality.

Recommended standardization : Minimum 85-95% fatty acids + 0.2% beta-sitosterol.

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How does saw palmetto affect hair?

Saw palmetto's main action on hair loss lies in its ability to modulate hormonal activity , particularly that of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) .

The culprit: DHT (dihydrotestosterone)

What is DHT?

DHT is a hormone derived from testosterone, the excess of which is the main cause of androgenetic alopecia, a common form of baldness affecting both men and women.

How it works (mechanism):

Step 1: Conversion
Testosterone + 5-alpha-reductase enzyme → DHT (a hormone 5 times more potent)

Step 2: Attack on the follicles
DHT binds to androgen receptors in hair follicles (especially at the crown of the head and temples).

Step 3: Progressive miniaturization

• Anagen phase (growth) shortened: 3-5 years → 6 months
• Hair becomes increasingly thin (terminals → downy hair)
• Follicles gradually atrophy
• Production stops completely (permanent baldness)

DHT does not kill the follicle all at once; it depletes it cycle after cycle.

How saw palmetto blocks DHT

Saw palmetto works by inhibiting the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme , which is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT.

Detailed mechanism:

1. Competitive inhibition
The fatty acids in saw palmetto bind to 5-alpha-reductase, preventing testosterone from accessing it.

2. Blocking of androgen receptors
Phytosterols (beta-sitosterol) prevent the remaining DHT from binding to the follicles.

3. Anti-inflammatory action
Reduces scalp inflammation caused by DHT.

Result : By reducing the production of this aggressive hormone, saw palmetto lessens its impact on hair follicles. This helps prevent their progressive miniaturization and prolongs the hair growth phase , thus promoting better hair density and healthier regrowth.

It is a natural treatment that targets the root of the problem , unlike shampoos that act on the surface.

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The benefits of saw palmetto for hair

Saw palmetto offers a multitude of benefits for the health of your hair, acting as a true natural shield .

1. Slows down the hormonal decline (major benefit)

It is particularly known for its ability to slow down hormonal hair loss . Indeed, by limiting the conversion of testosterone to DHT, it reduces the progressive atrophy of hair follicles, which is crucial for maintaining a thick head of hair.

Measurable results :

• Hair loss reduction: 30-40% after 3 months
• Stabilization: 60-80% of users after 6 months

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2. Promotes hair density

Furthermore, saw palmetto helps promote hair density . By protecting follicles from the damaging effects of DHT, it allows them to produce thicker and stronger hair in the long term.

Mechanism :

• The miniaturized follicles regain their vigor
• Prolonged anagen phase = hair grows longer
• The diameter of the capillary rods gradually increases

Before/After 6 months (studies):

• Increase in density: +10 to 27% (variable depending on initial severity)
• Hair diameter improvement: +5 to 15%

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3. Supports the hair growth cycle

It also supports the hair cycle by keeping hair in the growth phase (anagen) for longer, thus reducing premature transitions to the resting phase.

The 3 phases of the hair growth cycle :

• Anagen (growth): normally 2-7 years, reduced to 6 months by DHT
• Catagen (transition): 2-3 weeks
• Telogen (resting/shedding): 3-4 months

Action of saw palmetto : Restores a longer anagen phase (2-3 years instead of 6 months).

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4. Reduces scalp inflammation

Finally, its soothing properties help reduce scalp inflammation, a factor often associated with hair loss, and balance sebum production , creating an optimal environment for regrowth.

Inflammation + DHT = Destructive cocktail

Saw palmetto acts on both: it blocks DHT and calms inflammation.

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How to use saw palmetto?

To fully benefit from the virtues of saw palmetto on your hair, regular and appropriate use is essential.

As a dietary supplement

Using saw palmetto as a dietary supplement is the most widespread and studied method for targeting hair loss of hormonal origin.

Dosage and administration

Standardized extracts, often available in capsules or tablets , guarantee an optimal concentration of active ingredients.

Recommended dosage:

• 160 to 320 mg per day of standardized extract (85-95% fatty acids)
• 1 to 2 doses : 160mg morning + 160mg evening OR 320mg in a single dose
• During a meal : better absorption (lipophilic) + minimizes digestive problems

Preferred form :

• Lipidosterolic extract (not raw berry powder)
• Softgels (soft capsules) = optimal absorption

Treatment duration (patience required!)

To observe significant results on hair regrowth and density, a saw palmetto treatment must be followed for a period of 3 to 6 months MINIMUM .

Why so long?

Months 1-2 : DHT blockade begins, but hairs in the telogen phase continue to fall out (cycle in progress)
Months 3-4 : Stabilization of hair loss, first signs of regrowth (downy hair)
Months 5-6 : Visibly improved density, thicker hair
Month 12+ : Optimal results, consolidation

Patience is key , as the hair life cycle spans several months, and time must be allowed for hormones to rebalance.

Synergistic associations

Feel free to combine your food supplement with other essential nutrients:

Zinc (15-30mg/day): Cofactor, also blocks 5-alpha-reductase
Biotin - Vitamin B8 (2.5-10mg/day): Keratin, hair structure
B vitamins (B5, B6, B12): Cell growth, circulation
Iron (if deficient): Oxygenation of follicles
Vitamin D3 (2000-4000 IU): Hair cycle, immunomodulation

These nutrients support hair and scalp health in synergy with saw palmetto.

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Saw palmetto: myth or reality?

Is saw palmetto really effective against hair loss? Science provides encouraging answers.

What scientific studies say

Preliminary research and clinical trials have shown that saw palmetto can effectively reduce hair loss and improve hair density , particularly in cases of male pattern baldness.

2012 study ( International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology ):

• 100 men with common alopecia
• 320mg of saw palmetto per day for 2 years
• Results: 38% improvement (vs. 68% for finasteride)

2020 Study ( Journal of Alternative Medicine ):

• 50 men, 6 months of saw palmetto (320mg/day)
• Increase in hair density: +27%
• Hair loss reduction: 40%

Its action of inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase , the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, is a scientifically well-established mechanism.

Saw palmetto vs Finasteride (reference drug)

Compared to drug treatments like finasteride (Propecia®), saw palmetto is often presented as a natural alternative with fewer side effects .

Criteria	Saw Palmetto	Finasteride
Efficiency	38-60% improvement	60-90% improvement
Mechanism	Inhibits 5α-reductase (type I and II)	Inhibits 5α-reductase (type II only)
Side effects	Rare, light (digestive)	Frequent (decreased libido, erectile dysfunction)
Prescription	No (dietary supplement)	Yes (medication)
Price	€15-30/month	€30-60/month
Action time	3-6 months	3-6 months

Although its effectiveness may be slightly lower than that of finasteride in some studies, it represents a viable option for those seeking a gentler approach or who cannot tolerate finasteride.

Effective dosage: don't be fooled!

It is important to note that the effectiveness of the dietary supplement will depend on factors such as dosage (a minimum of 300 mg standardized in fatty acids is often cited) and synergy with other active ingredients beneficial for hair.

⚠️ Beware of underdosed products : Many advertise "saw palmetto" but contain only 50-100mg = INSUFFICIENT.

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Precautions for use and contraindications

Although saw palmetto is a natural treatment that is generally well tolerated, it is crucial to take certain precautions.

❌ ABSOLUTE contraindications

Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Influence on hormonal balance, risk to the fetus/infant (sex hormones).

Children and adolescents under 18 years old
Hormonal development is underway; disruption is possible.

Surgery scheduled within 2 weeks
Theoretical risk of bleeding (mild anticoagulant properties). Stop 14 days beforehand.

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⚠️ SPECIAL Precautions

Hormone therapy
Contraceptives, HRT (hormone replacement therapy), anti-androgens → Medical advice required (possible interactions).

Anticoagulant treatment
Warfarin, AVK, aspirin → INR monitoring, risk of increased anticoagulant effect.

Hormone-dependent pathology
Prostate cancer, breast cancer → Strict medical advice (hormonal influence).

Liver disorders
Liver metabolism → Monitor if liver failure is present.

If you are undergoing hormonal or anticoagulant treatment, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional before starting a course of treatment, as interactions are possible.

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Possible (rare) side effects

Mild side effects may occur

Mild digestive problems (5-10% of users)

• Nausea, stomach aches
• Mild diarrhea
• Solution: Take with meals, reduce dose temporarily

Headaches or dizziness (< 5%)

• Generally transient (first few days)

Decreased libido (very rare, < 2%)

• Less common than finasteride, reversible upon discontinuation

Potential iron deficiency
Saw palmetto can cause iron deficiency due to the presence of tannins. Your doctor may then recommend iron supplements or a diet rich in this mineral.

In the case of hormone-dependent disease or long-term treatment, medical advice is essential.

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💡 Expert advice from Marie

Tip #1: Saw palmetto alone is not enough

"In 15 years, I've seen people take saw palmetto thinking it would solve everything. But if you continue to eat excessive amounts of sugar, stress 24/7, and not sleep... your hair will continue to fall out. Saw palmetto blocks DHT, yes, but you also need to support your follicles with the right nutrients (zinc, biotin, iron), reduce inflammation (anti-inflammatory diet), and manage your stress (cortisol worsens hair loss). It's a holistic approach."

Tip #2: ALWAYS check for standardization

"Don't be fooled by 'Saw palmetto 500mg' products at €5. If it's not a lipido-sterolic extract standardized to 85-95% fatty acids, it's just berry powder that won't do anything. Demand the mention 'standardized extract' and check the fatty acid percentage on the label. At Pleine Forme, we only select quality extracts."

Tip #3: Photograph your progress

"Your perception is biased. You look at yourself every day, so you won't see the subtle changes. Take photos (same angle, same lighting): at the beginning of the treatment, at 3 months, at 6 months. It's the only objective way to measure the results. And measure your hair density (number of hairs in a marked 1cm² area). You'll be surprised by the progress after 6 months!"

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Complete anti-hair loss protocol (Saw palmetto + lifestyle)

1. Saw palmetto supplementation

Base : 320mg/day of standardized extract (85-95% fatty acids), minimum 6 months

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2. Synergistic Nutrients

Zinc : 15-30mg/day
Biotin : 2.5-10mg/day
Vitamin D3 : 2000-4000 IU/day
Iron : If deficient (blood test)
Omega-3 : EPA/DHA (anti-inflammatory)

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3. Hair nutrition

Prioritize :

✅ Proteins (hair = keratin): Eggs, fish, white meat, legumes
✅ Iron: Red meat (in moderation), spinach, lentils
✅ Zinc: Oysters, pumpkin seeds, walnuts
✅ Biotin: Eggs, almonds, sweet potatoes
✅ Antioxidants: Red berries, colorful vegetables

Avoid :

❌ Refined sugars (inflammation, IGF-1 ↑)
❌ Excessive dairy products (bovine hormones)
❌ Alcohol (dehydration, deficiencies)
❌ Tobacco (vasoconstriction, less oxygen to the follicles)

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4. Hair hygiene

✅ Gentle shampoo (without harsh sulfates), 2-3 times/week max
✅ Scalp massage (5 min/day = increased circulation)
✅ Avoid excessively hot water (it weakens hair)
✅ Avoid tight hairstyles and harsh blow-drying

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5. Stress management (cortisol = enemy of hair)

Chronic stress increases cortisol → precipitates hair into telogen phase (shedding).

Techniques : Meditation, heart coherence, sport, 7-8 hours of sleep per night

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FAQ: Your essential questions

Does saw palmetto work for women?
Yes, absolutely! Androgenetic alopecia also affects women (especially post-menopausal women). Saw palmetto blocks DHT in the same way. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

How long before I see results?
Initial effects (hair loss stabilization): 2-3 months. Visible regrowth: 4-6 months. Optimal results: 12 months. Be patient!

Can I combine saw palmetto and minoxidil?
Yes, it's even recommended! Saw palmetto (blocks internal DHT) + topical minoxidil (stimulates external growth) = synergy.

Are there any sexual side effects similar to those of finasteride?
Very rare (<2% vs. 15% for finasteride). Reversible upon discontinuation. If you are concerned, start with 160 mg/day and monitor.

Can I stop taking saw palmetto after improvement?
Not recommended. If you stop, DHT will return and hair loss will resume. Long-term maintenance treatment is necessary.

Where can I buy quality saw palmetto?
Pharmacies, specialty shops like Pleine Forme. ALWAYS check: standardized extract 85-95% fatty acids, 320mg/dose, quality certification.

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In conclusion: Take back control of your hair

If you are looking for a scientifically proven natural treatment for hair loss of hormonal origin, saw palmetto is an excellent option.

The 4 pillars of healthy hair

1. Saw palmetto : Blocks DHT (320mg/day, minimum 6 months)
2. Targeted nutrients : Zinc, biotin, iron, B vitamins
3. Anti-inflammatory diet : Proteins, antioxidants, reduced sugars
4. Lifestyle : Stress ↓, sleep ↑, scalp massage

Its action on DHT and its richness in bioactive compounds make it a choice ally for hair regrowth and density , without the severe side effects of chemical drugs.

My final message to you

Losing your hair isn't just about aesthetics. It's a part of your identity that disappears. I see it every day at Pleine Forme: people who no longer dare to go out without a cap, who avoid photos, who lose confidence in themselves.

Saw palmetto won't regrow complete baldness (let's be honest). But if you act EARLY, if you are CONSISTENT, if you adopt a HOLISTIC APPROACH, you can stop hair loss, restore density, and preserve your hair.

Every month that passes without taking action means follicles die permanently. Don't wait until you're bald to take action.

Don't hesitate to contact our advisors at Pleine Forme for personalized support and to choose the product best suited to your needs. We're here to guide you towards solutions that truly WORK.

Together, let's preserve your hair health.

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Article written by Marie, a registered dietitian and specialist in dietary supplements.
Last updated: October 2025

Warning : Saw palmetto is a dietary supplement, not a medication. It is not a substitute for medical diagnosis and treatment. In case of sudden hair loss, bald patches, or severe inflammation, consult a dermatologist (possible signs include alopecia areata, alopecia areata, or other conditions). The advice in this article specifically concerns androgenetic alopecia (hormonal hair loss).