5-beta diol is much more potent estrogen than the 5-alpha variety and the beta isomer activates both ER-alpha and ER-beta. So, I agree with gbol that it can be a problem and that in general in disease the 3b-HSD degradation of DHT predominates over the 3a-HSD pathway. But more importantly, DHT degradation through any pathway is increased in pathological conditions.
As far as balding, I think 5-beta-androstenediol (DHEA metabolite) plays a bigger role in balding than 5-alpha-androstanediol (DHT metabolite) or even 5-beta-androstanediol (DHT metabolite). My guess is that it is 80% 5-beta-androstenediol and 20% 5-beta-androstanediol in terms of contribution to balding. As corroborating evidence, DHT derivatives that are highly resistant to degradation such as Drostanolone, do not cause balding. To the contrary, when it was tested back in the 70s and 80s for breast cancer it was found to increase hair growth, at least in women.
Drostanolone propionate - Wikipedia
"...Side effects of drostanolone propionate include symptoms of masculinization like acne, increased hair growth, voice changes, and increased sexual desire.[1] It has no risk of liver damage.[1] The drug is a synthetic androgen and anabolic steroid and hence is an agonist of the androgen receptor (AR), the biological target of androgens like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).[1][3] It has moderate anabolic effects and weak androgeniceffects, which give it a mild side effect profile and make it especially suitable for use in women.[1] The drug has no estrogenic effects.[1] Drostanolone propionate is an androgen ester and a long-lasting prodrug of drostanolonein the body.[1]"
Of course, you never heard peddlers of finasteride or any doctor really address the issue of why degradation-resistant DHT steroids do not cause hair loss but hair growth. It would kill the hair loss industry and likely the BPH and prostate cancer industries as well.
Has anyone on this forum used drostanolone propionate?!