What effect do androgens have on hair growth in males?

Androgens, which include hormones such as testosterone and its more potent derivative dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a significant role in promoting increased hair growth in males, particularly in specific areas such as the face and the body. This effect is due to their action on androgen receptors in the hair follicles. In areas like the beard and chest, androgens stimulate these receptors, leading to the development of terminal hair, which is thicker and darker than vellus hair.

In addition to promoting hair growth in certain regions, androgens also influence the hair growth cycle, including the transition from the telogen (resting) phase to the anagen (growth) phase. However, it's important to note that while androgens increase hair growth in certain areas, they can lead to hair thinning or loss in others, particularly on the scalp, due to a condition known as androgenetic alopecia. The overall influence of androgens thus highlights their dual role in hair growth depending on the location in the body.

The other options do not accurately reflect the established biological roles of androgens regarding hair growth.