The DCA does not prevent the possibility of a loss especially if the asset continues to lose value over time. What the DCA does is to reduce the impact of such loss in an investor so that the investor don’t get to feel it that much since he did not invest everything at a time and also considering that before an investor made such an investment he also might have sorted out his primary financial needs and the money left with him after doing that is what he uses in buying bitcoin gradually with the DCA and HODL.
DCA is commonly used for long-term investment. This is also considered a highly effective strategy. Especially for those unable to invest a large lump sum all at once. But, I am certain that many major investors also employ DCA.
But, as you said, DCA does carry risks, particularly if one lacks understanding or faces certain situations, such as:
1. Choosing the wrong assets, especially "shitcoins."
2. Succumbing to panic driven by market sentiment. Some investors panic-sell the moment the market drop. Even though their original goal was long-term investment. Their mindset simply is not strong enough.
That is why proper preparation is essential. It includes personal maturity, mental resilience, and knowledge. This also ensures that the strategy we adopt. Which might actually be a great fit for us. it does not go to waste.