April 2019 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology”
Disrupting the Tsc2 gene in certain cells leads to thicker skin, larger hair, and changes in hair growth signaling, which can be partly reversed with specific treatment.
Pirfenidone is suggested to treat fibrosis and baldness by blocking inflammation markers and reducing collagen. It is also available as a gel for scar removal.
A user is seeking advice on shampoos and hair styling products to slow down hair thinning and avoid harmful chemicals. They currently use a biotin and collagen shampoo and are considering alternatives like wax or oils instead of gel.
The user tried various hair loss treatments for a year, initially using Hims foam min, Ketoconazole, dermarolling/microneedling, Biotin, Collagen, Caster and rosemary oil, and a multivitamin. From June, they switched to Keeps topical fin and min gel, Ketoconazole, dermarolling/microneedling, collagen, Caster and rosemary oil, and a multivitamin, and noticed hair thickening, especially on the front hairline.
Minoxidil is unlikely to cause skin aging at typical doses, and concerns about collagen inhibition are mostly unfounded. Users suggest using sunscreen and tretinoin for skin health, and some combine minoxidil with finasteride for hair maintenance.
A user's progress after 3 months of using the "big 4" hair loss treatments - liposomal gel minoxidil, finasteride, keto shampoo and microneedling; with people providing advice about their own experiences and asking for more information.