People are frustrated with the lack of new hair loss treatments stronger than minoxidil and finasteride. Some are using dutasteride to maintain hair while hoping for future solutions.
The user achieved significant hair regrowth using oral finasteride for 2 years, then switched to topical minoxidil with rosemary oil and biotin oil. They reported no side effects and found topical minoxidil more effective than oral minoxidil.
A 19-year-old shared 6-month progress photos after using only finasteride for hair loss, noting no significant changes and considering adding oral minoxidil. Others commented that the hair looks healthy and suggested continuing the current treatment.
Dutasteride is more effective in gel capsule form due to better absorption, as it is fat-soluble. If only pills are available, taking them with fat or increasing the dose slightly may help.
Switching from finasteride to dutasteride can lead to varied results, with some experiencing better hair regrowth and fewer side effects, while others continue to lose hair. Dutasteride is generally seen as more effective but has a longer half-life, potentially extending side effects.
Dutasteride can cause prolonged hair shedding before regrowth begins, often taking 6-12 months for noticeable improvement. Users report varying experiences, with some seeing no shedding and others experiencing significant shedding before eventual regrowth.
The user experienced anxiety and a rapid heartbeat after restarting finasteride at 0.25-0.3 mg, considering whether to continue or stop. They also use minoxidil but did not have these side effects with minoxidil alone.
The user experienced severe side effects from oral finasteride, including sexual dysfunction and mental health issues, and switched to topical finasteride, which led to significant hair shedding. They are considering other treatments like RU58841 or topical dutasteride and are advised to check testosterone levels and address potential underlying health issues.
Topical finasteride concentrations are likely much higher than necessary for effective follicular DHT suppression, with current standards being 100-1000 times above the theoretical minimum. Lower concentrations (0.001-0.0025%) might still work locally while minimizing systemic exposure.
Finasteride is likely causing beard thinning due to its anti-androgen effects, which reduce DHT levels necessary for thick facial hair. Some users suggest using minoxidil to potentially counteract this effect, while others note that stopping finasteride may allow the beard to regrow.
The user is experiencing hair loss despite using minoxidil and dutasteride consistently since October, with no significant improvement. Suggestions include trying microneedling, switching dutasteride brands, or adding finasteride.
The user is using minoxidil and topical finasteride for hair loss and is seeking advice on whether to use a derma pen or derma stamp for microneedling, including the appropriate length and frequency. They previously stopped oral finasteride due to side effects.
The conversation is about a user taking a break from oral minoxidil due to persistent eye puffiness after two years of use. Suggestions include switching to topical minoxidil foam and adjusting the dosage to manage side effects.
Protein's role in hair growth is complex, with specific amino acids like cysteine being crucial for effective hair growth. Users discussed using l-cysteine supplements, noting reduced hair loss and faster growth, though some experienced digestive issues.
The user has been using oral dutasteride and topical minoxidil for 8 years, added oral minoxidil 6 months ago, but continues to experience hair thinning despite reduced shedding. They are considering checking iron levels, switching medication brands, and exploring other treatments like RU58841.
The user is considering switching from topical to oral minoxidil to address thinning hair and a receding hairline. They are currently using topical minoxidil with tretinoin, finasteride, and ketoconazole shampoo without side effects.
An 18-year-old male with a family history of baldness started using 5% minoxidil and 0.01% finasteride spray for hair loss. Suggestions included getting a blood test, considering oral dutasteride, and trying oral minoxidil.
Many users have maintained their hair using finasteride, with some also using minoxidil or dutasteride, reporting minimal side effects. Opinions vary on the necessity of DHT, with some users arguing its importance beyond puberty, while others believe it is unnecessary and that finasteride and dutasteride are safe and effective for hair maintenance.
A user shared their 9-month progress using 1mg daily finasteride, noting initial side effects like low libido and ED that resolved over time, and advised staying on the treatment for at least a year before considering a hair transplant. Other users suggested adding minoxidil for better results and recommended using ketoconazole shampoo for dandruff.
The conversation discusses a user's hair growth routine involving scalp massages, dermastamping, and rosemary oil, with mixed opinions on its effectiveness. Some users suggest proven treatments like minoxidil and finasteride, while others debate the merits of alternative methods.
Dutasteride can significantly reduce sperm volume, with some users experiencing up to a 90% decrease. While some users report adaptation over time, others suggest switching to finasteride if side effects are too severe.
The user is frustrated with minimal hair regrowth after using dutasteride, oral minoxidil, and previously finasteride and topical minoxidil. Despite feeling discouraged, others suggest continuing treatment as progress can be slow and subtle, with some users noting visible improvement.
Low iron and ferritin levels can contribute to hair shedding, and low ferritin can reduce the effectiveness of finasteride. Supplementing iron and vitamin D can help improve hair growth and overall health.
The user reviewed the Kiierr 312 MD DualWave Laser for hair loss, using it alongside ketoconazole shampoo, Svvimer products, and oral finasteride. They also mentioned using minoxidil on their face and adjusting lifestyle factors like sleep, vitamin D, and protein intake.
The user is considering using topical finasteride for hairline recession and thinning, despite having low DHT levels and previous side effects from oral finasteride. They are also taking 2.5 mg of oral minoxidil, which has not resulted in regrowth or stabilization.
Oral minoxidil and finasteride can lead to quick hair growth, with some users noticing changes in as little as 2-3 weeks, though head hair may take longer. Many prefer oral minoxidil over topical due to convenience, and some also use ketoconazole shampoo and other topical treatments.
An 18-year-old experiencing hair loss seeks a finasteride prescription but faces skepticism from doctors who only recommend vitamins. A suggestion is made to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and potential treatment with finasteride or minoxidil.
A 26-year-old male with high testosterone is experiencing diffuse hair thinning despite using a comprehensive treatment regimen including dutasteride, oral minoxidil, RU58841, ketoconazole shampoo, microneedling, and low-level laser therapy. Suggestions include adjusting dutasteride dosage, monitoring iron levels, and consulting a dermatologist for further evaluation.
The user experienced significant hair shedding after starting and stopping minoxidil and finasteride, leading to thin hair and personal distress. They are currently on oral finasteride without side effects and are advised to maintain consistent treatment and consider additional options like microneedling and oils.
Minoxidil and finasteride aid hair regrowth, but a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight, enhances their effectiveness. Being underweight can impede hair regrowth, while a balanced diet and addressing deficiencies can improve outcomes.