Considering alternative treatments to hair loss, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and exosome therapy, instead of using medications like minoxidil, finasteride/dutasteride.
A user experienced unexpected hormone test results after 7 months on 1mg daily finasteride, noting a decrease in estradiol despite expectations of an increase. Other users suggested that hormone responses can vary and that finasteride might still be effective if DHT levels are within range, while also mentioning factors like circadian rhythm and stress that could impact results.
The conversation discusses whether individuals using hair loss treatments like Dutasteride (Dut) or Finasteride (Fin) should regularly check their hormone levels through bloodwork. Some argue it's important to monitor the effects of these medications on hormone levels, while others believe it's unnecessary if there are no side effects, citing cost and practicality concerns.
Diffuse hair loss is often linked to genetics but can also be due to health issues like thyroid problems and low vitamin or iron levels. Treatments include finasteride, minoxidil, and dutasteride, with some seeing improvements after addressing health issues.
The DNA Trichotest is considered unreliable for predicting hair loss treatment responses, and topical spironolactone is questioned for its effectiveness and safety in cis males. Finasteride and Dutasteride are recommended as more reliable treatments for androgenic alopecia.
A user created a tracker for hair loss treatments in clinical development, including compounds like Dermaliq, RU58841, and Pyrilutamide. The tracker updates with new information and allows filtering by conditions like androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and alopecia areata (AA).
A woman discovered her long-term hair loss was due to undiagnosed anemia, with ferritin levels as low as 9. After starting iron supplements, she saw significant hair regrowth, especially in previously bald areas, though some spots remain unchanged.
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.
The user has been taking 0.5 finasteride for 10 months and wants to repeat blood tests, including estradiol. However, their doctor is reluctant to test estradiol, arguing it's typically low in men, and the user is considering seeking a second opinion.
A user experienced accelerated hairline recession after adding dutasteride to their regimen of topical finasteride and minoxidil, despite reduced hair shedding. They were informed that ELISA testing for DHT levels can be highly inaccurate.
A user experienced increased testosterone and estradiol levels after starting finasteride/dutasteride and is asking if these levels will return to normal over time. The conversation focuses on whether these changes are temporary.
A 25-year-old male with normal hormone levels is considering starting finasteride and minoxidil for hair loss but is concerned about high estradiol levels and potential side effects. Responses vary, with some suggesting blood tests before starting treatment and others emphasizing individual tolerance and the importance of consulting a doctor.
A user experiencing hair loss since age 18 is considering switching from finasteride and minoxidil to dutasteride after poor results and lifestyle choices. They plan to improve their lifestyle and get blood work done to assess treatment effectiveness.
The conversation provides a detailed list of blood tests recommended before starting finasteride to establish a baseline for monitoring potential side effects. A shorter list is also provided for those with limited funds, and the user shares personal experience of using finasteride without issues for about nine years.
A user is considering making a 2% clascoterone lotion from powder due to unavailability in their location. They plan to mix clascoterone powder with retinol lotion and use literature to determine the correct dosage.
Clascoterone cream was submitted for review to Health Canada in August 2022, with hopes of approval within 3-6 months. It may potentially enhance finasteride's effects for hair loss treatment.
Taking dutasteride daily at higher doses results in more effective DHT suppression compared to every other day dosing, due to its dose-dependent nature and long half-life. Even at lower doses, dutasteride is more effective than finasteride for hair loss.
Winlevi (clascoterone), a DHT blocker, is being considered for hair loss treatment, though it's primarily an acne medication. Users discuss its potential effectiveness and note it may only work for a short time.
A 30-year-old male has been on finasteride/dutasteride for 3 years, with stable but still receding hairline, and blood tests showing high total testosterone but normal DHT and free testosterone levels. Despite challenges in gaining muscle, he maintains a good physique with a consistent lifting routine and recently improved results with creatine.
A user is considering starting finasteride for hair thinning but is concerned about side effects like low libido and gynecomastia. They plan to consult a dermatologist and are advised to test DHT, testosterone, and estradiol levels.
The conversation discusses hair regrowth progress from Norwood scale 4 to 2.5 over a year using daily 8.5-9% RU58841, topical Dutasteride 0.1%, RU58841 5% 1.5 times a week, and daily caffeine redensyl scalp treatment.
KX-826 (Pyrilutamide) 0.5% and 1.0% solutions showed promising results in increasing hair count for male androgenetic alopecia, with the 0.5% dose slightly outperforming the 1% dose. The treatment was well-tolerated with no sexual side effects, but skepticism remains due to past inconsistencies in trial results.
OP is using 5% minoxidil and a foligain supplement for hair loss, with blood test results showing high cortisol levels. OP is considering starting finasteride, while another user shares their experience with finasteride and hair loss challenges due to malabsorption issues.
Taking finasteride alone did not stop hair loss, but adding vitamin D3 and iron supplements improved hair coverage and quality. It's important to check and address deficiencies, but caution is advised with iron supplementation without medical guidance.
A user in the UK seeks advice on blood tests before starting Finasteride and Minoxidil for hair loss. Recommended tests include thyroid function, hormone levels, liver and kidney function, and vitamin and mineral levels.
Low testosterone and estradiol may contribute to hair loss, and blocking DHT without sufficient hormone levels might hinder regrowth. The discussion highlights the importance of hormone balance, with some considering supplements and lifestyle changes to support hair health.
The conversation discusses how different factors can stimulate type 1 and type 2 isoforms of 5-alpha reductase, which are enzymes linked to hair loss. Specific treatments mentioned include oral Dutasteride and topical Finasteride.
The user is using Dutasteride (90.5mg) and Minoxidil (2.5mg) for hair loss since October 2025 and is seeking feedback on their progress. They provided comparison photos from October 2025 and January 2026.
The user is considering starting finasteride for hair loss but is concerned about potential side effects due to their estradiol levels being near the upper limit. They have consulted a doctor who confirmed their levels are okay to start the treatment.