How little the average person knows about hair loss and how it can be an unfairly stigmatized issue, even by people with little knowledge of it themselves. Some specific treatments that were discussed include finasteride, RU58841, dutasteride, minoxidil, pyritinol, dermarolling, and diet/lifestyle changes.
The post argues that Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is likely not real and suggests symptoms may be due to mental health issues or the nocebo effect. The conversation includes personal experiences with finasteride, highlighting both positive and negative effects, and emphasizes consulting doctors and using reliable sources for medication.
Whey protein isolate may worsen androgenetic alopecia (AGA) due to its potential to increase DHT levels, but finasteride use has helped maintain hair. Some users suggest avoiding protein supplements due to possible contaminants and additives that could affect hair health.
A female user's diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia, and the advice shared in response which suggests taking spironolactone and minoxidil together to prevent hair loss.
Creatine is reported to cause increased hair shedding, but there is no scientific evidence linking it to hair loss. Some users manage hair loss with finasteride and minoxidil or consider stopping creatine if shedding worsens.
A user's progress with treating hair loss using 1mg finasteride per day, with reports of no noticeable side effects and positive results. Other users have shared their experiences with different treatments, such as Dutasteride and Minoxidil.
User shared 6-month progress using Fin, Min, Microneedling, Biotin, and Ketoconazole Shampoo for hair loss. They microneedle once a week, use 1.25 mg Fin daily, and apply topical Min twice a day.
A user experienced mild side effects from 0.5mg finasteride daily, including increased estradiol and minor gynecomastia. They are considering taking a low dose of exemestane to reduce estrogen levels.
Androgenetic alopecia is affected by scalp DHT levels, not sensitivity, with treatments like finasteride and dutasteride aiming to optimize these levels. Personalized DHT management is crucial for effective hair growth.
A user with low testosterone and mild gyno is considering finasteride for hair loss. Others suggest consulting an endocrinologist first and share experiences of finasteride not worsening gyno.
A user has been taking finasteride for 5 months with no improvement in diffuse hair loss and suspects high levels of prolactin, cortisol, progesterone, and DHEAS, as well as iron, might be contributing to the issue. They are also taking vitamin D to address a deficiency.
The post and conversation are about the long-term side effects of using Dutasteride and Finasteride for hair loss, including issues like raised liver enzymes, high cholesterol, and loss of libido. The user advises regular blood work and careful monitoring for those using these treatments.
The conversation provides tips to reduce facial skin side effects from Minoxidil, such as changing pillowcases, sleeping on the back, careful application, hydration, and taking breaks. One reply suggests that alcohol in Minoxidil formulations, not Minoxidil itself, may cause skin aging.
User "flcv" shares their 3-year experience with finasteride for hair loss, stating no side effects and no change in hair thickness despite shedding cycles. They advise fellow fin users to trust the process and not worry about shedding.
N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) is being explored for treating hair loss, but users report mixed results. Some also mention using Quercetin and Resveratrol without significant hair improvement.
The user experienced side effects from daily 1 mg Finasteride and switched to 0.5 mg every other day, supplemented with creatine, tongkat ali, tribulus terrestris, vitamin D3, bromantane, l-tyrosine, and caffeine. They also use weekly 1.5 mm microneedling and daily 50 mg RU58841, except on microneedling days, to manage hair loss.
Hair loss sufferers becoming hyper aware of shedding, and the various treatments available for reducing shedding. The conversation also discussed differentiating between shedding and balding, as well as the potential side effects from using certain treatments.
Creatine supplementation may increase DHT levels, potentially affecting hair loss. A study is examining this effect, with participants taking 5 grams of creatine daily for six months.
The conversation discusses the progress of Clascoterone (Breezula) for hair loss treatment, noting that COVID-19 delayed female trials by three months but Phase III trials for males are proceeding with a Special Protocol Assessment filed with the FDA. Users express hope for Breezula as an alternative to existing treatments like finasteride and minoxidil, despite concerns about its potential high cost.
User "hairlossblows" shares their positive experience with minoxidil, microneedling, and finasteride for hair loss treatment. They report significant hair regrowth, especially in the hairline, and minimal side effects from finasteride.
The user shared their personal experience with hair loss, hormone imbalances, and treatments including testosterone boosters, natural estrogen blockers, and DHEA. They suggest that low-dose finasteride and natural hormone therapy could reduce hair loss with fewer side effects.
The conversation discusses transitioning from topical to oral minoxidil for hair loss treatment and explores the potential use of Aminexil, despite concerns about its effectiveness compared to minoxidil. It highlights the risks and side effects of oral minoxidil, such as potential heart and liver damage, and emphasizes the importance of monitoring blood pressure.
Vitamin E was discussed as a treatment for hair shedding, with a specific form mentioned. A user shared a link to a study and started taking the Vitamin E variants used.
A user is concerned about starting finasteride due to negative reports and potential side effects. Other users suggest talking to a doctor, considering personal tolerance, and note that side effects are rare.
Microneedling is considered an important addition to hair loss treatments like Finasteride, Minoxidil, and Nizoral, with evidence suggesting it enhances Minoxidil's effectiveness and can improve hair growth on its own. Users discuss various microneedling techniques, including heavy weekly sessions and lighter daily sessions, while expressing concerns about potential scalp damage and discomfort.
The user reversed male pattern baldness using a pro-thyroid diet, lifestyle changes, and scalp stimulation exercises, without Minoxidil or Finasteride. They reported reduced dandruff, itchiness, oiliness, and experienced hair regrowth and thickening over 15 months.
Finasteride users report reduced libido and increased hair shedding initially, but some see these as temporary or manageable side effects. Vitamin E and D-3 supplements are discussed as potential aids for libido and mood.
A 26 year old female with PCOS who has been dealing with hair loss for several years, despite managing her hormones and taking vitamins. She has tried various treatments such as Nizoral, Minoxidil, Pyrithione zinc, coal tar and salicylic acid to no avail. The user is looking for advice on what else they can do to stop their hair loss.
Switching from finasteride to dutasteride and oral minoxidil led to thicker hair and reduced hairline recession. Occasional flushing from minoxidil will be managed by lowering the dose.