The efficacy of low doses of finasteride to reduce scalp DHT, and whether studies showing a 61% reduction are reflected in actual results. Replies discussed hair growth as an unintended consequence of minoxidil and finasteride use, as well as self-selective bias, potential side effects, and that studies measure effectiveness by hair count changes rather than DHT inhibition.
A 22-year-old male experiencing diffuse hair thinning has been using finasteride, initially at 0.5mg and then 1mg daily, but sees no improvement. Despite correcting a vitamin D deficiency and noticing some new hair growth, he questions the effectiveness of finasteride.
The conversation discusses whether finasteride's reduction of DHT and increase in scalp testosterone contribute to hair follicle miniaturization. Some participants argue testosterone does not cause miniaturization, while others suggest that even with reduced DHT, other androgens like testosterone may still contribute to hair loss.
The conversation discusses the mechanism of action of alfatradiol (17 alpha estradiol) in treating hair loss. It explores theories that it either inhibits 5 alpha reductase to prevent T->DHT conversion or aromatizes scalp T into 17-alpha-estradiol to save hair.
The user started taking zinc for a deficiency and is discussing one month of progress. They are inquiring if the observed changes indicate hair regrowth.
The user is experiencing hair loss and is using oral treatments including 5mg minoxidil, 1.1mg finasteride, and 1mg biotin daily. They are considering adding dutasteride and possibly a hair system, while others suggest patience and additional treatments like microneedling.
The user has been using a topical spray containing finasteride and minoxidil for six months but is experiencing increased hair shedding and concerns about its effectiveness. Suggestions include switching to oral finasteride and minoxidil, consulting a dermatologist, and checking for underlying health issues like thyroid function and nutrient deficiencies.
The user shared a 6-month update on their hair loss treatment using finasteride, minoxidil, Nizoral shampoo, and vitamin D. They reported progress but mentioned possible sexual side effects and recent shedding, seeking advice on adjusting their finasteride dose.
The user experienced increased hair loss and scalp itchiness despite using finasteride and plans to resume minoxidil and start microneedling. They are considering using clay, Aveda thickening tonic, and a beanie to manage the appearance of thinning hair.
The conversation discusses a personal theory on the role of DHT in stress and reproduction, suggesting it converts testosterone for reproductive traits. The discussion includes skepticism and mentions individual differences in physiology and neurochemistry.
A 16-year-old experiencing hair thinning noticed a shift from shedding long hairs to shorter hairs, while using Vitamin D, biotin supplements, ketoconazole shampoo, and improving diet. They are questioning if the short hairs indicate regrowth or androgenetic alopecia (AGA).
The conclusion of this conversation about hair loss is that genetics play a significant role in determining hair loss, and specific treatments like finasteride may not be effective against certain compounds like masteron and trenbolone.
The user began experiencing hair loss a few years ago at age 22 and is a diffuse thinner with a Norwood scale rating of 2. They have a naturally athletic build and gain muscle easily, with a hairy chest and stomach.
Low oxytocin levels in hair are linked to reduced empathy and may affect hair growth. Cinnamic acid can promote hair growth by activating oxytocin receptors.
The user stopped oral treatments due to side effects and switched to a regimen of topical minoxidil, tretinoin, azelaic acid, and dermaneedling, with recent addition of topical finasteride. They are questioning the long-term effectiveness of non-hormonal methods and considering hair transplantation.
Using estrogen for hair regrowth is considered ineffective and risky, with potential side effects like breast growth and hormonal changes. Alternatives like finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil are suggested, but estrogen is not recommended unless transitioning.
The user reports positive results from using finasteride for six months, noticing hair regrowth despite ongoing shedding and dry scalp issues. They suspect hard water and a possible vitamin D deficiency may also affect their hair condition.
The user is experiencing diffuse thinning and has tried treatments like topical and oral finasteride, oral dutasteride, topical minoxidil, microneedling, melatonin, and caffeine without success. Despite using these treatments for over four years, the user reports continued hair thinning and is considering trying RU58841.
A 24-year-old male has been struggling with hair loss since 2020, trying treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, PRP, vitamins, proteins, and exosomes, but hasn't seen significant improvement. He is considering a hair transplant due to the lack of results from these treatments.
A user experienced initial side effects from finasteride, including erectile dysfunction and emotional changes, but later noticed increased muscle mass and assertiveness. Hormonal tests showed elevated estrogen and prolactin levels, which slightly decreased over time; the user plans lifestyle changes to see if they help.
User discusses group buy for finerenone, a third-gen mineralocorticoid antagonist for hair loss treatment. Finerenone inhibits TGFb, NOX, and ROS, and improves renal and cardiac function; topical dose should be no more than 10mg per day.
A user is experiencing significant hair loss and scalp issues despite using Minoxidil, finasteride, and RU58841 since 2017. They switched to oral Minoxidil and are now on isotretinoin and topical corticosteroids for seborrheic dermatitis but continue to lose hair and seek advice on whether inflammation or treatment changes are the cause.
High prolactin levels can cause hair loss, and finasteride may increase prolactin. Cabergoline or Vitamin B6 might lower prolactin, but combining them with finasteride requires caution.
The user is experiencing severe hair loss and color change despite low testosterone levels and healthy lifestyle changes. They have tried ketoconazole shampoo and consulted a dermatologist, who found no scalp issues but suggested using Toppik for coverage.
The user is experiencing ongoing hair loss despite using a comprehensive treatment regimen including dutasteride, oral minoxidil, cyproterone acetate, transdermal estradiol, and topical bicalutamide. They suspect cyproterone acetate may be worsening their hair loss and are considering switching to injection monotherapy.
A 22-year-old has been using minoxidil and finasteride for hair loss with initial success, but later experienced increased shedding and no regrowth. They recently added vitamin D3 supplements and microneedling, which reduced shedding, but are seeking advice on regrowth, with suggestions to try tretinoin with minoxidil and consider dutasteride.
The post discusses a user's successful hair regrowth using finasteride, dutasteride, topical minoxidil, and estrogen over nine months. The user, who is male-to-female (mtf), reports significant regrowth and no side effects beyond typical hormone replacement therapy effects.
A 24-year-old male is experiencing hair loss and considering treatments like finasteride and minoxidil after noticing low levels of Vitamin D, iron, and testosterone. Users discuss the effectiveness of these treatments and the importance of consulting a dermatologist, while also mentioning potential side effects of finasteride.
A user experienced increased estradiol, nipple tenderness, and ED after taking finasteride. They are considering dose reduction to mitigate these effects.