Balding seems to worsen with each generation, possibly due to stress, diet, and environmental factors. The user started treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) impacts various skin conditions, including Androgenetic alopecia and seborrheic dermatitis, by causing overactivity in sebaceous glands. Topical medications Tacrolimus and Clobetasol can reduce these inflammatory conditions, and treatments like RU58841, Minoxidil, and Finasteride may also be beneficial.
The FDA warned that topical finasteride can cause serious side effects like sexual dysfunction and brain fog, similar to oral finasteride. Compounded topical formulations pose additional risks due to lack of regulation.
The relative strength of Pyrilutamide compared to RU58841 in terms of androgen receptor binding affinity. It has been noted that Pyrilutamide is 4x stronger than RU58841, with a higher binding affinity than DHT itself.
Increased Malassezia and Cutibacterium in the scalp microbiome are linked to higher sebum production and inflammation in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Treatments include ciclopirox shampoo, benzoyl peroxide shampoo, clobetasol propionate, calcipotriol, minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride.
Switching from topical to oral minoxidil and whether to continue microneedling. Users suggest using a derma stamp instead of a roller for better results and safety, and some recommend combining it with oils like rosemary.
A user shared progress pictures after using 1mg Finasteride daily, 5% Minoxidil twice daily, Nizoral Shampoo, and weekly microneedling at 1.5mm depth for two months, reporting no side effects and discussing their routine and supplements. Commenters reacted positively, with one advising caution with creatine and another endorsing the benefits of microneedling.
The conversation discusses whether long-term use of finasteride (Fin) is harmful to the liver, with various opinions on side effects and comparisons to other substances. Specific treatments mentioned include finasteride, minoxidil (Min), and RU58841 (RU).
Finasteride is preferred over dutasteride due to its longer history, more research, and FDA approval, despite dutasteride being more potent. Users report varied side effects, influencing personal treatment choices.
Minoxidil requires at least 6 months to show results and may not work for everyone. Combining it with Finasteride can improve outcomes, but stopping Minoxidil can result in losing any regrowth.
A user shared their one-year progress using Dutasteride, oral and topical Minoxidil, RU58841, and microneedling tools from Amazon, and credits learning from top posters on the forum. Other users discuss the effectiveness of the treatments, affordability, and reflect on the benefits of starting treatment early.
Concerns about a potential finasteride ban in the EU, possibly affecting the US, are discussed. Users doubt a ban, citing its widespread use and suggest alternatives like minoxidil and dutasteride.
A 21-year-old woman with female pattern baldness has tried minoxidil, red light therapy, and supplements without success. She is considering spironolactone and seeking medical advice.
A user experienced hairline improvement after four weeks on 1.5mg dutasteride but had side effects like reduced libido and sensitive nipples. They plan to switch to finasteride to manage these side effects.
Dutasteride takes 1-3 months to affect scalp DHT levels, not just a week. The prostate absorbs Dutasteride faster than the scalp due to different vascular networks and enzyme densities.
The user "StrummerBummer" has been taking finasteride for 25 years without side effects, but is now switching to dutasteride. Other users congratulate and support the decision.
A user who has been taking finasteride, minoxidil, and microneedling for one year with no results, and the replies discuss other treatments, including dutasteride, which is feared due to potential side effects.
Concerns about the long-term effects of dutasteride and finasteride on fertility, with discussions on cycling these medications to mitigate risks. The conversation highlights skepticism about study methodologies and the importance of weighing treatment risks against potential fertility issues.
Dutasteride and finasteride can affect libido differently, with some experiencing increased libido and others decreased libido or erectile dysfunction. Dutasteride may increase testosterone levels but can also cause side effects like liver enzyme changes, while topical finasteride may have fewer sexual side effects.
A user shared their positive experience of embracing baldness after years of trying treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride. They found happiness and confidence by shaving their head, despite some social challenges, and encouraged others to focus on their attitude and seek therapy if needed.
A 30-year-old female with PCOS and male pattern baldness is frustrated with her endocrinologist's recommendation of only Spironolactone and minoxidil, feeling that dutasteride, finasteride, and progesterone would be more effective. Other users suggest various online sources for treatments, warn against self-medicating due to potential risks, and recommend seeking a specialized endocrinologist or considering additional treatments like Inositol, Berberine, and dermaneedling.
User shared 1-year progress on Fin 1 mg, switching to 0.4 mg Dut and oral 1.25 mg Min. Good results with Fin, biotin supplement, and biotin shampoo; trying Dut and oral Min for potential better results.
User spent 23 years on Finasteride with side effects like weight gain and reduced libido. Switched to topical Finasteride, side effects reduced and waiting for results.
Finasteride and dutasteride may not significantly impact meibomian gland function since these glands do not rely on DHT. Some users report dry eyes and other side effects from finasteride, but these may be influenced by other factors or medications.
Finasteride and Dutasteride do not cause depression or "Post Finasteride Syndrome," with concerns often linked to the nocebo effect and preexisting mental health issues. The EU is unlikely to ban these drugs, but access may become more restricted due to ongoing debates.
Finasteride may cause sleep disturbances, with some users experiencing insomnia. Reducing the dosage, switching brands, or trying Dutasteride might help.
Finasteride may take over two years to show results and can cause side effects like sexual dysfunction and emotional changes. Alternatives such as dutasteride and minoxidil are discussed, with varying effectiveness and side effects.
A user shared their one-year progress using finasteride 1mg three times a week, starting at age 25, with noticeable regrowth after three months and no side effects. Other users discussed their experiences with finasteride, minoxidil, microneedling, and dutasteride, noting varying results and side effects.