Some people avoid finasteride due to side effects but engage in unhealthy habits. Minoxidil and finasteride are common hair loss treatments, with varied side effect experiences.
A user stopped using minoxidil after 10-12 years due to severe side effects like fluctuating blood pressure and chest pain, resulting in significant hair loss. Other users shared similar experiences, emphasizing health over hair and suggesting alternatives like finasteride, nanoxidil, and rosemary oil.
The conversation is about the debate over the existence of Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) and its symptoms, with some users skeptical about PFS and others discussing side effects like erectile dysfunction and gynecomastia from hair loss treatments like finasteride. Specific treatments mentioned include finasteride, viagra, and a joke about using a popsicle stick for erectile support.
Jordan-Iliad has been using a combination of finasteride, minoxidil, stemoxydine, microneedling, saw palmetto, peppermint and jojoba oils, ketoconazole shampoo, and Purador shampoo/conditioner for 3 months to treat their hair loss with stunning results. They have also recently started taking oral minoxidil 1.25mg/day in hopes of achieving even better results over the next 3 months.
Topical finasteride is less popular due to inconvenience, cost, and availability, while oral finasteride is favored for ease and safety. Some users experience side effects with topical use, but find it effective with minoxidil, though opinions on its efficacy vary.
The conversation is about the prevalence of baldness among young men and the potential factors contributing to it. Specific treatments mentioned include minoxidil and finasteride.
The user has DUPA and suspects autoimmune activity as a cause. They have tried various treatments including finasteride, minoxidil, dutasteride, pyrilutamide, estrogel, hydrocortisone, and clobetasol, and are now seeking a long-term immunosuppressant.
Dermatologists often advise against at-home microneedling due to risks of scarring, infection, and improper technique. Professional guidance is recommended for safe and effective use, with some users reporting positive results when done correctly.
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.
Finasteride can cause sexual side effects in less than 2% of men, but these often disappear over time, even if the treatment continues. Some users report persistent side effects, while others experience no issues or only temporary ones.
Daily microneedling at 0.25mm before applying minoxidil is debated, with some suggesting weekly microneedling is safer and more effective. Concerns include potential skin damage and systemic absorption, while alternatives like tretinoin are considered safer for enhancing minoxidil absorption.
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.
Dutasteride is considered safe for conception, with semen concentrations being too low to cause harm. Users discuss switching between dutasteride and finasteride, with some experiencing side effects like acne and heart issues, and advice is given to maintain a consistent treatment regimen.
Finasteride is seen as risky for men due to side effects like erectile dysfunction, while hormonal birth control for women is normalized despite its side effects. The discussion points out a double standard influenced by societal and gender norms.
Oral minoxidil may cause dry skin and dark eye bags but doesn't significantly age the skin. Topical minoxidil is toxic to cats, and some users prefer finasteride.
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.
Dutasteride might be better for hairline due to varying levels of 5AR activity in scalps. Genetic tests can determine if finasteride is enough or if dutasteride is needed.
The conversation discusses diffuse unpatterned alopecia (DUPA) and its possible causes, including sensitivity to DHT, not being androgenic alopecia, being diffuse alopecia areata, or hormonal issues. Treatments mentioned include topical melatonin, Clobetasol Propionate for alopecia areata, and the lack of results from using finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil.
Topical finasteride may reduce more scalp DHT but is seen as inconsistent and messy compared to oral finasteride. Users report mixed results with both forms, with some preferring oral for its convenience and consistent dosing, while others find topical effective but harder to apply.
Balding seems to worsen with each generation, possibly due to stress, diet, and environmental factors. The user started treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride.
A user is seeking recommendations for a dermatologist in Houston specializing in alopecia areata for her daughter. A doctor actively researching alopecia areata in young people was suggested.
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.
Topical minoxidil may cause skin aging effects like wrinkles and dark circles, possibly due to its alcohol content, while oral finasteride is reported to make users look younger. Switching to oral minoxidil or using moisturizers might help reduce these skin issues.
Balding's emotional impact is discussed, highlighting self-acceptance and well-being. Treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, and microneedling are mentioned, but the focus is on self-care and maintaining perspective.
A person mistakenly drank an entire bottle of topical minoxidil, leading to ICU admission with shock and heart failure. The incident highlights the dangers of ingesting topical treatments and the importance of proper usage and dosage.
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.
FOL-005 claims to be more effective than Minoxidil and Finasteride but lacks anti-DHT properties, leading to potential reduced efficacy over time. Concerns are raised about misleading marketing and the safety of alternative treatments like Pyrilutamide and Clascoterone.
A user initially had side effects from finasteride, attributed them to anxiety and the nocebo effect, and after resuming the drug, experienced positive effects and now warns against misinformation about Post Finasteride Syndrome.
Natural alternatives like omega-3, green tea, and pumpkin seeds are suggested for reducing DHT levels, but their effectiveness is questioned. Topical minoxidil and ketoconazole shampoo are recommended, with some users also considering low-dose finasteride and saw palmetto.
Topical Finasteride doesn't directly reduce 5ar enzyme on scalp and has the same mechanism as oral, needing to go through the liver. Users debate the accuracy of this information and discuss various studies and experiences.