The release of a study on 5a-reductase inhibitors (finasteride and dutasteride) which showed an increased risk of depression, dementia, decreased libido, and reduced semen load as potential side effects; discussion around other forms of hair loss treatments such as topical minoxidil, RU58841, or opting to accept baldness; and advice to consider professional help for deeper issues related to hair loss.
A user's decision to shave their head after experiencing hair loss since the age of 17, and discussion around the potential use of Fin for treating hair loss.
The potential effectiveness of homemade topical spironolactone in treating hair loss, with studies suggesting it is more effective than finasteride and even minoxidil when used as monotherapy. The conversation also mentions that other anti-androgens are being developed which may soon hit the market.
This conversation discusses the advancements in treatments for hair loss, including finasteride, dutasteride, minoxidil and new promising treatments such as pyrilutamide and verteporfin. Other treatments discussed were taking minoxidil orally, tretinoin to turn non-responders into responders and microneedling to further boost growth.
A user's experience with hair loss treatments, including Finasteride, Minoxidil, Nizoral Shampoo, Rosemary Oil, Vitamin D, Biotin, Vitamin C, Zinc and Dermarolling, that have not been successful over the past 14 months. Other users gave advice on how to cope with the issue, such as exercising, changing mindset, and shaving their head.
A 24-year-old person who is worried about their hair loss after 14 months of taking finasteride and 11 months of minoxidil. Replies to the post suggested sticking with their current regimen, that shedding from one part may not be telogen effluvium, and that shedding is normal with these drugs and they should evaluate in two to three months.
Using a combination of topical minoxidil and finasteride, plus microneedling, to treat hair loss; the progress made by the original poster over 6 months; the potential for further results with longer use; and the possibility of seeking alternatives such as a hair transplant or system.
A new topical Dutasteride with 20 times better scalp absorption being developed and tested for release in 2023; use of existing drugs, such as Minoxidil and finasteride; and mesotherapy as an alternative hair loss treatment.
A user had a positive experience with affordable FUE hair transplants at Harmony Clinic in Cancun, Mexico, noting professionalism and good results despite minor issues. The clinic advised against using Minoxidil and Finasteride, and the user was satisfied with the initial results, planning to update progress at 12 months post-op.
User "missbloombastic" has been experiencing hair loss since 2016 and tried min, fin, multivitamins, and spiro with mixed results. Another user shares their struggle with hair loss and its impact on self-esteem, while a third user suggests checking blood tests and confirming the cause of hair loss.
User discusses frustration with hair loss treatments and lack of progress. Emphasizes importance of measuring blood hormone levels to understand treatment effectiveness and side effects.
The conversation discusses the potential link between gut health and hair loss, with personal experiences of hair thinning and stomach issues shared. Some individuals found no success with common hair loss treatments like Minoxidil and Finasteride and are exploring the impact of gut health on hair growth.
The user experienced significant hair loss after extended fasting, initially thought to be Telogen Effluvium, but later suspected male pattern baldness. They tried finasteride briefly but stopped due to concerns about side effects, and are unsure if the hair loss is due to Telogen Effluvium or another cause.
The user experimented with finasteride to reduce hair loss and plans to test if creatine affects DHT levels while on finasteride. Initial results showed low DHT levels, indicating finasteride's effectiveness, with further tests planned for creatine's impact.
The side effects of taking finasteride as a treatment for hair loss, with particular focus on its sexual and psychiatric side effects; research has indicated that there are high and low outliers in terms of prevalence of sexual side effects, but it is usually between 3-5%, while evidence of lasting sexual side effects comes from lower quality sources.
Regrowing hairline without the use of Minoxidil or Finasteride, and instead using mechanical stimulation such as Derma Roller, Nizoral, Zinc Pyrithione, Scalp Massage, Scalp Exercise, Fish Oil and other topical solutions. It is cautioned that there are risks associated with not using medically-prescribed treatments, but it is suggested to consider mechanical stimulation in addition to those prescribed treatments.
The user is using finasteride for hair loss and is frustrated with shedding but plans to add oral minoxidil for convenience and safety. There are concerns about using topical minoxidil around pets.
Finasteride and minoxidil significantly improved a user's hair loss, starting at age 17, leading to a full head of hair by age 19 without side effects. The user prefers oral minoxidil over topical due to better results and less hassle.
A user reports significant hair regrowth after 2 months using Minoxidil, Finasteride, oiling, derma rolling, and taking multivitamins, omega 3, and vitamin D. Some users discuss the frequency of derma rolling, with varying practices ranging from once every two weeks to four times a week.
The conversation discusses a prescribed hair loss treatment combining 12.5% minoxidil with tretinoin, azelaic acid, and topical finasteride, costing $55 a month. One user criticizes the packaging for degrading tretinoin, another suggests it's an overpriced option and recommends topical dutasteride as an alternative due to its higher molecular weight and lower systemic absorption.
A female, aged 17-18, is experiencing significant hair loss, feeling hopeless despite trying various treatments like leave-in conditioners, omega-3s, supplements, sulfate-free shampoo, and biotin. She is distressed as her hair continues to thin, affecting her body image and self-esteem.
A 21-year-old male with a thyroid condition noticed his hair thinning uniformly without a receding hairline. He is considering using a 5ARI to prevent further baldness if he starts TRT.
A user shared their positive experience with the telehealth service DocBright, highlighting its affordability and effectiveness in prescribing finasteride, oral minoxidil, and ketoconazole. They noted the service's unique ability to provide a prescription at age 17 but criticized the unprofessional communication with the dermatologist.
A 17-year-old is seeking affordable prescriptions for oral finasteride and minoxidil, considering lying about their age to use costplusdrugs. They are exploring telemedicine options, including Dr.B, to obtain the prescriptions.
South Korea's president is advocating for hereditary hair loss to be covered by national health insurance due to its impact on mental health and daily functioning. The discussion highlights the societal pressure in South Korea regarding appearance and the potential benefits of treating hair loss to improve mental health.
A user who was able to get dutasteride for free with their insurance, and another user mentioning that finasteride is only covered if it is used for medical reasons.
A user shared their experience obtaining a finasteride prescription through Lemonaid, highlighting the ease of the process without needing to provide photos. They chose oral finasteride for preventative hair loss treatment due to a family history of baldness and received a year’s supply at a low cost.
Asian dermatologists are more open to prescribing finasteride, while in some regions, medications like finasteride and minoxidil can be obtained without a prescription. In Europe, particularly France, there are stricter regulations requiring patients to acknowledge potential side effects, but many people find ways to obtain these treatments through various means.