Potential side effects of 5AR inhibitors like finasteride and dutasteride. Users debate risks, benefits, and personal experiences with these hair loss treatments.
The conversation discusses hair loss treatments for a woman experiencing androgenetic alopecia and seborrheic dermatitis, with suggestions including low-dose oral minoxidil, dutasteride, and hormone replacement therapy. The user is seeking advice due to intolerance to spironolactone and topical minoxidil, and concerns about low testosterone and DHT levels.
The conversation discusses the conflicting information about Zinc's effect on DHT and its role in hair loss. It mentions that Zinc can act as a 5AR inhibitor at high doses but may increase DHT if taken to correct a deficiency, and highlights the importance of nutritional balance for hair health.
The user underwent two hair transplants, started taking finasteride, oral minoxidil, and dutasteride, and began micro-needling to improve hair density and manage hair loss. They also focused on curly hair care techniques, resulting in noticeable improvements in the hairline and overall appearance.
Clascoterone in Winlevi, a topical AR antagonist, is being re-examined due to concerns about HPA axis suppression in adolescents, but it's unlikely to be banned for adult use in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). The European Medicines Agency recommended refusing Winlevi for acne vulgaris, but this may not affect Breezula's approval for AGA.
Dutasteride reduces DHT more effectively in hair follicles than finasteride, but some individuals still experience hair loss despite treatment. Combining oral and topical finasteride may improve results, and some users experiment with topical dutasteride despite uncertainties about its absorption.
Stacking 5% minoxidil twice daily, 1.25mg finasteride daily, 6 drops of the Ordinary hair serum with Redensyl each night, 1.5mm dermarolling once a week, Nizoral shampoo twice a week and caffeine shampoo once a week for hair loss treatment.
A 27-year-old male with diffuse hair loss, including the donor area, did not respond to finasteride, dutasteride, or minoxidil. He suspects his hair loss may be linked to a mild connective tissue disorder, possibly affecting the structural support of hair follicles, rather than being purely hormonal.
The user is hesitant to use finasteride due to potential hormonal side effects and is waiting for the release of pyrilutamide, a new hair loss treatment. Other users suggest trying finasteride, warning about potential regret if hair loss progresses in the meantime.
Low testosterone and estradiol may contribute to hair loss, and blocking DHT without sufficient hormone levels might hinder regrowth. The discussion highlights the importance of hormone balance, with some considering supplements and lifestyle changes to support hair health.