A man felt insecure when his date touched his thinning hair, causing awkwardness. He uses finasteride and minoxidil for hair loss but still struggles with confidence.
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.
A 19-year-old with diffuse hair thinning and erectile dysfunction is considering starting Propecia (finasteride) while already using a minoxidil solution with anti-androgens. Concerns are raised about the psychological nature of erectile dysfunction and the potential systemic effects of anti-androgens, with suggestions to address porn addiction and consult a doctor about hormone therapy.
A 46-year-old male shared his 3-week progress using HIMS serum with Finasteride 0.3% and Minoxidil 6%, showing improvement without noticeable shedding. His routine includes vitamins, a healthy diet, and specific hair care practices like microneedling and using caffeine solution.
The user is concerned about high DHT levels despite using finasteride and dutasteride for hair loss, suggesting these treatments may not be effective. They plan to consult an endocrinologist and consider other antiandrogens, acknowledging potential side effects.
Finasteride may decrease free testosterone by increasing SHBG, potentially causing side effects like reduced libido and hormonal changes. Some find it effective for hair loss, while others experience negative effects.
A user is seeking advice on a new topical hair loss treatment containing Minoxidil 3%, Finasteride 0.3%, Progesterone 1%, Hydrocortisone butyrate 0.1%, and Ketoconazole 0.5%. They are concerned about the systemic absorption of Finasteride and plan to do blood tests and a spermiogram before starting.
A person experienced severe sexual side effects, including loss of libido and erectile dysfunction, after using finasteride and dutasteride for hair loss. They stopped the medications and sought advice, but recovery was slow and uncertain.
A user is considering switching from oral to topical treatments for hair loss due to side effects like watery semen and erectile dysfunction. They are currently using oral finasteride and minoxidil and are concerned about potential sexual side effects with topical use.
Pregnancy can temporarily reverse hair loss in women, but attempts to mimic pregnancy hormones with treatments like contraceptive pills, spironolactone, estradiol, progesterone, finasteride, and minoxidil have been ineffective. The discussion highlights the need for research into the hormonal mechanisms of pregnancy that affect hair regrowth.
The conversation discusses using Rogain foam as a solvent for topical finasteride due to an allergy to propylene glycol. The foam's ingredients, including alcohol SD 40B, are considered suitable for dissolving finasteride for easier application without skin irritation.
The user experienced scalp irritation from a Finasteride and Minoxidil spray and serum. They are considering switching to foam, oral treatments, or another provider.
Finasteride may have positive effects by keeping testosterone levels higher, potentially maintaining youthfulness and physical performance as one ages. It could also help with conditions related to aging like andropause and sarcopenia without increasing estradiol levels.
Finasteride's potential side effects, especially sexual dysfunction, are discussed, with emphasis on hormonal balance between testosterone and estradiol. Users share experiences with finasteride, minoxidil, and dutasteride, highlighting the variability in side effects and the influence of mindset and lifestyle.
Stopping finasteride may reduce water retention or alter fat distribution, leading to a leaner face. Hormonal changes, like reduced DHT or increased estrogen, could cause these effects.
A user applies topical finasteride and minoxidil for hair loss and is concerned about the risk to his pregnant wife. It's suggested that topical treatments could be hazardous to a male fetus, and switching to oral finasteride might be safer.
A user shared their 5-month experience using topical finasteride for hair loss, noting side effects like watery semen and puffy nipples, which led them to stop the treatment. They saw no significant hair improvement and have since switched to using minoxidil.
A user reports persistent sexual side effects three months after stopping finasteride, despite a healthy lifestyle and supplements. They express concern over the lack of libido and infrequent erections.
The conversation discusses the side effects of finasteride, including low libido and erectile dysfunction, and the possibility of these effects being permanent, known as post-finasteride syndrome (PFS). Some users report personal experiences with PFS and debate whether the condition is real, with varying opinions on the reversibility of side effects and the role of individual biology.
A user is experiencing facial bloating from low-dose topical finasteride due to high estradiol levels and is seeking advice on using DIM to manage this issue, including dosage and brand recommendations.
The user has been using liposomal topical finasteride since late 2022, progressively increasing the dose, but DHT serum levels remain largely unchanged. Despite using finasteride, minoxidil, microneedling, and ketoconazole, hair condition has neither improved nor worsened.
Finasteride can cause sexual side effects like reduced libido and weaker erections, but experiences vary. Some users switch to dutasteride or topical treatments, while others stop finasteride to restore normal sexual function.
The user experienced a significant drop in libido and energy after taking saw palmetto, which they believe caused these changes. They are seeking advice and reassurance, with some users suggesting that the effects may not be permanent and could improve over time with a healthy lifestyle.
User experienced good results with topical finasteride, noting reduced DHT and increased testosterone. They plan to revert to a lower dosage after observing slight libido reduction.
Zinc picolinate and saw palmetto may lower DHT but are less effective than finasteride. Finasteride and minoxidil are preferred treatments, with ketoconazole shampoo as a suggested addition.
The conversation discusses the effects of using Tongkat ali and dioscorea to raise DHT levels, leading to increased body hair growth and an itchy scalp, without causing hair loss. The discussion also debates the role of DHT in male characteristics and its impact on sexual function, with differing opinions on its importance and effects.
A user discovered they have naturally low DHT levels and is concerned about taking finasteride, which could further lower these levels. They are seeking advice on whether to proceed with the treatment given their hormone levels are within the normal range.
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.
Finasteride can affect hormone levels, potentially causing symptoms like puffy nipples and testicular pain, and may result in elevated prolactin and high testosterone. The user is seeking interpretation of these changes after taking finasteride.
The conversation discusses a user's positive experience with a hair loss treatment using a topical spray containing finasteride and minoxidil. Some users express interest or skepticism, while the original poster also mentions using biotin gummies, fish oil, and a multivitamin.