Hair loss treatments like spironolactone often require lifelong use to maintain results. Stopping the medication can lead to increased testosterone levels and potential hair loss.
User experienced hair thinning after losing 100 lbs and started Dutasteride treatment. They faced side effects like fatigue, brain fog, and insomnia but no erectile dysfunction.
The user started taking 1 mg finasteride daily in September 2024 and began derma stamping twice a week, noticing progress initially but now experiencing increased scalp visibility. They are considering adding oral or topical minoxidil to their routine for further improvement.
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.
Anti-androgens like Finasteride, Dutasteride, Metformin, and Topical Spironolactone cause hairline recession and increased cholesterol levels. The hairline recovers after stopping the drugs.
A user's update on their hair loss treatments, which included Minoxidil and finasteride; they are experiencing reduced shedding with minimal side effects. Other users provided additional advice to the poster based on their own experiences.
The conversation discusses the effectiveness and value of a Locklabs pill containing finasteride, minoxidil, biotin, and a low dose of dutasteride for hair loss. The user is uncertain if the .1mg dutasteride dosage is sufficient and worth the cost.
High frequency ultrasonography and HR-MRI can help identify hair shedding causes like inflammation and fibrosis. The conversation discusses the potential of using these technologies to evaluate treatments like Verteporfin for hair regeneration.
A 20-year-old is experiencing hair thinning despite using minoxidil inconsistently for 1.5 years and is considering adding finasteride due to concerns about side effects. They are unsure whether to increase minoxidil application, start finasteride, or if the hair loss is exaggerated in their perception.
A 43-year-old noticed significant hair thinning and is using topical minoxidil, dermarolling, Alpecin, biotin, zinc, copper, vitamin D, and rosemary oil. They plan to see an endocrinologist and have blood tests scheduled to investigate further.
A user applied the 8T3 product for hair loss, targeting LPP and AGA, and plans to update on its effectiveness. The product uses a saline buffered phosphate vehicle, suitable for those intolerant to ethanolic vehicles.
Women experienced severe reactions, including Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), from using Winlevi (Clascoterone 1%) on their faces. Concerns were raised about the potential risks of higher concentrations, especially for hair loss treatment.
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.
A 30-year-old male experienced rapid hair shedding over 6-7 months due to stress, depression, and nicotine/alcohol use, but has since stopped these habits. He seeks advice on remedies, medications, or diet changes to address hair loss.
A user shared their hair loss journey, detailing the use of topical Minoxidil and Finasteride, and oral Minoxidil. Blood tests showed a decrease in DHT levels after using topical Finasteride, with no side effects but slight hair loss.
A user discussed their doctor lowering their Minoxidil dose from 5mg to 2.5mg, expressing concerns about losing hair gains. Other users suggested that 2.5mg is safer long-term and speculated the doctor is being cautious about side effects.
A 36-year-old Latino man has seen progress in hair loss treatment over 4 months using consistent finasteride, topical/oral minoxidil, ketoconazole shampoo, and microneedling. He initially experienced dizziness from oral minoxidil but is hoping for increased hair density in the coming months.
Many users experienced increased diffuse thinning after starting finasteride, with some switching to dutasteride or adding minoxidil in hopes of improvement. Thyroid issues and low ferritin levels were also discussed as potential factors affecting hair loss.
A user's 9-month progress using daily oral Fin/Min (1mg/2.5mg) for hair loss. The user experienced prolonged shedding but saw significant improvement by month 6, and took the medication in pill form as prescribed by their doctor.
A 50-year-old user shared progress after one year on oral finasteride 1mg/day, oral minoxidil 2.5mg/day, and ketoconazole shampoo, with no side effects, but plans to switch to dutasteride 0.5mg/day due to recent hair loss. Other users commented on the visible improvement and discussed the potential impact of switching treatments.
A 21-year-old male suffering from male pattern baldness is using topical finasteride and minoxidil, and oral minoxidil. His bloodwork shows normal DHT levels and slightly high testosterone, leading to discussions about the role of DHT sensitivity in hair loss, the potential impact of finasteride on his DHT levels, and the suggestion to proceed with oral finasteride due to his high testosterone.
The user experienced hair thinning from chromium and alpha lipoic acid supplements, which stopped after discontinuing them. Someone mentioned this could be telogen effluvium, a temporary condition.
The user is considering starting finasteride for hair loss prevention, expressing concerns about potential side effects like reduced libido and erectile dysfunction. They are currently taking saw palmetto, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C, and biotin but are unsure if these will be effective.
Using licorice to counteract the blood pressure-lowering effects of oral minoxidil. Concerns about licorice affecting potassium levels and minoxidil's effectiveness were raised.
A user seeks advice on supplements to counteract libido and erection issues while taking Finasteride. Suggested supplements include Zinc, Maca, L-Arginine, L-Citrulline, Ginseng, Ginkgo, Ashwagandha, and Boron.
User shared progress pictures of hair density improvement using 1mg finasteride and topical minoxidil, but expressed concern about recent hairline miniaturization and treatment effectiveness. Another user complimented the results and inquired about initial shedding.
A 30-year-old MTF individual shared a 6-month update on hair loss improvement using minoxidil, retinol, and microneedling, along with lowering testosterone to reduce DHT. They reported positive results, feeling happier and more confident.
A user shared their 4-month progress using 2.5mg minoxidil, 1mg finasteride, and 10mg biotin, noting slight testicular discomfort initially but no significant hairline changes yet. Another user reported similar treatment results, with hair darkening at the scalp center and small temple hairs.
Switching from topical to an oral combo pill (1.2 mg finasteride, 3 mg minoxidil, vitamins) improved hair thickness without noticeable side effects. The user appreciates the convenience of a single daily pill over twice-daily topical applications.
Liver problems may reduce the effectiveness of oral minoxidil due to impaired SULT1A1 enzyme activity, which is crucial for converting minoxidil to its active form. This reduction in enzyme function can significantly decrease the drug's effectiveness in promoting hair growth.