Finasteride and dutasteride may increase estrogen levels, leading to water retention and a fuller face. Users discuss managing these effects with lifestyle changes and supplements like zinc and DIM.
Finasteride does not significantly affect muscle gains and can slightly increase testosterone levels. Creatine is generally considered safe to use with finasteride, though some believe it may increase DHT levels, potentially affecting hair loss.
Dutasteride takes 1-3 months to affect scalp DHT levels, not just a week. The prostate absorbs Dutasteride faster than the scalp due to different vascular networks and enzyme densities.
The user stopped using finasteride after two weeks due to gynecomastia symptoms and shared blood work results questioning if they indicate a cause for the side effects. The user is considering restarting finasteride and seeking advice on their blood work levels in relation to gynecomastia.
Creatine use with finasteride increased DHT levels, possibly affecting hair loss. The user plans to reduce creatine to stabilize DHT and hair shedding.
Finasteride was intentionally developed to treat BPH and later approved for male pattern baldness (MPB) due to its 5AR inhibition effects. The delay in MPB approval was due to concerns about off-label use for female hirsutism and the prioritization of treating a more debilitating condition.
A 15-year-old experiencing severe diffuse thinning plans to use minoxidil, dermarolling, and possibly ketoconazole, with hopes to later incorporate finasteride. Concerns about starting finasteride too young and the need for a dermatologist consultation are discussed.
Some people respond better to minoxidil due to higher enzyme levels converting it to its active form. Minoxidil helps with hair regrowth but doesn't prevent hair loss; finasteride and other DHT inhibitors are needed for that.
A user shared progress pictures showing successful hair retention using a low-dose topical finasteride (0.008%) combined with minoxidil. Users discussed the effectiveness of the treatment, minimal effective dosing, and avoiding systemic side effects.
A user experienced severe side effects, including heart issues, after taking oral minoxidil without consulting a doctor. They are now considering alternatives like dutasteride, PRP, or laser treatments for hair loss.
A user is considering finasteride for hair loss and is concerned about its effects on DHT levels and potential side effects, including those from creatine. The user seeks advice on finasteride's impact on hair and body hair, given their high DHT and testosterone levels.
Clascoterone (Breezula) showed positive results for treating hair loss without affecting cortisol levels. Opinions vary, with some users optimistic about its potential and others critical of its effectiveness compared to existing treatments like finasteride.
A 47-year-old male experienced significant hair loss after losing 37 kg in 6 months on a low-carb diet and started taking biotin, zinc, iron, selenium, and spectral dcn-n. Replies suggest that while carbs are not directly needed for hair growth, they help regulate hormones and nutrient absorption, and rapid weight loss can also contribute to hair loss.
Topical finasteride as a potential alternative to oral finasteride for reducing DHT levels on the scalp with fewer side effects, and other hair loss treatments such as minoxidil.
A user shared their pre-finasteride lab results, including DHT, estradiol, testosterone, SHBG, prolactin, FSH, and LH levels. Another user responded, cautioning against making unsupported claims about side effects and recovery.
A user experienced negative side effects, including low libido and lack of motivation, after using finasteride for hair loss and felt better after stopping it. Others shared similar experiences with finasteride and dutasteride, while some reported no side effects, showing varied individual responses.
Creatine is believed by some to cause hair loss, potentially by increasing DHT levels, despite conflicting evidence. Users report mixed results when combining creatine with treatments like finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil.
A 27-year-old male experiencing increased hair loss despite using 0.5mg dutasteride daily, minoxidil nightly, and optimizing vitamin D, is considering zinc supplementation and seeking a dermatology referral. Concerns about potential shedding, thyroid levels, and zinc dosage are discussed, with advice to monitor and avoid over-supplementation.
The user experienced hair loss after 21 months of using oral minoxidil and finasteride and is considering switching to dutasteride. Others suggest it might be temporary and recommend staying consistent or trying additional methods like hair loss shampoo, microneedling, or checking vitamin levels.
The user is seeking advice for the best topical treatment to combat their ongoing hair loss, despite already using oral dutasteride, RU-58841, and minoxidil. They are considering adding CB-03-01 or topical Spiro to their regimen to lower testosterone levels at the follicles.
A user who had FUT surgery for 2877 grafts with Dr Jerry Wong of Hasson & Wong that resulted in low growth and an abnormally wide scar, suggesting negligence by the doctor and possibly illegal behaviour by an unqualified technician. The post sparked discussion about seeking legal action, as well as criticism of the clinic's high cost.
Oral minoxidil is considered a safe and effective treatment for hair loss at low dosages, with minimal cardiac risks. Users report positive results, though some experience side effects like increased heart rate and skin changes, and consulting a doctor is advised.
Finasteride is effective and affordable for preventing hair loss but may cause side effects like low libido. Some users combine it with minoxidil for better results, while others consider alternatives like dutasteride due to side effects.
A 48-year-old male experienced hair regrowth after using oral finasteride for 3 years, despite stopping due to side effects like depression and low energy. He achieved a fuller look with styling techniques and reported using organic shampoo and herbal treatments.
A 17-year-old using 5% topical minoxidil experienced significant hair shedding after a year, possibly due to a "synchronization shed" and deficiencies in vitamin D and iron. Recommendations include continuing minoxidil, optimizing vitamin D and iron levels, and reducing tretinoin use if scalp irritation occurs.
Switching from finasteride to dutasteride can worsen hair loss for some men due to increased testosterone levels. Topical treatments like RU58841 and Pyrilutamide are suggested to counteract these effects, but individual responses vary.
A 22-year-old male has been using Minoxidil for 2.5 years and Finasteride for 8 months without significant improvement in hair loss. Despite adding supplements and other treatments, hair density remains low, and he seeks advice on further options.
A 20-year-old lost significant hair after one year of treatment, using minoxidil, finasteride, and later dutasteride. They are considering adding RU58841 but are advised to return to finasteride and minoxidil for a year before deciding.
The conversation suggests that people should consult a dermatologist to understand their type of hair loss before starting treatments like finasteride or dutasteride, especially if they have autoimmune issues or low DHT. Some participants believe in starting treatment like finasteride immediately if hair loss is due to DHT, while others recommend ruling out other causes and considering minoxidil first, especially for younger individuals.
A user shared a 17-month update on their hair loss treatment, which included a hair transplant of 2300 grafts, using a topical solution of minoxidil and finasteride, a laser cap, and ketoconazole shampoo. They are considering another transplant and seeking honest feedback on their progress, while others share their own experiences and advice on hair loss treatments.