Comparing the effectiveness and side effects of topical finasteride versus oral finasteride, with people sharing their experiences using both treatments to manage hair loss.
Finasteride may lower allopregnanolone levels, potentially affecting mood, but many users report improved mental health due to reduced hair loss. Experiences with finasteride and dutasteride vary, with some experiencing side effects and others finding them beneficial for hair retention and overall happiness.
User "hemantch" shares 5 months progress using topical Fin, Min, topical Dut, and a laser cap for hair loss. Significant regrowth was noticed after 1 month, and the treatments worked well despite being bald for 10 years.
High dose topical Finasteride solutions are speculative and not proven more effective than low dose solutions. Users report varying results with different concentrations, with some preferring lower doses to minimize side effects.
User shared 5.5-month progress using 0.5mg finasteride, 5% minoxidil, 1.5mm microneedling weekly, and 20mg RU58841, with positive results and no side effects. Others discussed their experiences, dosage adjustments, and the importance of age in treatment efficacy.
A 36-year-old man has been using oral finasteride and minoxidil for six months and is considering switching to dutasteride due to concerns about shedding and lack of response. Users suggest continuing with finasteride, trying micro-needling, or cautiously adding dutasteride while monitoring for side effects.
Shedding is not necessary for regrowth when using finasteride or dutasteride, as experiences vary. Some users report regrowth without shedding, while others see shedding as a positive sign of future regrowth.
The conversation is about the prevalence of baldness among young men and the potential factors contributing to it. Specific treatments mentioned include minoxidil and finasteride.
User shared 6-month progress of hairline recovery using oral finasteride and topical minoxidil, asking for current Norwood scale rating. Responses praised impressive results, with estimates ranging from Norwood 1.5 to 3.
OP has been using daily oral finasteride 1.25mg for 5 months with noticeable progress and no side effects. They chose this dosage by cutting 5mg pills into quarters due to cost.
PP405 is criticized for overhyped claims and cherry-picked data, with doubts about its effectiveness compared to minoxidil and finasteride. Many users express skepticism, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive trial results.
A 26-year-old male started minoxidil treatment for male-pattern baldness and saw significant regrowth in three months. He is considering finasteride but is hesitant due to potential side effects.
Minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, and microneedling are commonly used for temple regrowth, with varying results and timelines. Consistency and patience are emphasized, with some users seeing progress after several years.
Dutasteride might be better for hairline due to varying levels of 5AR activity in scalps. Genetic tests can determine if finasteride is enough or if dutasteride is needed.
Diffuse thinning is often due to androgenetic alopecia, and DHT blockers like finasteride are recommended. Treatments mentioned include minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride, and RU58841, with emphasis on starting early and using a holistic approach.
The user mixes their own RU58841 solution and found that increasing the ethanol content improved absorption and reduced scalp itching. A study on minoxidil showed that penetration increased with higher ethanol concentrations, reaching maximum penetration at 90% ethanol.
User spent 23 years on Finasteride with side effects like weight gain and reduced libido. Switched to topical Finasteride, side effects reduced and waiting for results.
The user shared progress pictures after using 5% topical Minoxidil inconsistently for three months, along with starting Dutasteride two weeks ago and alternating with Finasteride. They reported no shedding and are considering switching to only Dutasteride once Finasteride runs out, while also experiencing some minor side effects that resolved quickly.
Finasteride may take over two years to show results and can cause side effects like sexual dysfunction and emotional changes. Alternatives such as dutasteride and minoxidil are discussed, with varying effectiveness and side effects.
User shares 6.5 months of progress using topical finasteride 0.1% and minoxidil 10%, along with lasercomb, dermaroller, Nizoral, scalp massager, and biotin. They seek feedback on their results.
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.
Minoxidil is extremely toxic to cats, even from residue on surfaces, and can be deadly if they come into contact with it. Switching to oral minoxidil is suggested as a safer alternative for pet owners.
A user initially had side effects from finasteride, attributed them to anxiety and the nocebo effect, and after resuming the drug, experienced positive effects and now warns against misinformation about Post Finasteride Syndrome.
The user experienced positive scalp results with Dutasteride but noticed beard thinning, prompting a switch back to Finasteride. They plan to monitor the situation and may consider combining treatments in the future.
The user has been using 1mg Finasteride daily for six months, experiencing reduced shedding and itchiness but some frontal thinning. They are considering adding Minoxidil and have started dermarolling to enhance results.
Breezula, a topical treatment, is anticipated to be available in the US by mid-2027 as a potential alternative to finasteride with fewer systemic side effects. There is ongoing debate about its effectiveness and some users report similar side effects to finasteride.
The user stopped finasteride due to testicular aches and switched to minoxidil, seeing positive results in three months. They are considering topical finasteride but are cautious because of past side effects from oral use.
User doubts oral minoxidil's effectiveness after a month of use and shedding. Few people provide photo evidence of success, and some combine it with other treatments, making it hard to determine its effectiveness alone.
PP405 is suspected to be a scam, with users doubting its legitimacy and effectiveness. Many recommend using proven treatments like finasteride and minoxidil.