Minoxidil may cause facial aging or wrinkles, though opinions vary. Some users report side effects like dark circles and facial bloating, while others attribute changes to genetics or other factors.
Topical finasteride can be effective for some, especially if oral finasteride causes side effects, but results may vary and can be slower. Combining topical finasteride with minoxidil is common, though some users switch to oral treatments for better results.
Topical finasteride concentrations are likely much higher than necessary for effective follicular DHT suppression, with current standards being 100-1000 times above the theoretical minimum. Lower concentrations (0.001-0.0025%) might still work locally while minimizing systemic exposure.
A user experienced significant hair loss after switching from topical to oral finasteride and minoxidil, despite initially seeing great results with the topical treatment. They are seeking advice on whether to return to topical treatments or increase their oral minoxidil dosage.
The user shared progress pictures showing improved hair density after using topical Minoxidil for two years and topical Finasteride for one year, with occasional microneedling. They adjusted Finasteride concentration over time and are considering additional treatments like a hair transplant.
A 35-year-old male from the UK experienced significant hair regrowth and thickening after using topical finasteride 0.1% and minoxidil 5% spray for three months, along with a derma roller and Nizoral shampoo. He reported no side effects and encouraged others to try the topical spray if concerned about tablet side effects.
The user is questioning if they are experiencing hair regrowth after using topical Minoxidil for 4-5 months, noting increased body hair but uncertain head hair changes. Other users suggest the appearance is due to a natural cowlick rather than balding.
The user experienced thicker hair and less hair loss after using topical finasteride (0.5%) and minoxidil (5%) foam for four months, with minimal side effects compared to oral finasteride. They also use a derma needler and injectable testosterone, noting no increased hair loss despite higher testosterone levels.
A user is considering switching from regular 5% minoxidil foam to a compounded 5% minoxidil spray with added caffeine, melatonin, and tretinoin for easier application and potentially better results. Another user mentions that tretinoin can enhance minoxidil's effectiveness by converting it to its active form.
Topical spironolactone is discussed as a potential hair loss treatment for those who can't tolerate finasteride, with some users noting varied results and side effects. Alternatives like laser caps are also mentioned.
Topical spironolactone is discussed as a hair loss treatment, with concerns about its effectiveness and side effects compared to finasteride and minoxidil. Users mention its unpleasant smell, potential systemic absorption, and suggest alternatives like pyrilutamide and alfatradiol.
The user started using 5% liquid minoxidil on their scalp and noticed increased facial dryness and faster facial hair growth. They plan to reduce the application to once a day to see if it helps with the dryness.
The user is managing hair loss with oral finasteride, recently switching to dutasteride, and topical minoxidil, but faces challenges due to seborrheic dermatitis. They seek advice on effective regrowth methods that don't worsen their condition, with suggestions including various shampoos like Vichy Dercos and ketoconazole.
The user applied topical minoxidil and finasteride daily for 3 months and noticed progress in hair growth. Another user recommended collagen for hair growth and other benefits.
The user shared a 2-month progress update using topical finasteride and minoxidil for hair loss. The conversation included comments on the user's appearance and potential side effects.
The user is using topical finasteride, minoxidil, nizoral shampoo, and microneedling for hair regrowth but hasn't seen results after 2-3 weeks. They added tretinoin to their routine and are advised to wait a few months for potential changes.
Topical pirfenidone is highlighted as an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic treatment for hair loss, particularly in addressing perifollicular fibrosis, which may enhance the effectiveness of standard treatments like finasteride and minoxidil. The user also uses calcipotriol, MCT oil, ciclopirox shampoo, and benzoyl peroxide shampoo as part of their regimen.
Topical finasteride may help maintain and potentially regrow a receding hairline, but results vary. Combining it with minoxidil and microneedling could enhance effectiveness, with noticeable changes taking several months.
A topical serum made from monounsaturated fatty acids showed rapid hair growth in mice within 20 days, but it remains experimental for humans. Users humorously discussed the frequent success of hair growth treatments in mice and expressed skepticism about translating these results to humans.
The conversation is about experimenting with topical exosomes for hair loss treatment, alongside microneedling, Happy Head's gel-like topical, and Ordinary's hair serum. The user also mentions the availability of treatments like latanoprost and Redensyl.
A topical treatment called 1961, containing multiple products, is discussed for its compatibility with finasteride. It is suggested that 1961 does not negatively affect finasteride's effectiveness and may even enhance its absorption.
The user reported healthier, firmer, and thicker hair follicles with minimal regrowth at the front after using Regenera Activa, topical finasteride, minoxidil, tretinoin, caffeine solution, and vitamin D supplements. Hair loss has stabilized with no side effects.
Topical finasteride (P-3074) can inhibit scalp DHT by up to 70%, with some users experiencing systemic absorption similar to oral use. Users discuss varying application frequencies and concentrations, with some noticing side effects when overused.
Topical RU58841 is discussed for hair loss treatment, with a focus on brands available in Europe that have low systemic absorption. Users suggest mixing your own solution to control vehicle and dosage, and mention different brands like Actifolic and Biolabshop.
The conversation discusses using topical serenoa oil, a natural anti-DHT treatment, for hair loss. It is considered less effective than finasteride and dutasteride but can be added to a routine with topical minoxidil.
Topical dutasteride is more effective than finasteride for hair loss but lacks FDA approval and research, leading to less use. Users report varying effectiveness and side effects, with some preferring oral treatments.
Users discuss making topical finasteride solutions by dissolving crushed tablets in ethanol and propylene glycol, with concerns about residue affecting effectiveness. They also mention using minoxidil and oral finasteride, noting some hair regrowth and no side effects from topical use.
Topical finasteride may have higher systemic absorption and lower efficacy when using a Propylene Glycol/Ethanol formulation compared to the hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCH) formulation. The safety profile of topical finasteride relies heavily on the HPCH formulation, and using standard solutions might lead to different pharmacokinetics.
Topical finasteride in the UK is sought after due to concerns about the strength and cost of Hims products. There is also interest in whether crushing finasteride pills into minoxidil is effective.