Nicotine use, especially from vaping, may worsen hair shedding and reduce the effectiveness of finasteride and dutasteride. Quitting nicotine seems to improve hair health.
A 28-year-old male shares his hair loss journey, starting with a hair transplant in February 2024 and using finasteride, later switching to dutasteride in January 2025. He has not used minoxidil and is satisfied with the results, despite some side effects like temporary nipple pain and a spike in libido.
Hair loss treatments include using finasteride, dutasteride, and RU58841. Lifestyle changes like increasing carb intake and moderate alcohol consumption are suggested to boost estrogen levels.
Minoxidil is highly toxic to cats and can be fatal with minimal exposure. Users suggest switching to oral minoxidil or taking precautions to prevent pet exposure.
Finasteride is preferred over dutasteride due to its longer history, more research, and FDA approval, despite dutasteride being more potent. Users report varied side effects, influencing personal treatment choices.
Wigs are considered a temporary solution for hair loss, with concerns about cost, maintenance, and social stigma. Many prefer treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, or hair transplants for more permanent results.
A user shared progress pictures after 9 months on finasteride, starting with 0.25 mg and increasing to 0.5 mg daily, noting improved hair density, especially at the crown, with initial side effects that resolved after the first month. The discussion includes user experiences with finasteride, concerns about side effects, and alternative treatments like rosemary oil and platelet-rich plasma therapy.
DIM is suggested to help with estrogen metabolism for those on finasteride or dutasteride, potentially reversing side effects like fat gain and mood changes. Some users doubt its effectiveness, recommending lifestyle changes or consulting a doctor instead.
The user has been using finasteride, minoxidil, and a derma stamp for a year with minimal noticeable hair regrowth, but others suggest there is slight improvement and recommend continuing the treatment. Some users suggest switching to dutasteride or adjusting the derma stamp technique for better results.
A 48-year-old reported significant hair regrowth after two years using finasteride and minoxidil, with better results on the temples and using a dermastamp for the crown. The user experienced no side effects from the treatments.
A user shared their hair loss journey using oral finasteride for over six years and oral minoxidil for one year, noting some progress and considering switching to dutasteride. Others shared mixed results and side effects from using minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride.
Finasteride and dutasteride are still available in the EU, with a warning about potential suicidal thoughts. The benefits of these treatments are deemed greater than the risks.
Increased hair loss after starting a 10g daily creatine regimen, possibly linked to elevated DHT levels despite dutasteride use. Stopping creatine reduced shedding, but the exact cause is uncertain, with discussions on exercise and lifestyle impacts.
Hair loss treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride, with mixed results and suggestions for combining treatments or considering hair transplants. Some users experience no improvement or side effects.
The user has been dealing with hair loss for six years using minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride without success. They are contemplating shaving their head due to continued hair loss and social anxiety.
Regrowing hair with finasteride and minoxidil can boost confidence and improve dating prospects. However, confidence and personality are considered more important than appearance in relationships.
The user is experiencing significant hair shedding after four months of using topical finasteride and minoxidil, questioning if it's a normal shedding phase or if the treatment isn't working. They are considering switching to oral treatments and have increased their finasteride concentration, while also using keto and caffeine shampoos.
The user experienced hair regrowth and thicker hair after using 5% topical minoxidil, 0.025% topical finasteride, and dermarolling weekly. Despite initial doubts and side effects from oral finasteride, the user received positive feedback on their progress.
The user is experiencing severe hair shedding despite using minoxidil, finasteride, ketoconazole shampoo, and dermarolling. They are considering changing treatments after stopping dermarolling and switching finasteride brands worsened the shedding.
The conversation discusses hair shedding after switching from finasteride to dutasteride for hair loss treatment. Users suggest that shedding is a common and temporary phase, with results expected in about 6 to 8 months.
A 28-year-old is experiencing hair loss despite using treatments like oral minoxidil, finasteride, and high-dose dutasteride (2.5 mg). They suspect lichen planus might be contributing to the issue and plan to continue treatment while monitoring progress.
Minoxidil is harmful to pets, especially cats, if they contact it. Users recommend switching to oral minoxidil or taking precautions like washing hands and using head coverings to prevent exposure.
The user has been on finasteride for 7 years and had a hair transplant, but is experiencing hair thinning and itchiness, particularly on one side, leading to concerns about male pattern baldness or other health issues. Despite having a full head of hair, the user is considering shaving it due to mental health struggles and is advised to consult a therapist and consider other treatments like minoxidil or dutasteride.
A 22-year-old male experiencing diffuse thinning and frizzy hair has been using finasteride for nine months and is seeking advice on improving hair quality. Suggestions include using conditioners, biotin, rosemary oil, and addressing scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or psoriasis, while finasteride may help reverse miniaturization and improve hair health.
Concerns about a potential finasteride ban in the EU, possibly affecting the US, are discussed. Users doubt a ban, citing its widespread use and suggest alternatives like minoxidil and dutasteride.
Excess sebum rich in cholesterol and triglycerides can lead to hair loss through inflammation, with treatments like Ciclopirox shampoo, Benzoyl Peroxide shampoo, and Clindamycin gel recommended for managing conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and folliculitis. Pioglitazone is suggested for Lichen Planopilaris, while Omega-3s and reducing processed foods may improve sebum quality, though genetic factors play a significant role.
A user is considering stopping hair loss treatments, including finasteride, dutasteride, and minoxidil, due to lack of progress after 16 months. They plan to continue until October and are seeking advice and experiences from others.
The user has used finasteride and minoxidil for 300 days and is considering a hair transplant. Others recommend continuing medication, possibly switching to dutasteride, and waiting longer before deciding.
A 20-year-old is dealing with hair loss, using finasteride and oral minoxidil, and considering dutasteride. Others suggest treatments like dutasteride, hair transplants, therapy, and lifestyle changes to boost confidence and mental health.