Dutasteride significantly reduces DHT levels in hair follicles, potentially more effectively than previously thought. The discussion highlights differences in DHT measurements and the impact on hair loss treatment.
Serum DHT is mostly inactive; sebum DHT is a better measure for hair loss. Users discuss using finasteride, dutasteride, and topical treatments like KX826 and RU58841 for better scalp DHT suppression.
Higher doses of dutasteride reduce scalp DHT more effectively than finasteride, but have diminishing returns after 3mg daily and may cause more side effects. Combining dutasteride with topical minoxidil can enhance results, but using both finasteride and dutasteride together is unnecessary.
User experienced scalp itching and hair loss, but found relief with oral minoxidil. Others suggest "DHT itch" as a possible cause and recommend finasteride and ketoconazole to address it.
Minoxidil increases blood supply to the scalp, strengthening dormant follicles and extending the growth phase, but may increase scalp activity that can be countered with DHT blockers. Women experiencing side effects from finasteride or dutasteride for hair loss might consider alternatives like estrogen, especially if on birth control.