21 Need advice on how to about my hair!
    Progress Pictures 7/29/2026

    From the encyclopedia
    Minoxidil β†’

    An essential vasodilator with some anti-androgenic effects

    Finasteride β†’

    Frontline, gold standard treatment for combatting androgenic alopecia

    Ketoconazole β†’

    antifungal with some anti-androgenic benefits, often used as a shampoo

    At a glance
    In this question or advice post, the primary subjects mentioned are
    πŸ’§ Minoxidil (topical)
    πŸ’Š Finasteride (oral)
    πŸ’§ Ketoconazole (topical) 2x weekly 1.5 years
    πŸ’Š Saw Palmetto (oral)
    πŸ’Š Pumpkin Seed Oil (oral)
    the tone is 😐 neutral.

    Other terms

    A 21-year-old is experiencing hair loss and has been advised by a dermatologist to use minoxidil and finasteride. They are considering starting these treatments but are concerned about potential side effects.
    View this post in the Community β†’

    Similar Community Posts Join

    6 / 6 results

      community I’m crashing out (female pattern hair loss)

       40 upvotes 4 weeks ago
      A woman experiencing female pattern hair loss has been using topical minoxidil and ketoconazole shampoo but is seeking further treatment options due to plateaued results. Suggestions include spironolactone, finasteride, dutasteride, and other treatments like PRP, while emphasizing the importance of consulting a dermatologist and conducting thorough medical evaluations.

      community Are Dermatologists actually helpful or is it a lost cause ?

       4 upvotes 6 years ago
      A 21-year-old is frustrated with hair loss treatments, having used Rogaine and finasteride without success, and feels dermatologists are not providing straightforward advice. They plan to continue using finasteride and Rogaine, despite considering shaving their head due to low hair density.

      community Questions regarding starting Dermarolling, Rogaine foam, retinal/retinol

       4 upvotes 7 months ago
      The conversation discusses using Rogaine (minoxidil foam) for hair loss, with questions about enhancing its effectiveness with tretinoin or retinol and incorporating dermarolling. The user has been using finasteride for 7 years and is considering starting minoxidil despite concerns about shedding.

      community Not everyone should immediately go on Fin if they are starting to bald

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  21 upvotes 2 years ago
      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.

      community Bloodflow? Does it affect hair growth?

       23 upvotes 7 years ago
      Hair loss is primarily caused by genetic sensitivity to DHT, not lifestyle factors like diet or exercise. Treatments like Minoxidil and Finasteride can help, but it's important to consult a dermatologist to determine the best approach for individual cases.

    Related Research

    6 / 6 results

      research Diagnosing and treating hair loss.

      36 citations , August 2009 in “PubMed”
      This article discusses different types of hair loss, their potential causes, and treatment options, but it reports no new clinical findings; the authors emphasize the importance of considering the emotional impact on patients.

      research Medical management of male pattern hair loss

      19 citations , August 2000 in “International Journal of Dermatology”
      This article discusses the medical management of male pattern hair loss and reports no new clinical findings.

      research Dermatologic Conditions in Transgender Populations

      21 citations , April 2019 in “Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America”
      This review discusses skin diseases in transgender patients receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy and procedures, highlighting unique conditions and the underdiagnosis that affects their quality of life and mental health.

      research Common Dermatologic Conditions

      14 citations , April 2014 in “Medical Clinics of North America”
      This review discusses common skin conditions in primary care settings and provides guidance on differential diagnoses and selecting appropriate topical treatments, but it reports no new clinical results.

      research Dermatologic care of the transgender patient

      41 citations , December 2016 in “International Journal of Women's Dermatology”
      This review discusses the unique dermatologic needs of transgender individuals during transitioning and emphasizes the importance of accommodating care in medical settings; it reports no new clinical results.