Itching during shedding phases: Nuancing the DHT itch?

Finasteride/Dutasteride 5/16/2024

Finasteride can cause scalp itch and inflammation, possibly due to DHT changes, but these effects are often temporary and part of the shedding phase. Consistent use of finasteride may show results after 6 months, with potential hair regrowth and slowed hair loss.

Lowering DHT can improve skin quality and reduce scalp issues. Finasteride is effective for hair regrowth and improving skin texture, while dutasteride may increase oiliness and shedding for some users.

The user is using a combination of hair loss treatments including finasteride, stemoxydine, oral minoxidil, RU58841, dermastamping, ketoconazole shampoo, collagen, Viviscal, and biotin, and has improved their diet. Despite these efforts, they are still experiencing hair shedding and scalp itchiness, and are considering increasing their minoxidil dosage or starting dutasteride.

The user has been using minoxidil daily, finasteride three times a week, and ketoconazole 1-3 times a week for a year to treat hair loss, resulting in noticeable hair regrowth at the hairline and temples, with minor side effects like itching and dandruff. They started with minoxidil a month before the other treatments and experienced an initial shedding phase for about six weeks.

The user is experiencing a second hair shedding phase and increased flaking and itching while using minoxidil 5% nightly and microneedling every two weeks, with needle length increasing over time. Other users suggest the hair loss may continue without the use of finasteride.