Androgen Metabolism as It Affects Hair Growth in Androgenetic Alopecia

Finasteride can increase body and facial hair growth due to increased testosterone, despite its intended use to reduce hair loss on the scalp. Some users consider trying topical finasteride for less systemic impact, while others report mixed results and side effects.

DHT is essential for androgenetic alopecia, not testosterone. Treatments like finasteride and dutasteride reduce DHT, halting hair loss.

A 30-year-old man experienced significant hair regrowth and improved libido after using finasteride and dutasteride for androgenetic alopecia, with no adverse effects. He plans to reduce dutasteride dosage when trying to conceive and has been using topical minoxidil since 2015.

Finasteride and minoxidil are effective for hair growth, but increasing testosterone, even naturally with ashwagandha, may increase DHT, potentially affecting hair loss if predisposed to male pattern baldness. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can be beneficial for energy and muscle gain but may expedite hair loss if already prone to it.

A user on dutasteride for hair loss noticed hair regrowth on their head but a significant reduction in body hair growth. They plan to switch to finasteride and dutasteride and are considering testosterone replacement therapy but are concerned about its effects on hair growth.

Finasteride increased testosterone and estrogen, stopped hair loss, and promoted regrowth. Users discussed side effects like libido changes and considered adding minoxidil and aromatase inhibitors.