Effects of Androgens on the Skin: Therapeutic Implications

An 18-year-old experiencing hair loss and seborrheic dermatitis has tried finasteride, dutasteride, and various shampoos without success. They are considering anti-androgens like RU58841 and KX-826 for oil control and dandruff reduction.

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) impacts various skin conditions, including Androgenetic alopecia and seborrheic dermatitis, by causing overactivity in sebaceous glands. Topical medications Tacrolimus and Clobetasol can reduce these inflammatory conditions, and treatments like RU58841, Minoxidil, and Finasteride may also be beneficial.

The conversation discusses the link between seborrheic dermatitis, acne, and male pattern baldness, suggesting that DHT may cause both skin conditions and hair loss. Treatments mentioned include RU58841, finasteride, dutasteride, minoxidil, Nizoral shampoo, and other topical anti-androgens.

Increased Malassezia and Cutibacterium in the scalp microbiome are linked to higher sebum production and inflammation in androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Treatments include ciclopirox shampoo, benzoyl peroxide shampoo, clobetasol propionate, calcipotriol, minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride.

The conversation discusses managing hair loss and scalp issues, with users sharing experiences using treatments like dutasteride, finasteride, ketoconazole, sulfur soap, and topical anti-androgens. Suggestions include trying sulfur soap, scalp massages, spironolactone, and dietary changes to reduce sebum production and dandruff.

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.