Beyond a Simple Marker of Stress: A Multiverse Analysis of Biopsychosocial Associations with Hair Cortisol and Cortisone

Cortisol from stress can cause hair loss. Controlling cortisol levels improved the effectiveness of finasteride for hair regrowth.

Clascoterone (Breezula) shows promising hair growth results, but skepticism remains due to past disappointments with new treatments. It may be a good alternative for those who can't tolerate finasteride or dutasteride, and can potentially be combined with them and minoxidil for better results.

Oral ketoconazole is discussed as a potential hair loss treatment, but it poses significant health risks like liver damage and adrenal insufficiency. Users suggest safer alternatives like topical anti-androgens or spironolactone, emphasizing the importance of consulting a specialist.

There is skepticism about new hair loss treatments, with the belief that current options like minoxidil, finasteride, and hair transplants are the best available. Concerns are raised about the systemic side effects of androgen-related treatments, even those marketed as topical, and doubts about the effectiveness of emerging treatments like clascoterone.

A user experienced negative side effects, including low libido and lack of motivation, after using finasteride for hair loss and felt better after stopping it. Others shared similar experiences with finasteride and dutasteride, while some reported no side effects, showing varied individual responses.

Breezula, a topical treatment, is anticipated to be available in the US by mid-2027 as a potential alternative to finasteride with fewer systemic side effects. There is ongoing debate about its effectiveness and some users report similar side effects to finasteride.