Natural Hair Supplement: Friend or Foe? Saw Palmetto, A Systematic Review in Alopecia

A 25-year-old male experienced significant hair loss due to telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia. He began using finasteride, minoxidil, and vitamins, seeing some regrowth but remains worried about hair density.

A person experienced hair regrowth after reducing testosterone levels and using saw palmetto tincture and Alpecin shampoo. Other users suggested treatments like Nizoral shampoo, Aldactone, and supplements for hair loss.

Saw palmetto, particularly the standardized extract with 85% fatty acids, is discussed as a potential hair loss treatment, but opinions on its effectiveness vary. Some users combine it with other treatments like finasteride, minoxidil, and ketoconazole, noting mixed results in hair retention and shedding reduction.

Topical saw palmetto is discussed as a mild anti-androgen for hair growth, with some users combining it with other treatments like spironolactone and ketoconazole shampoo. Users share mixed experiences, with some not noticing regrowth and others hopeful for positive results.

The conversation discusses using saw palmetto oil to reduce hair loss, with the user reporting decreased shedding but no regrowth yet. The user plans to try minoxidil and finasteride, noting previous success with minoxidil but concerns about its greasiness.

A 17-year-old is considering using saw palmetto for hair loss until they can get finasteride, while currently using minoxidil and ketoconazole. Users suggest that saw palmetto is weak, and recommend continuing minoxidil and ketoconazole until finasteride is available.