Radioimmunoassay of Minoxidil in Human Serum

Higher doses of dutasteride reduce scalp DHT more effectively than finasteride, but have diminishing returns after 3mg daily and may cause more side effects. Combining dutasteride with topical minoxidil can enhance results, but using both finasteride and dutasteride together is unnecessary.

A 17-year-old using 5% topical minoxidil experienced significant hair shedding after a year, possibly due to a "synchronization shed" and deficiencies in vitamin D and iron. Recommendations include continuing minoxidil, optimizing vitamin D and iron levels, and reducing tretinoin use if scalp irritation occurs.

Counterfeit Kirkland minoxidil is being sold online, leading to ineffective hair loss treatment. Users are advised to purchase from reputable sources like Costco to avoid fake products.

The user is using 5% topical minoxidil twice daily and 1.25 mg oral finasteride for hair thinning at the temples. They are considering switching to once-daily minoxidil due to scalp flakiness and future time constraints.

Oral minoxidil is considered more convenient and effective for some users, with positive results reported, but concerns about side effects and availability persist. Finasteride remains a standard treatment, while some users explore combinations with other treatments like dutasteride and laser devices.

Minoxidil alone can work for some people, but it may not address DHT-related hair loss. Adding a derma roller and using ketoconazole shampoo might improve results.