A user reported significant facial aging after using minoxidil for hair loss, despite a good skincare routine and healthy lifestyle. They plan to switch to dutasteride and possibly stop minoxidil.
Minoxidil's effectiveness is limited by the need for sulfation and proper transport to hair follicles, with tretinoin potentially enhancing its effects by promoting enzyme activity and keratinocyte differentiation. Tretinoin may improve minoxidil's response by boosting the expression of necessary enzymes and transporters.
The treatment for androgenetic alopecia involves using finasteride and minoxidil with intense exercise and cold exposure to boost metabolism and reduce androgenic effects, potentially leading to hair regrowth. This approach may activate biological pathways for improved hair and overall health.
The conversation discusses the effectiveness of different concentrations and dosages of topical finasteride on scalp and serum DHT levels, comparing it to oral finasteride and noting the side effects seem to be fewer at lower dosages. Participants shared experiences and referenced a chart indicating similar scalp DHT reduction with 0.025% topical finasteride as with 1mg oral finasteride, but with fewer side effects.