The user "DaysonDadum" shared their progress pictures after using finasteride and minoxidil for 10 months, along with regularly using Nizoral. They experienced positive results with no noticeable shedding and no side effects. Other users in the conversation asked about dosages and brands of the treatments.
Evidence-based treatments for androgenic alopecia, such as minoxidil, finasteride, low-level laser light therapy, dutasteride, platelet-rich plasma, and topical ketoconazole. It discusses the efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action of these treatments, as well as future developments in understanding this polygenic condition.
A doctor advised against using finasteride or dutasteride during pregnancy. The user continues with oral and topical minoxidil, microneedling, tretinoin, Nizoral, and pyrilutamide.
Alcohol-based minoxidil absorbs better but can cause irritation; non-alcohol-based is gentler. Topical dutasteride shows promise but needs more research; low-dose oral minoxidil (0.25 mg/day) is effective with fewer side effects. Ingredients like Procapil, Redensyl, caffeine, and Anagain in shampoos have limited evidence; ketoconazole shampoo can help when used 2-3 times a week with other treatments.
Using a combination of micro-needling and exosome injections as a potential treatment for male pattern baldness, which could result in 50% or more regrowth.
Balding seems to worsen with each generation, possibly due to stress, diet, and environmental factors. The user started treatments like Minoxidil and finasteride.
The conversation discusses whether long-term use of finasteride (Fin) is harmful to the liver, with various opinions on side effects and comparisons to other substances. Specific treatments mentioned include finasteride, minoxidil (Min), and RU58841 (RU).
Dutasteride might be better for hairline due to varying levels of 5AR activity in scalps. Genetic tests can determine if finasteride is enough or if dutasteride is needed.
Finasteride is effective for treating male pattern baldness (MPB) with minimal side effects, and topical finasteride is similarly effective. Dutasteride is also effective but less understood, and Minoxidil is less effective than Finasteride.
Switching from topical to oral minoxidil due to scalp irritation and unsatisfactory results, while also seeking cheaper options in the U.S. Oral minoxidil is generally favored for its effectiveness and fewer application downsides, with CostPlusDrugs and GoodRx offering affordable prices.
The conversation is about gathering serum DHT data from individuals taking dutasteride to investigate its efficacy, especially in cases with unexpectedly low DHT reduction. The aim is to explore potential genetic factors affecting drug metabolism.
The user started using topical and oral Minoxidil in December 2024, added ketoconazole shampoo in February 2025, and began using topical Dutasteride mixed with Minoxidil. The ketoconazole shampoo stopped scalp itchiness, but the hairline looks the same, with existing hairs appearing frail and thin.
A user is trying Ayurvedic remedies for male pattern baldness, including onion juice, curry leaves, aloe vera, and a prepared oil mix. They plan to switch to minoxidil, finasteride, and PRP treatment if no improvement is seen in four months.
The post argues that Post-Finasteride Syndrome (PFS) is likely not real and suggests symptoms may be due to mental health issues or the nocebo effect. The conversation includes personal experiences with finasteride, highlighting both positive and negative effects, and emphasizes consulting doctors and using reliable sources for medication.
A study that outlines the full model for androgenic alopecia (AGA) which links DHT to cellular senescence in dermal papilla cells, and suggests black chokeberry as a source of cyanidin 3-O-arabinoside polyphenol with potential anti-oxidant properties that could reverse this process. The post encourages reaching out to experts in anti-aging and longevity to research treatments involving the polyphenol.
Pirfenidone is suggested to treat fibrosis and baldness by blocking inflammation markers and reducing collagen. It is also available as a gel for scar removal.
User shared 1-year progress on Fin 1 mg, switching to 0.4 mg Dut and oral 1.25 mg Min. Good results with Fin, biotin supplement, and biotin shampoo; trying Dut and oral Min for potential better results.
User spent 23 years on Finasteride with side effects like weight gain and reduced libido. Switched to topical Finasteride, side effects reduced and waiting for results.
A dutasteride simulator predicts that daily 0.5 mg dosing results in higher DHT suppression compared to less frequent dosing. Twice-weekly dutasteride may be as effective as finasteride 5 mg, providing a balance between efficacy and ease of use.
Finasteride may cause elevated liver enzymes, potentially leading to liver issues, though this is rare. Users should monitor liver function and consider topical alternatives if liver sensitivity occurs.
A user in Turkey was advised by a dermatologist to avoid finasteride due to its hormonal effects and was prescribed minoxidil, shampoo, and vitamins instead. The user is considering seeking another doctor's opinion or buying finasteride directly from a pharmacy.
Topical finasteride results in plasma levels 100 times lower than oral finasteride, potentially reducing systemic side effects. Users report similar efficacy with fewer side effects, suggesting a preference for topical application.
Switching from finasteride to dutasteride and back to finasteride led to gynecomastia and fatigue, likely due to hormonal imbalances. Suggested treatments include Tamoxifen, Raloxifene, or low-dose Anastrozole, with a recommendation to test testosterone and estradiol levels.
A user is concerned about weight loss stagnation while using minoxidil and finasteride during a calorie-cutting diet. Responses suggest water retention or a weight loss plateau as possible causes.
Long term Finasteride users and whether or not they have noticed improvements after two years of use, with other treatments such as Minoxidil and dermarolling also discussed. Some replies suggest that improvement is possible even beyond the two year mark while others caution against believing studies backed by the Post-Finasteride Foundation.
Finasteride can cause sexual side effects in less than 2% of men, but these often disappear over time, even if the treatment continues. Some users report persistent side effects, while others experience no issues or only temporary ones.
Finasteride significantly increased testosterone levels for the user, with no major side effects except watery semen, which was resolved with zinc supplements. The user's hairline stopped receding and slightly improved.
A 24 year old male struggling with the physical and mental effects of balding, being short, and having a micropenis. Suggested treatments include taking medications such as finasteride and minoxidil, lifting weights, and trying not to compare himself to others.