Minoxidil may cause facial aging or wrinkles, though opinions vary. Some users report side effects like dark circles and facial bloating, while others attribute changes to genetics or other factors.
User experienced rapid thinning on crown, used dutasteride for 3 months with significant improvement. Microneedling and ketoconazole were also used, but no minoxidil or finasteride.
A user is concerned about starting finasteride due to negative reports and potential side effects. Other users suggest talking to a doctor, considering personal tolerance, and note that side effects are rare.
Finasteride may seem less effective over time due to increased DHT sensitivity or aging, but it still suppresses DHT. Switching to dutasteride offers stronger DHT suppression but may increase estrogen levels.
Being overweight may increase finasteride side effects due to higher aromatase activity converting testosterone to estradiol. Maintaining a healthy weight could reduce these side effects.
Dutasteride takes 1-3 months to affect scalp DHT levels, not just a week. The prostate absorbs Dutasteride faster than the scalp due to different vascular networks and enzyme densities.
Finasteride and minoxidil can be obtained cheaply through Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs and Costco's Kirkland brand, respectively, costing about $7.53/month combined. Amazon's RXPass and virtual visits at Dr. B. offer additional savings.
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.
The efficacy of degrading the androgen receptor through dermal application in DP cells, a delivery system for topical drugs that involves dissolving microneedles, and rosemary oil as an alternative anti-androgen.
User doubts oral minoxidil's effectiveness after a month of use and shedding. Few people provide photo evidence of success, and some combine it with other treatments, making it hard to determine its effectiveness alone.