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.
There have been no new effective hair loss treatments since finasteride, despite technological advancements. Current treatments include finasteride, minoxidil, and RU58841, with ongoing challenges and potential future solutions in research.
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.
Microneedling may enhance hair regrowth by transferring stem cells to dormant follicles, improving the effects of minoxidil. Users discuss using microneedling with needle lengths around 1.5mm to stimulate hair growth.
Androgenetic alopecia is caused by DHT affecting hair growth. Finasteride and minoxidil are used to manage hair loss by blocking DHT and promoting hair growth.