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.
A user who shared progress pictures of their scalp using a microscope camera, demonstrating the difference between healthy and miniaturized hair. Various explanations for the cause of this were discussed, such as DHT build-up in scalp sebum causing an autoimmune response leading to inflammation and eventual hair loss, with some suggesting a do-it-yourself treatment involving adding ascorbic acid powder to shampoo.
The conversation discusses the potential benefits of sublingual minoxidil for hair loss treatment. It suggests that sublingual minoxidil, which bypasses the liver, may have fewer side effects, greater bioavailability, and could be more effective than oral minoxidil.
The user shared progress pictures after 9 months of using oral finasteride and topical minoxidil for hair loss, noting improvements in hair density. Concerns about side effects of finasteride were discussed, with some users sharing personal experiences.
User shared 5.5-month progress using 0.5mg finasteride, 5% minoxidil, 1.5mm microneedling weekly, and 20mg RU58841, with positive results and no side effects. Others discussed their experiences, dosage adjustments, and the importance of age in treatment efficacy.