A long-term finasteride user experienced side effects like sexual dysfunction, dry eyes, muscle weakness, and brain fog, which improved when they stopped the medication. They decided to stop finasteride again, questioning if maintaining hair was worth the negative impact on their well-being.
Hair loss therapies focusing on hair follicle sugar metabolism and aldose reductase. Potential treatments include magnesium supplements, avoiding high glycemic index foods, and antioxidants.
The conversation discusses a new model for understanding androgenetic alopecia (AGA), linking it to dietary and lifestyle factors similar to PCOS, and highlighting the role of DHT, vascular damage, and inflammation. Treatments mentioned include Minoxidil, finasteride, and RU58841.
High sugar diets may worsen hair loss by increasing 5α-reductase activity and androgen levels, especially in women with PCOS. A low sugar diet might reduce scalp DHT levels, similar to finasteride, but genetics also significantly influence hair loss.
The conversation discusses potential causes of pigmentation around hair follicles, suggesting sebum buildup, autoimmune conditions, or dermatitis. Treatments mentioned include finasteride, dutasteride, and an anti-inflammatory diet, with a recommendation to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.