February 2021 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology”
Fibrosis in the bulge area of hair follicles can cause hair thinning in male pattern baldness, and drugs that inhibit fibrosis might help reverse this.
Minoxidil can prevent hair follicle miniaturization, not just stimulate hair growth. Finasteride and dutasteride don't work for everyone, suggesting DHT may not be the sole cause of hair loss; hair loss could be due to multiple factors, including autoimmune conditions.
Pyrilutamide did not show effectiveness in regrowing hair compared to a placebo, but it may still help maintain existing hair by preventing DHT from causing follicle miniaturization. Some users believe it could be beneficial when used with other treatments like minoxidil, finasteride, and dutasteride.
The conversation discusses whether finasteride's reduction of DHT and increase in scalp testosterone contribute to hair follicle miniaturization. Some participants argue testosterone does not cause miniaturization, while others suggest that even with reduced DHT, other androgens like testosterone may still contribute to hair loss.
Dutasteride at 2.5mg is considered a potential hair loss cure due to its DHT-blocking ability, but there are concerns about side effects and individual responses. Minoxidil, finasteride, and RU58841 are also discussed, with mixed opinions on their effectiveness and safety.
Finasteride and minoxidil can revive hair dormant for up to 7 years, with microneedling enhancing regrowth. Users report significant hair regrowth even after long periods of baldness.