5α-reductase-2 deficiency causes ambiguous genitalia at birth and affects male sexual development, but individuals often develop male characteristics at puberty.
The conversation discusses hair loss treatments like topical finasteride with minoxidil, oral dutasteride, and essential oils. Oral treatments like dutasteride and finasteride are seen as more effective, though some prefer topicals to avoid side effects.
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.
Pirfenidone is suggested to treat fibrosis and baldness by blocking inflammation markers and reducing collagen. It is also available as a gel for scar removal.
The conversation discusses using a low dose of topical finasteride to achieve hair benefits with minimal systemic exposure. Users share experiences and opinions on dosing, systemic buildup, and side effects of both topical and oral finasteride.
Finasteride can cause sexual side effects in less than 2% of men, but these often disappear over time, even if the treatment continues. Some users report persistent side effects, while others experience no issues or only temporary ones.