Kevin, you've changed my life. Can you please just keep making this videos like a damn broken record. We all don't care if we've heard it before. Yell in my ear forever man and make a patreon or something so I can support you.
Kevin, you just doing so an important job for people who suffer from this problem... And you perhaps literally saved my life, my stupid GP a couple of years ago prescribed me oral minoxidil, but not finasteride, I did not use it of course, just bought finasteride instead. Thank you, Kevin! Keep doing it!
@@haircafekevin Hey choom! What do you think about my doing 0.5mg oral + 0.5mg topical finasteride daily? Is it unnecessary and pointless? I don't wanna do 1mg of either by itself. Thanks!
always enjoy the content that you put out, after coming across Kevin's videos i have been on finasteride at first 0.5mg eod, and 1 month in i am now on 0.5mg/daily. Results thicker hair, and drastic reduction in hairfall. Side effects as mentioned are mostly nocebo, and it all went away after 2 weeks in.
@@haircafekevin I have a question sir. I am 20 years old and started experiencing hair loss due to androgenic alopecia. So i saw no choice but to use oral finasteride. I am wondering if I am too young to be lowering my dht levels. . i do not want to lose my hair but i also do not want to ruin the benefits of dht.
I love your content Kevin. I tried oral finasteride for about 1 month. I did little research before starting the drug. I became extremely depressed and impotent. When this started to happen is when I dig deep into researching side effects. Since I tried 1 mg daily, I want to try the lowest possible dose, or give topical fin a try instead.
I know you dont like oral minoxidil but i think you should give it another look and heres why: The blood pressure medication is usually way higher dose (up to 50mg or more) whereas for hair it only needs like 1mg which is 50x less than the danger blood pressure dose
Well like I explained in my oral minoxidil video, I do realize that the hair growth dose is lower than the blood pressure dose, but there is also no evidence that the risk of certain side effects, like pericardial effusion, is dose related. In other words, we don't know if 1 mg is really safer than 50 mg of the drug. Minoxidil is given to very few patients nowadays for blood pressure. There are better, safer alternatives, so cardiologists avoid the drug at almost all costs. So the fact that serious complications from the drug have been reported despite the very small number of patients on the drug is concerning. To suddenly take this shunned drug and start giving it to the hundreds of thousands if not millions of people with AGA without more safety data is not wise in my opinion.
@@haircafekevin yeah, but it’s too late for me. Had a crazy amount of regrowth before I realized I probably only needed fin, so I’m stuck on minoxidil now.
Great video as always man! *Says India and shows Dhalsim* haha hilarious. A couple of notes about topical finasteride that you're probably already aware of but didn't mention in the video: Oral finasteride is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily via the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme subfamily. Two metabolites, the t-butyl side chain monohydroxylated and monocarboxylic acid metabolites, have been identified. These metabolites possess around 20% of the 5α-reductase inhibitory activity of finasteride. Therefore, by applying fin topically you skip 1st pass liver metabolism and you don't get these metabolites. Which can explain why topical fin might be less effective and with a lower chance of side-effects. Also, an interesting hypothesis can be made by looking at the scrotal application of testosterone. Applying testosterone cream directly to your ballsack (instead of your leg, arm, etc.) results in a disproportionate spike of DHT related to T because your balls, just like your scalp, are full of 5AR. Inferring from this, if we reverse -engineer the theory, we can hypothesise that applying a strong 5AR antagonist like fin or dut directly to a 5AR-dense zone, such as the scalp, could result in a possibly more favourable local outcome. This is just an interesting hypothesis. And we're not even mentioning the molecular weight factors.
Those are some very good points. I hadn't considered the effects of the metabolites of oral finasteride, and this might explain some of the differences in outcome between the two routes of administration. But since the metabolites have less 5AR activity, that might actually imply topical finasteride would be more effective than oral, assuming it doesn't rapidly degrade in the scalp. The other thing I didn't discuss was novel preparations for topical finasteride delivery, such as lipid nanoparticles. I don't think the topical finasteride story is over. It will be interesting to see what future research brings to light.
@@haircafekevin Ah, yes the novel topical preparations of both fin and dut are very interesting to me as well! I've purchased an ultrasonic cleaner and will start compounding liposomal lotions containing APIs such as dut in the near future. Cheers!
Yes, skin in general has a lot more 5AR - Something like a 5.5 fold increase in DHT when transdermal testosterone is applied instead of intramuscular (not just to the ball sack). It seems that topical Finasteride might be better for targeting the type II 5AR enzyme in the inner layer of the outer root sheath and inner root sheath of the follicle. (Type I is in the scalp, but Type II is actually found proximal to the follicle sheath). Obviously there is that logic that Finasteride should go systemtic to disable circulating type II 5AR which reduces DHT being supplied to the follicle, but the fact that there is such concentrations of type II 5AR in the follicular sheath tells me circulating systemic DHT may not play as much of a role (why else would there be a need for the enzyme in the follicular area?). Interesting stuff.
I have been on topical fin 0.5% for 11 months and then started oral fin. I had no shedding or changes and two months later I started oral dut and am having a little shed. So I can come to two conclusions: topical and oral fin worked as well for me, and oral dut is probably working a little better for me.
I have been thinking about it for a while. There are some case reports of melitane 5 improving melanin production in hair follicles. There isn't as much research on the subject compared to hair loss, probably because going grey isn't nearly as bad as going bald plus its easy to just dye your hair. I have some greys and I touch them up using derm match, it works very well.
I can’t get oral Finasteride in my country but minoxidilmax does ship it’s topical fin here. However they look kind of shady, there’s no company info you can look up. Do any of you guys have some info if their products are legit?
Several known CZcamsrs as well as many individuals online from different countries endorse their products and confirm their legitimacy. I just received my first order from them. Yet to use it, but no issues with delivery.
I too use it, I use their Essengen-F product, but I got 0 results from it in in about 4 months... whereas I got noticable gains from traditional minoxidil. I’m not sure if their product actually has finasteride in it or if it’s just bs. After all that’s a prescription drug, how could they sell it?
Hello Kevin can you talk about the connection between tretinoin and hair loss? There are studies that say it can help hair and studies that say it can harm hair growth. Thank you I love you ❤️
Just got back to this video again. For some info. I decided to try taking oral finasteride every other day and apply topical finasteride on the days I don't take oral finasteride. My reason being that I already use minoxidil (regaine foam) twice a day. As Kevin said in few of his vids foam minoxidil's downside is that it gets wasted on the hair rather than reaching the scalp. So. On days I don't take oral finasteride I use Morr F 5% which is 5% minoxidil and 0.01% finasteride in one substance. I use that instead of my second application of the foam minoxidil before bed. Although this substance makes my hair quite greasy, hence why I apply before bed
Yo Kevin I got a question I have been using minoxidil for like 4 months on the hairline and I haven’t seen much regrowth I wanted to get tretinoin but I can’t get it prescription for it so I was wondering if retinol cream/serum would have the same affect as tretinoin?
Hey Kevin, thoughts on any issues with applying the melted minoxidil foam through massaging it into your scalp with your fingers rather than using a dropper? Also, do you think that applying heat to it and making it liquid reduces the effectiveness of the foam minoxidil?
I think a lot of the "post finasteride" issues, are actually because since they are off the pill they are getting depressed that they are back to losing their hair again, which is a very sad and debilitating experience....so it's more so just them being depressed... They should at least experiment with lowered dosages or two weeks on one week off, there must be a way...
Maybe it makes sense to use topical dutasteride because it has a 5 day phase of action? I mean take every day finasteride and every 6th day topical dutasteride?
Combination therapy is probably fine but I would never rely on topical dutasteride as a monotherapy. A couple of videos I made on it. czcams.com/video/kJdTn7laIQQ/video.html czcams.com/video/MuCxu05Rp2Q/video.html
Hey Kevin. Awesome video man, as always. I was wondering if you could recommend the minoxidil you use. Or one that’s not too greasy or of good quality. Thank you! You’re saving my hair and my confidence.
They should give placebos to the different groups so they wouldn't know if they are on topical or oral fin cause everyone is taking pills and topicals.
Kevin have you ever taken creatine? If so did it affect your hair? Is finasteride still able to keep the DHT increase from creatine low enough to not affect the hair? I want to take creatine but I'm afraid to. I'm on 1mg finasteride daily for 3 weeks now
Don't risk Creatine if you even suspect you may have MPB. Since you have AGA you should not take anything that may increase DHT. First time I took Creatine Monohydrate in 2019 for a month and noticed slightly worse hair (not sure), then stopped. Reddit convinced me it has no correlation with hairloss because there are no studies to suggest it. Started again in may 2021 for a month, greater daily dose this time, also greater doses of L-Arginine + L-Citrulline / L-Ornithine combo of 7grams per day. Now I'm almost NW2. Even going at the gym alone may accelerate hairloss a bit due to increase T which means greater DHT.
Thanks for the new video Kevin, can you share your opinion on S5 cream? Also I‘ve read dutasteride is 3x more effective at blocking type II enzyme, is that true? Also do you have to use dutasteride daily?
Scalp biopsies show only about 10 percent more DHT suppression from dutasteride, the 3x greater efficacy probably relates more to serum and prostate suppression and many of the studies done on Dut were done at 2.5 mg as opposed to 0.5 MG. Dut has a long half life so two or three times weekly titration is probably fine for most people. S5 cream is worthless. There are studies where people literally cover half their body in topical spironolactone and they barely have any change in androgen levels. Try topical fluridil for a topical anti-androgen instead.
Kevin can you please help me? I am 17 and it's been 1 year since my hair has started to noticeably fall out and never grown back. Doctors and dermotolagists have confirmed it's MPB and recommended to "not think about it" and forget about the drugs. It's been a year and it has gotten worse and you've encouraged me to call up the doctors to get on something. I have an appointment in two weeks and they may allow me on fin or min. What do you think I should tell them I want? Bear in mind I am 17 and the still devaloping so idk if inhibiting DHT is great for me. But all I know I want to take action but idk what is the best course to do so. I am from the UK btw. Thank you.
Most people are done with physical maturation by the age of 17. Many people your age take finasteride with no issue, tell your doctor you want to get on finasteride asap. If your doctor refuses you can try another doctor and if you absolutely cannot get finasteride then try minoxidil to buy yourself some time although keep in mind any benefits you get from it you'll have to keep on using minoxidil to maintain those benefits. For a temporary finasteride replacement look into fluridil. It is expensive and difficult to acquire but it will only be to buy you some time until you can start finasteride.
Yo Kevin I’m an 18 year old (battling) hypochondriac who thinks their hairline might be receding. Could finasteride have unknown side effects or affect unknown mechanisms (specifically in the CNS) that might undermine psychology/psychological well being over time? Or is depression the end all be all of psychological testing? Would they have been able to gauge differences in performance of tasks, thinking, neurochemistry, etc? Hopefully you know what I mean. Thanks
No, it doesn't. There is a lot of fear mongering about this online but none of it is grounded in any evidence based data. I have several videos which address this subject. I'll link them and suggest you view them. Whatever you do, stay far FAR away from the forums, nothing but fear mongering. You'll give yourself a nocebo effect otherwise. Finasteride and Neurosteroids: czcams.com/video/EkS6_wub7W8/video.html Finasteride and depression: czcams.com/video/EgYczERIkBg/video.html Debunking post finasteride syndrome part 1: czcams.com/video/dXwO0E2A7LI/video.html Debunking post finasteride syndrome part 2: czcams.com/video/YM4DJbK9HQY/video.html
kevin, the studies shows that while topical does effect serum, its dose related. lower dose, 0.2mg topical ngives comporable scalp reduction to 1mg oral but less serum reduction. however the studies arent long term therefore overtime, there maybe a greater serum effect. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6609098/
I had been using oral along with topical finasteride nad my hair was better than ever. Ditched the topical due to inconvenience and upped the dose of oral. It caused a massive shed from which my hair never fully recovered.
Can finasteride cause gallstones? Because I have read on the internet that finasteride users are more likely to develop gallstones because it increases female hormone estrogen?
Probably not, the increase in estrogen is very mild and finasteride raises testosterone too so I doubt it. I haven't seen any hard data that suggests a correlation. At this point it's just internet speculation.
I'm on my third week using finasteride, and to be honest, I feel weird discomfort under my right rib cage. And I am worried I could develop gallstones.
Hey Kevin, just wanted an opinion on my situation (or anyone elses input). I'm currently at a Norwood 2, I have never taken finasteride (or done anything for hair loss) and I am planning on taking it in a couple of months. I currently have puberty induced gyno so I really want to get myself into the best shape of my life and also get all my bloodwork done ranging from vitamin deficiencies to testosterone/dht levels. Was planning on starting with .5mg MWF, is this enough to at least keep the hair I have? I plan on eventually upping the dosage - and I will be taking Nutrafol, castor oil, dermarolling, ketoconazole shampoo, and finasteride. I honestly do not have the time in my day to use minoxidil consistently. You think this will be a solid routine? I will be keeping my diet extremely clean along with workout regiment - and get bloodwork done every 3-6 months for rest of my life. I believe finasteride is as safe as can be with proper care and control. You have motivated me to do so, thank you
You don't have to combine them. Just apply 0.1 percent tretinoin to the areas you intend to apply minoxidil, give it about 10 minutes to absorb and then apply minoxidil as you normally would.
@@haircafekevin thank a lot Kevin didnt know about that is there a chance that you will make a video about skincare routine of yours to show us how to stay young like you at first i thought you were 30 but i think you said you were in your 40s
Hi Kevin! What is your take on shampoos with sulfate vs without sulfate? Do you recommand Head and shoulders as your first go to when you want your hair to look the best?
Sulfates are just foaming agents, there are some people who are sensitive to them but they're not an issue for most people and they're found in the majority of shampoos on the market. It's a convenient marketing tactic to fear monger about things like sulfates because sulfate free shampoos don't lather as well and you have to use more of the shampoo and thus buy more of the product. Pyrithione zinc shampoos like H&S are great for maintaining good scalp health, especially if you have issues with dandruff and inflammation.
Will you make a video about direct aplication of Minoxidil Sulfate? I've recently found out that DS laboratories sell it and I don't really know what to think about it...
It's a scam product, minoxidil sulfate is quickly hydrolyzed in water back into minoxidil so you wouldn't be able to sell a pre-made minoxidil sulfate product. Just more overpriced crap from DS laboratories. I'd recommend staying away from any of the garbage they sell like nanoxidil and revita. Terrible products and unethical deceptive marketing.
@@haircafekevin Kevin I have a question which I’m sure you can answer. I’ve noticed that everyone I’ve encounter who experiences hair loss has an itchy scalp? Why is this? Is this DHT or ?
@@haircafekevin also I took a 3 week break from dutasteride after regaining so much hair due to needing bloods taken & I’ve lost so much hair lol. Also the itch is back hence the question above ^ thank you!!
Question if you should wait at least 3 months to see if the finasteride is working before you add minoxidil. Can you add some other growth factor other than minoxidil safely.
Hi Kevin. Can you make a video about scalp diseases? I have been taking finasteride for over a year and my hair is constantly falling out, I would like to start using minoxidil but I'm afraid because I feel a crust on my head, it seems to me that it is seborrheic dermatitis. The hair is falling out of my entire head not only from the scalp. I don't know how to get rid of it :( Thats hurt a lot. On every channel they talk about a powerful finasterid and it doesn't work for me,through the scalp .
Kevin I’m noticing my hair thinning a lot and have started fin if I’m not scared of sides should I jump on minoxidil for a better chance at hair growth ?
Hey Kevin, love your videos. In your opinion, do you think it would be possible to make a stemoxydine/RU58841/ minoxidil combo topical? Just attempting to make an all in one topical to avoid twice daily applications.
Hey Kevin since I found your channel you helped me get the courage to start taking finasteride. I had a hair transplant consultation today and the consultant said finasteride won’t do anything for my hair because I’m a Norwood 6 diffuse thinning. Thoughts?
Finasteride may help you maintain what little you have left but your doctor probably thinks you're too far gone. You'll likely need a body hair transplant. Look up Dr. Umar in California, he specializes in such. I'd still use finasteride and minoxidil to help maintain and maybe get some regrowth but you'll likely need grafts outside your donor area. Body hair transplants definitely work and can look good. You'll have to keep it short for life though because they don't grow as long as scalp hair but I have seen some good results.
Hello Kevin, I'd like to start with dut but I have 3 months supply of finasteride. Some guys take dut and fin (1 day dut, 6 days fin). What do you think about it? Thanks for your content
I'd just start with finasteride. Whether you're using dutasteride or finasteride or cycling the two it will all work because you will be inhibiting the 5a reductase enzyme. Dutasteride is a little more powerful but that won't necessarily mean more hair regrowth. Even castrates do not regrow that much hair. You just need to suppress enough DHT, not as much DHT as possible. Dutasteride should be used for people when finasteride is not enough and that is rare.
Hey Kev need your advice mate. I have always noticed that eating a lot of sugary food would cause me to see more hair fall out in the shower the next day. Does this mean that finasteride is not working?
I wonder if someone could do low dose topical fin mixed with topical duetasteride or just topical duetasteride alone if they’re one of the few who gets some side effects.
You probably wouldn't get much more scalp DHT suppression. Using higher doses of 5a inhibitors results in more serum DHT suppression but scalp DHT suppression for finasteride tends to taper off after 1 MG and beyond that it is more beneficial for the prostate. Either pick oral or topical, but no point in doing both IMO.
@@haircafekevin Oh, for sure it there wouldn’t be a huge difference in scalp DHT reduction doing that. I guess my point was that, if someone is new and one of the few who are very sensitive to or worried about side effects, maybe another option would be to use topical Fin low dose with topical Deut because apparently the particle size of Deut is larger than Fin so less is absorbed systemically. There is some blood work some respectable people on a hair loss forum who tried it got after using it and it showed less system DHT suppression. Of course more studies would have to come out on this so that’s the best we have at this point, but assuming that is true, it may be worth trying by that for those who want to see how they respond before maybe moving to oral Fin or whatever. I guess that’s my line of thinking.
Ive been losing my hairline slowly, I wanted to ask if I should only apply Minoxidil on my hairline area or all over my head. I don't want to shave my head off that's why
Hey Kevin, I love your videos. I had a question, it's most likely not safe for me to take finasteride due to a liver disease I have, so would you (without giving medical advice) possibly recommend using Alfatradiol, and then minoxidil? Again, not relying on your answer but seeing how people are constantly reminding others to start with finasteride, and it would most likely be more harmful than beneficial in my case I was curious if you have any other potential suggestions - let me know if you have the time! (I'm 25 btw) Thank you.
First I would check with your doctor about whether the liver disease would preclude using finasteride. There are different types and degrees of liver disease and your doctor is in the best position to judge the safety of any drug you might take. If finasteride is excluded, then certainly I would consider something like alfatradiol and topical minoxidil.
I just found your channel and am binge watching your videos! I’m a 35 yo female with andro alopecia, no chance of getting pregnant. Can you tell me, is finasteride something I can consider along with minoxidil?? I see it’s tough for woman to get due to contraindication of birth defects, but, for women not having children this shouldn’t be an issue, no?
As always, great video. I’m on fin and oral min (I know I know it’s risky) and hope I can respond well and regrow some hair. I’ve looked back on pics I had when I was half a year into topical min and my hair was so thick and healthy looking. After I quit for a few months it went downhill slowly but surely. I’m hoping oral min’s response on me is the same or better. By the way, I don’t seem to lose or shed hair. Even off of fin and min, my hair shedding in the shower is only max 20 hairs. Is it possible to still thin and not have much shedding?
A good way of describing my thinning is that I have one or two hairs growing from a follicular pore vs three or four like I used to. I’m guessing that’s also miniaturization?
Not a Fin fearmonger but what can I say, 6mo in, I have developed pea sized gyno on my right side. Exactly like the literature says. Hurts when going down stairs fast, basically any agitation stings. 40mgs of Nolvadex gave me blurry af vision within a week which I am still recovering from 4 weeks after stopping it. So basically I made the choice to roll the dice with gyno and keep taking Fin in the hope that the gyno will resolve itself like puberty gyno usually does because that's what it basically is... I am seriously thinking about topical Dutasteride now though.
@@benomils6920 I continued the Fin. Decided to give Nolva another try. Been using it at 20mg ed and managed to basically undo the Gyno to the point I do not feel any difference from before. But since both meds are toxic and have their problems, this was not a permanent solution, obviously. Been on both for about a year+ total. Have now not been on either for 8 months now. Didn't feel like the Fin did anything in the year I was on it. But I did see a massive thinning and recession since going off it. Fin is indeed a powerful drug but all that means is it SLOWS DOWN LOSS A BIT which otherwise would have been even more dramatic. That's what it does for most people. It's certainly not anything even close to being a "cure" for MPB like Kevin/Haircafe says at times. Do not expect any regrowth like I did. All in all not sustainable for me and I rate -12/10, would not do again. YMMV. Maybe if you start Fin at age 25 and you have less than average genetic predisposition to MPB you can keep your hairline and density good/pristine for a long long time. If otoh you have average or worse genetic predisposition to MPB, FIN is unlikely to really provide the results you'll want. I have made peace with my baldcel status.
One important thing: the quality of life for oral fin is higher because it started higher in the oral fin group. Take a look at the before scores. It's more informative to look at the magnitude of the change, not the end value. Judged on this basis, the improvement in quality of life from oral and topical fin are roughly equal. One other point: iirc the systemic suppression from topical fin is lower than from oral fin at the equivalent dose, isn't it? This might be the reason for the lower number of symptoms that people seem to generally associate with topical fin (I know the data in these studies is kind of mixed, though the second one definitely has fewer symptoms for topical). And this is good too, because what we want is DHT suppression in the scalp, not systemically, of course. I *think* there's also a study that shows that oral and topical suppressed DHT roughly equally well in the scalp, but I might be misremembering that. I'll see if I can dig it up. In any case, I agree that these two studies have problems that are not great. Too bad we can't crowdsource a study ourselves. Anyway, I make my own topical fin 0.1%/min 5% mix and I'm really happy with it. Got sides from oral fin unfortunately. Might try it again some day though.
I’m thinking about trying topical deut mixed with topical low dose fin. So far, some people on the hair loss forms have done it with blood tests showing less DHT suppression and they said it worked. Sadly not enough good studies on it as it’s a newer thing. But the particle size of deut is larger so it seems less would get systemically absorbed, but it’s still small enough to get into the scalp typically if it’s compounded correctly. A few online places are now offering it compounded. If I can use a full amount of topical Deut with lower dose topical fin, and it is successful, I am thinking that may be the sweet spot.
Well the quality of life was initially higher in the oral fin group, but the difference at the onset was not statistically significant, whereas the difference was statistically significant after treatment. So I think the authors were correct to say that the quality of life was better with oral finasteride, statistically speaking. Regarding your point on the amount of DHT suppression, it's hard to compare the dose of topical vs oral finasteride when looking at DHT suppression. It's sort of apples and oranges. We can say from the studies that there is a dose response curve to the DHT suppression for both topical and oral finasteride, but I think it's difficult to say that a equivalently effective of dose of topical finasteride to oral finasteride would have less systemic absorption. I mean that may be true, but it's difficult to determine. I'm topical finasteride is working for you and it sounds like you should stick with it if you are tolerating better than oral.
@@thehylander266 Thanks for the idea! I didn't know that dut was a larger molecule. Looking it up, I see that it's 528 Da vs fin at 372 Da. That's about 40% larger, and it's above 500 Da. Interesting. I'm a little put off by dut's inhibition of 5AR-type1 (whereas fin only inhibits 5AR-type2 and 5AR-type3), but last time I checked, it seems like we don't really even know which tissues the different isozymes are expressed in, so I suppose it just depends on your risk appetite. I suppose there's also the argument "fin works, so why try dut?". I don't know enough about small molecule biochemistry to know if 40% or >500 Da is large enough to make the difference we want and offset these risks/uncertainties, but it's definitely an interesting idea to monitor. It really is a shame that studies on topical 5AR inhibitors just seem to be in their infancy... Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be any money in it for pharma companies, so we don't see much activity, I assume. Seems worth exploring though for the theory you outlined though, if you can get the compounding right! On a quick google search I found a compounding pharmacy in the US with some decent prices for what they claim is correctly compounded topical dut: www.cfspharmacy.pharmacy. Usual disclaimer though: I'm unaffiliated, haven't tried them, no idea if they're legit, etc. Let us know what happens with your attempt! Edit: Sorry, seems I was wrong about us not having a good idea of which tissues the different isozymes are expressed in (and perhaps also about fin not inhibiting 5AR-type1). I guess more research has been done. See these links: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/6715#gene-expression www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/6716#gene-expression www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/6717#gene-expression It seems that type2 isn't expressed in the skin, type3 is somewhat expressed in the skin, and type1 is very expressed in the skin. However, we have to remember the case of MK-386: a potent and quite selective 5AR-type1 inhibitor developed by Merck, but never marketed, which didn't actually help reduce hair loss or acne! So interpret these expression statistics with caution; it seems that they don't tell the whole story. As a side note, It also turns out that fin also is a slow, time-dependent inhibitor of type1: pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/bi00174a041 www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/HMBCI.2010.035/html From this, I would guess that dut's increased efficacy comes from its potent type3 inhibition (50x more than fin for type3!). So perhaps mixing them would help. But, I need to learn a bit more in order to interpret these papers completely, but maybe someone with more of a biochem background can comment. Until then please take all my reasoning here with a grain of salt. Too bad we don't have a type3-selective inhibitor, that would really help us get a complete picture.
@@haircafekevin Thanks for responding! Your videos are awesome btw, and I always look forward to seeing new ones. Thanks for being this fucking unstoppable educational force in the hair loss community lol. You're the man. I have to admit that I didn't read the study before making that comment, so shame on me. Upon reading it, I see that you're right: the difference was only significant after treatment. It's unfortunate that the authors didn't do a test on whether the percentage increase in QoL test scores between the two groups was different. They just did a t-test on the initial scores and a t-test on the final scores. The former (that is, a test on the percentage increase between initial and final score) would allow us to establish the statistical significance of the improvement. Since they don't report any statistics for this though, there's no way of knowing. Just noticed a separate, strange thing btw: I reran the t-tests for the initial and final scores, and they're completely different than what's reported in those tables. I don't know how they got those p-values. According to the statistics they published in the paper, neither difference in scores is significant at the 0.05 level. So all my thinking might be moot anyway. I also noticed that the corresponding email address for the paper is a gmail address, and that the journal (International Journal of Research in Dermatology) isn't even ranked by Scimago... All of these are terrible signs, along with the typographic error you pointed out. Really just a bad study overall (as I think you said in the video). As for my point on the DHT suppression, I think you're completely right. The mg applied is not a good definition of "equivalent" here. Maybe matching the suppression response on the dose response curve is a better definition of equivalent (but that of course completely foils the argument I was trying to make). I think the ratio of scalp DHT suppression to systemic DHT suppression would be the best statistic to compare the treatments on actually, as long as the amount of scalp DHT suppression is roughly equal for each treatment, of course. Thanks again for making these videos!
Dutasteride does have a much longer half life than finasteride and blocks the 5AR type I and II isoforms as opposed to finasteride which blocks just the type II, so they are not the same drug. There are some studies that show dutasteride may be slightly more effective than finasteride with similar side effects. Certainly there is more data on safety and efficacy for finasteride than dutasteride, and dutasteride is not FDA approved for hair loss, though I believe it is approved for hair loss in some other countries.
Hi Kevin, been a big fan of your vids. I’m a 19M and just found my crown is in the early stages of thinning with no temple recession. My dad went bald around my same age so I am looking to combat it now. Do you have advice for a routine of someone my age who cannot use fin until 21?
Just apply the tretinoin on the scalp as you would as if it were on your face, give it several minutes to absorb and then apply minoxidil. There is no trick to it.
QUESTION FOR KEVIN We know that you can't maintain minoxidil gains with Finasteride but I just wanted to find out if you could do like 6 months oral minoxidil and then maintain those gains with topical minoxidil, and I just want to add that throughout all of this I'll be using Finasteride, what do you think?
Only if the gains you get from oral are the same as what you'd get from topical. If you got gains from 5 percent minoxidil it stands to reason you'd lose some if you switched to 2 percent minoxidil and I have seen that happen. It takes longer than 6 months to get the full benefits of a treatment anyways. Just use topical minoxidil.
@@haircafekevin Thanks Kevin, because I've been on Finasteride for about four months and topical 5% minoxidil for about 6 weeks and I haven't really seen much difference, so I'm starting to get a tiny bit anxious.
Hey Kevin great video as always!, quick question, I read somewhere that vitamin D increases testosterone. Do you think that it’s bullshit? And if it isn’t do you think that could lead to my hair falling out quicker? I take a multivitamin with my finasteride and hope that nothing interferes with the medications purpose, I could just be paranoid who knows lol.
There is some research that it might slightly increase testosterone levels, nothing that will make a difference though. I covered the subject of testosterone in my "how to stop hairless from testosterone video" and it is not as simple as people make it out to be. It isn't exactly hair friendly but baseline testosterone levels will not hurt your hair, only supra physiological levels and no OTC supplement is going to cause that.
Hey Kevin, I've been using finasteride 1mg daily and topical stemoxydine for a year but now I'm losing hair. I will make a blood test to see what the problem is. My question is: if I find that there's no problem that's causing the hair loss, should it start using minoxidil? I'm afraid that minoxidil will not keep my hair for more than 5 years as I've heard. What should I do?
Minoxidil is definitely the best thing you could add to your routine. It is a much more powerful growth stimulant than stemoxydine but it works differently so it can be stacked. If that doesn't do it you can try adding dutasteride as well.
Hi Kevin, someone once mentioned you were a local in colorado. Was wondering if you can recommend a dermatologist to look at my scalp. Thanks. If not in colorado, recommendations on finding a good one?
I want to know if scalp tingling occurs when you have male pattern baldness. I get scalp tingling quite often and I wonder if it’s because of DHT even though I use dutasteride. I dont’t if it’s because of the DHT accumulated in the scalp because when I wash my hair I get a sense if relief but then there should be little to no DHT in the scalp if I’m using dutasteride. It’s really confusing? Does any one of you have the same thing?
Probably not, even people who don't have androgenic alopecia can feel things like tingling and and itching. If there is a correlation it is a very strong one and shouldn't be interpreted as a sign of MPB progressing considering how multi-factorial it is.
Hey Kevin, quality as usual. I have been using topical finasteride for the last 6 months. Its been working very well. I have been advised to try out oral finasteride by a hair surgeon. However I am yet to find an oral finasteride tablet that does not contain titanium dioxide. Are you aware of any on the market that don't contain this?
Cervical misalignment sounds like a chiropractic term, I'd recommend you stop seeing the quack who diagnosed you and actually go see a real doctor. If you are having issues with brain fog or fatigue it could be many factors but if you suspect it is finasteride then talk to your doctor about your titration, maybe dropping down to 0.5 or 0.25 MG every other day.
The gravity theory is essentially the "bludflow" theory that has been debunked many times. The idea is that somehow the blood is not getting to the top of your head due to gravity. I guess that means the blood is not getting to the top of the brain either, which could explain why some people still cling to this theory. If there were really a problem with blood flow to the top of the scalp, our skin would necrose and slough off. And if you ask any emergency room doctor what the bloodiest wound is, they will tell you it is cuts to the scalp. They bleed like crazy. Moreover, vasolidator drugs (not counting minoxidil, which works through a different mechanism than vasodilation) don't help hair loss. So improving the bludflow doesn't help. So I addressed this in my Hairguard videos, because the various hair guard devices are supposed to improve "bludflow." I've think I've done enough videos on that topic and my point of view is clear.
@@haircafekevin That's not what I read about the theory. The idea is that the subcutaneous fat in the scalp thins away, which is what causes pressure on the follicles, forcing them to miniaturize. Female scalps still maintain the fat in old age, but DHT (since it's a fat burner), accumulates in the scalp of men, making it thinner and thinner. You need fat to support hair follicles.
@@FeastofChamps That's sort of a variant on the same theory. Why then is there such a strong genetic component to androgenic alopecia? Something genetically different about the fat in the scalp? I think the main difference in people with AGA is the amount of DHT in their scalp hair follicles, which has been demonstrated, and this leads to the biochemical changes that cause miniaturization, etc. There's no need to bring fat into the equation.
@@haircafekevin That would make sense, but I don’t understand how some steroid users are resistant to male pattern baldness even though they are injecting themselves with exogenous androgens.
Patrick Bateman made part 2! Loved your hairstyle and beard in part 1. Q: Is it normal to get a shedding once in a while? I am on 5%Min+.1% Fin topical for 2 years and experiencing shedding since the past month. Love from India
Thank you and yes most definitely. I made a video about shedding recently, I'd recommend checking it out but bottom line is it's nothing to worry about.
@@haircafekevin But might there not be a possibility that young/healthy people with no prostate issues could see a shrinkage even on that dose? Isn't the prostate highly involved in male ejaculation and orgasm? I've noticed that the "dripple" is reported a lot, so it might be a good subject for a video as well. I would certainly appreciate your take on it, cause it seems to be one of the most frequently reported side effects of finasteride.
@@user-lz2mt5nc9e I don't think any of the sexual sides of finasteride have to do with shrinking the prostate. They are probably due to mild increases in estrogen from the aromatization of the increased testosterone produced by blocking 5AR.
What’s up Kevin. I have 2 questions for you. I’m 21 years old started finasteride 4 months ago. I like the results I’m seeing but kinda want more. My original plan was to start stacking Modixonal at one year and maybe even the 2 year mark of my finasteride use. But I’m not sure now. So my first question is, am I losing potential gains by not starting modixonal now? I’m eager to start it but on the other hand I don’t want to have to shampoo every day. I shampoo once a week because I feel like my hair looks better if I do that. I know it’s gross but I condition everyday. Anyways, if I’m using modoxinal will it clog my hair follicles more if I’m only shampooing once a week? What does your hair wash schedule look like? Any advice youd recommend for people like me who don’t like shampooing there hair often? Thanks for doing what you do Kevin! Best, Jake
Hey, no you won't lose any gains by not using minoxidil now, especially if you get good results from finasteride but since it sounds like you want as much growth as possible you might as well add minoxidil now. Keep in mind though you need to give it a year before you can ascertain full results. I wash my hair daily but no, how often you wash won't influence hair growth. The whole "clogged follicle" thing is a marketing gimmick from the 90s. You see it in scam products like Nioxin and the Helsinki Formula, don't worry about it.
If starting min caused a telogen hair to shed now rather than later, will that hair require min to regrow? And if you regrow a hair due to min, and then lose it due to stopping min, is there any chance that same hair could regrow again later due to starting fin? I know you've mentioned that stopping min and relying solely on fin doesn't end well for guys, but I've only been using min 2% for 6 weeks and fin for 2 weeks. I do see some quarter-inch baby hairs where I've been applying min, but I'm just hoping there's still a chance I could get by on just fin if my diffuse hair loss isn't too noticeable unless I cut it too short, it gets wet or sweaty, or there's the wrong lighting.
No, the mechanism behind minoxidil is different from finasteride so there is no guarantee that results you get from minoxidil will be maintained with finasteride. Basically if you stop minoxidil anything you've gained from it you will lose. From the sound of things your results from minoxidil haven't been that spectacular so you could probably stop it and not lose much ground so if you wanted to drop it and just try using finasteride as a stand alone treatment that probably is no big deal. It's not like you're a minoxidil hyper responder.
@@haircafekevin Sounds good! Thanks! If I were to need to start using min again after I've given fin a year, would I still be able to get regrowth in hairs that were already regrown once from min? Or is it like the Dragonballs on Earth, and you can only bring a hair back to life once?
Great video. Is it too late for me. I just turned 45 and started with dutasteride and 5% minoxidil. Also taking castor oil orally. Also dermarolling 1 time a week.
@@haircafekevin thnx Kevin. I'm probably like a Norwood 5 or 6. I have started noticing little hairs on my head in places where I havent seen them for a long time which is encouraging but I'm more worried about the front of my head more so than the back. It seems alot slower to see results so far. Any other treatments that u think I should consider?
Kevin, you've changed my life. Can you please just keep making this videos like a damn broken record. We all don't care if we've heard it before. Yell in my ear forever man and make a patreon or something so I can support you.
Love the content. You have helped me with my battle against hair loss tremendously. You are in fact, the Mann.
my dad said he wished all this hair loss treatment was around when he first started losing hair, he was already nw5 by the time minoxidil came out
My dad feels the same way.
Atleast back then people went bald less
@@_baller Where's the data for that
@@TwistedLullabies It definitely does SEEM like guys are going bald younger tho.
@@Josh-fp2qn There's no data to support that
You're the best Kevin. Keep rocking!
Kevin, you just doing so an important job for people who suffer from this problem... And you perhaps literally saved my life, my stupid GP a couple of years ago prescribed me oral minoxidil, but not finasteride, I did not use it of course, just bought finasteride instead. Thank you, Kevin! Keep doing it!
You bet! Thanks for watching.
@@haircafekevin Hey choom! What do you think about my doing 0.5mg oral + 0.5mg topical finasteride daily? Is it unnecessary and pointless? I don't wanna do 1mg of either by itself. Thanks!
@@ytsux9259 drol the topical, fin oral or topical work the same, and 0.5 oral is as good as 1mg. there is no benefit to add topical finasteride.
Just wanted to say thanks for always answering my questions thanks big bro
You bet! Happy to help.
always enjoy the content that you put out, after coming across Kevin's videos i have been on finasteride at first 0.5mg eod, and 1 month in i am now on 0.5mg/daily. Results thicker hair, and drastic reduction in hairfall. Side effects as mentioned are mostly nocebo, and it all went away after 2 weeks in.
Great to hear! Keep up the good work!
@@haircafekevin I have a question sir. I am 20 years old and started experiencing hair loss due to androgenic alopecia. So i saw no choice but to use oral finasteride. I am wondering if I am too young to be lowering my dht levels. . i do not want to lose my hair but i also do not want to ruin the benefits of dht.
@@metallicbobby4984 no u are not, u can use fin no problem , i started at 21 , no sides two weeks in.
@@metallicbobby4984 I M 18 and on it, if your body has developed fully you can safely hop on it
God I wish there was a way to topically suppress DHT without ANY of it going systemic
Probably not possible with current therapy, but who know what the future holds?
@@haircafekevin Yeah I hope so, I though Topical Dutasteride had some promise though?
Whoever makes that will be the world’s first trillionaire
Topical saw palmetto oil
2ml of 0.25 topical fina only suppress 25/ of your systemic dht. It's almost not systemic I'd say.
You're the best on anything hair loss related. Love hearing your take on these things more than Derek with More Plates More Dates.
You the best Kev, thanks for all the great info.
I love your content Kevin. I tried oral finasteride for about 1 month. I did little research before starting the drug. I became extremely depressed and impotent. When this started to happen is when I dig deep into researching side effects.
Since I tried 1 mg daily, I want to try the lowest possible dose, or give topical fin a try instead.
LMFAO the iq above the double digits line killed me 😂😂 Immediately liked!
Whenever I pop a finasteride I think about kevin.
I know you dont like oral minoxidil but i think you should give it another look and heres why: The blood pressure medication is usually way higher dose (up to 50mg or more) whereas for hair it only needs like 1mg which is 50x less than the danger blood pressure dose
cheeseburgers and alcohol that your viewers consume is more dangerous :p
Well like I explained in my oral minoxidil video, I do realize that the hair growth dose is lower than the blood pressure dose, but there is also no evidence that the risk of certain side effects, like pericardial effusion, is dose related. In other words, we don't know if 1 mg is really safer than 50 mg of the drug. Minoxidil is given to very few patients nowadays for blood pressure. There are better, safer alternatives, so cardiologists avoid the drug at almost all costs. So the fact that serious complications from the drug have been reported despite the very small number of patients on the drug is concerning. To suddenly take this shunned drug and start giving it to the hundreds of thousands if not millions of people with AGA without more safety data is not wise in my opinion.
@@freedomdividendnews5042 Well I agree those are bad too.
@@haircafekevin You have mentioned that you have used oral minoxidil in the past for a period of 6 months. Have you had any side effects yourself?
@@Todestrieb21 he only mentioned slight body hair increase from what ive heard
Just started topical Dut yesterday, will report back from the hair loss front.
Where did you get it? Duderma from minoxidilmax? How often will you apply it? Once a week?
@@sergiosietaram250 FUEClinic (Dr Mwamba). twice a week.
@@TheClerk89 nice, good luck and keep us posted man
@@sergiosietaram250 will do
@Jon Switch good luck. im using it twice a week in the evenings. lets hope this works.
Unfortunately, some doctors (mine included) recommend Minoxidil as the primary line of defence against androgenic alopecia
I take it you mean topical minoxidil and not finasteride? I would get a second opinion.
@@haircafekevin yeah, but it’s too late for me. Had a crazy amount of regrowth before I realized I probably only needed fin, so I’m stuck on minoxidil now.
Great video as always man! *Says India and shows Dhalsim* haha hilarious.
A couple of notes about topical finasteride that you're probably already aware of but didn't mention in the video:
Oral finasteride is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily via the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme subfamily. Two metabolites, the t-butyl side chain monohydroxylated and monocarboxylic acid metabolites, have been identified. These metabolites possess around 20% of the 5α-reductase inhibitory activity of finasteride.
Therefore, by applying fin topically you skip 1st pass liver metabolism and you don't get these metabolites. Which can explain why topical fin might be less effective and with a lower chance of side-effects.
Also, an interesting hypothesis can be made by looking at the scrotal application of testosterone. Applying testosterone cream directly to your ballsack (instead of your leg, arm, etc.) results in a disproportionate spike of DHT related to T because your balls, just like your scalp, are full of 5AR.
Inferring from this, if we reverse -engineer the theory, we can hypothesise that applying a strong 5AR antagonist like fin or dut directly to a 5AR-dense zone, such as the scalp, could result in a possibly more favourable local outcome.
This is just an interesting hypothesis. And we're not even mentioning the molecular weight factors.
Those are some very good points. I hadn't considered the effects of the metabolites of oral finasteride, and this might explain some of the differences in outcome between the two routes of administration. But since the metabolites have less 5AR activity, that might actually imply topical finasteride would be more effective than oral, assuming it doesn't rapidly degrade in the scalp. The other thing I didn't discuss was novel preparations for topical finasteride delivery, such as lipid nanoparticles. I don't think the topical finasteride story is over. It will be interesting to see what future research brings to light.
@@haircafekevin Ah, yes the novel topical preparations of both fin and dut are very interesting to me as well! I've purchased an ultrasonic cleaner and will start compounding liposomal lotions containing APIs such as dut in the near future. Cheers!
Yes, skin in general has a lot more 5AR - Something like a 5.5 fold increase in DHT when transdermal testosterone is applied instead of intramuscular (not just to the ball sack). It seems that topical Finasteride might be better for targeting the type II 5AR enzyme in the inner layer of the outer root sheath and inner root sheath of the follicle. (Type I is in the scalp, but Type II is actually found proximal to the follicle sheath). Obviously there is that logic that Finasteride should go systemtic to disable circulating type II 5AR which reduces DHT being supplied to the follicle, but the fact that there is such concentrations of type II 5AR in the follicular sheath tells me circulating systemic DHT may not play as much of a role (why else would there be a need for the enzyme in the follicular area?). Interesting stuff.
Kevin you’re awesome! Thank you so much for the work you do!
I have been on topical fin 0.5% for 11 months and then started oral fin. I had no shedding or changes and two months later I started oral dut and am having a little shed. So I can come to two conclusions: topical and oral fin worked as well for me, and oral dut is probably working a little better for me.
Your so smart Kevin wow I’m learning a lot from you.
I tried topical and oral, with oral I get sideffects. The good thing is that topical works so well. No sideffects at all with topical.
I've had the same experience
What concentration u use and do you apply it every day
results?
@@robgreen5943 I switched back to oral both. Keegals work well. I still had a few sideffects, but that takes every sideffect away
@@acristianban Thank you for the reply. Did you see better results on oral?
Hey Kevin, can you make a video about greying and how to slow it down (or even reverse, if possible) according to science?
I have been thinking about it for a while. There are some case reports of melitane 5 improving melanin production in hair follicles. There isn't as much research on the subject compared to hair loss, probably because going grey isn't nearly as bad as going bald plus its easy to just dye your hair.
I have some greys and I touch them up using derm match, it works very well.
Hi Kevin, could you make a video about protein powder and hair loss, and which protein supplements may be better for muscle growth. Thanks
I can’t get oral Finasteride in my country but minoxidilmax does ship it’s topical fin here. However they look kind of shady, there’s no company info you can look up. Do any of you guys have some info if their products are legit?
Several known CZcamsrs as well as many individuals online from different countries endorse their products and confirm their legitimacy. I just received my first order from them. Yet to use it, but no issues with delivery.
I too use it, I use their Essengen-F product, but I got 0 results from it in in about 4 months... whereas I got noticable gains from traditional minoxidil. I’m not sure if their product actually has finasteride in it or if it’s just bs. After all that’s a prescription drug, how could they sell it?
Hello Kevin can you talk about the connection between tretinoin and hair loss? There are studies that say it can help hair and studies that say it can harm hair growth. Thank you I love you ❤️
Kevin, do you think there's a point when you should give up on trying to save your hair? Like what if you're NW2-3 when you're young?
I'd say never give up. If you are a norwood 7 then maybe consider a hair system though.
Just got back to this video again. For some info.
I decided to try taking oral finasteride every other day and apply topical finasteride on the days I don't take oral finasteride.
My reason being that I already use minoxidil (regaine foam) twice a day. As Kevin said in few of his vids foam minoxidil's downside is that it gets wasted on the hair rather than reaching the scalp. So. On days I don't take oral finasteride I use Morr F 5% which is 5% minoxidil and 0.01% finasteride in one substance. I use that instead of my second application of the foam minoxidil before bed. Although this substance makes my hair quite greasy, hence why I apply before bed
Yo Kevin I got a question I have been using minoxidil for like 4 months on the hairline and I haven’t seen much regrowth I wanted to get tretinoin but I can’t get it prescription for it so I was wondering if retinol cream/serum would have the same affect as tretinoin?
Hey Kevin, thoughts on any issues with applying the melted minoxidil foam through massaging it into your scalp with your fingers rather than using a dropper? Also, do you think that applying heat to it and making it liquid reduces the effectiveness of the foam minoxidil?
Thank you Kevin. Keep up the great work.
You bet.
I think a lot of the "post finasteride" issues, are actually because since they are off the pill they are getting depressed that they are back to losing their hair again, which is a very sad and debilitating experience....so it's more so just them being depressed... They should at least experiment with lowered dosages or two weeks on one week off, there must be a way...
Just the video I needed, thank you!
Maybe it makes sense to use topical dutasteride because it has a 5 day phase of action?
I mean take every day finasteride and every 6th day topical dutasteride?
Combination therapy is probably fine but I would never rely on topical dutasteride as a monotherapy.
A couple of videos I made on it.
czcams.com/video/kJdTn7laIQQ/video.html
czcams.com/video/MuCxu05Rp2Q/video.html
Great vid. Thanks for all you do - King Kev
Polyphenols video anytime? Would be great to also have a vid on adjunct modalities to fin min for people willing to put in more topical/ effort
Hey Kevin. Awesome video man, as always. I was wondering if you could recommend the minoxidil you use. Or one that’s not too greasy or of good quality. Thank you! You’re saving my hair and my confidence.
He uses the foam, but melts it with a dryer so it becomes liquid.
Yeah, liquifying foam minoxidil is what I do on days I go out. Other days I just use the liquid minoxidil.
They should give placebos to the different groups so they wouldn't know if they are on topical or oral fin cause everyone is taking pills and topicals.
I think that is how they did the last study I referenced. Otherwise it would be impossible to be blinded as to what treatment you were on.
Kevin have you ever taken creatine? If so did it affect your hair? Is finasteride still able to keep the DHT increase from creatine low enough to not affect the hair? I want to take creatine but I'm afraid to. I'm on 1mg finasteride daily for 3 weeks now
He should answer this question
@@Bruhtyreuio76 there is a video he did on it I think. Have to search
Don't risk Creatine if you even suspect you may have MPB. Since you have AGA you should not take anything that may increase DHT. First time I took Creatine Monohydrate in 2019 for a month and noticed slightly worse hair (not sure), then stopped. Reddit convinced me it has no correlation with hairloss because there are no studies to suggest it. Started again in may 2021 for a month, greater daily dose this time, also greater doses of L-Arginine + L-Citrulline / L-Ornithine combo of 7grams per day. Now I'm almost NW2. Even going at the gym alone may accelerate hairloss a bit due to increase T which means greater DHT.
I use topical to avoid nocebo.
Thanks for the new video Kevin, can you share your opinion on S5 cream? Also I‘ve read dutasteride is 3x more effective at blocking type II enzyme, is that true? Also do you have to use dutasteride daily?
Scalp biopsies show only about 10 percent more DHT suppression from dutasteride, the 3x greater efficacy probably relates more to serum and prostate suppression and many of the studies done on Dut were done at 2.5 mg as opposed to 0.5 MG.
Dut has a long half life so two or three times weekly titration is probably fine for most people.
S5 cream is worthless. There are studies where people literally cover half their body in topical spironolactone and they barely have any change in androgen levels. Try topical fluridil for a topical anti-androgen instead.
Kevin can you please help me? I am 17 and it's been 1 year since my hair has started to noticeably fall out and never grown back. Doctors and dermotolagists have confirmed it's MPB and recommended to "not think about it" and forget about the drugs. It's been a year and it has gotten worse and you've encouraged me to call up the doctors to get on something. I have an appointment in two weeks and they may allow me on fin or min. What do you think I should tell them I want? Bear in mind I am 17 and the still devaloping so idk if inhibiting DHT is great for me. But all I know I want to take action but idk what is the best course to do so. I am from the UK btw. Thank you.
Most people are done with physical maturation by the age of 17. Many people your age take finasteride with no issue, tell your doctor you want to get on finasteride asap.
If your doctor refuses you can try another doctor and if you absolutely cannot get finasteride then try minoxidil to buy yourself some time although keep in mind any benefits you get from it you'll have to keep on using minoxidil to maintain those benefits.
For a temporary finasteride replacement look into fluridil. It is expensive and difficult to acquire but it will only be to buy you some time until you can start finasteride.
updates? what did you do?
Yo Kevin I’m an 18 year old (battling) hypochondriac who thinks their hairline might be receding. Could finasteride have unknown side effects or affect unknown mechanisms (specifically in the CNS) that might undermine psychology/psychological well being over time? Or is depression the end all be all of psychological testing? Would they have been able to gauge differences in performance of tasks, thinking, neurochemistry, etc? Hopefully you know what I mean. Thanks
No, it doesn't. There is a lot of fear mongering about this online but none of it is grounded in any evidence based data. I have several videos which address this subject. I'll link them and suggest you view them. Whatever you do, stay far FAR away from the forums, nothing but fear mongering. You'll give yourself a nocebo effect otherwise.
Finasteride and Neurosteroids: czcams.com/video/EkS6_wub7W8/video.html
Finasteride and depression: czcams.com/video/EgYczERIkBg/video.html
Debunking post finasteride syndrome part 1: czcams.com/video/dXwO0E2A7LI/video.html
Debunking post finasteride syndrome part 2: czcams.com/video/YM4DJbK9HQY/video.html
updates? what did you do?
kevin, the studies shows that while topical does effect serum, its dose related. lower dose, 0.2mg topical ngives comporable scalp reduction to 1mg oral but less serum reduction. however the studies arent long term therefore overtime, there maybe a greater serum effect. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6609098/
I had been using oral along with topical finasteride nad my hair was better than ever. Ditched the topical due to inconvenience and upped the dose of oral. It caused a massive shed from which my hair never fully recovered.
Can finasteride cause gallstones? Because I have read on the internet that finasteride users are more likely to develop gallstones because it increases female hormone estrogen?
Probably not, the increase in estrogen is very mild and finasteride raises testosterone too so I doubt it. I haven't seen any hard data that suggests a correlation. At this point it's just internet speculation.
I'm on my third week using finasteride, and to be honest, I feel weird discomfort under my right rib cage. And I am worried I could develop gallstones.
@@qur461 I'd speak to your doctor as soon as you can.
Hey Kevin, just wanted an opinion on my situation (or anyone elses input).
I'm currently at a Norwood 2, I have never taken finasteride (or done anything for hair loss) and I am planning on taking it in a couple of months. I currently have puberty induced gyno so I really want to get myself into the best shape of my life and also get all my bloodwork done ranging from vitamin deficiencies to testosterone/dht levels. Was planning on starting with .5mg MWF, is this enough to at least keep the hair I have? I plan on eventually upping the dosage - and I will be taking Nutrafol, castor oil, dermarolling, ketoconazole shampoo, and finasteride. I honestly do not have the time in my day to use minoxidil consistently.
You think this will be a solid routine? I will be keeping my diet extremely clean along with workout regiment - and get bloodwork done every 3-6 months for rest of my life. I believe finasteride is as safe as can be with proper care and control. You have motivated me to do so, thank you
Can you make a video on how to combine minoxidil with tretinoin ??
You don't have to combine them. Just apply 0.1 percent tretinoin to the areas you intend to apply minoxidil, give it about 10 minutes to absorb and then apply minoxidil as you normally would.
@@haircafekevin thank a lot Kevin didnt know about that is there a chance that you will make a video about skincare routine of yours to show us how to stay young like you at first i thought you were 30 but i think you said you were in your 40s
@@llukan5154
Thank you and yes, right here.
czcams.com/video/S22QQWFt8xI/video.html
➡️ 10:07 Lighting and hair styling can influence in photograph "Bludflow theory as an real example" 🤣🤣🤣💔💔
Brilliant video
Love your content!
Thank you!
Hi Kevin! What is your take on shampoos with sulfate vs without sulfate? Do you recommand Head and shoulders as your first go to when you want your hair to look the best?
Sulfates are just foaming agents, there are some people who are sensitive to them but they're not an issue for most people and they're found in the majority of shampoos on the market. It's a convenient marketing tactic to fear monger about things like sulfates because sulfate free shampoos don't lather as well and you have to use more of the shampoo and thus buy more of the product.
Pyrithione zinc shampoos like H&S are great for maintaining good scalp health, especially if you have issues with dandruff and inflammation.
Will you make a video about direct aplication of Minoxidil Sulfate? I've recently found out that DS laboratories sell it and I don't really know what to think about it...
Following
It's a scam product, minoxidil sulfate is quickly hydrolyzed in water back into minoxidil so you wouldn't be able to sell a pre-made minoxidil sulfate product. Just more overpriced crap from DS laboratories. I'd recommend staying away from any of the garbage they sell like nanoxidil and revita. Terrible products and unethical deceptive marketing.
@@haircafekevin Kevin I have a question which I’m sure you can answer. I’ve noticed that everyone I’ve encounter who experiences hair loss has an itchy scalp? Why is this? Is this DHT or ?
@@haircafekevin also I took a 3 week break from dutasteride after regaining so much hair due to needing bloods taken & I’ve lost so much hair lol. Also the itch is back hence the question above ^ thank you!!
@@Lo60mk what does DHT cause inflammation?
Have looked at topical dutasteride? Obviously not FDA approved but might be interesting
Question if you should wait at least 3 months to see if the finasteride is working before you add minoxidil. Can you add some other growth factor other than minoxidil safely.
Hi Kevin. Can you make a video about scalp diseases? I have been taking finasteride for over a year and my hair is constantly falling out, I would like to start using minoxidil but I'm afraid because I feel a crust on my head, it seems to me that it is seborrheic dermatitis. The hair is falling out of my entire head not only from the scalp. I don't know how to get rid of it :( Thats hurt a lot. On every channel they talk about a powerful finasterid and it doesn't work for me,through the scalp .
You should make a video on identical twins and gene expression in hair loss
They have done research on twins and hair loss. I think Derek from More Plates More Dates did a video on it.
Kevin I’m noticing my hair thinning a lot and have started fin if I’m not scared of sides should I jump on minoxidil for a better chance at hair growth ?
Yeah, for sure. Minoxidil has a very good chance of helping.
Thanks for all the amazing info. What's your latest take on topical dutasteride?
It has promise, I made a video about it several months ago.
Got sides from 0.5 mg per day, took it for 12 days and , noticed decrease in libido and the quantity of ejac. Ig oral fin is not made for me
Hey Kevin, love your videos. In your opinion, do you think it would be possible to make a stemoxydine/RU58841/ minoxidil combo topical? Just attempting to make an all in one topical to avoid twice daily applications.
In India you can buy the 0.1% finasteride + 5% minoxidil topical solution without a prescription but you need one for the 1m tablet.
Hey Kevin since I found your channel you helped me get the courage to start taking finasteride. I had a hair transplant consultation today and the consultant said finasteride won’t do anything for my hair because I’m a Norwood 6 diffuse thinning. Thoughts?
Finasteride may help you maintain what little you have left but your doctor probably thinks you're too far gone.
You'll likely need a body hair transplant. Look up Dr. Umar in California, he specializes in such. I'd still use finasteride and minoxidil to help maintain and maybe get some regrowth but you'll likely need grafts outside your donor area.
Body hair transplants definitely work and can look good. You'll have to keep it short for life though because they don't grow as long as scalp hair but I have seen some good results.
Do you think finasteride is still effective on people who have low natural DHT but very DHT sensitive hair follicles?
Hello Kevin, I'd like to start with dut but I have 3 months supply of finasteride. Some guys take dut and fin (1 day dut, 6 days fin). What do you think about it? Thanks for your content
I'd just start with finasteride. Whether you're using dutasteride or finasteride or cycling the two it will all work because you will be inhibiting the 5a reductase enzyme. Dutasteride is a little more powerful but that won't necessarily mean more hair regrowth. Even castrates do not regrow that much hair. You just need to suppress enough DHT, not as much DHT as possible.
Dutasteride should be used for people when finasteride is not enough and that is rare.
@@haircafekevin Thank you, I wish and hope researchers have the same interest and passion in this curse as you do , have a great day/night!
Hey Kevin I am 22 and nw3 I want to rate my state of hair from my picture do I need finasteride?
Kevin Mann is the real life BoBoBo-Bo BoBo-Bo, on a mission to stop chrome domes everywhere.
Hey Kev need your advice mate. I have always noticed that eating a lot of sugary food would cause me to see more hair fall out in the shower the next day. Does this mean that finasteride is not working?
I wonder if someone could do low dose topical fin mixed with topical duetasteride or just topical duetasteride alone if they’re one of the few who gets some side effects.
You probably wouldn't get much more scalp DHT suppression. Using higher doses of 5a inhibitors results in more serum DHT suppression but scalp DHT suppression for finasteride tends to taper off after 1 MG and beyond that it is more beneficial for the prostate.
Either pick oral or topical, but no point in doing both IMO.
@@haircafekevin
Oh, for sure it there wouldn’t be a huge difference in scalp DHT reduction doing that.
I guess my point was that, if someone is new and one of the few who are very sensitive to or worried about side effects, maybe another option would be to use topical Fin low dose with topical Deut because apparently the particle size of Deut is larger than Fin so less is absorbed systemically. There is some blood work some respectable people on a hair loss forum who tried it got after using it and it showed less system DHT suppression. Of course more studies would have to come out on this so that’s the best we have at this point, but assuming that is true, it may be worth trying by that for those who want to see how they respond before maybe moving to oral Fin or whatever. I guess that’s my line of thinking.
Your thoughts on 1mg 3 days a week vs 0.5mg everyday of Finasteride, any strong differences?
About an 8 percent difference in DHT suppression. Not too significant.
Ive been losing my hairline slowly, I wanted to ask if I should only apply Minoxidil on my hairline area or all over my head. I don't want to shave my head off that's why
Collab with more plates more dates? It would be chad overload
Hey Kevin, I love your videos. I had a question, it's most likely not safe for me to take finasteride due to a liver disease I have, so would you (without giving medical advice) possibly recommend using Alfatradiol, and then minoxidil? Again, not relying on your answer but seeing how people are constantly reminding others to start with finasteride, and it would most likely be more harmful than beneficial in my case I was curious if you have any other potential suggestions - let me know if you have the time! (I'm 25 btw) Thank you.
First I would check with your doctor about whether the liver disease would preclude using finasteride. There are different types and degrees of liver disease and your doctor is in the best position to judge the safety of any drug you might take. If finasteride is excluded, then certainly I would consider something like alfatradiol and topical minoxidil.
@@haircafekevin Thank you! I appreciate that. Will check with my doctor. Do you know if I have to order Alfatradiol overseas?
@@primalvisionsambience Yeah, only it is only in Germany and South America I believe.
I just found your channel and am binge watching your videos! I’m a 35 yo female with andro alopecia, no chance of getting pregnant. Can you tell me, is finasteride something I can consider along with minoxidil?? I see it’s tough for woman to get due to contraindication of birth defects, but, for women not having children this shouldn’t be an issue, no?
Thanks for the vids kevin, is fin 3x a week almost as effective as once a day for hairloss?
Sure, very frequently doses lower than 1 mg daily are effective.
As always, great video. I’m on fin and oral min (I know I know it’s risky) and hope I can respond well and regrow some hair. I’ve looked back on pics I had when I was half a year into topical min and my hair was so thick and healthy looking. After I quit for a few months it went downhill slowly but surely. I’m hoping oral min’s response on me is the same or better.
By the way, I don’t seem to lose or shed hair. Even off of fin and min, my hair shedding in the shower is only max 20 hairs. Is it possible to still thin and not have much shedding?
A good way of describing my thinning is that I have one or two hairs growing from a follicular pore vs three or four like I used to. I’m guessing that’s also miniaturization?
Why did you quit topical min?
Not a Fin fearmonger but what can I say, 6mo in, I have developed pea sized gyno on my right side. Exactly like the literature says. Hurts when going down stairs fast, basically any agitation stings. 40mgs of Nolvadex gave me blurry af vision within a week which I am still recovering from 4 weeks after stopping it. So basically I made the choice to roll the dice with gyno and keep taking Fin in the hope that the gyno will resolve itself like puberty gyno usually does because that's what it basically is... I am seriously thinking about topical Dutasteride now though.
Any update man? How you doing?
@@benomils6920 I continued the Fin. Decided to give Nolva another try. Been using it at 20mg ed and managed to basically undo the Gyno to the point I do not feel any difference from before. But since both meds are toxic and have their problems, this was not a permanent solution, obviously. Been on both for about a year+ total. Have now not been on either for 8 months now. Didn't feel like the Fin did anything in the year I was on it. But I did see a massive thinning and recession since going off it. Fin is indeed a powerful drug but all that means is it SLOWS DOWN LOSS A BIT which otherwise would have been even more dramatic. That's what it does for most people. It's certainly not anything even close to being a "cure" for MPB like Kevin/Haircafe says at times. Do not expect any regrowth like I did. All in all not sustainable for me and I rate -12/10, would not do again. YMMV. Maybe if you start Fin at age 25 and you have less than average genetic predisposition to MPB you can keep your hairline and density good/pristine for a long long time. If otoh you have average or worse genetic predisposition to MPB, FIN is unlikely to really provide the results you'll want. I have made peace with my baldcel status.
@@darijanr5704
Lift weights then
One important thing: the quality of life for oral fin is higher because it started higher in the oral fin group. Take a look at the before scores. It's more informative to look at the magnitude of the change, not the end value. Judged on this basis, the improvement in quality of life from oral and topical fin are roughly equal.
One other point: iirc the systemic suppression from topical fin is lower than from oral fin at the equivalent dose, isn't it? This might be the reason for the lower number of symptoms that people seem to generally associate with topical fin (I know the data in these studies is kind of mixed, though the second one definitely has fewer symptoms for topical). And this is good too, because what we want is DHT suppression in the scalp, not systemically, of course. I *think* there's also a study that shows that oral and topical suppressed DHT roughly equally well in the scalp, but I might be misremembering that. I'll see if I can dig it up.
In any case, I agree that these two studies have problems that are not great. Too bad we can't crowdsource a study ourselves.
Anyway, I make my own topical fin 0.1%/min 5% mix and I'm really happy with it. Got sides from oral fin unfortunately. Might try it again some day though.
I’m thinking about trying topical deut mixed with topical low dose fin. So far, some people on the hair loss forms have done it with blood tests showing less DHT suppression and they said it worked. Sadly not enough good studies on it as it’s a newer thing. But the particle size of deut is larger so it seems less would get systemically absorbed, but it’s still small enough to get into the scalp typically if it’s compounded correctly. A few online places are now offering it compounded. If I can use a full amount of topical Deut with lower dose topical fin, and it is successful, I am thinking that may be the sweet spot.
Well the quality of life was initially higher in the oral fin group, but the difference at the onset was not statistically significant, whereas the difference was statistically significant after treatment. So I think the authors were correct to say that the quality of life was better with oral finasteride, statistically speaking. Regarding your point on the amount of DHT suppression, it's hard to compare the dose of topical vs oral finasteride when looking at DHT suppression. It's sort of apples and oranges. We can say from the studies that there is a dose response curve to the DHT suppression for both topical and oral finasteride, but I think it's difficult to say that a equivalently effective of dose of topical finasteride to oral finasteride would have less systemic absorption. I mean that may be true, but it's difficult to determine.
I'm topical finasteride is working for you and it sounds like you should stick with it if you are tolerating better than oral.
@@thehylander266 Thanks for the idea! I didn't know that dut was a larger molecule. Looking it up, I see that it's 528 Da vs fin at 372 Da. That's about 40% larger, and it's above 500 Da. Interesting. I'm a little put off by dut's inhibition of 5AR-type1 (whereas fin only inhibits 5AR-type2 and 5AR-type3), but last time I checked, it seems like we don't really even know which tissues the different isozymes are expressed in, so I suppose it just depends on your risk appetite. I suppose there's also the argument "fin works, so why try dut?". I don't know enough about small molecule biochemistry to know if 40% or >500 Da is large enough to make the difference we want and offset these risks/uncertainties, but it's definitely an interesting idea to monitor.
It really is a shame that studies on topical 5AR inhibitors just seem to be in their infancy... Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be any money in it for pharma companies, so we don't see much activity, I assume. Seems worth exploring though for the theory you outlined though, if you can get the compounding right! On a quick google search I found a compounding pharmacy in the US with some decent prices for what they claim is correctly compounded topical dut: www.cfspharmacy.pharmacy. Usual disclaimer though: I'm unaffiliated, haven't tried them, no idea if they're legit, etc. Let us know what happens with your attempt!
Edit: Sorry, seems I was wrong about us not having a good idea of which tissues the different isozymes are expressed in (and perhaps also about fin not inhibiting 5AR-type1). I guess more research has been done. See these links:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/6715#gene-expression
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/6716#gene-expression
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/6717#gene-expression
It seems that type2 isn't expressed in the skin, type3 is somewhat expressed in the skin, and type1 is very expressed in the skin. However, we have to remember the case of MK-386: a potent and quite selective 5AR-type1 inhibitor developed by Merck, but never marketed, which didn't actually help reduce hair loss or acne! So interpret these expression statistics with caution; it seems that they don't tell the whole story. As a side note, It also turns out that fin also is a slow, time-dependent inhibitor of type1:
pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/bi00174a041
www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/HMBCI.2010.035/html
From this, I would guess that dut's increased efficacy comes from its potent type3 inhibition (50x more than fin for type3!). So perhaps mixing them would help. But, I need to learn a bit more in order to interpret these papers completely, but maybe someone with more of a biochem background can comment. Until then please take all my reasoning here with a grain of salt. Too bad we don't have a type3-selective inhibitor, that would really help us get a complete picture.
@@haircafekevin Thanks for responding! Your videos are awesome btw, and I always look forward to seeing new ones. Thanks for being this fucking unstoppable educational force in the hair loss community lol. You're the man.
I have to admit that I didn't read the study before making that comment, so shame on me. Upon reading it, I see that you're right: the difference was only significant after treatment. It's unfortunate that the authors didn't do a test on whether the percentage increase in QoL test scores between the two groups was different. They just did a t-test on the initial scores and a t-test on the final scores. The former (that is, a test on the percentage increase between initial and final score) would allow us to establish the statistical significance of the improvement. Since they don't report any statistics for this though, there's no way of knowing.
Just noticed a separate, strange thing btw: I reran the t-tests for the initial and final scores, and they're completely different than what's reported in those tables. I don't know how they got those p-values. According to the statistics they published in the paper, neither difference in scores is significant at the 0.05 level. So all my thinking might be moot anyway. I also noticed that the corresponding email address for the paper is a gmail address, and that the journal (International Journal of Research in Dermatology) isn't even ranked by Scimago... All of these are terrible signs, along with the typographic error you pointed out. Really just a bad study overall (as I think you said in the video).
As for my point on the DHT suppression, I think you're completely right. The mg applied is not a good definition of "equivalent" here. Maybe matching the suppression response on the dose response curve is a better definition of equivalent (but that of course completely foils the argument I was trying to make). I think the ratio of scalp DHT suppression to systemic DHT suppression would be the best statistic to compare the treatments on actually, as long as the amount of scalp DHT suppression is roughly equal for each treatment, of course.
Thanks again for making these videos!
@@q44444q did you get results from topical bro?
Do you think Oral dutasteride is better than oral fin at thebworst case works good as fin ? Im on 6 month and i see small hairs
Dutasteride does have a much longer half life than finasteride and blocks the 5AR type I and II isoforms as opposed to finasteride which blocks just the type II, so they are not the same drug. There are some studies that show dutasteride may be slightly more effective than finasteride with similar side effects. Certainly there is more data on safety and efficacy for finasteride than dutasteride, and dutasteride is not FDA approved for hair loss, though I believe it is approved for hair loss in some other countries.
Hi Kevin, been a big fan of your vids. I’m a 19M and just found my crown is in the early stages of thinning with no temple recession. My dad went bald around my same age so I am looking to combat it now. Do you have advice for a routine of someone my age who cannot use fin until 21?
u can absolutely use fin at 19 unless in the majority of times.
updates?
topical finasteride is usually overpriced too which makes it not practical
Not if you make it yourself
@@thehylander266 how you make it yourself
@Jon Switch does topical work for you?
Can you explain in a video how to use tretinoin with finastride. Thanks for great videos as always Kevin. 👍
Just apply the tretinoin on the scalp as you would as if it were on your face, give it several minutes to absorb and then apply minoxidil. There is no trick to it.
QUESTION FOR KEVIN
We know that you can't maintain minoxidil gains with Finasteride but I just wanted to find out if you could do like 6 months oral minoxidil and then maintain those gains with topical minoxidil, and I just want to add that throughout all of this I'll be using Finasteride, what do you think?
Only if the gains you get from oral are the same as what you'd get from topical. If you got gains from 5 percent minoxidil it stands to reason you'd lose some if you switched to 2 percent minoxidil and I have seen that happen.
It takes longer than 6 months to get the full benefits of a treatment anyways. Just use topical minoxidil.
@@haircafekevin Thanks Kevin, because I've been on Finasteride for about four months and topical 5% minoxidil for about 6 weeks and I haven't really seen much difference, so I'm starting to get a tiny bit anxious.
great content Kevin! do you think I can get good maintenance and possible regrowth at .5 mg 3 times a week ? im a Norwood 2 btw lol
Yes, there is a very good chance it will work for you.
Hey Kevin great video as always!, quick question, I read somewhere that vitamin D increases testosterone. Do you think that it’s bullshit? And if it isn’t do you think that could lead to my hair falling out quicker? I take a multivitamin with my finasteride and hope that nothing interferes with the medications purpose, I could just be paranoid who knows lol.
There is some research that it might slightly increase testosterone levels, nothing that will make a difference though. I covered the subject of testosterone in my "how to stop hairless from testosterone video" and it is not as simple as people make it out to be. It isn't exactly hair friendly but baseline testosterone levels will not hurt your hair, only supra physiological levels and no OTC supplement is going to cause that.
Hey Kevin,
I've been using finasteride 1mg daily and topical stemoxydine for a year but now I'm losing hair.
I will make a blood test to see what the problem is.
My question is: if I find that there's no problem that's causing the hair loss, should it start using minoxidil? I'm afraid that minoxidil will not keep my hair for more than 5 years as I've heard.
What should I do?
Minoxidil is definitely the best thing you could add to your routine. It is a much more powerful growth stimulant than stemoxydine but it works differently so it can be stacked.
If that doesn't do it you can try adding dutasteride as well.
@@haircafekevin Will minoxidil make my hair of a lesser quality? Will the minoxidil keep working forever? Or will it stop working in a few years?
@@greatarabia8091 No it won't and minoxidil will keep working so long as you keep using it.
@@haircafekevin Thanks a lot. You've helped me make up my mind.
Hi Kevin, someone once mentioned you were a local in colorado. Was wondering if you can recommend a dermatologist to look at my scalp. Thanks. If not in colorado, recommendations on finding a good one?
Yeah, look up Dr. James Harris.
I want to know if scalp tingling occurs when you have male pattern baldness.
I get scalp tingling quite often and I wonder if it’s because of DHT even though I use dutasteride.
I dont’t if it’s because of the DHT accumulated in the scalp because when I wash my hair I get a sense if relief but then there should be little to no DHT in the scalp if I’m using dutasteride. It’s really confusing? Does any one of you have the same thing?
Probably not, even people who don't have androgenic alopecia can feel things like tingling and and itching. If there is a correlation it is a very strong one and shouldn't be interpreted as a sign of MPB progressing considering how multi-factorial it is.
Hey Kevin, quality as usual. I have been using topical finasteride for the last 6 months. Its been working very well. I have been advised to try out oral finasteride by a hair surgeon. However I am yet to find an oral finasteride tablet that does not contain titanium dioxide. Are you aware of any on the market that don't contain this?
So did you switch?
Bless my hair follicles father Kevin.
Is it normal to be going through a massive fin shed between month 8-10?
kevin how long after a transplant can you get a haircut? Its moreso the back and sides i want to trim (donor) as opposed to the top/recipient. Thanks!
Should be fine, just tell your barber to avoid any sensitive areas.
Great information as usual. What would we do without you?
Step 1: Like Kevin’s video
Step 2: Watch the video
Kevin, How would I know if my cervical misalignment or finasteride causing brain fog and fatigue?
Cervical misalignment sounds like a chiropractic term, I'd recommend you stop seeing the quack who diagnosed you and actually go see a real doctor.
If you are having issues with brain fog or fatigue it could be many factors but if you suspect it is finasteride then talk to your doctor about your titration, maybe dropping down to 0.5 or 0.25 MG every other day.
PLEASE consider doing a video on the gravity theory of hair loss, and why hair only falls off the top of the head, not the sides
The gravity theory is essentially the "bludflow" theory that has been debunked many times. The idea is that somehow the blood is not getting to the top of your head due to gravity. I guess that means the blood is not getting to the top of the brain either, which could explain why some people still cling to this theory. If there were really a problem with blood flow to the top of the scalp, our skin would necrose and slough off. And if you ask any emergency room doctor what the bloodiest wound is, they will tell you it is cuts to the scalp. They bleed like crazy. Moreover, vasolidator drugs (not counting minoxidil, which works through a different mechanism than vasodilation) don't help hair loss. So improving the bludflow doesn't help. So I addressed this in my Hairguard videos, because the various hair guard devices are supposed to improve "bludflow." I've think I've done enough videos on that topic and my point of view is clear.
@@haircafekevin That's not what I read about the theory. The idea is that the subcutaneous fat in the scalp thins away, which is what causes pressure on the follicles, forcing them to miniaturize. Female scalps still maintain the fat in old age, but DHT (since it's a fat burner), accumulates in the scalp of men, making it thinner and thinner. You need fat to support hair follicles.
@@FeastofChamps That's sort of a variant on the same theory. Why then is there such a strong genetic component to androgenic alopecia? Something genetically different about the fat in the scalp? I think the main difference in people with AGA is the amount of DHT in their scalp hair follicles, which has been demonstrated, and this leads to the biochemical changes that cause miniaturization, etc. There's no need to bring fat into the equation.
@@haircafekevin That would make sense, but I don’t understand how some steroid users are resistant to male pattern baldness even though they are injecting themselves with exogenous androgens.
@@FeastofChamps I think it's all in the genes. Some people just are lucky in choosing their parents.
Patrick Bateman made part 2! Loved your hairstyle and beard in part 1. Q: Is it normal to get a shedding once in a while? I am on 5%Min+.1% Fin topical for 2 years and experiencing shedding since the past month.
Love from India
Thank you and yes most definitely. I made a video about shedding recently, I'd recommend checking it out but bottom line is it's nothing to worry about.
@@haircafekevin you know kevin big brother u have more admirers and fans from INDIA
PLS VISIT OUR COUNTRY SOON HOPEFULLY WHEN YOU HIT 1 MILLION
@@haircafekevin will shedding from finasteride and minoxidil be so scary that it will cause bald spots?
Good content as usual Kevin.
Many report weaker ejaculations, is that due to the prostate getting smaller?
No, 1 MG of finasteride is too small of a dose to shrink the prostate. That is a potential side effect but it usually goes away on its own.
@@haircafekevin But might there not be a possibility that young/healthy people with no prostate issues could see a shrinkage even on that dose? Isn't the prostate highly involved in male ejaculation and orgasm? I've noticed that the "dripple" is reported a lot, so it might be a good subject for a video as well. I would certainly appreciate your take on it, cause it seems to be one of the most frequently reported side effects of finasteride.
@@user-lz2mt5nc9e I don't think any of the sexual sides of finasteride have to do with shrinking the prostate. They are probably due to mild increases in estrogen from the aromatization of the increased testosterone produced by blocking 5AR.
What’s up Kevin. I have 2 questions for you. I’m 21 years old started finasteride 4 months ago. I like the results I’m seeing but kinda want more.
My original plan was to start stacking Modixonal at one year and maybe even the 2 year mark of my finasteride use. But I’m not sure now.
So my first question is, am I losing potential gains by not starting modixonal now?
I’m eager to start it but on the other hand I don’t want to have to shampoo every day.
I shampoo once a week because I feel like my hair looks better if I do that. I know it’s gross but I condition everyday. Anyways, if I’m using modoxinal will it clog my hair follicles more if I’m only shampooing once a week?
What does your hair wash schedule look like? Any advice youd recommend for people like me who don’t like shampooing there hair often?
Thanks for doing what you do Kevin!
Best,
Jake
Hey, no you won't lose any gains by not using minoxidil now, especially if you get good results from finasteride but since it sounds like you want as much growth as possible you might as well add minoxidil now. Keep in mind though you need to give it a year before you can ascertain full results.
I wash my hair daily but no, how often you wash won't influence hair growth. The whole "clogged follicle" thing is a marketing gimmick from the 90s. You see it in scam products like Nioxin and the Helsinki Formula, don't worry about it.
Thank you so much Kevin!
Great video Kevin!
If starting min caused a telogen hair to shed now rather than later, will that hair require min to regrow? And if you regrow a hair due to min, and then lose it due to stopping min, is there any chance that same hair could regrow again later due to starting fin?
I know you've mentioned that stopping min and relying solely on fin doesn't end well for guys, but I've only been using min 2% for 6 weeks and fin for 2 weeks. I do see some quarter-inch baby hairs where I've been applying min, but I'm just hoping there's still a chance I could get by on just fin if my diffuse hair loss isn't too noticeable unless I cut it too short, it gets wet or sweaty, or there's the wrong lighting.
No, the mechanism behind minoxidil is different from finasteride so there is no guarantee that results you get from minoxidil will be maintained with finasteride.
Basically if you stop minoxidil anything you've gained from it you will lose.
From the sound of things your results from minoxidil haven't been that spectacular so you could probably stop it and not lose much ground so if you wanted to drop it and just try using finasteride as a stand alone treatment that probably is no big deal. It's not like you're a minoxidil hyper responder.
@@haircafekevin Sounds good! Thanks! If I were to need to start using min again after I've given fin a year, would I still be able to get regrowth in hairs that were already regrown once from min? Or is it like the Dragonballs on Earth, and you can only bring a hair back to life once?
Great video. Is it too late for me. I just turned 45 and started with dutasteride and 5% minoxidil. Also taking castor oil orally. Also dermarolling 1 time a week.
If you still have hair then no it is not too late. Welcome to the good fight brother.
@@haircafekevin thnx Kevin. I'm probably like a Norwood 5 or 6. I have started noticing little hairs on my head in places where I havent seen them for a long time which is encouraging but I'm more worried about the front of my head more so than the back. It seems alot slower to see results so far. Any other treatments that u think I should consider?
@@samalija5726 how long have you been adhering to this protocol?
@@MattThe1in27-1Hamill 4 to 5 months