The Rise Of Mail Order Topical Finasteride
Two prominent US startups have emerged offering online consultations for prescription medicine including topical finasteride.
Online Consultations For Topical Finasteride
Have you ever wanted to try topical finasteride but did not quite know how to procure it? Well, you now have the opportunity. Two companies in the US, Happy Head and Strut, are now offering online consultations with licensed medical doctors for the purpose of providing prescriptions for topical finasteride (or other approved drugs). I typically don’t cover many consumer products/services, but since these companies are bringing an innovation to the familiar “online consultation + mail order prescription” model that we have seen over the past several years I wanted to share it with you all. The innovation in this case, is offering finasteride in a topical formula which slightly decreases the risk of potential side effects and allows a user to be more precise with the amount and location of the finasteride they are applying.
Happy Head, based in Santa Monica, CA, offers one product option: a combination formula of 8% topical minoxidil, 0.25% topical finasteride, and retinoic acid.
Strut, based in Dallas, TX, also offers a similar concoction of finasteride, minoxidil, and tretinoin (aka retinoic acid), but it offers each ingredient in varying concentrations based on the decision of you and your doctor. For example, Strut’s finasteride formula offers concentrations of finasteride from 0.1%-0.25%, minoxidil up to 7.5%, and tretinoin up to 0.25%. So, one could mix and match the levels of each drug to their liking – a nice feature. For those unfamiliar, retinoic acid/tretinoin is a metabolite of vitamin A which has shown to improve the hair growth effect of minoxidil in studies. Besides offering topical finasteride, Strut offers a wide range of medications to both men and women for aesthetic and intimate purposes including oral finasteride, sildenafil (generic viagra), and topical dutasteride. There is even a prescription “O” cream available for women, I had never heard of something like that before.
For those looking for a comparative review of the original telemedicine men’s health providers: Hims, Keeps, and Roman, check out this review on Fin vs Fin.
Topical Dutasteride Prescriptions
Besides topical finasteride, Strut also offers a topical dutasteride combination formula containing up to 0.1% dutasteride, up to 7.5% minoxidil, and up to 0.025% tretinoin. Dutasteride is essentially a more powerful version of finasteride and can sometimes treat hair loss cases which finasteride is unable to. Likewise, there is a slightly higher risk of potential side effects with dutasteride. For more information on risk of side effects see the drug safety pages on Happy Head’s website and Strut’s website.
Women’s Hair Growth Formula Rx
Since topical finasteride formulas are still contraindicated for women due to risk of hormonal interference I wanted to highlight a thoughtful product offered by Strut for female hair growth. Their women’s hair growth formula contains 1%-2% topical spironolactone, up to 7.5% minoxidil, and 0.125%-0.025% tretinoin. Truth be told, you can’t get a much better formula than that to treat female hair loss.
Strut Product Reviews and Happy Head Product Reviews
If any of you decide to try the medications provided by Strut and Happy Head, I ask that you please consider returning here to share a review in the comments below. I think many curious readers would benefit from your feedback.
Posted in Hair Growth Treatment
What does everyone think about the possibility of obtaining topical fin with just a 10 minute online consultation? Is anyone already using either of these companies’ formulas?
I think it’s not an innovation it’s a business plan with no specific results for the customers they want to encourage people try different petcentage of these stuff for each petriod of six to one year and then change again and again yo gain a huge amount of money!!mixing side effects …please leave them alone and save yourself and your money
Afshin, I don’t agree. Providing topical finasteride to a wide range through simple virtual consultations is an innovation. Before this people had to find a dermatologist or hair surgeon who could connect them to a compounding pharmacy to create topical finasteride (which was rare) and it was a drawn out process. I also don’t agree that there are no specific results for customers – topical finasteride (especially with minoxidil + tretinoin) is clinically proven to grow hair, in fact it is likely the most powerful drug combination available to regrow hair and prevent hair loss. I don’t recommend anyone to do anything they don’t want to do, if this is not for you then please leave it alone. My readers have asked about topical finasteride for years and this is a simple solution for them.
So if I’ve been on only minoxidil for years with diminishing results, there’s really some evidence-based reason to think this might be worth trying? If the topical finasteride really did yield comparable results to the oral with dramatically lower incidence of side effects, I’m certainly up for giving it a chance. Just so tricky not do be taken in by scams and over-hype these days!
You can buy topical finasteride and topical dutasteride with no fuss online from minoxidilmax great products, I use there 6% minoxidil infused with finasteride and with oral minoxidil 5mg a day my hair is regrowing after many years i am so happy although i am tempted to try there new dutasteride topical which many people were asking them for.
The current medical literature shows that topical fin works just as well as oral finasteride! It’s not really clear what the best dosage is to maximize scalp DHT inhibition, while simultaneously minimizing systemic side effects of the drug. However, it definitely DOES work, and there is a little bit of evidence it won’t affect DHT all over your body as much as oral finasteride does.
I would advise having blood work done before starting topical Fin. My Estrogen was elevated using .25 once a day. Also after 7 months I may be gaining weight. Maybe water retention.
So I may reduce the strength from .25 to .15.
Thanks for the insightful and useful contribution Rich.
It was said way back on Hairsite and many other forums that the mother of all Anti androgen’s dht blockers that is was topical RU58841, and that it did not have the bad side affects or Systemic alteration on the body of males and had the same affect as topical Flutamide which can go systemic. The only problem was getting hold of stable RU, the french company sold off RU58841 and i think the money needed to carry on the human three trials was too much to bring it to market. Topical Flutamide has been tried and so has oral but the latter can cause problems with the liver and other side effects i think that a low dose say 1 or 2% topical Flut can be ok as i have tried it and had no side effects it is hard to get hold of now though.
Of course, I’ve come across discussions on RU58841 on boards over the years. It seems that a lot of people are able to use it with no apparent issue, as it is a non-FDA approved drug and never completed clinical trials. Just this past week I read a post on Reddit about a guy who said he experienced concerning side effects from RU. I understand why people try it, but it’s one of those things that does not seem worth it to me. For example, your MD would never tell you to try it.
Strut seems to be the winner with vast customization offerings. I may consider them in the future. I still use 5% minox with .10% tritinon .25fin. I would love to bump up my minox to 6% to see if that boosts regrowth.
I’ve been on topical dutasteride for a few weeks now. I sure hope it pays off because it’s a greasy mess and I’m not fond of taking 2 showers a day 🙁 I got it from minoxidilexpress.com, which is based in the UK. I jumped on it because I was certain I’d need a prescription from outside the USA
Where are you located Scottie?
Honolulu. My doctor is older and semi-retired and considers these types of prescriptions frivolous. I’m thankful for the online prescriptions.
I’m glad this may be of help to you Scottie.
Happy head i already contacted they told me they will not send to uk minoxidilmax is now selling topical dutasteride as they already sell topical finasteride they are also selling topical spironolactone S5 cream i get my 6% minoxidil which has finasteride added been using them many years very reliable for uk delivery.
Thanks for linking the tretinoin study. Now I wish there was a tretinoin-only or tretinoin+minoxidil product from a well-established pharma company…
I wonder if Strut would do a minoxidil + tretinoin only formula for you?
Tretinoin with minoxidil has been around since the late 1990s and i used to use it you can only use at night as you cannot go out in the sun with it on scalp.
It used to be available in uk and us online until the fda pulled the plug on many online products some uk clinics such as transform or bio trans jersey as it used to be called is where i used to get it but they are no longer in business.
It to be fair is no miracle it can enhance minoxidil absorption and scalp acne and you can get hold of topical tretinoin which has a drying effect on your scalp or retinol creams.
Also you can try Azelaic acid creams i got some from my uk gp for scalp acne.
Thanks so much for all you provide.
Thank you Terri! I hope this article had some value for you.
Admin. What about rekze24? Do you Know something that?
Hi Ozzie, I don’t know much about it but I don’t expect much for an OTC without a new proprietary ingredient.
Thanks administrator
Hello FT,
Very interesting article, never heard of these companies till now. Looks interesting to give a try. Hopefully someone from here can review it, if not I guess I’ll have to dip in myself lol the before and afters look amazing.
By the way any word on the minoxidil booster’s release and the study behind it?
Thanks for the article and hard work
Hi Master V, I’m awaiting to hear from Dr. Goren about the booster product. I reached out to him about a month ago, he knows we’re waiting.
Thanks admin and davelee30, I’ve done some more research and found out that scalp serums with retinoil/retinoids have been around for a while, and yes they should be used at night or followed by a product with SPF protection (like an SPF spray). What’s interesting is that in addition to improving the skin (especially if acne-prone) and possibly facilitating absorption of mynoxidil, it is now thought to influence the expression of follicular sulfotransferase, at least according to the study linked, so it is possible that the same scalp serums have the potential to become effective products for hair loss… which bay the way cannot be said for virtually every cosmetic product marketed for hair loss!
For clarification, is Fin/Tretinoin/Minox the same combo for triple hair’s prescription solution?
Anthony, No, Triple Hair is doing minoxidil, finasteride, and latanoprost.
Only 26 years behind Dr. Lee’s Xandrox but better late than never! Yoda snark aside, the more the merrier. When the FDA shut Dr. Lee down I had to scramble to find alternatives. They were sub-par until I finally landed on my current supplier after a few years. Always good to have multiple options for a whole host of reasons. Great info for the community Admin!
Thanks Yoda
Thank you for the shout out to old Dr. Lee, Yoda. He is sorely missed!
You sound experienced and discerning. May I please ask the identity of your current supplier?
~ RIchard
In case Yoday does not see, I believe it’s minoxidil express.
New on ebay uk minoxidil 5% with procapil and sandalore i got 3 bottles and it is only around £9 for 60mls i have started using two weeks and as said here bought a further 3 bottles where you get a discount.
There also used to be Dr Lewenberg’s formula which was a 2% minoxidil with tretinoin but he passed away he did have lots of pics of success and a few years before he died he added a sensitive formula the only problem i found with it you had to spray it on 4 times a day although that was only until you had regrowth and then you could reduce to twice a day.
Yoda has been around since these pioneers like Lewenberg were popular. Tretinoin was important before the intro of higher concentration products of AT LEAST 5%. Dr. Lee had it in his original formulas that were up to 6% I believe. He felt tretinoin was actually un-necessary and possibly counter productive in the higher strengths he subsequently released 12-15%. I for one think adding tretinoin is not some kind of magic cure or even adds all that much. I can say from experience do expect some sore of big boost in gains.
Whoops…that is DO NOT expect some sort of big boost in gains. TGIF WooHoo!!!
?
Another blast from the past! I had a consultation with Lewenburg himself in NYC in the mid-1980’s.
Hello dear admin!
Thank you for the current article. These products are likely only available in the United States. What distinguishes these products from triple hair or Follics products? Many companies rely on the combination of minoxidil and finasteride. Thanks in advance.
Happy Easter
Hi nobody, You’re welcome and thanks for the kind words. The difference between these products and Triple Hair is that TH’s third ingredient is latanoprost (a prostaglandin drug) and the mail orders’ third ingredient is tretinoin which is a minoxidil booster. Both add value, if I had to choose I’d probably take latanoprost because it’s a drug which has shown to grow hair on its own. Follics seems to have good products as far as I can tell but I cannot vouch for them. Happy Easter as well!
Thank you?
Admin can you find out about this natural topical that is from Mango tree extract is it ok to show you
Mangrove Tree Extract Could Help Tackle Baldness, Study Finds
Jake Massey
Published 14:02, 28 January 2021 GMT
| Last updated 14:05, 28 January 2021 GMT
Mangrove Tree Extract Could Help Tackle Baldness, Study Finds
Researchers in Thailand believe a mangrove tree extract could help to tackle baldness.
The extract, called Avicequinon C, was found to stop the body producing hormones that can result in hair loss.
Thus far, the research team at Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences have tested the extract on a group of 50 men and women with androgenic alopecia, the most common form of hair loss.
Researchers now want to test the extract on more volunteers. Credit: ViralPress
Researchers now want to test the extract on more volunteers. Credit: ViralPress
Participants had made visible improvements after a month, and what’s more, it seemed the treatment not only stemmed hair loss, but also boosted hair growth.
This means it may help people who have already lost more than their fair share of hair.
The next step is to test the extract on more volunteers, so that it can be approved by Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration.
Should it get the go-ahead, a private company has already bought the patent of the research, which it can use to develop a hair loss product.
None of the volunteers experienced allergic reactions. Credit: ViralPress
None of the volunteers experienced allergic reactions. Credit: ViralPress
Professor Wanchai Deeknamkul, from the faculty of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Botany, said: “We found out it had many benefits. First, it stops the enzymes from producing hair loss hormones and second, it could also help produce the protein that stimulates hair growth.
“We took pictures of the volunteers’ heads in every corner and also used a microscope to look at the hair loss area to examine the nature of the hair loss and make an appointment after a month and repeat the same process for four consecutive months.
“We compared pictures of the same spot and found that only after a month, participants showed positive changes with improvement in hair strength that also sticks well to the scalp, while none of the participants showed any allergic reaction.”
He added that its natural derivation could make it a more desirable option than synthetic alternatives.
The extract was found to stop hair loss and promote hair growth. Credit: ViralPress
The extract was found to stop hair loss and promote hair growth. Credit: ViralPress
He explained: “We screened more than 50 herbal extracts and more than 20 pure substances and found that Avicennia Marin extract contains the active ingredient Avicequinone C, which inhibits the enzyme that produces hair loss hormones.
“Also, Avicennia Marin extract helps to build proteins that can promote hair growth as well. Thus helping to solve the problem of hair loss completely.
“Several cosmeceutical products claiming to treat hair loss mostly consist of chemically synthesized drugs. Which may cause unwanted side effects especially allergic reactions and skin inflammation and affect the body’s system.
“Besides, almost all of them have not been scientifically proven or researched to determine the mechanism of action of the substances used.
“In the past, we’ve imported synthetic drugs from foreign countries both topical and oral medication, but those only showed results at 30 percent and 48 percent respectively. Furthermore, the side effects were also much more.
“Therefore, extracts from the Avicennia Marin plants found in Thai mangrove forests will reduce the import of those synthetic drugs. It may also be an export product that creates market value for the country as well.”
Featured Image Credit: ViralPress
Topics: World News, Interesting, Hair, Thailand, Baldness
Jake Massey
Hi Dave, yes I am looking into this but it will take a while before we see the product developed. We have to review carefully what kind of data they come out with for their product. In all honesty, I would be slightly surprised if a botanical created a useful hair growth/hair loss prevention product on its own, but I do believe its possible. Let’s wait and see.
Those US prescriptions will not work in Europe i guess.
Yeah I agree that a combination of finasteride + minoxidil + tretinoin will be more efficient than only minoxidil mono therapy! And the fact that I can decide the concentration of these 3 is pretty awesome. But I am sadly from Germany, where I have not the access to a combination of these 3.
Why would be these products better than minoxidil max?
In case anyone is interested, coincidentally this marks the 1st day in over 25 years that Yoda did not take oral fin or dut. I started oral fin in the mid-90’s (off label before Propecia was released) and switched dut about 5 years ago. I’ve had various topical minoxidil concoctions that contain fin and more recently, a low % of dut as well. I’ve decided to try and switch my oral dut to just topical. I never really had appreciable sides ( recently possible brain fog, we shall see) but my doc said it’s always best if you can get off an oral med for liver and other longer term health related matters. Presently, Yoda’s 58 year old prostrate is not enlarged (maybe from fin/dut, time will tell) so might as well give topical dut a whirl, read some good things, not sure how legit though. I’m doing this gradually, alternating days of topical/oral for about a month. Then oral 3 days a week for a month, then two, finally down to one day a week with topical on the days I don’t take oral. If I regress I will immediately go back to oral everyday. My topical dut is .05%, in addition the 7% minox I already use at night has .01% dut in it. I can keep the readers of this awesome site updated if anyone cares about my “journey” (crap I hate when people say that!). 🙂
Hey Yoda. I have a question as well. Did you see any long term sides from oral min? don’t know whether this is just internet paranoia but there seems to be a lot of talk about it inhibiting collagen production and therefore ageing skin. But obviously it would take a while to significantly age skin I suppose so I’m not sure if this is true or just natural ageing process. Just interested to get your thoughts as you’ve been on it for a long period of time.
Hi i am on oral minoxidil been on it about two months nearly no side effects as yet in fact i am feeling better on it i have stopped oral finasteride though as i did have some libido problems.
The side(s) I saw from oral minox were only some fluid retention. This was remedied with a diuretic but remember, Yoda is on a higher does than is needed for hair related reasons. 2.5 mg to 5 mg is good for hair, I have borderline BP so went a bit higher. Yoda doesn’t believe that minox has much of an effect collagen and skin aging, this is mostly propagated on the internet. I don’t believe there are any CREDIBLE studies to this end. Yoda has been on topical (most high concentration up to15%) for 30 years and oral for about 3. I’m 58 and will stack my skin up against any guy 10-20 years younger. Other factors will age skin, sun, smoking, diet etc. Yoda takes good care of himself and uses skin care products to assist in this endeavor. Hope that helps JJ.
Thanks a lot yoda
Hi JJ, I wrote a reply but this it went into admins spam file, hopefully he will post soon.
Yoda my friend. I know I always ask you this but where do you get your compound minox? I use 82M with topical fin. It worked quite well for a couple years but lately I’m started to diffuse and recede. I could try another brand and you seem to know your stuff. Is it easy to obtain? Located in the usa? Easy delivery?
My old friend Mjones! Have answered before, see BearlyEagle and Scotties posts below for Yoda’s current supplier of topicals.
minoxidilexpress.com doesn’t work for me it just says “coming soon”.
@Scottie do you get any side effects from the topical DUT. I hear that it doesn’t go systemic like topical fin as the DUT molecules are too big?
Aloha Bearly! You must’ve typed something wrong. I’m looking at the website right now: https://minoxidilexpress.com/ (that’s a paste of URL). My invoice also has EBID.net and contact info minoxidilexpress@yahoo.com .
Yes I read that too, which worried me that it wouldn’t be absorbed well. So I apply it shortly after a hot shower and towel-dry when the pores are open. It really has a greasy texture and doesn’t dry well, so you’re inclinced to wash it out in the morning or just have that wet hair look all day. The jury is still out on its effectiveness, but I already have my eyes on the companies discussed in this current bulletin if not 🙂
Hi Bearly,
I think the large molecules are the reason for the greasiness. It doesn’t absorb as well as I’d like, so I apply after a warm shower when the pores are open. But your hair and scalp will still look damp in the morning. I’m hoping for results, we’ll see.
As for the website, I’m logged on to it right now, so you maybe misspelled? They also have an email minoxidilexpress@yahoo.com . If I don’t get good results, I may try one of the companies mentioned in this bulletin. I’ll be eagerly waiting for Yoda’s reliable progress reports and updates too 😀
Thanks
It’s the PG that makes your hair greasy Scottie. Like standard, off the shelf minox.
It will be interesting to see if Triple Hair uses PG for their soon to be released TH18 product.
An absolute nightmare to get greasy hair from topicals. A showstopper for me!
Admin….do you have some more details?
Thanks
This particular formulation I’m using (D5a) is propylene glycol free.
That’s the one that Yoda just started on as well Scottie. It is a bit greasy but doesn’t bother me, I can still style my hair just fine. Although I see where it could be a hinderance to some.
Admin, can you please retrieve the reply I sent JayJames from spam and post? Not sure what triggers the spam gods to react!
How is hair Yoda after so many years on dht inhibitors? Did you get any regrowth and improvement since you first noticed hair loss?
Franz my progress with ups and downs has been documented on this site many time but understand it’s hard to find. Sometimes even Yoda get’s sick or my own blabbering. The sort answer is yes, regrowth and improvement. However with time, things succumb to age and hormones and one must seek out new, treatments. All with FDA approved ingredients but possibly oral where topical is the norm or visa versa. Possibly in stronger concentrations , e.g. topical minox. Yoda is wise but you must do your research and find the patch that works best for you.
Man, that last line even wanted to make pompous Yoda puke! 😉
edits..short not sort, path not patch not to mention misplaced commas. Yoda is through his first martini after cycling 26 miles, cut the old guy some slack!! 🙂
Got it for you, all set. Nice catch, I’m not so sure what caused it either.
I’m currently prescribed a topical with 2.5% Fin and .5% Min. Would it be smarter for me to change to one of these new options, which have less Fin (only .25%) but higher Min, plus the retinol?
Sorry – 5% Min, not .5!
Hi admin, hi guys!
Do someone know when Samumed, Follica, CB or Triple Hair will be in the market?
(I mentioned that companies cause I think they are closer than the rest)
Btw, some here has tried Ru? (I took a look on internet and people say is stronger/better than CB, but also more unstable)
Thanks in advance!
Yoda tired RU in conjunction with oral Dut, seemed to help the hairline. However, I’m not a fan of unregulated Chinese chemicals so after I hopped on oral minox and and my 7% topical minox with low dose .01% dut, I stopped RU and didn’t miss it. Yoda recommends you look at some of the topical fin or dut in this posting as opposed to unregulated, “experimental” chemicals.
Yoda yo have you tried topical s5 spironolactone?
No, haven’t tried the S5 spironolactone and it’s not in my treatment plans presently. I used Dr. Lee’s topical spironolactone many, many years ago before topical fin was available. I don’t think it’s necessary with the advent of topical fin and now dut. One can only dump so many things on their noggin!
For Gods sake what is gonig on with Follica.Their website says”Phase 3 registration study initiation expected in first half of 2020″ and we are one year past that!!
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20191218005795/en/Follica-Announces-Positive-Topline-Data-Clinical-Study
You guys think Follica is gonna be a game changer?
In what way do you think it will be a game changer? A better kind of dermarolling?
Before/After pics and what they talk about his ‘new technology’ to grow new hair and thicken existing one.
I think is not just a dermaroller and minoxidil, cause you don’t go to clinical trials for a thing everyone can do in his house. it gotta be something else..
That’s true but minoxidil + dermarolling is not an FDA approved treatment for hair loss at the moment, this means that if this is what Follica really is up to, they would then have marketing rights and could market themselves to every dermatologist in the country. Hence, the reason for clinical trials. This is just a perspective, I’m not saying I know for certain what they have.
That’s right Admin, but honestly, when you claim ‘to disrupt the skin and CREATE new hair follicles’, its because you have something else to offer, Dermarrolling + Min doesn’t create new hair follicles, it just give you more density and thickening what you already have.
that’s what make me have some hope in Follica (also cause the before/After Pics), and about triple hair, the data they published it seems much better comparing with Finasteride and minoxidil…
What is the best option for Canada? Or do we have to wait for Triple Hair
I tend to agree with D. Alva in regards to Follica. It might be evolutionary as opposed to revolutionary. However I doubt that they’d spend all this time and money developing a treatment that is something we can do at home just for super duper marketing purposes. It may be similar in concept to rolling but my guess is a more advanced form of skin disruption that results in more consistent, better outcomes.
I hear ya, and we will have to wait and see. I just can’t seem to come up with a good reason why they would be secretive on their website when every other company clearly states what drug/device they are working on, or a reason for why they would do a new female study in Dec 2020 with only minoxidil + dermaroller and not their full lineup. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352647520301672?via%3Dihub
Admin, I pulled this out of a chat on the subject/Follica on another site ” the follica patent. 1,600 wounds/cm² at .75-1mm depth. The time it takes to achieve that will vary according to the speed of the microneedling device.” This rings a bell, that Follica’s wounding is not something that could be (easily) achieved with readily available micro-needling devices…if at all with anything available?
I was seriously considering trying HH for the topical. But the disclaimer stuff included possible hair discoloration. Anyone have any idea if their topical or Struts’ could cause you to get even grayer? I’m not sure what possible discoloration refers to. And to be honest, their online ad and website doesn’t seem terribly professional to me. Gives me a red flag.
I’ve never heard of topical fin causing gray hair, I wonder if anyone else has?
No but does hair discoloration have to mean gray hair? Maybe lightens or darkens hair? Yoda has experienced lighter hair with topicals but it’s just striping out dye in those areas where I apply.
I was thinking that, discoloration does not mean have to mean gray hair. All in all, my instinct is that it is an extremely, extremely rare occurrence which is just part of the warning label for formalities unlike other potentials.
Hi I‘m new here.
I want to ask if there is any news about j.hewitt?
I wrote Tissuse and they were very friendly and explained everything to me and told me that i should ask j.hewiit for more information, but they never answered. My question is are they any news bc j.hewitt said that they would be faster then Tsuji: „ It will not take years like Tsuji, etc..it will be much, much sooner We are planning by December of 2019 to start.“???
Hi Musa, so far J Hewitt is still on a much shorter timeline than Tsuji but I understand your point. I know they are still pursuing their goals and there is no news available to share yet. If/when news becomes available it will be on the Updates page, or if big news it will be a new article.
Timeline…..Gosh, no one knows when will Dr.Tsuji really make hair clone possible. It may never come true in my lifetime…..really sad
if you had to guess, when do you think j.hewitt will find a GMP facility? J. Hewitt should maybe get a book out and tell of his adventures on the trip to a GMP facility. “J.Hewitt and the 99 GMP plants”
Maybe by summer?
do you really believe this year? I would have thought 2022 at the earliest
It’s absolutely possible, I don’t know how it will turn out at this point.
Thank you for your prompt reply
Just found an intersting paper that links stress with inhibition of hair-follicle stem cells.
https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-021-00656-1
I dont understand why people keep asking when hair cloning will be available….nobody knows and as of right now no company has shown a pic of nw7 to nw1 regrowth with cloning. I would focus on phase 3 treatments in the pipeline for 2020s. Everything else in 2030 or later. They’ve been promising cloning since 2010. We have some potential treatments like follica, sm, follicum, CB, some other stuff too. Let’s see how those pan out….its all we really got tbh. Not trying to be a debbie downer.
Mjones, it’s like we are the two old guys in the balcony on the Muppets! I think the cloning thing is seductive to many as it is the holy grail to cure baldness. However, it’s only a viable treatment when it comes to market, or at least shows that it will. I can’t remember if any of these companies have even gone into real clinical trials yet and/or shown real, achievable results on humans. I really don’t pay all that much attention as I agree with you, we aren’t all that close to a cloning solution from when I can tell
I ask if there are any news and not when will it be available. The reason bc i ask is that i have watched a german TV show about Hair loss and there where two Biotechnologist (not Tissuse) who talk about hair cloning and they said that it could be available in few years and they said also that gen therapy would not be possible in the near future. The same thing said Dr. Levent Acar (he have a HT clinic in Istanbul) for a German youtube canal.
My hope bevor the tv show was the gen editing (rna,crispr…) but the biotechnologists said that a lot of companies are money catcher and that it is not possible bc you have to transfect the whole head every day thats why it is unrealistic now. They hope that gen therapie for hair will be possible in 20 years but not earlyer.
My english is not so good i hope you understand what i try to explain.
Hair cloning scientists/biotechnologist stating that gene therapy will not come out soon, people working on topical stem cell stimulation saying cell therapy will not come out soon /is not viable for hair loss treatment and finally people who are working on gene therapy might say this is it (aka permanent cure for life?, Suprised ? Am not. We don’t know yet which will come out soon or which treatment will give best results .
Hey Everyone,
Would love some options on switching up my treatment based on these new companies:
I’m currently on oral fin and topical over the counter min (1x a day) + micro needling once a week. My hair loss has stabilized and a lot of my miniaturized hairs have become fuller. Not full blown thick strands of hair, but somewhere between peach fuzz and full thick hair.
My main question is – is topical fin as effective and strong as oral fin? Ideally I’d love to buy a topical compound that can accomplish what I’m currently maintaining with out sacrificing any progress or hair loss.
I want to stop taking oral fin, but I don’t want to start loosing my hair again.
My second question would be – what would the best topical combination be for maximum hair maintenance? Topical fin + dut?
Thanks and let me know,
Stefano
Stefano my advice is keep your current treatment as is if its working. Dont break what’s not broken. Trust me. If you are maintaining and seeing progress and thickening stay the course and dont change anything. If you stop propecia you will LOSE ground. Topical works but it wont be the same as internal finasteride propecia. Just my advice buddy.
We’ll see about switching oral for topical. I generally agree with Mjones however I’ve read some good things about topical dut. I’m presently swithing oral dut for a higher % of topical dut (0.5%) gradually. It’s been about three weeks of alternating EOD, so far so good. Eventually I’ll go to all topical Dut over time if my loss doesn’t increase. I’ve been on an oral anti-androgen, fin then dut, since the mid-90’s. Quite a leap of faith for old Yoda!
Has someone here tried Ru before or is on Ru actually?
Hi i have bought ready made ru and make my own i have used it in combo with oral minoxidil as it is a non steroidal anti androgen and i never got any side effects i like it better than say oral finasteride as that does give me side effects.
I have used up to an 8% topical RU and find no side effects although it is best to start with a 5% mix.
Yoda used topical 5% RU in the past, at that time with oral dut and topical minox. I did find that it gave me some added benefit and no side effects (I’m pretty side effect resistant though). However, I don’t like using unregulated chemicals and when topical dut became available I switched them out.
You’re right Yoda, but also, after more than ten years people is using Ru with no side effects, doing blood tests, dht-tst levels and many more (always being cautius of course), its known that its a really good treatment (even better than CB), and also, Ru works in a different pathway than Dutasteride, Minox, Finasteride or Stemoxydine, so, I think combining all of them can give u a really good improvement, then, once CB is available, you can switch it (but i think you will loose a bit of what you gain on Ru)
Two comments D.
1. You can believe everything you read on the internet from fellow Bros.
2. Yes, it’s a personal choice. Yoda made the choice to use RU (successfully) but also made the choice to discontinue due to lack of regulatory oversite.
Yoda has dumped a lot of stuff on his head over the years, I prefer it to be approved drugs from regulated laboratories.
Yoday, how is the new shampoo going? Would you share some feedback on the shampoo review article?
Very strange i used oral dutasteride and even the higher dose that you are supposed to get hair growth with and like finasteride did nothing although my blood tests come back as normal for my age so i do think that topicals are better i have not yet tried topical dutast but if i do i with buy minoxidilmax as i like there stuff and it is quick delivery for the uk.
Davelee where do you get your RU from? Can you recommend one source or brand over another? Do you mix the powder with topical Minox?
I buy my powder from purity pride as they seem the best price even though i live in uk there is anagenic that have ready made ru which is the kane shop as well (same company) and in uk there is receptor chem uk and best price ready made in the uk is Ligand chem i do like making my own though as it is cheaper for 10 grams i get from purity pride.
Thank you davelee 🙂
That was supposed to be:
1. You CAN’T believe everything you read on the internet from fellow Bros.
Hi Admin, the shampoo is fine, high quality. No shampoo does anything for hair loss but this one is as good as any I’ve ever used. I mentioned before, I have trouble locating the review article itself, what tab is it under?
Thanks Mjones and Yoda!
I’m going to stay the course for now and not switch from oral fin to topical.
One quick follow up question – is dut used in replacement of min?
Thanks!
Dutasteride is a stronger anti-androgen used in place of finasteride. Like fin, dut was developed as a treatment for enlarged prostrates. Dut is approved for hair loss in Japan and South Korea but not in the US.
Thanks for the feedback Yoda, that sounds quite good actually. The link to the article is in the first comment of this thread. I appreciate the feedback!
Ahh, got it Admin. Will leave some more detailed comments.
Stephano…if you start seeing further loss on current treatments you can always add topical finasteride like I do. Topical minox finasteride mix. It helps a bit.
@MJones – Are you talking about using topical Fin in addition to Fin pills?
Yes felix
Hyundai Pharm claims that this is the first ever OTC hair loss treatment in South Korea. Each of the 120 tablets contains 100 milligrams of the key active ingredient Dexpanthenol
Which one, Ahmed bekeer?
I hope this is helpful admin this is about RU58841
ru58841
RU58841 has not been approved anywhere in the world for hair loss treatment. Some people believe it (or RU-58841, or RU) is a safe alternative to finasteride. But is it really true? Are there any better options available if someone does not want to use finasteride? What is the verdict on how often RU should be used? What are the caveats when one tries to concoct their own solution? This blog will try to answer all of these and many other commonly asked questions about this treatment from a chemist’s perspective.
Table of Content
What is RU58841?
How does it work, and how is it different from finasteride?
Performance & Evidence
How to use and get the best result?
RU4881 before and after Results
How to make your own RU solution?
How stable is it, two years or two weeks?
What are the Side effects?
Alternatives to RU
RU-58841 price, where to buy
RU58841 vs Minoxidil vs Finasteride
Conclusion
So what is it?
RU58841, also known as PSK-3841 or HMR-3841, is a nonsteroidal anti-androgen (NSAA). Its structure is shown below. It is nonsteroidal because it does not have the steroidal skeleton structure. It was investigated and developed by ProStrakan (a Scottish based specialty pharmaceutical company) for its potential therapeutic applications in conditions that were driven by androgens, such as acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and androgenetic alopecia (male-pattern baldness). ProStrakan conducted phase I and II clinical studies and the results of 5% RU-58841, when applied twice daily, were reported to be similar to that of finasteride. However, no further clinical studies were performed after. Thus, this product was never officially approved as a hair loss treatment.
How does it work?
As a non-steroidal anti-androgen, RU 58841 binds itself to androgen receptors and directly inhibits the effects of endogenous (from our own body) androgens such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As a first generation non-steroidal anti-androgen, it selectively competes for the androgen receptors. This effectively attenuates the activity of testosterone and DHT, leading to an overall anti-androgen effect.
The way it works is similar to that of spironolactone, and ketoconazone, a key ingredients used in hair loss shampoo.
It is different from finasteride, which works by inhibiting the activity of 5α-Reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is the primary hormone that causes hair loss in men.
Topical RU solution has a rather short half life (1 hour) in comparison to Finasteride (6 hrs) and minoxidil (4 hrs).
Performance & Evidence
There have been several studies on the performance, efficacy and safety of RU5881 since 1994 when it was first developed by French researchers. In the original study by Battmann et al. (1994), it was found to display a high and extremely specific binding to androgen receptors in mice. Compared to other non-steroidal anti-androgens such as flutamide, RU had a staggering 30-fold higher affinity for the androgen receptors. Importantly, Battmann and his fellow researchers found that the local activity of RU-58841 was significant at an extremely low dose (1µg/animal), but was limited to the site of application. This meant that the anti-androgenic effects of it were limited to the target area where it was applied. Indeed, the researchers found that RU- 58841 did not exert any anti-androgenic effects on deep accessory sex organs as well as the serum (blood) testosterone level.
Four years later, American researchers tested RU-58841 in macaques (a type of monkey) [2]. They found that the topical application of this substance resulted in a significant increase in density, thickening and length of hair in macaques with androgenetic alopecia. Similar to the 1994 study, they did not observe any adverse systemic effects and concluded that RU was a promising therapeutic modality for patients with androgen driven conditions such as acne, hirsutism and androgenetic alopecia. These findings echoed observations made by Japanese researchers in a similar study – 20 bald scalps of macaques were subjected to Finasteride as well as RU[3].
Another group of researchers examined 20 scalp grafts from men with androgenetic alopecia; these were grafted onto mice and monitored every month for six months [4]. Ten scalp grafts were each subjected to the RU-588 41 topical solution and ethanol (as a control) respectively. Although both groups had similar (28 vs 29) active follicles which appeared in total, the RU-58841 group demonstrated a second growth cycle more so than the ethanol group (8 vs 2). This led the researchers to conclude that RU- 58841 led to a higher linear hair growth rate and had therapeutic potential for androgenetic alopecia [4].
Studies to date have been limited to studies performed on cultured cell lines in Petri dishes and animal studies. ProStrakan did perform phase I (5% topical solution administered twice daily over 4 weeks to a total of 30 people.) and phase II clinical trials (5% and a 2.5% topical solutionadministered once a day over six months in 120 people.) of the drug on humans to evaluate its safety in 2002 and 2003. The results of those trials were not published.
The information from animal studies indicates that the action of RU should be localized to where it is applied. A great deal of caution should be exercised when considering this substance. Not only was the official efficacy study never performed, but also short-term and long-term safety data are missing for the human use.
How to use?
Should RU-58841 be used once or twice a day?
There seems to be no clear consensus on this. While most users apply it once a day (1 ml per application), it appears that using it twice a day with half of the dosage (0.5 ml) per application should provide better results given the short half life of this substance ( 1 hour).
You apply the topical solution to the scalp just like you would with a minoxidil solution. Be careful to apply the solution directly on the scalp instead of the hair by parting your hair with one hand. Any product applied on the hair will not be absorbed.
Should RU-58841 be used with minoxidil?
Minoxidil works by stimulating hair growth via mechanisms that are still not fully known. RU is believed to work by preventing premature hair falling by binding to androgen receptors and directly inhibiting the effects of androgens such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It makes sense to use both minoxidil and RU to maximize hair regrowth.
When using both products, one can use the RU in the morning and minoxidil product in the evening. Alternatively, one can apply RU first and wait for 20 to 30 mins before applying minoxidil solution.
Yet the most convenient way is to dissolve RU in a minoxidil solution. That way, both products are applied at the same time.
RU 58841 before and after results
The before and after photos from use of RU-58841 is of great scarcity. They are not readily available like minoxidil and finasteride as shown here.
No such photos can be found in peer-reviewed publications, nor are any original photos shown on any forums such as reddit or hairlosstalk. All of the before-and-after photos (examples shown below) are from some sketchy sites that seem to be associated with RU providers. Derek, an amateur bodybuilding person, is a strong proponent of RU-58841. He had shown quite impressive results from RU according to what he said. Keep in mind he is an affiliate of the major RU providers.
ru58841 before and after
ru58841 results
How to make your own RU58841 solution?
Premixed and ready-to-use RU solution appears to be available for purchase through a few outlets.
To save money, some people make their own by purchasing the raw materials. Here are a few important things to keep in mind if you want to your own.
1. RU-58841 Dosage: the most common concentration is 5%. Have you ever wondered why a lot of hair growth products have a concentration at 5%? ( e.g. 5% minoxidil, 5% stemoxydine (by L’Oreal ), 5% azelaic acid, 5% Spironolactone)? If a topical product is 5%, it suggests that higher potency can be achieved with higher concentration. However, companies generally like to keep it at 5% for the convenience of formulation, because it adds challenge to dissolve more material and keep the product stable. Higher concentration also requires longer absorption times when applied to the skin, making it less favorable from the user’s point of view.
2. If you are not allergic to propylene glycol, you can use a PG based solvent as the one we offer.
3. If you have a sensitive scalp and are allergic to PG, you can use a PG free vehicle which we offer at our store. Or you can add it our product Essengen-5 NO PG Fast Dry to make a minoxidil-RU solution.
4. If you want to verify the purity of your purchased RU-58841. You can send a sample (1 gram powder or 10 ml solution) to Colmaric Analyticals (https://www.colmaricanalyticals.com/) for testing. The testing fee is $225 with result available in five to seven business days. This is the lab where most RU5881 and SARM providers send their materials for testing.
5. Store the solution in use at room temperature, and store RU powder and the solution that is not currently used in a freezer. RU may precipitate out of the solution when stored in the freezer. If that happens, you can simply bring it room temperature and shake the bottle for a few mins before use. Powder is stable for at least two years when stored in an airtight container in a freezer.
6. You can see the comment at the end of the blog for details on how to make a PG-based solution.
How stable is it?
Stability of RU48851 solution: There is conflicting information about the stability of the RU-58841 solution. Some say it is stable for years even when it is stored at room temperature, while others say it is only stable for up to 2 weeks. The truth probably lies somewhere in between.
If the solution was stable for only two weeks, it is unlikely that ProStrakan would conduct the phase I and II clinical trials. The project must have been killed long before that.
Also the product does not seem to be that unstable based on the structure of this material (see the main image of the blog). There is no particular bond that appears unstable. It is interesting to note that the solutions used in ProStrakan’s clinical studies did not contain any water. It only contained ethanol and propylene glycol. Water-ethanol-propylene is a very common vehicle for topical solution (e.g. topical minoxidil). The fact that there was no water present in the delivery vehicle suggests that the stability of the solution may be an issue. That is reason why neither PG Solvent nor PG Free Solvent we offer has water.
It is wise to store the solution in a fridge although some providers claim that the solution is stable for over 12 months at room temperature (We are going to conduct a stability study on this and will provide an update with the results. Stay tuned).
Stability of powder: RU powder is stable for at least two years when stored in a airtight container in a freezer.
Side-Effects
Unfortunately, there has not been phase III clinical trials for this material. Hence, there is no publicly available longitudinal data concerning its side-effect and safety profile in humans. Indeed, the last known study to have verified its efficacy and performance was published in 2005 [5]. No studies in the literature have been scoped to identify and risk and side-effects of this product. However, the side-effects can be extrapolated based on its classification as a non-steroidal anti-androgenic compound. Testosterone is typically converted to DHT by an enzyme known as 5α-Reductase. An excess of DHT is implicated in androgenetic alopecia; RU directly competes for androgen receptors with testosterone and DHT, thereby limiting the effects of these androgens at the target site. Hence, the following side-effects are anticipated:
Reduced libido.
Reduced volume of ejaculate
Erectile dysfunction
Gynecomastia
Major Depressive Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Insomnia
Headache & dizziness
Fatigue & lethargy
Although the old study with a very limited number of subjects didn’t report these side effects, all of these side effects were reported by users who used the product for three months or longer. Thus it is not true that RU-58841’s effect is only limited to the area of application, and does not influence the serum (blood) androgen level.
Alternatives to RU58 841
Most people consider RU because they are concerned about the possible side effects of oral Finasteride. However, one shouldn’t so quick to consider it since there are better alternatives to consider before trying this less-studied substance.
1. Topical finasteride: If one tried oral fin and did not like it, one should definitely consider topical finasteride before trying something else. Topical finasteride is directly applied to the scalp; it greatly minimizes its systemic effect while working as effectively as oral fin.
2. Topical spironolactone:. Spironolactone works the same way as RU. It is an androgen receptor, preventing DHT from binding to the DHT receptors of hair follicles and thus avoiding the damage. In addition, it also lowers the concentration of testosterone which is believed to suppress hair growth. In addition, it does not have any systemic effect as it is completely metabolized in the scalp (read more about topical spironolactone here).
3. Keotoconazole: Ketoconazole shampoo is a widely recognized treatment for androgenetic alopecia. One landmark study in 1998 showed that 2% ketoconazole shampoo was equivalent to a topical minoxidil treatment in promoting the density, size and proportion of hair follicles in patients with male pattern baldness [6]. Ketoconazole shampoo which was only used two to four times weekly by participants over 21 months performed just as well as with the participants who used once-daily minoxidil lotion for the same duration.
Ketoconazole shampoo with biotin, saw palmetto, niacin, black castor oil, caffeine and argon oil is available at: https://www.minoxidilmax.com/hair-covet-hair-restoration-shampoo.
Price; Where to buy
RU 58841 in solution and powder forms are available at a few online stores in the US. Most of these retailers state their products are for research only, not for human consumption. The fact is that all the products are tailored for people who want to try it on the scalp.
Five grams at Chemyo: $69 + $7.95 shipping to US address
Five grams at Anageninc: $79 + $8 shipping to US address
You can buy 100 grams of this material from China at price of $15 per 5 grams. The quality of the material may vary if you shop from China. But keep in mind that all the RU offered in the USA is from China. Thus it is just a matter of finding the right manufacturer.
RU58841 vs Minoxidil vs Finasteride
RU: It is believed to work by binding to DHT receptors thus attenuating DHT’s effect. It was never approved for hair loss treatment. Short and long term safety data are NOT available.
Minoxidil: It works by improving blood flow to hair follicles. It has been used for hair loss treatment for over 3 decades since1988. Short and long term safety data are well-known.
Finasteride: It works by blocking 5-alpha-reductase activity thus less DHT is formed. It has been used to treat hair loss for over 2 decades since1997. Short and long term safety data are well-known.
Conclusion
Although RU58841 has been shown to affect hair growth in androgenetic alopecia, the evidence for this is outdated and extremely sparse. Indeed, most of the studies in the late 90s concerning RU were cell and animal-based studies. There has not been no clinical study on its safety and long-term effects. Its long term safety was not established like finasteride. People who used the product have reported similar but even more lingering side effects than finasteride. Thus it is not recommended to use RU-58841 as a safe alternative to finasteride. If one hesitates to use oral finasteride, topical finasteride, topical spironolactone or ketoconazole shampoo is a better option.
DragoC
Dexnoxyl
Hyundai Pharm’s new Dexnoxyl tablets contain Dexpanthenol to treat hair loss.
I tried to purchase the product but it is not currently available
NB / Products may be similar to the same active ingredient, but not as effective as this product.
Thanks Mjones and Yoda once again!
Appreciate your responses and insight. I’m now debating adding topical dut to my treatment so it would be: oral fin + topical min & dut. Is that crazy? Or just crazy enough to work..
Stefano DONT ADD ANYTHING LOL. Only add one new treatment when you see hair loss progressing. If you are maintaining and have coverage then stay the course. If you start losing ground then you can add someone new to the stack. Remember if you throw everything at once you will run out options down the road and you wont have anything to kickstart regrowth or maintenance. Mpb is a long term, our current treatments are not abd lose effectiveness over time. Dont be hair greedy and screw yourself over.
Haha thanks for the honest advice Mjones. I will stay the course and not do anything else until I start to notice further hairloss.
Much appreciated!
Quite a surprise but Samumed have completely rebranded and are now called Biosplice:
http://www.samumed.com redirects you to: https://www.biosplice.com instead
Has they published the phase 3 results?
Cant wait to see something new hiting the market…
Sorry to say it look like they gone back to phase 2 again simply change words
Phase 2/3 result expecting 2021 !!!
Admin
Kintor Pharmaceutical Announces AR-PROTAC (GT20029) Approved for Acne and Androgenic Alopecia Clinical Trials in China
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kintor-pharmaceutical-announces-ar-protac-gt20029-approved-for-acne-and-androgenic-alopecia-clinical-trials-in-china-301269661.html
Thank you Ahmed, I did see this too.
admin good morning, do you or yoda know anything about HASCI transplant? Apparently it is available in Europe and is a technique similar to cloning, it would be great if you give us some news.
gooz…love the name! Yoda doesn’t have direct knowledge on HASCI/Dr. Goh but has read reports on another site that the vast majority didn’t think it comes close to living up to the hype/claims. Tread very carefully and do your research!
gooz, my response is that after many years there have been no amazing success stories from HASCI. Therefore, I do not find it to be an appealing option for treatment.
Gracias yoda
@FollicleThought how is your pipeline of news looking?
Looking decent D1, new article coming soon.
How about the pipeline of treatments? Decent as well, many in but none as close as we’d like! 🙁
That’s true Yoda, I wish we could “warp speed” 2 or 3 of the top treatments for AGA.
@Follicle Thought I need some big news haha
I hear ya man. We’re doing our best. Not necessarily big news, but a new article for you tomorrow. Every progress counts.
Has anyone ever seen a trichologist? If so, was it worthwhile?
I’m 40. Gradual thinning on top. Noticeably less bodyhair than I used to have. Stubble and eyebrows aren’t as thick as they were. As a result, I’m wondering if there is an underlying cause.
I saw a dermatologist, who prescribed oral minoxidil, which hasn’t helped.
Lilly and Incyte’s Baricitinib Improved Hair Regrowth for Alopecia Areata Patients in Second Phase 3 Study
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lilly-and-incytes-baricitinib-improved-hair-regrowth-for-alopecia-areata-patients-in-second-phase-3-study-301272086.html
I have just purchased new nioxin anti hair loss serum sandalore which as many know nioxin has been selling hair products for many years and it is a nice clear serum not greasy so i do like it i cannot comment on whether it works as yet but will let you and admin know how i get on with it.
I forgot to add i am on 5mg a day oral minoxidil and hair has defiantly thickened up and my gp in uk is upping the dose to 10mg a day so i will let you know my progress also on topical nioxin sandalore as well.
Hello, Where do you get oral Minoxidil?
Hi Guys you can get nioxin with sandalore just google search it and go for the best price and oral minoxidil you must ask your GP in uk as you need to monitor your blood pressure and take a water pill with it as well, you need to also get the NHS Salford trials they did on oral minox and that it did help grow more hair than topical. To be fair you need to convince your doctor of this as it is off label for hair loss.
Hi
Where are you guys getting oral minoxidil from?
Thanks
davelee30, where did you get topical sandalore?
I got Nioxin anti hair loss serum which has Sadalore.
Hey Admin (and maybe fellow visitors of this magnificient webpage),
how do you read the following study on topical finasteride?
https://mri.cts-mrp.eu/human/downloads/DE_H_6478_001_PAR.pdf
As a person with no experience of reading such information I am not sure what to make of this…It seems a bit as if the efficacy of finasteride in general is in question while the placebo vehicle works wonder.
Thanks a lot in advance for your professional opinion.
From what I see the topical finasteride seemed to outperform both oral finasteride and vehicle in the hair count stats. I actually don’t enjoy reading every data point in such studies but I went over the important charts. Perhaps you looked at the chart that compared DHT levels of people treated with topical, oral, and vehicle? The DHT levels were highest in people who received vehicle.
I’m pretty sure the first time I saw this posted was on this site, and I do appreciate the amount of effort put into this site, so a big thank you to FT.
I have been using the topical 5% minoxidil with 0.1% of finasteride mix for about 6 months now and have most certainly seen an improvement. I have balding at the temples and front of scalp and I am seeing much it come back in starting at the middle of the front of my scalp. Its slower than I would like, but follicles are coming in and I am excited to see if there will be a major improvement. It is looking promising so far. I get my product from a company called onmen in Canada. I think there is one other company that does the online consultation as well. It was quick and easy without having to go into a place to get the script.
Good luck to all those who are trying it. I am hoping for the best, as a topical application once a day that is basically invisible once applied is a-ok by me.