New Here, looking for advice

[CrownBalding1009]

Hey all,

I first noticed I was slowly balding in my late 20s. I’m 33 now. Pics attached are from today, after a night of drinking. I started on topical finasteride/min from HIMs three years ago. I can’t tell if my balding has progressed, or stablized. Does anyone have any TX recommendations? I’m considering topical dutasteride.

 

[MrClean1]

Did you take any before pics 3 years ago? I have tried all the combinations of topical minoxidil and everything else they could think of mixing with it but I personally was better off with just liquid Rogaine from Walmart. I would also get on finasteride most people tolerate it well.

 

[CrownBalding1009]

This is where I started. There was noticeable regrowth for a year, then it stopped

 

[MrClean1]

Looks like it hasn't gotten much worse.
Some people get good results with oral minoxidil so you could add that or get on finesteride or just keep on your current regiment and see if you maintain.

 

[terrence]

Get oral finasteride and oral minoxidil from your doctor and you will get better result.

 

[Likewise]

What are some side effects? Do you use any hair products at all? I’ve been paying more attention to my hair lately, and I realized that using the right products makes a big difference. I was talking to Lange customer service https://lange.pissedconsumer.com/customer-service.html recently, and they gave me some great recommendations on how to take care of my hair. They suggested some nourishing oils and treatments that I’ve started using, and I can already tell my hair feels softer and looks shinier. I’d definitely recommend reaching out to them if you’re looking for advice—they were super helpful and really knowledgeable

 

[losingbattle88]

Congratulations you have gained and maintained. U just need a transplant now.

 

[mary_jones]

Thank you all for the info

 

[sireesharajesh]

WOW

 

[NathanN23]

Thanks for sharing your experience. From what you’ve described, it sounds like you’ve been proactive about managing your hair loss, which is great. If you've been using topical finasteride and minoxidil for three years and aren't sure if it's stabilized or still progressing, you might want to compare your current photos to ones from when you first started treatment. Sometimes, gradual changes are hard to notice without a side-by-side comparison.

As for topical dutasteride, some users have reported stronger DHT suppression compared to finasteride, but since it’s not as widely studied topically, results can vary. If you're considering the switch, you might want to consult a dermatologist or hair specialist to weigh the risks and benefits—especially since dutasteride has a longer half-life and could have stronger systemic effects.

In addition to medication, you could explore derma rolling (microneedling), which has been shown to improve the effectiveness of minoxidil, or caffeine-based shampoos that may help with scalp health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, stress management, and good sleep) can also play a big role in hair health.

Let us know what you decide, and I hope you find a regimen that works best for you!

Nathan