Hi - first time poster. I’m in my early 30s and have had balding in my crown area (my hairline to date is fine) since I was I was about 24-25. I finally tried Propecia (branded) 3 years ago which stopped my shed and even increased some thickeness on the crown. It wasn’t a full recovery by any means but I was happy with the result. I was taking 1mg 3 to 4 times a week generally but there were times where I forgot the dose.
Over the last 2 months, I’ve noticed an increased shed. I had a new pillowcase which hairs would stick too. I’ve since switched pillowcases (and seen less hairs) but I’m hyper focused on shed and feel I’m noticing more hairs in my comb, on the sink, etc. I started taking weekly pictures for progress but only 3 data points so far which seem comparable. The other life change that has occurred is I’ve been eating healthier (low carb) and exercising regularly since mid August. I’ve lost about 6 pounds of fat and put on a little muscle (148lbs to 143lbs). I also feel I was a little lax in taking my Propecia at the time (2-3 times a week instead of 3-4). I’m now noticing stronger erections, including “morning wood” which I didn’t have when I felt the Propecia was working.
My theory is that the exercise / diet and weight loss has led to an increase in T which is neutralizing the effects of the Propecia. To compensate, I’ve increased my Propecia to 1mg essentially daily over the past month ( a missed dose here and there but on the whole, almost every day). I haven’t noticed a decrease in shed since I started paying more attention.
I don’t think it’s confirmation bias so I am concerned the Propecia just hit a wall and stopped working. I’m setting up an appointment with a dermatologist for blood work but unfortunately won’t really have a baseline to compare too.
I was looking for any feedback or suggestions on similar experiences or best practices I could use to make the best of the situation.
Thanks so much for your time and patience with a first time poster.
Over the last 2 months, I’ve noticed an increased shed. I had a new pillowcase which hairs would stick too. I’ve since switched pillowcases (and seen less hairs) but I’m hyper focused on shed and feel I’m noticing more hairs in my comb, on the sink, etc. I started taking weekly pictures for progress but only 3 data points so far which seem comparable. The other life change that has occurred is I’ve been eating healthier (low carb) and exercising regularly since mid August. I’ve lost about 6 pounds of fat and put on a little muscle (148lbs to 143lbs). I also feel I was a little lax in taking my Propecia at the time (2-3 times a week instead of 3-4). I’m now noticing stronger erections, including “morning wood” which I didn’t have when I felt the Propecia was working.
My theory is that the exercise / diet and weight loss has led to an increase in T which is neutralizing the effects of the Propecia. To compensate, I’ve increased my Propecia to 1mg essentially daily over the past month ( a missed dose here and there but on the whole, almost every day). I haven’t noticed a decrease in shed since I started paying more attention.
I don’t think it’s confirmation bias so I am concerned the Propecia just hit a wall and stopped working. I’m setting up an appointment with a dermatologist for blood work but unfortunately won’t really have a baseline to compare too.
I was looking for any feedback or suggestions on similar experiences or best practices I could use to make the best of the situation.
Thanks so much for your time and patience with a first time poster.
