Shereene IdrissBoard Certified Derm, Founder and Chief Nerd

Hair Growth Secrets from a Dermatologist #shorts

8 Feb 2024 · 1 min

Watch on YouTube

0:58

YouTube short by board-certified dermatologist Shereene Idriss giving three concise hair-growth tips: (1) use 5% minoxidil (the men’s OTC formulation is stronger and often sold as three cans for $60 versus two cans in the women’s packaging; women may use the 5% but should avoid if pregnant), (2) consider topical finasteride mixed with minoxidil to limit systemic side effects associated with oral finasteride (speaker cites decreased libido and possible gynecomastia), and (3) avoid biotin because it can interfere with thyroid blood tests. The speaker warns women not to use these treatments if pregnant or trying to conceive and invites questions.

Questions this video answers

5% minoxidil.

Three cans for $60 (men's formulation).

Two cans (women's formulation).

Decreased libido and possible gynecomastia.

Because biotin can interfere with/alter thyroid blood-test results.

Chapters

3 Hair growth secrets that I refuse to gatekeep as a board certified dermatologist. Number one and I will never stop talking about this. But if you're familiar with Minoxidil, you're probably familiar with Rogaine. Minoxidil is a great over the counter product that you can use to increase the length of time that your hair is on your head. But there are two versions, a men's and a women's. The men's one you can get three cans for 60 bucks. The women's one appears cheaper, but you're only getting two cans. Don't let the pink tax fool you. And the women's one is not as strong as the men's one you need 5% and that's the men's. And yes, the women can use the men's. Just don't use it if you're pregnant. Neither one. Number two Finasteride. Finasteride is great for men who are losing their hair. It's usually a pill, but it comes with unwanted side effects I. E. Decreased libido and maybe gynecomastia, ie man boobs. So I like it topically. Yes. I mix minoxidil and finasteride topically to use locally on your scalp. Women can use it too if they're not looking to get pregnant or if they're post menopausal. Last, don't take biotin. It can fuck up with your thyroid panel. If you have any questions or concerns, ask below.