More Questions for Clarification

I read your blog from beginning to end and found it very resourceful- thank you. There are a few questions on which I would like clarification.

1. I have read briefly about itchy scalp which requires use of Nizoral. Is this a very common side effect which I should expect if I decide to take Propecia, or does this only happen to a small number of patients you have seen? I had to stop using generic Minoxidil after three days because it gave my hair a greasey feel. Will Nizoral cause a similar problem or other side effects?
2. I have read somewhere that you might expect to see accelerated loss for the first four months as the follicle’s “cycle” adjusts. What percentage, if any, of your patients would you estimate see this accelerated loss?
3. I take various supplements for body building purposes, such as creatine, glucosamine, and whey protein. Since hair loss is related to testosterone/DHT, are there certain substances which I should be avoiding in order to prevent extra testosterone generation in the body?
4. What is your real world experience with the Laser Comb? With all the various internet sites which sell this type of gadgetry, is there a reputable company or site which you would trust?

1. Itchy scalp does not require any particular treatment, but some people feel strongly about their medications and post their opinions on the internet. This is particularly true for those who sell the medications. In my experience, not one patient complained about itchy scalp after being placed on Propecia, but they do complain of this from the use of minoxidil. Many people find that styling hair is made difficult with minoxidil. If you want the non-greasy minoxidil, try the minoxidil for women, as it is alcohol based and is not greasy.
2. I have personally not seen any patients complain about a period of hair loss when they start Propecia, but I have heard reports by some of my colleagues. I must therefore assume that it is a rare occurance.
3. Anything that builds up testosterone production will raise DHT levels and accelerate the course of male pattern balding. Check with the claims on the bottles and check out each component of the nutritional substance you are taking.
4. I have no personal experience with the Laser Comb. The story is still out on all laser hair treatments, but I remain very hopeful. See Low Laser Light Therapy for Hair Loss for more details.