hims topical finasteride dilution: appropriate solvent, math

[grassPacket]

I've decided to try low concentration topical finasteride in lieu of oral due to the potential for cognitive effects. I'm working towards an engineering degree and am required to have As in some challenging classes. Cognitive deficiencies (even temporary) are not an option. Not yet, anyway.

I was planning on buying a 60 mL bottle of hims finasteride + minoxidil solution and diluting it from 0.3% finasteride to 0.01% (1 mL to localized areas daily). But what solvent should I use (a name of a particular product would be nice)? I can't find info on what hims uses and I have to match it to avoid complications.  

In addition, in order to achieve the desired concentration, I believe I should take 2 mL of the finasteride + minoxidil solution and add it to 58 mL of solvent. Would that be correct?

[Melvin- Admin]

You can buy topical finasteride that is 0.01%. Topicals are all about the vehicle. For example, a liposomal silicone-based vehicle suspends the finasteride on your scalp so it penetrates slowly. These solutions usually have 2.5% finasteride as a result. 

[grassPacket]

11 minutes ago, Melvin- Moderator said:

You can buy topical finasteride that is 0.01%. Topicals are all about the vehicle. For example, a liposomal silicone-based vehicle suspends the finasteride on your scalp so it penetrates slowly. These solutions usually have 2.5% finasteride as a result. 

I know both of those things, but I was considering the dilution route since hims charges a little more than half what other compounding pharmacies do for custom formulations. Money isnt necessarily a big deal, but still. 

 

I would like liposomal topical finasteride, but I still wouldn't want the concentration that high and I haven't had much luck finding a source of customizable liposomal finasteride.

Edited April 19, 2023 by grassPacket

[Gatsby]

Aside from Xyon Health has anyone had luck buying from a source that sells and mails topical finasteride or dutasteride that has a barrier to prevent the drug going systemic? I've tried Farmacia Parati but have not heard back from them?

[Melvin- Admin]

FUEclinic might be able to prescribe this for you. That said, there have been complaints about their compounding pharmacies customer service, so proceed with caution.

[Gatsby]

Thanks Melvin. Yes I have read the same on the forum. 🙏

[Melvin- Admin]

1 hour ago, grassPacket said:

I know both of those things, but I was considering the dilution route since hims charges a little more than half what other compounding pharmacies do for custom formulations. Money isnt necessarily a big deal, but still. 

 

I would like liposomal topical finasteride, but I still wouldn't want the concentration that high and I haven't had much luck finding a source of customizable liposomal finasteride.

Liposomal formulations require a higher concentration. However, have you considered dutasteride? In my experience, it has less chance of side effects because the molecular weight is heavier, which means it doesn’t penetrate as easily as finasteride.