Factors that Can Improve Testosterone Gel Absorption

Most absorption of testosterone in testosterone gels happens during the first 4 hours. The 1.62 % Androgel package insert says this about showering after testosterone gel application and using moisturizers/sun block:

Effect of showering

In a randomized, 3-way (3 treatment periods without washout period) crossover study in 24 hypogonadal men, the effect of showering on testosterone exposure was assessed after once daily application of AndroGel 1.62% 81 mg to upper arms/shoulders for 7 days in each treatment period. On the 7th day of each treatment period, hypogonadal men took a shower with soap and water at either 2, 6, or 10 hours after drug application. The effect of showering at 2 or 6 hours post-dose on Day 7 resulted in 13% and 12% decreases in mean Cavg, respectively, compared to Day 6 when no shower was taken after drug application.

Showering at 10 hours after drug application had no effect on bioavailability. The amount of testosterone remaining in the outer layers of the skin at the application site on the 7th day was assessed using a tape stripping procedure and was reduced by at least 80% after showering 2-10 hours post-dose compared to on the 6th day when no shower was taken after drug application.

Effect of sunscreen or moisturizing lotion on absorption of testosterone

In a randomized, 3-way (3 treatment periods without washout period) crossover study in 18 hypogonadal males, the effect of applying a moisturizing lotion or a sunscreen on the absorption of testosterone was evaluated with the upper arms/shoulders as application sites. For 7 days, moisturizing lotion or sunscreen (SPF 50) was applied daily to the AndroGel 1.62% application site 1 hour after the application of AndroGel 1.62% 40.5 mg. Application of moisturizing lotion increased mean testosterone Cavg and Cmax by 14% and 17%, respectively, compared to AndroGel 1.62% administered alone. Application of sunscreen increased mean testosterone Cavg and Cmax by 8% and 13%, respectively, compared to AndroGel 1.62% applied alone. "

This graph shows how applying on shoulders (treatment B) gets blood levels of testosterone higher than applying testosterone gel on abdominal area (treatment A). It is probably related to the lower amount of fat in the shoulders that makes it easier for testosterone to get to the blood stream.



Message:

1- Applying on shoulders gets more testosterone absorbed by abdominals.
2- Showering or sweating after 4 hours is OK.
3- Using moisturizers or sunblock after applying testosterone gels increases absorption by 8-13 percent.

Briefing Document: Optimizing Testosterone Gel Absorption​

This briefing document summarizes key findings and practical recommendations for improving testosterone gel absorption, drawing primarily from the "Factors that Can Improve Testosterone Gel Absorption - Excel Male TRT Forum" source. It highlights factors influencing absorption, application site considerations, and potential strategies for maximizing efficacy.

I. Key Themes & Most Important Ideas​

The primary themes revolve around optimizing transdermal testosterone delivery to achieve desired serum testosterone levels. The core ideas emphasize the significant impact of application technique, post-application activities, and individual physiological factors on the effectiveness of testosterone gels. A recurring point is the variability in absorption among individuals, necessitating careful monitoring and potential dose adjustments.

II. Detailed Breakdown of Key Information​

A. Absorption Window and Post-Application Activities:

• Initial Absorption Period: "Most absorption of testosterone in testosterone gels happens during the first 4 hours." This is a critical window for maximizing uptake.
• Showering/Sweating:Showering at 2 or 6 hours post-dose leads to a "13% and 12% decreases in mean Cavg, respectively." This indicates a significant reduction in absorption if showering occurs too soon.
• Showering at 10 hours after drug application had no effect on bioavailability. This suggests that by 10 hours, sufficient absorption has occurred.
• The amount of testosterone remaining on the skin "was reduced by at least 80% after showering 2-10 hours post-dose."
• Recommendation: "Showering or sweating after 4 hours is OK." (Nelson Vergel)

B. Impact of Moisturizers and Sunscreen:

• Increased Absorption: Applying a moisturizing lotion or sunscreen to the application site 1 hour after gel application can increase absorption.
• Moisturizing lotion: "increased mean testosterone Cavg and Cmax by 14% and 17%, respectively."
• Sunscreen (SPF 50): "increased mean testosterone Cavg and Cmax by 8% and 13%, respectively."
• Recommendation: "Using moisturizers or sunblock after applying testosterone gels increases absorption by 8-13 percent." (Nelson Vergel)
• Timing of Lotion/Sunscreen Application: While the study specifies 1 hour, some user discussions suggest application within "6-10 min later when its completely dry." The source does not definitively state if waiting the full hour is necessary for optimal benefit, but the study cited used the 1-hour interval. One user reported worse blood tests with CeraVe lotion, suggesting that the type of moisturizer may matter.

C. Application Site Considerations:

• Shoulders vs. Abdomen: "Applying on shoulders gets more testosterone absorbed by abdominals." (Nelson Vergel) A graph in the original source supports this, showing higher testosterone blood levels when applied to shoulders.
• Rationale for Shoulder Preference: The "T gel absorption data shows better uptake from areas that have less subcutaneous (under the skin) fat like shoulders." (Nelson Vergel) It is also speculated that "T aromatisation to estradiol is also lower in lower fat areas."
• Multiple Sites vs. Single Site: A study on a 1% hydroalcoholic gel found that applying the gel at "four sites (application skin area approximately four times that of one site) resulted in a mean area under the curve (AUC0 –24h) for serum T levels on the 7th day (868 ± 72 nmolh/L, mean ± SEM), which was 23% higher but not significantly different ( P = 0.06) than repeated application at one site (706 ± 59 nmolh/L)."
• While not statistically significant in this small study (n=9), the trend suggests that "The surface area of the skin to which the gel was applied had only a modest impact on serum T and DHT levels."
• However, "Mean serum levels of T and DHT was higher by 23% and 33%, respectively, despite application of the gel to four times the skin area in the four sites compared with the one site group."
• Conclusion of study: "Because of the greater dosage flexibility provided, hydroalcoholic T gel application over multiple sites seems to be an effective and nonskin-irritating method of transdermal T delivery for hypogonadal men."
• Forearms and Flanks: Dr. John Crisler suggests applying directly to "forearms, and rub them together. Then finish off by going up and down the flanks." He also notes that "Absorption is improved by doing so within a few minutes of showering."
• Bald Scalp: A user speculates that "one of the best areas to apply gel/cream is the scalp of a bald head. Great blood supply and very little fat." This is a speculative suggestion, not a research-backed claim in the provided text.

D. Application Technique:

• Rubbing vs. Soaking/Patting: A user describes "not rubbing it in, rather just letting it soak in and very gently patting it in." Dr. Crisler advises against applying with hands (due to thick palm skin) and instead suggests rubbing forearms together. The source does not provide a definitive consensus on the optimal rubbing technique, but highlights the importance of the application method.

E. Individual Variability and Genetic Factors:

• Substantial Inter-individual Variability: "There is substantial inter-individual variability in serum testosterone levels in hypogonadal men treated with testosterone gels."
• Limited Impact of Baseline Characteristics: "Baseline characteristics (age, height, weight, baseline testosterone, SHBG, hematocrit, and creatinine) accounted for only a small fraction of the variance (<8%)."
• Role of Genetic Polymorphisms: "Polymorphisms in SHBG and AKR1C3 genes were suggestively associated with on-treatment testosterone levels." This suggests that genetic factors can play a role in how well individuals absorb testosterone gels.
• Need for Dose Titration: "Multiple dose titrations are needed to maintain on-treatment testosterone levels in the target range" due to this variability.

F. Hydrogel Cream:

• Improved Absorption: One user reported "dramatically higher" testosterone levels with a new Atrevis Hydrogel Based Testosterone Cream from Empower Pharmacy, even exceeding levels achieved with injectable testosterone cypionate. Nelson Vergel confirms, "In my experience, it has better absorption. You won’t need injections."

G. Comparison with Injections:

• One user strongly advocates for injections over gels due to absorption uncertainty: "When you use gels, success is dependent on absorption, and absorption will always be a huge question mark. When you inject the T is delivered directly to its target, bang, DONE. Except for the irrational fear of needles, I can't imagine why anybody would choose gels over injections."

III. Actionable Insights and Recommendations:​

1. Time Your Shower: Avoid showering or significant sweating for at least 4 hours after applying testosterone gel to maximize absorption. Aim for 10 hours if possible to ensure full bioavailability.
2. Consider Moisturizer/Sunscreen: Apply a moisturizing lotion or sunscreen (SPF 50) about 1 hour after gel application to potentially increase absorption by 8-17%. Experiment with timing if waiting a full hour is impractical, but be mindful of individual results. The type of moisturizer may also play a role.

• Optimize Application Site:Prioritize shoulders for application due to lower subcutaneous fat and potentially better uptake.
• Consider applying to forearms and flanks as alternative or additional sites, rubbing them together.
• The concept of using multiple sites for a wider surface area may offer a modest increase in absorption of T and DHT.

1. Be Mindful of Technique: While not definitively stated, gently patting or allowing the gel to soak in, rather than aggressive rubbing, may be beneficial. Avoid applying with palms directly.
2. Monitor and Adjust: Due to significant inter-individual variability, regular blood tests are crucial to assess on-treatment testosterone levels. Be prepared for multiple dose adjustments to achieve and maintain target ranges. Genetic factors may play a role in this variability.
3. Explore Hydrogel Options: If traditional gels prove insufficient, investigate newer hydrogel-based testosterone creams, as they show promise for improved absorption.

1. How does the application site affect testosterone gel absorption?​

Applying testosterone gel to areas with less subcutaneous fat, such as the shoulders and upper arms, generally leads to better absorption. Studies have shown that applying gel to the shoulders can result in higher blood testosterone levels compared to application on the abdominal area. This is likely due to the ease with which testosterone can reach the bloodstream in areas with less underlying fat. While one study showed only a modest, non-significant increase (23%) in serum T levels when applied to four sites (including arms/shoulders and abdomen) compared to one site (left arm/shoulder), the overall consensus points to sites with less fat as more effective. Some speculate that lower fat areas might also lead to less aromatization of testosterone into estradiol.

2. When is it safe to shower after applying testosterone gel without significantly reducing its effectiveness?​

Most absorption of testosterone from gels occurs within the first 4 hours after application. Studies indicate that showering with soap and water at 2 or 6 hours post-dose can lead to a 13% and 12% decrease, respectively, in mean testosterone levels compared to not showering. However, showering 10 hours after application has no significant effect on bioavailability. The amount of testosterone remaining in the outer layers of the skin at the application site is substantially reduced (by at least 80%) after showering within 2-10 hours post-dose. Therefore, it is generally recommended to wait at least 4 hours, and ideally 10 hours, before showering or engaging in activities that cause significant sweating to maximize absorption.

3. Can moisturizing lotion or sunscreen impact testosterone gel absorption?​

Yes, applying moisturizing lotion or sunscreen to the application site after testosterone gel can increase its absorption. A study found that applying moisturizing lotion 1 hour after AndroGel 1.62% application increased mean testosterone Cavg and Cmax by 14% and 17%, respectively. Similarly, applying sunscreen (SPF 50) 1 hour after the gel increased mean testosterone Cavg and Cmax by 8% and 13%. This suggests that these products can help drive more testosterone into the skin, thereby improving overall absorption. It is generally advised to wait until the gel is completely dry (around 6-10 minutes) before applying these products.

4. What is the recommended method for applying testosterone gel?​

While specific instructions may vary by product, a common recommendation is to apply the gel to areas like the shoulders and upper arms. It's suggested to avoid applying with bare hands and instead rub the gel directly onto the forearms and then up and down the flanks. Some users gently pat the gel into the skin rather than rubbing vigorously, letting it soak in. The gel should be allowed to dry completely before applying other products. Absorption may also be improved by applying the gel within a few minutes of showering when the skin is clean and potentially more receptive.

5. Why is there significant variability in testosterone levels among men using the same dose of testosterone gel?​

There is substantial inter-individual variability in serum testosterone levels even when hypogonadal men are treated with the same dose of transdermal testosterone gels. Research indicates that baseline characteristics such as age, height, weight, baseline testosterone, SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), hematocrit, and creatinine account for only a small fraction (less than 8%) of this variance. Exploratory studies suggest that genetic polymorphisms in genes encoding testosterone-metabolizing enzymes, specifically SHBG and AKR1C3, might contribute to these variations. This means that individual genetic makeup can influence how effectively the body absorbs and processes the applied testosterone, often requiring multiple dose titrations to achieve and maintain target testosterone levels.

6. Is it true that hydrogel-based testosterone creams offer better absorption than traditional testosterone creams?​

Based on user experience, hydrogel-based testosterone creams, such as the Atrevis Hydrogel Based Testosterone Cream from Empower Pharmacy, appear to offer significantly better absorption compared to other testosterone creams and even injectable forms for some individuals. One user reported dramatically higher testosterone levels after a month of using the hydrogel cream, surpassing levels achieved with 200 mg per week of injectable testosterone cypionate. This suggests that the hydrogel formulation may enhance the delivery and uptake of testosterone into the bloodstream.

7. Does applying lotion or sunblock immediately after the gel dries still offer benefits, or is waiting an hour necessary?​

While some sources suggest waiting an hour to apply moisturizing lotion or sunblock after testosterone gel for increased absorption, anecdotal user questions indicate that applying it within 10 minutes of the gel drying is also practiced. The original study on Androgel 1.62% specifically mentioned applying lotion or sunscreen 1 hour after the gel to achieve the noted increases in absorption. Although it's not explicitly stated whether a shorter waiting period yields similar benefits, the reported increases were observed with the 1-hour interval. Further clarification or individual experimentation might be needed to confirm the optimal timing for various products.

8. Are testosterone gels as effective as testosterone injections, or do they have limitations?​

Testosterone gels can be effective for testosterone replacement therapy, but their success is highly dependent on absorption, which can be inconsistent and a "huge question mark." Factors like application site, showering habits, and the use of moisturizers can influence absorption rates. Injections, conversely, deliver testosterone directly into the bloodstream, offering a more predictable and direct method of administration. While gels offer convenience and avoid needles, some argue that injections provide a more consistent and reliable way to achieve target testosterone levels. Ultimately, the choice between gels and injections often comes down to individual preference, lifestyle, and the patient's response to treatment.

_____________________________________________

Another way to use a compounded testosterone cream:

Briefing Document: Scrotal Testosterone Cream for Libido and TRT​

Date: October 26, 2023

Source: Excerpts from Scrotal Testosterone Cream: Can it Increase Libido? : Scrotal Testosterone Cream: Can it Increase Libido? - Excel Male TRT Forum

Executive Summary:​

This briefing summarizes discussions from the Excel Male TRT Forum regarding the use of scrotal testosterone cream for treating low testosterone symptoms, particularly its impact on libido and absorption. The key takeaway is that scrotal application of testosterone cream demonstrates high bioavailability and can achieve therapeutic and even "supra-physiological" testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, often leading to significant improvements in libido and overall well-being. While generally well-tolerated, some users experienced issues like weight gain or perceived androgen receptor fatigue over time, suggesting the importance of individualized dosing and monitoring.

Key Themes and Important Information:​

1. High Bioavailability and Rapid Absorption via Scrotal Delivery:

• A case study presented by Nelson Vergel, Founder of ExcelMale.com, highlights that "the data suggests that after application therapeutic levels are reached with concentrations of (1204.7 ng/dL) within two hours. Additionally, consistent concentrations (1320.6 ng/dL) remain beyond six hours."
• The forum consensus, supported by a linked conclusion, is that "the scrotal administration of testosterone in a cream formulation provides high bioavailability, dose-dependant peak serum testosterone concentration, and tolerability with a much lower dose relative to the non-scrotal transdermal route." This indicates superior absorption compared to other transdermal methods.

1. Significant Improvement in Libido:

• Multiple users report positive effects on libido. One user ("ghce") stated, "Libido was much better than other forms of TRT or Clomid that I had previously used."
• Another user ("pyater") confirmed "Very good. Libido et al." when discussing their experience with high DHT levels resulting from scrotal cream.
• The very title of the forum thread, "Scrotal Testosterone Cream: Can it Increase Libido?", directly addresses this primary concern, and the anecdotal evidence within the thread largely supports an affirmative answer.

1. Impact on Testosterone (T) and Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) Levels:

• Scrotal application can lead to "supra physiological" levels of both T and DHT.
• "ghce" shared lab results showing:
• Testosterone: 45.0 nmol/L (1,323 ng/dl) (Reference: 9-38 nmol/L) - Significantly high.
• Free Testosterone: 1512 pmol/L (Reference: 250-800 pmol/L) - Significantly high.
• DHT Plasma Dihydrotestosterone: 7455 pmol/L (223 ng/dl) (Reference: 1000-6000 pmol/L) - Significantly high.
• "pyater" reported T levels ">1500" and DHT levels of "170" and "176" (presumably ng/dl, although units are inconsistent with ghce's pmol/L for DHT). These consistently demonstrate elevated levels.

1. Considerations and Potential Side Effects:

• Weight Gain/Protocol "Bombing Out": "ghce" reported that after two years of scrotal cream, "the protocol bombed with me putting on excess weight so I stopped it... Started to gain excess weight around the middle, my normal A shape was becoming an oval also a decrease in frequency and quality of erections." This suggests that sustained supra-physiological levels might lead to negative long-term effects for some individuals.
• Androgen Receptor Fatigue: "ghce" speculated that "keeping my levels supra physiological for a long period would lead to androgen receptor fatigue," which informed their decision to reduce dosage.
• Hair Thinning/Loss: Nelson Vergel notes that for men over 40, "new hair loss does not occur in men on TRT after that age." However, "ghce" contradicted this, stating their "hair level increased significantly both facial and body" with scrotal cream, likely due to high DHT. "pyater" was also monitoring DHT closely to protect "the hair on my head." This indicates hair changes (growth or loss concerns) are a relevant side effect.
• Transference Risk: "ghce" cited "concerns over possible T transference to our new borne" as a reason for switching methods.

1. Dosing and Application:

• Dosages varied among users, from "2 clicks every" (unspecified frequency, "Switched to Scrotal T Cream - Crazy Results" user) to "2 clicks directly to scrotum every AM + 1 click directly to scrotum every night" ("pyater").
• Some users, like "ghce," did not apply the entire dose to the scrotum, distributing "only 30% of my once daily dose to that area the rest being spread to chest and upper arms mostly."
• "pyater" adjusted their protocol from applying all clicks to the scrotum to "1/2 click to scrotum 1 1/2 clicks to shoulder AM and 1 click to shoulder PM to try to manage down DHT," indicating a strategy for mitigating excessively high DHT levels.

1. Comparison to Other TRT Forms:

• Users like "ghce" had experience with various TRT forms (gels, injections, Clomid, oral TRT like Andriol) and often found scrotal cream superior for libido initially.
• Nelson Vergel himself plans to switch to "scrotal cream + injection protocol soon" after using gels for 10 years, suggesting its perceived efficacy.

Conclusion:​

Scrotal testosterone cream emerges as a highly effective transdermal method for testosterone replacement, particularly notable for its rapid absorption and potential to significantly boost libido due to elevated T and DHT levels. While many users report positive initial experiences and therapeutic benefits without immediate side effects, some long-term users encountered challenges like weight gain, potential androgen receptor fatigue, and concerns about transference or hair changes. Individualized dosing, careful monitoring of T and DHT levels, and awareness of potential long-term effects are crucial for successful and sustainable use of this method.

 

More information about testosterone treatment options:

Testosterone Replacement Treatment Options

 

@Nelson..........I was doing a search for some info for a friend who just got put on Testim, he knows of my background, it was my suggestion that he ask his Dr to be tested. I emailed this particular forum to him, my question is about the shoulder application site and abdominal absorption of T, how is this connected ?
Duane

 

The T gel absorption data shows better uptake from areas that have less subcutaneous (under the skin) fat like shoulders. I speculate that T aromatisation to estradiol is also lower in lower fat areas.

 

Does it really matter site application for a gel like androgel, 1.62 the direction is for shoulder, the lower dose is in the midsection.
My first consult with the pharmacist with 1.62 rx she advised midsection application, I read the insert which stated shoulders.
Its all going the same place, no?

 

Pharmacokinetics of Transdermal Testosterone Gel in Hypogonadal Men: Application of Gel at One Site Versus Four Sites: A General Clinical Research Center Study*


C. WANG, N. BERMAN, J. A. LONGSTRETH, B. CHUAPOCO, L. HULL, B. STEINER, S. FAULKNER, R. E. DUDLEY, AND R. S. SWERDLOFF

Division of Endocrinology, Departments of Medicine (C.W., B.C., L.H., B.S., R.S.S.) and Pediatrics
(N.B.), Harbor–UCLA Medical Center and Research and Education Institute, Torrance, California
90509; and Unimed Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (J.A.L., S.F., R.E.D.), Buffalo Grove, Illinois 60089

ABSTRACT

Testosterone (T) in a hydroalcoholic gel has been developed as an effective and convenient open system for transdermal delivery of the hormone to men. Because the gel can be applied either to small or large areas of skin, it was important to assess whether the skin surface area on which the gel was applied was an important deter- minant of serum T levels. To answer this question, the pharmacokinetics of a transdermal 1% hydroalcoholic gel preparation of T was studied in nine hypogonadal men. The subjects applied in random order a 25-mg metered dose of T gel either four times at one site (left arm/shoulder) or at four different sites (left and right arms/shoulders and left and right abdomen) once daily (6 – 8 min) for 7 consecutive days. After 7 days of washout, each subject was then crossed over to the opposite regimen for another 7 days of treatment. Serum samples were collected for measurements of T, 5a dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estradiol before, during (days 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7), and after (days 8, 9, 11, 13, and 15) application of T gel. Multiple blood samples were drawn on the 1st and 7th day after gel application; single samples were obtained just before the next T gel application on other days (24 h after the previous gel application). The T gel dried in less than 5 min, left no residue, and produced no skin irritation in any of the subjects. Mean serum T levels, irrespective of application at one site or four sites followed the same pattern: rising to 2- to 3- and 4- to 5-fold above baseline at 0.5 and 24 h after first application, respectively. There- after, serum T levels reached steady state and remained at 4- to 5-fold above baseline (at the upper limit of the normal adult range) for the duration of gel application and returned to baseline within 4 days after stopping application. The application of T gel at four sites (ap- plication skin area approximately four times that of one site) resulted in a mean area under the curve (AUC0 –24h) for serum T levels on the 7th day (868 ± 72 nmol*h/L, mean ± SEM), which was 23% higher but not significantly different (P = 0.06) than repeated application at one site (706 ± 59 nmol*h/L). This could be due to the limited number of subjects studied (n = 9). Mean serum DHT levels followed the same pattern as serum T, achieving steady-state levels by 2 days. The mean concentration of serum DHT on the 7th day was significantly higher after application at four sites (9.15 ± 1.26 nmol/L, P < 0.05) than at one site (6.9 ± 0.77 nmol/L). These serum DHT levels were at or above the normal adult male range. Serum DHT:T ratio was not significantly altered by T gel application. Serum estradiol levels followed the same pattern as serum T and showed no significant difference between the one- or four-site application. We conclude that transdermal daily application of 100 mg T gel resulted in similar steady levels of serum T. The surface area of the skin to which the gel was applied had only a modest impact on serum T and DHT levels. Mean serum levels of T and DHT was higher by 23% and 33%, respectively, despite application of the gel to four times the skin area in the four sites compared with the one site group. Because of the greater dosage flexibility provided, hydroalcoholic T gel application over multiple sites seems to be an effective and nonskin-irritating method of trans- dermal T delivery for hypogonadal men. Dose-ranging studies are required to determine dosage regimens for T gel application as a replacement therapy in hypogonadal men. (J Clin Endocrinol Metab 85: 964 –969, 2000)

 

Thank you Nelson for this awesome information and graphs. I just started t-gel stuff. It is the 1.25, 2 pumps per day. Doc will check my t-levels in 5 weeks, then he will decide if I need to increase the dosage.

I want to get as much absorption as possible. So it looks like my workouts need to be in the afternoon since I apply the t-gel in the morning. Don't want to have sweat effect the t-gel. Also, I will start using lotion on the area I applied the t-gel, an hour after it is applied. Anything to help absorption is a plus in my book and will allow me to get my money worth of the product.

This study you posted is awesome!

Thank you.

 

question about lotion application times?

so , ive read in a few foums that , you dont have to wait the full hour to apply sunblock? and just to do it within 10 minutes after it dries?

what ive been doing is applying the generic 12.5mg 1% gel to my sholders and upper arms / not rubbing it in, rather just letting it soak in and very gently patting it in....is that good"? and then 6-10 min later when its completely dry i put on a medium layer of lotion mixed with sunblock...... dos that sound ok? or is waiting the hour actually make a difference? right now im on 50mgs qd... .waiting for approval to get on 100mgs qd........

thanks
-K

 

Don't waste that good Man Gel by applying it with your hands. It won't soak through the thick skin on the palms to reach the bloodstream.

Instead, apply directly to the forearms, and rub them together. Then finish off by going up and down the flanks.

Absorption is improved by doing so within a few minutes of showering.

Using a good emollient (not petroleum based, or containing parabens, etc!), about 12 hours off will help keep the skin soft and supple. This especially helps in the Northern latitudes in the dry Winter months.

 

just a clarification , doc?

i did not know it was safe to put on the forearms .... its so hard to find any doctors who know anything about testosterone ..besides how to write it....thanks

but just to clarify, should I rub it in , or let it soak in ? i had read rubbing to hard can break the drug up or something?

also 12 hours off? meaning dont follow up right after with lotion?

thank you

 

Genetic Mutations May Explain Wide Variation in Testosterone Blood Levels in Men Using the Same Dose of T Gel


Interesting study to find polymorphisms (genetic mutations) that may explain wide variations with T gels.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/28981994/

Contributors to the substantial variation in on-treatment testosterone levels in men receiving transdermal testosterone gels in randomized trials.
There is substantial inter-individual variability in serum testosterone levels in hypogonadal men treated with testosterone gels. We aimed to elucidate participant-level factors that contribute to inter-individual variability in testosterone levels during testosterone therapy. An exploratory aim was to determine whether polymorphisms in genes encoding testosterone-metabolizing enzymes could explain the variation in on-treatment testosterone concentrations in men who were randomized to testosterone arm in TOM Trial. We used data from three randomized trials that used 1% transdermal testosterone gels and had testosterone levels measured 2-4 weeks after randomization for dose adjustment: Testosterone in Older Men with Mobility Limitation (TOM), Effects of Testosterone on Pain Perception (TAP), and Effects of Testosterone on Atherosclerosis Progression (TEAAM). Forty-seven percent, 38%, and 9% of participants in TAP, TEAAM, and TOM trials, respectively, failed to raise testosterone levels >400 ng/dL; 6, 8, and 30% of participants had on-treatment testosterone levels >1000 ng/dL. Even after dose adjustment, there was substantial variation in on-treatment levels at subsequent study visits. Baseline characteristics (age, height, weight, baseline testosterone, SHBG, hematocrit, and creatinine) accounted for only a small fraction of the variance (<8%). Polymorphisms in SHBG and AKR1C3 genes were suggestively associated with on-treatment testosterone levels. To conclude, baseline participant characteristics account for only a small fraction of the variance in on-treatment testosterone levels investigated. Multiple dose titrations are needed to maintain on-treatment testosterone levels in the target range. The role of SHBG and AKR3C1 polymorphisms as contributors to variations in on-treatment testosterone levels should be investigated.

 

The T gel absorption data shows better uptake from areas that have less subcutaneous (under the skin) fat like shoulders. I speculate that T aromatisation to estradiol is also lower in lower fat areas.

I am bald.

I speculate that one of the best areas to apply gel/cream is the scalp of a bald head. Great blood supply and very little fat.

 

question about lotion application times?

so , ive read in a few foums that , you dont have to wait the full hour to apply sunblock? and just to do it within 10 minutes after it dries?

what ive been doing is applying the generic 12.5mg 1% gel to my sholders and upper arms / not rubbing it in, rather just letting it soak in and very gently patting it in....is that good"? and then 6-10 min later when its completely dry i put on a medium layer of lotion mixed with sunblock...... dos that sound ok? or is waiting the hour actually make a difference? right now im on 50mgs qd... .waiting for approval to get on 100mgs qd........

thanks
-K

After that time, what does your results and time of use say? I'll still start

 

New Atrevis Hydrogel Based Testosterone Cream from Empower: Surprising Results! - Excel Male TRT Forum

After a month of using the new hydrogel cream from Empower Pharmacy at 1 ml per day (4 clicks of 0.25 mg each) my testosterone increased dramatically higher than it was even on 200 mg per week of injectable testosterone cypionate. and this was after using the cream plus pregnenolone 100 mg...

www.excelmale.com

 

I wanted to try out test cream with my test/hcg injections. I was prescribed test cream 50 mg/ml, 1 click (0.25ml) which equals to 12.5mg if I did my math correctly. Is the hydrogel better than test cream?

 

I wanted to try out test cream with my test/hcg injections. I was prescribed test cream 50 mg/ml, 1 click (0.25ml) which equals to 12.5mg if I did my math correctly. Is the hydrogel better than test cream?

In my experience, it has better absorption. You won’t need injections.

 

what lotion or moisturizer (brand and type) do you use to increase Androgel absorption? I tried CeraVe moisturizing lotion, but the blood tests after a week were worse than without it. I also tried 4 drops of 99% DMSO And my trt level was 2* higher

 

its best to use it AFTER a shower.. while fatty cold areas(backs of arms/shoulders) provide nice even levels, one would think putting on a warmer area (more blood supply) would absorb much 'better'

but ya using cream before the gel of course will slow absorbtion as your adding an extra layer of moisture. as would diluting its transdermal properties using lotion after.

wonder if adding some hand sanitizer a few hours later would drive more absorption aswell..

 

When you use gels, success is dependent on absorption, and absorption will always be a huge question mark. When you inject the T is delivered directly to its target, bang, DONE. Except for the irrational fear of needles, I can't imagine why anybody would choose gels over injections. The best thing to do is holster your di-k and inject.