I will be honest. You are a great guy and "your lack of hair" is like your brand image. You look great and reliable as a doctor (which you are after watching your videos). Continue your great job 👍
You look great without hair. There’s something about it that gives you a softness and an unusualness that really works with your demeanour as a person. And with the fact that you’re a surgeon who’s job it is to ‘perfect’ people’s appearances. A bit like you’re an emblem of the antithesis of that mindset even though you exist in that world. You do that work and present it here but simultaneously remind us that being unusual looking and comfortable in your own skin is actually where it’s at.
Tamsyn, I agree. Well said. I think Gary actually looks better without hair. Bald men can be very sexy ( I mean that in a decent way) and handsome. And Gary shows us this due to him being a caring person, full of understanding and compassion and his brilliant mind.
I have been in the study for 2.5 years. Since it’s double blinded I have no knowledge of I’m taking the placebo or the medication. My “dose” is 6mg per day. When starting the study I’d lost 70% of my hair and now have 93% back. Even tho Olumient is now FDA approved, the study continues for another 1.5 years for me. Just want to give a shout out to all people dealing with alopecia. It’s not easy …but you are braver and stronger than you think!!
Thank you giving yourself and partition a double blind. I participated in a doubled blind for chemotherapy, it was approved after 3 years of infusions.
My 4 year old lost his hair this year and now his eye brows. We’ve been struggling to accept this but are trying to stay strong. Your videos are very comforting to us. We appreciate you, doc.
Do not listen to these quasi-doctors of false medicine, alopecia is the result of intoxication of the organism, vaccines or poor diet. Feed your child a raw vegan diet (70% fruit) and you will cure alopecia 100%. That's how I got cured after drinking all possible "medicines" for 9 years.
My son lost all of his hair at three and a half. By Four and a half he had no eyebrows or eyelashes either. We tried all the topical treatments with no luck. My son will now be ten next month. When I talked to him recently about a new pill that could give him his hair back when he's older, he told me that he probably wouldn't take it. He likes how he looks without hair now. He doesn't even remember ever having any hair. He's never been bullied about it by anyone and lives a great, normal life. He actually feels like he's special, because he's the only bald kid in town. 😂 He's also found a group of bald guys in different media that he likes looking like. He loves the Hitman games, and Agent 47 has no hair anywhere because he was grown to be a super soldier in a test tube. He likes that the main character in One Punch Man lost all of his hair as a side effect of gaining the world's strongest super power. When he was still little, he liked watching Kaillou(sp?) on PBS, because he was also a four year old with no hair. (That kid's not a very good role model for behavior, but it's something...) When he was younger, he loved playing make believe and dressing like different characters too. Not having hair made it very easy for me to draw on different hair and eyebrow colors and styles with makeup and face paint or to use wigs. We used to have a lot of fun with that...😊 Anyway, he knows that I think he looks great with or without hair. He also knows that if he ever changes his mind, and wants to try it down the road that I'll help him do that. Every kid's experience is going to be different, but it's very possible that your son will have a good experience like mine. If you're interested, there are groups you can join that organize get togethers for kids with alopecia. CAPP Kids is the group I'm familiar with. My son has never shown interest in that, but that might be because our family has never seen hair as a very important thing, so he doesn't really see the point of it himself. Sorry for the long comment btw... 💜
@@colleenriordan9734 I enjoyed reading this very much. I appreciate you sharing your experience and I was happy to hear your son has a lot of confidence despite having Alopecia. Thank you!
You know people really love Gary's videos when this video about himself has just as many views as one of his celebrity videos haha, keep up the good work Gary!
Dr. Gary, I find your distinctive look very attractive. I'm not hitting on you - only sharing my true thought of your handsome look. I find your talks informative, interesting and fun to watch and listen to. You look so healthy and come across as truly sincere in all you share. Thanks for being in practice and online!
Dr’s skin does look great though that could also be associated with his alopecia . In some cultures waxing or shaving the entire face to create a smoother and brighter surface is the norm.
I have to say, I understand the desire to have your hair back. Hair becomes a part of your identity and not having the choice in going bald would challenge that identity. Even if it doesn’t work, your full bald look is actually great. You look unique and you stand out, but I understand that not everyone wants to stand out. Good luck with your journey!
It’s not so much that it’s part of your identity but more that people can be so rude. He’s shared a few comments from the comment section before that made my mouth drop open. Constantly dealing with people like that would get real old, real quick.
That's because we know him well and we know his other qualities like how smart he is. But the first impression people have on you is 100% related to looks and being so bald that you don't even have eyebrows definitely attracts negative impressions.
Dr. Gary, your well spoken and enthusiastic demeanour and warm energy are a delight! You look great and you are a great spirit, you are more than enough king! 😄😊
People do what's best for them. It's not about what you like, it's about what Dr. Gary likes for himself...... He wants hair, he wants eyebrows, so just support him.
Your current look is your trademark, my dear Doctor. I very much appreciate you sharing something so personal with the general public. I also very much appreciate you sharing the notable side effects. These seem to be considerable and possibly life altering. Your viewers love you exactly as you are. ❤
Dr. Linkov, I noticed that it looked like you were getting your eyebrows back. Congratulations! I think wearing dark framed glasses instead of contacts makes sense since it frames your eyes and makes them stand out much like eyebrows and eyelashes do. I take a B complex with Vitamin C (not megadoses) for kidney issues and have noticed it helps my nails which are more brittle due to low thyroid grow longer and be stronger. I hope that your immune system gets normalized soon. Thank you for sharing your journey with alopecia. You are helping a lot of people just by your reasonable and calm method of addressing the problem through getting supportive medical care.
Try an animal based diet. Eat meat, organs, eggs, honey and fruit. Eliminate grains, legumes and dairy. Autoimmune diseases are predominantly caused by a pro-inflammatory diet.
@@brianmatthews4149 It's artificial looking and I don't think that it is a good look for men who often lose the outer half of their eyebrows anyway as part of the aging process.
It’s nice to see how comfortable and confident you are, and rightly so! Baldness is quite unfortunate for various reasons for the majority who develop it for whatever reason, but there are some few lucky ones who are absolutely suited for it. And you’re definitely one of them (I am too, but I’m bald by choice so I don’t count 😅). Think Billy Corgan, Bruce Willis, Jason Statham, Tyrese Gibson, Kelly Slater, Jeremy Meeks, Tyson Beckford,…chicks dig it, man.
Yeah chicks dig it, or at least it's not a problem. I don't understand why so many men make so big deal about losing their hair. Most people have normal skull shapes. However, if you have weird ass skull shape like me (the back of my head is ridiculously big and extends far behind me and upwards, compared to the rest of my head... I kinda look like a xenomorph from the Alien movies) then balding isn't really that fun. It has shot my self esteem. Younger I could cover it with hair and I was relatively handsome, now I feel like I look ridiculous wherever I go, the ugliest and dumbest looking person in any room... no matter how I dress, no matter how much I work out (I'm rather muscular, so a muscular xenomorph). Wearing hats indoors in my age doesn't really work, only teenagers can do that. I'm really considering a hair transplant, but I can't really afford it multiple times, I'm afraid it will not be permanent fix.. afraid also of Finasteride side effects. But I guess anything is better than this, I look so goddamn stupid and it has made me antisocial. My dad and older brother have perfect hair of course If you have to go bald, just be happy you have a normal skull shape. Because if you don't, you may go from 8/10 to 2/10 when your extreme skull is revealed. The funny thing, some extremely beatiful woman might have a weird ass skull all their life, but nobody will ever even know.
@PineFox Thanks for your comment. I tried already shaving it off (and I hate it, now it has grown back a little but the hair is spotty and not a good look either), I knew how the shape is because I was forced to have a buzzcut when I was in compulsory military service. It's really rare kind of skull, I wouldn't make a problem out of it unless it was. I'm just unlucky. I'd say more than 99% of skulls look fine compared to mine (out of the bald people I've seen in TV and streets), it really does resemble a Xenomorph a little too much. But looks aren't everything, I have to just focus on something else.. or fly to Turkey for a transplant. It's kind of like "I cried when I had no shoes, until I saw a man without legs". I mean, people should be happy if they have a round skull, there's nothing wrong with bald if you have that. Vin Diesel, Jason Statham, Joe Rogan, Bruce Willis, these people have been considered attractive by women even without hair. Normal skulls, no big deal
I'm 18 and I'm already seeing my hairline thin and recede. Your confidence and character is inspirational. I can see why you would want your hair back, but I love your attitude about it. The way that you understand that hair is unnecessary is amazing for your health and makes others feel more secure about their hair loss in turn. Many people fall down the rabbit hole of wanting their hair back, feeling destroyed by the impact on their self actualization, believing they need their hair back for self esteem purposes, and or feeling they need their hair back to be accepted. It propagates down Maslow's hierarchy of needs if you don't think constructively about it. Knowing that you can be the best version of yourself without hair is the biggest and most important thing to understand when facing hair loss, and you've done an amazing job showing people that through your attitude towards your own hair loss.
I know someone who had baldness starting at age 16, completely bald at age 24. Though he looks older than his age, he rocks his baldness! Looks sexy. Plus, he mentioned that as a teen he struggled with his condition. But it took him few months to accept his condition and bald head. It’s normal to be afraid of going bald, because you associate it with old men because of society. But once you accept it, you will feel confident again! And if people around you(friends) make you feel ugly when being bald, they are not good friends then. they are judgy toxic friends. Ditch them. You’ll find a romantic partner who doesn’t care about your bald head as well, if you go bald and accept the bald head. Meaning, you’ll find a woman who has a pure heart and doesn’t find it negative for you to have a bald head. Because, there are women who leave their partner once they go bald at older age. And you get to prevent those women at young age!
Where were you in 1994 when I experienced my own bout of alopecia areata lol? I have been so impressed by how you've handled your own case. Honest, open, and brave. I was none of those things. I suspect my life would have been very different if I could have watched your videos back then. You're a great role model for folks dealing with this.
As someone who has struggled with androgenic alopecia since I was about 16, it has been a long, slow, and painful process of losing my hair. I cannot imagine alopecia areata where you were losing your scalp hair in such a short amount of time. I can absolutely understand why you would want your hair back, because the feeling of seeing yourself how you want to be seen never goes away. Even though your brand took off starting with your alopecia story, nothing will change if your hair returned. And we all know you would be happier, as you have expressed before. Hope the best for you Gary!
Thank you for doing this video. I’m an alopecian for 15 years now. I’ve been following the clinical trials. At first I wanted to take this drug but now I am like you, I feel the side effects aren’t worth it to try to grow my hair back. Even though I still struggle emotionally from my condition I’ve learned a lot of self acceptance and found a great alopecia community.
My son just started this medication. He's 19. He was diagnosed with alopecia, absolutely no hair anywhere, about a year-and-a-half ago. I'm praying that this medicine works for him.
I think you have a very distinctive look, and it's super attractive! Representation is important, and I think you're an excellent example and advocate for the alopecia community. That being said, you deserve to be comfortable in your own skin and should pursue treatments if it's what *you* want! Your fans will continue to support you as long as you keep creating great content!
I also suffer with alopecia, it has taken a toll on my life, since being a young woman too, I use to find it hard, but now I just wear wigs and I’m ok with that, I’ve learned to install them and make them look as natural as possible that many people who know me don’t even know I wear one. If there was a cure I would gladly take it but considering the adverse side effects this treatment might cause, I’d rather skip on that and wait for something better and safer to come up in the near future. As much as I hate my baldness I am not willing to risk my health over it, it’s just hair and I’m thankful now at least I am healthy 🙏🏽 thank you for posting this video and going into these details
Thank you so much for your honesty. I see the risks and I shy off because I dont have no other issues other than my head is going bald. I'm not sick like cancer patients have to endure. I feel I would risk my mayor organs to help my vanity. I'm in a great emotional place too with it and eventhough I moarned 😭the lost of my hair, I'm ok. I'm alive🙏I have one concern. Once the patients got their hair back did they continue on the med? Also once off the meds does the hair fall off again? Wish all of you lots of strength 💪🙌.
@@jennyeliza7350I feel exactly the same, I don’t know, I was wondering wether the hair will stop growing after treatment ends. I hope they will find a better cure. Wish u all the best too 🙏🏽
I completely agree. Being bald sucks. But wigs are so good these days, it’s just not worth risking the side effects to (maybe) cure something so easily handled.
@@viciw8170 exactly, wigs are becoming popular nowadays, everyone uses them even people who don’t suffer with hair loss, I’ve watched so many tutorial videos here on TH-cam that now I’ve learned how to make my own wigs. I love them, I change color and style whenever I want so I’m ok with that. I hope when I grow older they will eventually find a cure because by then I won’t have all the energy to take this much care of my wigs. I am lucky I am already into hair and beauty so my baldness is not a such a big deal to me, I got my eyebrows microbladed, I get eyelash extensions done and I wear wigs 🤷🏽♀️ I keep telling myself that at least I don’t have to spend ton of money on waxing, or laser hair removal treatment 😂 all my girlfriends are jealous of my body baldness, so there are few pros and cons 😂
I’m sorry you have to deal with that. It’s amazing that these days we have many options to help people who suffer from hair loss, like wigs and microblading as you said too. Let’s hope that they find a safe and reliable cure eventually so that you won’t have to bother with the wigs later on. Until then just stay strong you beautiful person (inside and outside as well) because even though our society is so hyper-focused on hair, you aren’t worth any less just because you don’t have natural hair. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, they are wrong.
I’m an ICU nurse…we gave courses of Baricitinib 4mg to severe COVID patients for about a year…most intensivists stopped using due to secondary infections. This is very interesting.
My cousin was one of the test subjects. She was completely bald, no eyebrows, eyelashes, or hair of any kind on her body. For several years, she had to undergo regular checkups and monitoring of her nutrilfil levels in order to continue taking the medication. It actually worked. Her hair has now grown back. I am so happy for her and others with this condition because it can have a detrimental psychological effect, especially on women.
Doc, it’s the beauty of imperfection. I have synkinesis and partial facial paralysis from Bells Palsy 24 years ago. Your imperfection makes me feel like it’s OK. 💕
Like many other commenters I truly feel you look great as you are now. So many men even intentionally shave their heads, you don't have to be bothered. But as a person who was born with baby fine hair and now in my senior years am experiencing thinning of that hair, I know how devastating emotionally it is to see those thin areas on your scalp. Fortunately for me 2% Minoxidil just once a day has helped greatly. I like what you are doing with the allergy shots, I wish you the best in your search for a solution. Just stay healthy!
It’s probably not so much about what it looks like (because both with or without is looking good), but probably more to do with having the power to make a decision. As a 14 yr. teen I got so tired of being sexualized, so I shaved off my hair. Literally over night it stopped almost all together. It was about getting back a part of me that I wanted to be in power over that older men took for granted was theirs. It’s one thing to make an active decision, but it’s something else to just have something taken from you without your own say. /Scandinavian
@@soilgrasswaterair I’m sorry you felt the only way you could feel powerful being female was to shave your hair off, but I understand the struggle and the need to keep and feel safe and strong. Maybe after awhile when you’re feeling more secure in who you are, I believe that confidence will shine out and your lovely hair will grow back. And I dare anyone to mess with you! You go girl! 😃
Dr. Linkov, I so respect your decision and honesty with the community about potential side effects with this new drug. You are young, active, very attractive as you are, have a lovely wife and child and a thriving practice. You seem to been in very good health as well. I wouldn't risk all of that for anything in the world. As a former model and fitness model, I've always done my best to eat healthy, stay fit, not drink, use drugs or smoke. I've always taken vitamins to get extra antioxidants and minerals too. I was diagnosed with cancer and have forced myself to endure life saving treatments. You're a doc so you know what typically happens after surgery...radiation, chemo and side effects. My point is, if I had a choice, I would never take any treatment that would risk my health unless I absolutely had to. Health is the only true wealth we can have in this life.
its funny, by funny i mean sad, that most of us do not fully appreciate our great natural health until something bad alters it. i was an e.r. nurse, very active outdoors, living life full bloom until i developed a couple debilitating diseases. now i have to seek silver linings in life. cancer sucks. i loathe it when people say things like everyone has been affected by cancer in one way or another, because i feel it detracts from how hard hitting it is. like for you to go from “a former model + fitness model” to fighting cancer ~ damn! when i lost my dad to cancer i was devastated. anyway, enough rambling. …what i really want to say is i wish you the best in kicking cancers ass! 🌈🫶🏻
@@treebles Such kind words from a stranger. It means the world to me and I thank you. Yes, silver linings are important. They should be important to everyone, sick or not. I wish you all the best and hope we are both granted remission. 💞
@@Asiansxsymbol ~ agree to disagree!! he is absolutely handsome with or without. so you are a supermodel, well thats great that you were blessed with good genetics. i hope you do not have to find out the hard way what it feels like to have something beyond your control “worsen” your looks. i wish you the best in your career, maybe with a bit more of an open mind might make you be even “more beautiful”.
Doctor, you are perfect just the way you are! It is your choice and your privacy on what you decide to do with taking the medication. Your wonderful in informating everyone about various topics including this one. You did make many important points about the medication. I hope those who have the problem can make better informed decisions after hearing this from you. Thanks for caring.
Can we take a moment and be in awe of the fact that up to 4% of the test subjects grew back over 90% of their hair taking a sugar pill and just believing that it will work? That is literally amazing.
Wondering if it was the stress of starting to lose their hair, made them lose all their hair & when they thought they'd get back their hair, it grew back because the weight was lifted from their shoulders.
I've been on this medication since July, and as of today, I have almost 90% regrowth. I take the 2mg dose. I'm blown away. My mental health took such a turn when this condition presented. I couldn't be happier with the results.
That was a very easily digestible breakdown of a medical study. You're really good at explaining things to a non-medically trained audience, I'm sure your patients appreciate this quality as well, when you talk to them about the procedures you perform. Your reasoning is very understandable! Congrats on the return of those hairs, all on their own! Personally I think you look great the way you do.
You look great, honestly. I think very few people can pull off the bald look mainly because of head shape. You're like Bruce Willis and Jason Statham - great head shape. Glad to hear your nails are feeling stronger and currently no functional problems. Thanks for creating really great videos, really like your style
Dr. Linkov, you are an ICON with your current look and you have a recognizable voice. Do what makes you happy, but I gotta say, you have a good thing going on with what you don't have now - hair. ❤️
It’s actually comforting to see a plastic surgeon who isn’t a slave to the appearance of things. Whatever you do with your dome, do what makes you feel more like “you”
Hey Dr. Linkov, as so many others have said, you are lucky that bald is a great look for you! So whether you get all your hair back or not, you have nothing to worry about.
My grandma with severe r-h died of lymphoma from her medication which was some kind of Jack inhibitor. I have severe thrombosis and have since I was about 32. My heart is good my kidneys are good so they don’t know why other then my over active immune system. I appreciate your commentary on this medication with inflammation and over active immunities being such a big part of my life. You rock the shaved look Doctor so I just wanted to tell you that. You have a beautifully symmetric face !! When I had to have brain surgery as a teenager I also was bald for a few years and I saw I could pull it off, not everyone can :)..
Hi Aliah, Were you able to get your covid vaccines okay? I'm a hospital pharmacist and blood clots from Covid are horrible. Hopefully you were able get something other than J&J since it has a clot risk. Do you take Warfarin or Xarelto to control your blood clotting? I had a 19 year old patient who got a blood clot in her lung because of Covid 😞. Praying you stay safe out there.
You look fantastic without hair! I saw the photo with fake hair, and you just don't look that great! So glad you have accepted where you are and that it is not being a major barrier in your life because surgeons like you who put out the truth about procedures are amazing! Thank you for being you. Stay there.
and you look extremely charming WITHOUT your hair! i checked out that video of your journey and i must say baldness suits you like a glove and adds on to your charm! you are super lucky for that! :)
I thought I saw some eyebrow action! Congratulations! With the progress you are seeing with your current treatment plan, it sounds like you are making the right decision about this new drug…for now. Best wishes on continued progress on getting some more eyelashes and keeping your strong nails. You look terrific and make very helpful videos. Thank you!
I have trichotillomania which has landed me with alopecia after years of destroying my hair follicles. I personally LOVE seeing people with alopecia rocking their look, it helps me find the confidence in my own skin. You look amazing and you inspire me!
I think it's inspiring for someone to grapple with their own infirmities and to be so honest about it, especially a Doctor. Being able to say "this is who I am now" is such a powerful thing.
Gary I have seen many of your videos and after all of them, I have concluded that you are a Great person just the way you are. You don't need hair, your personality outshines any controversy in the need for Hair and you certainly don't need to risk your health in any way for the public. As far as confidence in your situation, you have an audience that while we are really interested in what you do, if someone can't deal with your hair loss than they can watch another video elsewhere. That is the bottom line. I am really proud of you and what you do. I'm proud of you that you came forward about yourself and about how to help others that may really want to try to get their hair back. But hair is just a fraction of you and I could tell you stories about how much hair meant to me as a young person just getting a hair cut and now that I'm older and past that, I feel that it was kind of crazy. I will give you a laugh. As a young person, I was TREATED to a hair salon to get a cute pixie cut. They are really cute, and I did look really cute in one. But my goal was to have hair I suppose the way the Wella Balsam commercial put it in their shampoo commercials. Just flowing all over and wavy etc... What a laugh, but after one Treatment at a Hair Salon, I remember praying to have my hair be back on my head and to my shock, I had the same cut. I was really devastated at that. So crazy as it sounds, I would take cloth or old clothes in particular yellow, black etc... All sorts of colors and wear them all around with a headband to pretend it was hair. When I think back on all of that, I just laugh. But the truth of it is, what meant something to us as a younger person, has very little to do with us as an adult. You have your health even with an autoimmune disorder and I have 3 of them. One is Rheumatoid Arthritis. I am older now, but all of the things I thought were so important really weren't when it came to our physical identity and there is so much more to the Genuine Person that you are today. I did have to see some of your earlier days with lots of hair, and you were very handsome. You are today, and I love your glasses too. I love your wife's PJ's Ha Ha. They are cute and if I were her helping you, I wouldn't have cared. You have that right in your own home. We are the guests, not you. It was nice to see who she was. I bet she loves you just the way you are. So continue helping others, but don't feel you have to please us to have some hair because you don't. I hope this makes you feel better, don't worry, we love you the way you are.
Thank you for discussing the risk of side effects, the lack of long-term studies, and discussing the fact that the manufacturer funded the studies. Many people see ‘FDA approved’ on a medication and don’t look any deeper. And glad to see you opted not to take the medication. It’s always risky to take a medication that messes with our immune systems, you are showing signs of improvement without the medication, and are in a good place emotionally, and we all love your bald head, so why risk it!
Bro, you look good. You look smooth and aerodynamic... I realize it doesn't make that much of a difference, but you just look like a fast swimmer, cutting through the water like nobody's business. Much respect.
I linked this to my friend with alopecia and she responded: "Hair? LIABILITIES" I died 😂 after decade into her alopecia, she became so comfortable and she said she doesn't need more liabilities in her life.. she already invested a lot on her pretty wigs - I'm happy how confident she is now...
@@shaunharn1998 she's modeling em' -selling them too..she can go out without it (which is on a day to day basis, but you know we ladies wanna look prettier when we feel like it..) wig is just like a hat for her, she even remove it inside the train to wipe off her headsweat lol, and sometimes also just to get a laugh~ :) all alopecias are different- her hair is still growing at times in tiny patches~ when it happens she doesn'r wear wigs :)
@@smallbeginning2 I've read that too.. purest form of simplicity is really difficult to practise.. Not only for monks but some sectors are avoiding the use of pillow, instead using elevated wooden plank, no perfume.. no dancing.. modern people would think it is sort of a punishment.. not easy to do.
My son developed alopecia universalis (which is so incredibly devastating for an 11 year old 😢). We finally found an expert in this field and he was prescribed tofacitinib (Xeljanz) and minoxidil PO BID. It has been a miracle for him!!! Baracitinib is in the same family, so I would think it would bring similar results. I totally understand your point of view as well, especially being an adult, but I am so grateful we found this treatment for my son! All the best to you! ☺️
@@Posch40 he’s doing great! Still has hair and no side effects after being on the medication about 5 years. He will most likely always need to take the medication-as with all autoimmune disease, it never goes away, but the medication suppresses it.
You rock baldness! No need to subject yourself to possible side effects if you aren't negatively effected by your baldness. I really enjoy your videos and shared information.
At the beginning of the video, I noticed the eyelashes and thought for sure Dr. Gary was giving the medication a try. I'm so happy that it's natural growth! I'm sure that gives hope to some others who have alopecia areata. As one who is married to a nearly bald man, I don't see anything wrong with being hairless (I'd prefer his back to be as hairless as his head, just sayin! LOL). I'm sure it's a mental jolt, but for anyone affected by this, there are those who think it's attractive and we can see beyond skin (hair?) deep to see who you are. The Dr rocks the look, you can too!
NOTHING IN THIS LIFE HAPPENS BY ACCIDENT!! I came across your page it was actually a reaction video then the day after my daughter came crying showing me some hair loss she's very you and we're scared as to what this could mean, I took her to a doctor and we're waiting to see a specialist. However the night after we saw the doctor I came across another one of your videos in which you spoke about your condition by then I felt like I knew you and was comfortable to watch your videos I have subscribed and you are helping me cope thank you for your transparency doctor I appreciate you.
I don't know, i think there are only a very few people that can rock a bald head and you are definitely one of them! I still wish good luck with this and it would be incredible if it does, but you don't need it :)
wow what a nice message. so many men lose their hair and you are basically saying that most of them are simply ugly now. Thanks a lot. Suicide seems to be the only way then
I watch your channel regularly and I have male pattern baldness. The hair fell out in a matter of two weeks and my hot flashes from menopause came on at the very same time. I was a mess! I've finally found a human hair wig that makes me feel like myself again and even if this drug would work for me, I wouldn't risk it. I've learned to love my wig.
Thank you for the excellent information on how JAK inhibitors work. I switched from a TNF blocker (which quit working after 16+ years) to the JAK inhibitor Rinvoq for my RA, and have been quite happy with the way my RA has been in remission for the most part (except for overuse flare ups). I’m glad that the FDA has approved this medication for alopecia areata, because many people are terribly distressed about the loss of their hair.
It’s refreshing to see such honest reviews. Of course there’s a huge bias in the study you talked about, and nobody knows long-term effects of this medication. Immunosuppressants are still very much an unknown. I have RA and had cancer (twice), so my oncologist strongly advised against any biologics.
Started watching your channel a couple months ago, obviously do what feels safe and important to you, but from a random person on the street did not even notice your condition! Just thought you had a beautiful smile 😊
You look amazing. My son has thin hair shave his head . My nephew also . You do what makes you happy . I’m glad your eyebrows eyelashes are growing just be careful be safe . I enjoy watching your videos 🥰🙏
We need a new word for “bald” I think. Haha. My brothers lost their hair at a young age, shaved their heads and didn’t look back. They both (one has passed) looked beautiful. Truth is, it is much easier to appreciate how a man looks without hair than a woman. I just don’t know what I would do but I’m on meds for epilepsy with relatively mild side effects and fear the risks involved. Dr. Gary-your kind intelligence, lovely face and smile make you so beautiful! Good luck to everyone!
I lost ALL my hair in 2021. After Olumiant got approved by the FDA for alopecia in 2022, I started taking it. Today, I have a full head of hair, my eyebrows, eyelashes, every hair on my body has returned. I am very happy I started taking it and I'm extremely pleased with the results. No side effects.
@kajalbhendre8190 Why would I take a hair supplement for an autoimmune disease? A hair supplement would do absolutely nothing for someone with alopecia areata.
A lot of people are saying you look good as you are, true, BUT what matters is what looks good to you and you want. No one should feel presured to change or not change / seek or not seek medical treatment depending on how people see them. 😊
I've had Alopecia Areata universalis for 22 years now. It started when I was 12, but I didn't lose my hair completely until I was 19. I've had some growth here and there but it all ended up falling back out. Been completely bald now for about 10 years. I didn't fully embrace my beautiful baldness until 3 years ago during a trip to Israel. It was then I finally stepped out in faith and stopped being afraid of what others will say if they saw me without my wig on. I've never looked back and I know this is who I am and who God intended me to be. I also believe this medication is a blessing from God. I just found out about it yesterday thanks to a rep that stops by the medical office I work at. I then looked it up to get the info and the results got me so excited. I then realized this FDA approval was announced on June 13. That happens to be my birthday. I instantly felt like it was a God wink. 😉 Yes, I've embraced and fully accepted the true beauty within myself. But I also know that God bestows unexpected blessings even when we're not praying for them. Yes, there's risks. Just like with all medications. But I feel led to try this one and see what this new journey will bring. 🙏 Thank you for this insightful and honest breakdown of Olumiant!
Great video. One of the best things to comment about your videos is your demeanor. Always very positive. In addition the content is very informative. Always enjoy each of your videos. Keep up the good work 👍🏼
Dr. Linkov, apart from the difficulties you have enumerated concerning your nails that you need to use in everyday simple activities and as a surgeon, etc. I understand this and how you might feel, but as a female telling it straight to a male, you look just awesome! I know that you are married and I am not a psycho, just clarifying. Apart from that you seem to be a wonderful person, always kind and supportive in your job. I am wishing you a wonderful life the way that you are! Keep up the good job and thank you for your vids that teach us all and support our psychological health as well!
I love your bald head! My stepdad lost all his hair to alopecia over 20 years ago he also lost his eyebrows. My Mom loves him with no hair. I think he looks great with no hair. Don't change!
This is really interesting - I just concluded my participation in a drug study for Upadacitinib, also a JAK inhibitor that was previously approved for rheumatoid arthritis. In my case, it’s being used to treat hidradenitis suppurativa, an autoimmune dermatological disorder. It’s been life changing. I’ve had a 90% reduction in my flares, which are not only an aesthetic issue, but also incredibly painful and leave behind extensive scarring. Admittedly, I do get more frequent respiratory infections, but the payoff has still been worthwhile. Thanks for this video and your clear explanation; I have a better understanding of how the medication works and why it’s been effective.
My relative has this for going on 7 years. Diagnosed at John Hopkins. Golf ball sized painful cysts. 2 years ago read an article and cut out nightshades. Told me that peppers are specifically linked to his flares. He told me he stopped eating them and doesn't even think about his HS anymore. I know everybody's different, but at least in his case, there was a dietary component to his disease.
1st of all, I think you look amazing without hair! I totally enjoy watching your channel and I’ve commented in the past and have been highlighted! The reason I’m commenting this time is because I’ve had rheumatologist arthritis since I was 20 and ulcerative colitis with removal of my colon at 34! I worked as a medical professional most of my life and knew all the “great Dr’s” in Dallas to go to for treatment of both autoimmune conditions. The one drug I took the longest, besides prednisone, was (note past tense) methotrexate. In the early 2000’s I took part in a study for a biologic called Kineret-I took it by injection & the study was blind the 1st year lasting for 3 years. That worked better than anything I had ever been on, however, at the 5th year I developed bacterial pneumonia which put a hole in my lower left lobe! Sooo, 2 yrs later, still flaring, I started Remicade, another biologic - 7 months into it, I had liver failure-this was in June of 2007 - a year later we tried it again and I became septic from MRSA! Not fun! I stayed away from everything for over 7 years suffering and had another really bad flare from of all things a flu shot, in 2015 - spring of 2016 I started on a DMARD called Arava - the one type of treatment I had not tried at this point at 60 yrs old. Lo and behold, I ended up septic again from a kidney infection (who knows where that came from) and ended up with PRES syndrome - 3 brain bleeds - spending a month on a a vent, fortunately, I don’t remember the violent intubation and subsequent broken neck at the atlas and axis that I now take Tizanadine 4mg tid forand probably will be on this the rest of my days! I tell you this because anything that messes with your immune system medicinally, for me anyway, has almost killed me! It’s not worth it to me to ever go on any conventional medications for the treatment of RA or UC.. I’m truly a miracle especially after the 16 weeks hospitalization in 2016 - I was on 26 meds when I got out & slowly weened myself off everything but prednisone 10mg qod and the Tizanadine 4mg tid! Truly a miracle! But I was one sick puppy & this story of my health is just the tip of the iceberg! Moral of my story: I like your baldness and love your gray matter! This lengthy comment is just for educational purposes, but I’d hate to see you suffer a sickness brought on by a medication when “I love you just the way you are!”, which was also written and sung by (Billy Joel).. ❤️🙏🏻😇🙌 - DMW
I have hair thinning due to thyroid condition and it's just something I have to live with. But it has really taken an emotional toll on me. its nice to see other people dealing with it positively.
I find your explanation of JAKi drugs side effects both comforting and disconcerting. I’ve been suffering from RA for the last 4 years and after trying many drugs, Rinvoq allows me to walk again but I feel like I’m playing Russian roulette every day. I’m 59 and a stroke survivor due to brain aneurysms and a blotched coiling surgery. My rheumatologist doesn’t seem concerned. He seems relieved that I’m not in pain. It’s nice to hear another MD talk about the reality of side effects. Thanks.
Coming from a woman who's experienced extensive hair loss due to hypothyroidism, I wouldn't take ANY modern day medication with all of the potential side effects. I personally appreciate and admire you immensely JUST THE WAY YOU ARE. That said however, if it's important to you, of course I believe you should do what you want. But I much rather have you around with no hair than take a chance on risking your health.
✊️ I'm with you! I tried a couple of hormonal meds. One messed with my libido. The other made have the most painful period ever, with giant blood cloths. I gave up both of them pretty quickly. I just use a hair topper or a hat to hide my hair loss... It sucks, but health is more important!
I’m 17 and I was able to get olumiant even though it’s for 18 and up which is stupid bc I’ve tried all other jaks and that’s the only one I saw results from and it’s so expensive I wish they could make it for younger people also
Thank you for clarifying the clinical trial data. As a parent of a teen with alopecia this was very helpful. The children's specialists we've seen have not discussed allergy shots as possible reset of the immune response. I know kids are limited to various treatment but that seems pretty safe.
A few years ago I was diagnosed with stress induced alopecia areata. What slowly helped get my hormones back on control and helped my hair to regrow was taking vitamin D3, getting back onto the birth control pill, and getting skincare issues addressed with spironoloactone which (I forget how) has helped my hair to regrow because it’s helping with a hormonal imbalance. Also I took gummy vitamins that contained collagen, keratin, biotin, and D3. A multivitamin helped so much too. Too much biotin can cause breakouts so I wouldn’t recommend going overboard with that. Massaging my head, brushing my scalp\hair hair with a gentle wet brush with boar bristles has proven to be the best for me. I also switched to using velvet scrunches instead of hair elastics and there is way less breakage overall. It’s been about 4 years now and I still have spots I have hair missing, but wigs from Amazon have made me feel better! Even if I don’t know how to properly apply them. Stress plays a huge part in it, at least in my case, and although I still have eyebrow hair missing and my hair is much thinner, and I have lots of scarring by my eyebrows, I’m grateful for how far I’ve come. Remember, you aren’t alone and remember that your physical features aren’t who you are, your heart is what defines you. If you’re struggling like I was don’t give up and see a dermatologist. (It was so bad at one point my primary care manager (doctor) told me to touch my hair as little as possible since it was just falling out so much. When I would shower I would have almost a handful of hair. I would say I lost at least 60% of my hair on my head and eyebrows, but mainly I’m just missing most of my eyebrows now. I hope this is helpful to anyone also diagnosed with stress induced alopecia areata. ♥️ also doc, you look phenomenal, and it takes a strong man to open up about his insecurities/worries. You’re a great person to watch on TH-cam and I love learning from you. Thanks for the great video.
I've just seen your comment.I m from Bosnia and my daughter us diagnosed with alopecia areata(14).Stress is no.1 was the problem.Seeing your comment gave me hope.I know it takes time and l have to be strong and calm for the sake of my daughter.l hope You will recover completly,take care🤗.
@@pinkbear1242 thank you so much, God bless you and your daughter. I hope things improve for her and she knows her self worth and beauty isnt in her hair, but in her heart and actions. ♥️♥️♥️
@@pinkbear1242 you already have shown me you are strong ♥️you are a wonderful mother. I’m not sure if it will apply to your daughter, but starting on a birth control pill to help with hormones and taking vitamin D is what really helped me eventually. Now I know at least my hair grows back in if it falls out most of the time, and the hair loss is much less. I also had really bad acne that was unusual for me. It’s possible that if you could take your daughter to a dermatologist to see if they have some options/check her hormone levels, she could be low on her vitamin D or have her hormones unbalanced too. Stress definitely has an impact so remind her whenever you can that she is beautiful :) ♥️ and you are a great mom! Thank you for such a sweet message, I wish you and your family the absolute best and healing. ♥️
doc i wish you would reach out to me. my son has alopecia universalis. he was stricken at age 16 in high school. he was emotionally devistated and remains emotionall scarred and reclusive. he hangs only with a very close friend group and his 3 brothers… he has a twin with hair. tons of it). a dd am had amazing hair like his brother and at 61 i (his father) would still say it’s my best feature. adam never got 2ndary sex characteristic hair … always he was smoothe on his arms and legs …but he had great hair on his head and eyebrows. when it started to go he developed a severe speach impediment of mumbling and struggling to get words out and express himself (mortified by the attention speach brings to his appearance). 5 years later he’s 22 and moved to a new college for junior year. he has the friends but is now away from them. he’s not made any real friends yet in south carolina. recently he has had some spontaneous patchy regrowth which he feels even more self conscious about. his nails are bad. and he’s very thin. he’s sometimes happy when he’s around friends … but he’s not confident. i wish you you take the medicine yourself and inspire all those like adam who are struggling to function quasi-normally in public. trying to make friends at college …and constantly having to explain his appearance … disease … explain its not cancer or contagious. i feel the good would likely outlay the sideeffects for him. rather than seeking out “lazer hair removal treatments” for the patches ….i’ld like to see someone encourage him to try this medicine and reassure him that he. am be safely monitored and medically supervised. i am a dentist a know a good bit of physiology and medicine. it’s my opinion and would be my expectation that he would improve every aspect of his life with this medication … even in was beyond what he believes are his only symptoms … i believe he would digest and. absorb nutrients better …, put on some weight … become more socially confident and outgoing. i believe he would talk more , smoke more and thrive. when adam was in6 th grade he was so popular that his lunch table of friends made an agreement at the table and agreed to take turns sitting next to Adam. please reach out. please respond. 412 779 6064 from pittsburgh Pa.
It’s a cool thing that you won’t be taking it, except if it is needed I’d tell you that even if it had 0 side effect, you still shouldn’t do it imo You are rocking your own style so well, I guess it’s something that makes you different in a good way (Even though that is still a condition, and that it’s probably not easy to deal with everyday in our world)
Great video and informative. My dad was bald from the age of 20. Still had a fringe. I loved him and his baldness ! Everyone’s perspective is different.
I will be honest. You are a great guy and "your lack of hair" is like your brand image. You look great and reliable as a doctor (which you are after watching your videos). Continue your great job 👍
Agreed I like him the way he is. It's kind of his brand.
Yeah he’s one of the best looking completely hairless people I’ve seen
@@BloodSweatAndMeth if he WANTS
Agree, such a clean look.
@@TheBeautygarden A brand I am sure he's love to lose since his life here is quite limited. LADIES PLEASE */SDFU/*
You look great without hair. There’s something about it that gives you a softness and an unusualness that really works with your demeanour as a person. And with the fact that you’re a surgeon who’s job it is to ‘perfect’ people’s appearances.
A bit like you’re an emblem of the antithesis of that mindset even though you exist in that world. You do that work and present it here but simultaneously remind us that being unusual looking and comfortable in your own skin is actually where it’s at.
You put into words what I didn’t have the words for. Well said 👍🏼
Exactly.
The way you describe the condition suits Gary in an unusual way was just perfection.
To be honest you look like a typical graphical designer in Belgium. Not so unusual but yes, very stylish.
Tamsyn, I agree. Well said.
I think Gary actually looks better without hair. Bald men can be very sexy ( I mean that in a decent way) and handsome. And Gary shows us this due to him being a caring person, full of understanding and compassion and his brilliant mind.
I have been in the study for 2.5 years. Since it’s double blinded I have no knowledge of I’m taking the placebo or the medication. My “dose” is 6mg per day. When starting the study I’d lost 70% of my hair and now have 93% back. Even tho Olumient is now FDA approved, the study continues for another 1.5 years for me. Just want to give a shout out to all people dealing with alopecia. It’s not easy …but you are braver and stronger than you think!!
Thank you giving yourself and partition a double blind. I participated in a doubled blind for chemotherapy, it was approved after 3 years of infusions.
*double blind
@@christineisabel7827 partition?
@@Ultamami I’m sorry, I’m legally blind and I typed incorrectly.
May I ask How is your hair today??
My 4 year old lost his hair this year and now his eye brows. We’ve been struggling to accept this but are trying to stay strong. Your videos are very comforting to us. We appreciate you, doc.
Do not listen to these quasi-doctors of false medicine, alopecia is the result of intoxication of the organism, vaccines or poor diet. Feed your child a raw vegan diet (70% fruit) and you will cure alopecia 100%. That's how I got cured after drinking all possible "medicines" for 9 years.
My son lost all of his hair at three and a half. By Four and a half he had no eyebrows or eyelashes either. We tried all the topical treatments with no luck. My son will now be ten next month. When I talked to him recently about a new pill that could give him his hair back when he's older, he told me that he probably wouldn't take it. He likes how he looks without hair now.
He doesn't even remember ever having any hair. He's never been bullied about it by anyone and lives a great, normal life. He actually feels like he's special, because he's the only bald kid in town. 😂 He's also found a group of bald guys in different media that he likes looking like. He loves the Hitman games, and Agent 47 has no hair anywhere because he was grown to be a super soldier in a test tube. He likes that the main character in One Punch Man lost all of his hair as a side effect of gaining the world's strongest super power. When he was still little, he liked watching Kaillou(sp?) on PBS, because he was also a four year old with no hair. (That kid's not a very good role model for behavior, but it's something...) When he was younger, he loved playing make believe and dressing like different characters too. Not having hair made it very easy for me to draw on different hair and eyebrow colors and styles with makeup and face paint or to use wigs. We used to have a lot of fun with that...😊
Anyway, he knows that I think he looks great with or without hair. He also knows that if he ever changes his mind, and wants to try it down the road that I'll help him do that. Every kid's experience is going to be different, but it's very possible that your son will have a good experience like mine. If you're interested, there are groups you can join that organize get togethers for kids with alopecia. CAPP Kids is the group I'm familiar with. My son has never shown interest in that, but that might be because our family has never seen hair as a very important thing, so he doesn't really see the point of it himself. Sorry for the long comment btw... 💜
@@colleenriordan9734 I enjoyed reading this very much. I appreciate you sharing your experience and I was happy to hear your son has a lot of confidence despite having Alopecia. Thank you!
Try zinc consult with dr about dosage and brand for kids.
💛
You know people really love Gary's videos when this video about himself has just as many views as one of his celebrity videos haha, keep up the good work Gary!
Dr. Gary, I find your distinctive look very attractive. I'm not hitting on you - only sharing my true thought of your handsome look. I find your talks informative, interesting and fun to watch and listen to. You look so healthy and come across as truly sincere in all you share. Thanks for being in practice and online!
Thank you for kind words!
I agree. He is very handsome as he is now but I'm happy there is a chance for him to get back his hair.
The bigger question on my mind - what's Dr. Gary's skin care routine? Cause that skin is on point!
Could just be genetics and he has good skin to begin with, without any actual hardcore skincare routine 💁🏻♀️
I've literally been enamored with how flawless his skin is too! 🤩
Is it just me or does he remind you of private joker from full metal jacket
Dr’s skin does look great though that could also be associated with his alopecia . In some cultures waxing or shaving the entire face to create a smoother and brighter surface is the norm.
Agree ! His skin is flawless!
I have to say, I understand the desire to have your hair back. Hair becomes a part of your identity and not having the choice in going bald would challenge that identity. Even if it doesn’t work, your full bald look is actually great. You look unique and you stand out, but I understand that not everyone wants to stand out. Good luck with your journey!
I love bald, shaved man. No issues
It’s not so much that it’s part of your identity but more that people can be so rude. He’s shared a few comments from the comment section before that made my mouth drop open. Constantly dealing with people like that would get real old, real quick.
@@ArianaMontenegroEc eww
@@lisaporter2298 ? Are you ok? Boomer
That's because we know him well and we know his other qualities like how smart he is. But the first impression people have on you is 100% related to looks and being so bald that you don't even have eyebrows definitely attracts negative impressions.
Dr. Gary, your well spoken and enthusiastic demeanour and warm energy are a delight! You look great and you are a great spirit, you are more than enough king! 😄😊
With all due respect to you and your wife, you;re handsome either way!!!!
You are the only guy with alopecia I know who is actually making baldness work! Your glasses and personality trump any hair loss! Love your videos!!!
His obvious happiness at the return of his eyelashes and eyebrows is so sweet. All the best lovely Doc❤️
And he has the most beautiful smile. I wish you luck Dr ...
@@wendyhannan2454 yes! so cute
The return of his eyelashes is great because eyelashes help to protect your eyes from dust, dirt etc.
@@Shazzadut1people don't understand that part. I love doing things outside, but I can't take cold or wind anymore because they're hell on my eyes.
Having hair is not worth the risk of death. Great video Doctor, thanks. Wish you the best.
No doc, no. We love your bald head. You know the saying 'God made only so manly perfect heads, the rest he covered with hair'
Ha ha! I like that!!!
Not true..
Love that!!!
He looks great bald tbh
People do what's best for them. It's not about what you like, it's about what Dr. Gary likes for himself...... He wants hair, he wants eyebrows, so just support him.
Your current look is your trademark, my dear Doctor. I very much appreciate you sharing something so personal with the general public. I also very much appreciate you sharing the notable side effects. These seem to be considerable and possibly life altering. Your viewers love you exactly as you are. ❤
We love you as you are!!!❤
I love how courageous you are as a physician and human living with alopecia areata … I’m sure you are helping so many other people find happiness
Dr. Linkov, I noticed that it looked like you were getting your eyebrows back. Congratulations! I think wearing dark framed glasses instead of contacts makes sense since it frames your eyes and makes them stand out much like eyebrows and eyelashes do. I take a B complex with Vitamin C (not megadoses) for kidney issues and have noticed it helps my nails which are more brittle due to low thyroid grow longer and be stronger. I hope that your immune system gets normalized soon. Thank you for sharing your journey with alopecia. You are helping a lot of people just by your reasonable and calm method of addressing the problem through getting supportive medical care.
Try an animal based diet. Eat meat, organs, eggs, honey and fruit. Eliminate grains, legumes and dairy. Autoimmune diseases are predominantly caused by a pro-inflammatory diet.
Isn't eyebrow hairs a easy fix.there are tatto and treading that look amazing when done by the right person.
@@brianmatthews4149 It's artificial looking and I don't think that it is a good look for men who often lose the outer half of their eyebrows anyway as part of the aging process.
Loved your comment Tanya and I thank you for sharing it.✨️
So great to hear about immune disorder and treatment from someone who is both a doctor and a patient. So helpful!
@Kathryn... Here Here!! Total agreement! Dr. Gary Linkov is a walking, talking example of compassion - at work, in real time. Love this guy!!
It’s nice to see how comfortable and confident you are, and rightly so! Baldness is quite unfortunate for various reasons for the majority who develop it for whatever reason, but there are some few lucky ones who are absolutely suited for it. And you’re definitely one of them (I am too, but I’m bald by choice so I don’t count 😅). Think Billy Corgan, Bruce Willis, Jason Statham, Tyrese Gibson, Kelly Slater, Jeremy Meeks, Tyson Beckford,…chicks dig it, man.
Yeah chicks dig it, or at least it's not a problem. I don't understand why so many men make so big deal about losing their hair. Most people have normal skull shapes.
However, if you have weird ass skull shape like me (the back of my head is ridiculously big and extends far behind me and upwards, compared to the rest of my head... I kinda look like a xenomorph from the Alien movies) then balding isn't really that fun. It has shot my self esteem. Younger I could cover it with hair and I was relatively handsome, now I feel like I look ridiculous wherever I go, the ugliest and dumbest looking person in any room... no matter how I dress, no matter how much I work out (I'm rather muscular, so a muscular xenomorph). Wearing hats indoors in my age doesn't really work, only teenagers can do that. I'm really considering a hair transplant, but I can't really afford it multiple times, I'm afraid it will not be permanent fix.. afraid also of Finasteride side effects. But I guess anything is better than this, I look so goddamn stupid and it has made me antisocial. My dad and older brother have perfect hair of course
If you have to go bald, just be happy you have a normal skull shape. Because if you don't, you may go from 8/10 to 2/10 when your extreme skull is revealed. The funny thing, some extremely beatiful woman might have a weird ass skull all their life, but nobody will ever even know.
@PineFox Thanks for your comment. I tried already shaving it off (and I hate it, now it has grown back a little but the hair is spotty and not a good look either), I knew how the shape is because I was forced to have a buzzcut when I was in compulsory military service. It's really rare kind of skull, I wouldn't make a problem out of it unless it was. I'm just unlucky. I'd say more than 99% of skulls look fine compared to mine (out of the bald people I've seen in TV and streets), it really does resemble a Xenomorph a little too much. But looks aren't everything, I have to just focus on something else.. or fly to Turkey for a transplant.
It's kind of like "I cried when I had no shoes, until I saw a man without legs". I mean, people should be happy if they have a round skull, there's nothing wrong with bald if you have that. Vin Diesel, Jason Statham, Joe Rogan, Bruce Willis, these people have been considered attractive by women even without hair. Normal skulls, no big deal
I'm 18 and I'm already seeing my hairline thin and recede. Your confidence and character is inspirational. I can see why you would want your hair back, but I love your attitude about it.
The way that you understand that hair is unnecessary is amazing for your health and makes others feel more secure about their hair loss in turn. Many people fall down the rabbit hole of wanting their hair back, feeling destroyed by the impact on their self actualization, believing they need their hair back for self esteem purposes, and or feeling they need their hair back to be accepted. It propagates down Maslow's hierarchy of needs if you don't think constructively about it. Knowing that you can be the best version of yourself without hair is the biggest and most important thing to understand when facing hair loss, and you've done an amazing job showing people that through your attitude towards your own hair loss.
You'll get your confidence back
I know someone who had baldness starting at age 16, completely bald at age 24. Though he looks older than his age, he rocks his baldness! Looks sexy. Plus, he mentioned that as a teen he struggled with his condition. But it took him few months to accept his condition and bald head. It’s normal to be afraid of going bald, because you associate it with old men because of society. But once you accept it, you will feel confident again! And if people around you(friends) make you feel ugly when being bald, they are not good friends then. they are judgy toxic friends. Ditch them. You’ll find a romantic partner who doesn’t care about your bald head as well, if you go bald and accept the bald head. Meaning, you’ll find a woman who has a pure heart and doesn’t find it negative for you to have a bald head. Because, there are women who leave their partner once they go bald at older age. And you get to prevent those women at young age!
I like your comment macCauley
I think you didn’t have a alopecia areata
Where were you in 1994 when I experienced my own bout of alopecia areata lol? I have been so impressed by how you've handled your own case. Honest, open, and brave. I was none of those things. I suspect my life would have been very different if I could have watched your videos back then. You're a great role model for folks dealing with this.
You look so much better without hair, it’s such a striking look + you have really good skin!
Nah he looks sickly without hair.
must be a woman
@@kingssing he looks good without hair most people would look ugly
@@anonymous-cx7ng m å lmmpmm. må. å. å. å. å åån å ål lå å åå nnp. ln l. l å
@@Pat315 and u look sickly either way your point??
As someone who has struggled with androgenic alopecia since I was about 16, it has been a long, slow, and painful process of losing my hair. I cannot imagine alopecia areata where you were losing your scalp hair in such a short amount of time. I can absolutely understand why you would want your hair back, because the feeling of seeing yourself how you want to be seen never goes away. Even though your brand took off starting with your alopecia story, nothing will change if your hair returned. And we all know you would be happier, as you have expressed before. Hope the best for you Gary!
Thank you for doing this video. I’m an alopecian for 15 years now. I’ve been following the clinical trials. At first I wanted to take this drug but now I am like you, I feel the side effects aren’t worth it to try to grow my hair back. Even though I still struggle emotionally from my condition I’ve learned a lot of self acceptance and found a great alopecia community.
u rock it gurl no need to feel bad im sure ur stunning af
Can you suggest any community for me to join it?
If you to ok the drug would your h air follicles just grow back or are they destroyed?
maybe look into coimbra protocol and iodine crisis book
I love that you included the "emotional toll" it can take on a person - including the WHOLE person not just the illness as many doctors do.
My son just started this medication. He's 19. He was diagnosed with alopecia, absolutely no hair anywhere, about a year-and-a-half ago. I'm praying that this medicine works for him.
Good luck!
Is it a long term medication ?
I'm 19 too and have this problem as well- if it helps, others like me are dealing with the same issues
Try topical calcipotriol
Good day I suffer from it aswell, how is your son now? Has the medication helped at all? Take care
I think you have a very distinctive look, and it's super attractive! Representation is important, and I think you're an excellent example and advocate for the alopecia community. That being said, you deserve to be comfortable in your own skin and should pursue treatments if it's what *you* want! Your fans will continue to support you as long as you keep creating great content!
I also suffer with alopecia, it has taken a toll on my life, since being a young woman too, I use to find it hard, but now I just wear wigs and I’m ok with that, I’ve learned to install them and make them look as natural as possible that many people who know me don’t even know I wear one. If there was a cure I would gladly take it but considering the adverse side effects this treatment might cause, I’d rather skip on that and wait for something better and safer to come up in the near future. As much as I hate my baldness I am not willing to risk my health over it, it’s just hair and I’m thankful now at least I am healthy 🙏🏽 thank you for posting this video and going into these details
Thank you so much for your honesty. I see the risks and I shy off because I dont have no other issues other than my head is going bald. I'm not sick like cancer patients have to endure. I feel I would risk my mayor organs to help my vanity. I'm in a great emotional place too with it and eventhough I moarned 😭the lost of my hair, I'm ok. I'm alive🙏I have one concern. Once the patients got their hair back did they continue on the med? Also once off the meds does the hair fall off again? Wish all of you lots of strength 💪🙌.
@@jennyeliza7350I feel exactly the same, I don’t know, I was wondering wether the hair will stop growing after treatment ends. I hope they will find a better cure. Wish u all the best too 🙏🏽
I completely agree. Being bald sucks. But wigs are so good these days, it’s just not worth risking the side effects to (maybe) cure something so easily handled.
@@viciw8170 exactly, wigs are becoming popular nowadays, everyone uses them even people who don’t suffer with hair loss, I’ve watched so many tutorial videos here on TH-cam that now I’ve learned how to make my own wigs. I love them, I change color and style whenever I want so I’m ok with that. I hope when I grow older they will eventually find a cure because by then I won’t have all the energy to take this much care of my wigs. I am lucky I am already into hair and beauty so my baldness is not a such a big deal to me, I got my eyebrows microbladed, I get eyelash extensions done and I wear wigs 🤷🏽♀️ I keep telling myself that at least I don’t have to spend ton of money on waxing, or laser hair removal treatment 😂 all my girlfriends are jealous of my body baldness, so there are few pros and cons 😂
I’m sorry you have to deal with that. It’s amazing that these days we have many options to help people who suffer from hair loss, like wigs and microblading as you said too. Let’s hope that they find a safe and reliable cure eventually so that you won’t have to bother with the wigs later on. Until then just stay strong you beautiful person (inside and outside as well) because even though our society is so hyper-focused on hair, you aren’t worth any less just because you don’t have natural hair. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, they are wrong.
I’m an ICU nurse…we gave courses of Baricitinib 4mg to severe COVID patients for about a year…most intensivists stopped using due to secondary infections. This is very interesting.
Not worth the side affects
It is indeed interesting. Thanks for this extra info.
@@audramarshall479 Better than dying from COVID (severe patients).
@@Asiansxsymbol obviously, severe patients would smoke crack if it helped them out.
@@Asiansxsymbol I think that she spoke about alopecia not about Covid.
My cousin was one of the test subjects. She was completely bald, no eyebrows, eyelashes, or hair of any kind on her body. For several years, she had to undergo regular checkups and monitoring of her nutrilfil levels in order to continue taking the medication. It actually worked. Her hair has now grown back. I am so happy for her and others with this condition because it can have a detrimental psychological effect, especially on women.
It grew all back?
Yes!
Do you have proof? I'm never the one to flat out call someone a liar but these days, everyone wants attention.
Congrats! Any side effects on the meds??
Doc, it’s the beauty of imperfection. I have synkinesis and partial facial paralysis from Bells Palsy 24 years ago. Your imperfection makes me feel like it’s OK. 💕
Like many other commenters I truly feel you look great as you are now. So many men even intentionally shave their heads, you don't have to be bothered. But as a person who was born with baby fine hair and now in my senior years am experiencing thinning of that hair, I know how devastating emotionally it is to see those thin areas on your scalp. Fortunately for me 2% Minoxidil just once a day has helped greatly. I like what you are doing with the allergy shots, I wish you the best in your search for a solution. Just stay healthy!
It’s probably not so much about what it looks like (because both with or without is looking good), but probably more to do with having the power to make a decision. As a 14 yr. teen I got so tired of being sexualized, so I shaved off my hair. Literally over night it stopped almost all together. It was about getting back a part of me that I wanted to be in power over that older men took for granted was theirs. It’s one thing to make an active decision, but it’s something else to just have something taken from you without your own say. /Scandinavian
@@soilgrasswaterair I’m sorry you felt the only way you could feel powerful being female was to shave your hair off, but I understand the struggle and the need to keep and feel safe and strong. Maybe after awhile when you’re feeling more secure in who you are, I believe that confidence will shine out and your lovely hair will grow back. And I dare anyone to mess with you! You go girl! 😃
@@soilgrasswaterair 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Dr. Linkov, I so respect your decision and honesty with the community about potential side effects with this new drug.
You are young, active, very attractive as you are, have a lovely wife and child and a thriving practice. You seem to been in very good health as well. I wouldn't risk all of that for anything in the world.
As a former model and fitness model, I've always done my best to eat healthy, stay fit, not drink, use drugs or smoke. I've always taken vitamins to get extra antioxidants and minerals too. I was diagnosed with cancer and have forced myself to endure life saving treatments. You're a doc so you know what typically happens after surgery...radiation, chemo and side effects.
My point is, if I had a choice, I would never take any treatment that would risk my health unless I absolutely had to. Health is the only true wealth we can have in this life.
its funny, by funny i mean sad, that most of us do not fully appreciate our great natural health until something bad alters it. i was an e.r. nurse, very active outdoors, living life full bloom until i developed a couple debilitating diseases. now i have to seek silver linings in life.
cancer sucks. i loathe it when people say things like everyone has been affected by cancer in one way or another, because i feel it detracts from how hard hitting it is. like for you to go from “a former model + fitness model” to fighting cancer ~ damn! when i lost my dad to cancer i was devastated.
anyway, enough rambling. …what i really want to say is i wish you the best in kicking cancers ass! 🌈🫶🏻
@@treebles Such kind words from a stranger. It means the world to me and I thank you.
Yes, silver linings are important. They should be important to everyone, sick or not.
I wish you all the best and hope we are both granted remission. 💞
Yeah, but look at the picture of him with hair! Much more handsome. As a current supermodel, hair is desirable to everyone.
Wow- this is so well said. I agree completely. Cheers!
@@Asiansxsymbol ~ agree to disagree!! he is absolutely handsome with or without.
so you are a supermodel, well thats great that you were blessed with good genetics.
i hope you do not have to find out the hard way what it feels like to have something beyond your control “worsen” your looks. i wish you the best in your career, maybe with a bit more of an open mind might make you be even “more beautiful”.
I’ll be honest here. You’re handsome without hair. You’re an amazing doctor, very intelligent.
Newly diagnosed with Alopecia Ophiasis and I have learned a lot from your videos. Best wishes for you and everyone on this journey.
Doctor, you are perfect just the way you are! It is your choice and your privacy on what you decide to do with taking the medication. Your wonderful in informating everyone about various topics including this one. You did make many important points about the medication. I hope those who have the problem can make better informed decisions after hearing this from you. Thanks for caring.
Can we take a moment and be in awe of the fact that up to 4% of the test subjects grew back over 90% of their hair taking a sugar pill and just believing that it will work? That is literally amazing.
I‘d say that is the most important discovery in this whole experiment.
That's what "placebo effect" means & why drug efficacy studies requires a placebo group.
@@munirahbakar4123 just because you can give it a name doesn’t mean you can explain it.
@@munirahbakar4123 Yes, I know. I'm remarking on how amazing the effect is.
Wondering if it was the stress of starting to lose their hair, made them lose all their hair & when they thought they'd get back their hair, it grew back because the weight was lifted from their shoulders.
This is HUGE, i really hope this works incredibly well, theres so many people suffering from this and if it works its literally life changing.
I've been on this medication since July, and as of today, I have almost 90% regrowth. I take the 2mg dose. I'm blown away. My mental health took such a turn when this condition presented. I couldn't be happier with the results.
I'm so happy to hear this worked for you.
Did you have any side effects?
Another question, didn't u have any hair on your body? Or did you have a bit?
Really, my son is too, this medicine really helps, do you feel any discomfort after taking this medicine, medicine$😊
Where did you buy it?
Dr Gary, you're one of those people who look better without hair. Thank you for this video. 🙏❤🥰
With hair, without hair ure a very handsome man but the voice is everything. I love your voice Dr. G
Bless
Wow, I appreciate how open and honest you are about your story. Also the discussion of biases/ funding in research - so important! Great video.
That was a very easily digestible breakdown of a medical study. You're really good at explaining things to a non-medically trained audience, I'm sure your patients appreciate this quality as well, when you talk to them about the procedures you perform.
Your reasoning is very understandable! Congrats on the return of those hairs, all on their own! Personally I think you look great the way you do.
You look great, honestly. I think very few people can pull off the bald look mainly because of head shape. You're like Bruce Willis and Jason Statham - great head shape. Glad to hear your nails are feeling stronger and currently no functional problems. Thanks for creating really great videos, really like your style
Dr. Linkov, you are an ICON with your current look and you have a recognizable voice. Do what makes you happy, but I gotta say, you have a good thing going on with what you don't have now - hair. ❤️
It’s actually comforting to see a plastic surgeon who isn’t a slave to the appearance of things. Whatever you do with your dome, do what makes you feel more like “you”
Hey Dr. Linkov, as so many others have said, you are lucky that bald is a great look for you! So whether you get all your hair back or not, you have nothing to worry about.
Oh my gosh! I worked on baricitinib RA clinical trials. It’s cool to hear you talk about my industry. :)
My grandma with severe r-h died of lymphoma from her medication which was some kind of Jack inhibitor. I have severe thrombosis and have since I was about 32. My heart is good my kidneys are good so they don’t know why other then my over active immune system.
I appreciate your commentary on this medication with inflammation and over active immunities being such a big part of my life.
You rock the shaved look Doctor so I just wanted to tell you that. You have a beautifully symmetric face !! When I had to have brain surgery as a teenager I also was bald for a few years and I saw I could pull it off, not everyone can :)..
Hi Aliah, Were you able to get your covid vaccines okay? I'm a hospital pharmacist and blood clots from Covid are horrible. Hopefully you were able get something other than J&J since it has a clot risk.
Do you take Warfarin or Xarelto to control your blood clotting?
I had a 19 year old patient who got a blood clot in her lung because of Covid 😞. Praying you stay safe out there.
You look fantastic without hair! I saw the photo with fake hair, and you just don't look that great! So glad you have accepted where you are and that it is not being a major barrier in your life because surgeons like you who put out the truth about procedures are amazing! Thank you for being you. Stay there.
and you look extremely charming WITHOUT your hair!
i checked out that video of your journey and i must say baldness suits you like a glove and adds on to your charm! you are super lucky for that! :)
I thought I saw some eyebrow action! Congratulations! With the progress you are seeing with your current treatment plan, it sounds like you are making the right decision about this new drug…for now. Best wishes on continued progress on getting some more eyelashes and keeping your strong nails. You look terrific and make very helpful videos. Thank you!
I have trichotillomania which has landed me with alopecia after years of destroying my hair follicles. I personally LOVE seeing people with alopecia rocking their look, it helps me find the confidence in my own skin. You look amazing and you inspire me!
I think it's inspiring for someone to grapple with their own infirmities and to be so honest about it, especially a Doctor. Being able to say "this is who I am now" is such a powerful thing.
Gary I have seen many of your videos and after all of them, I have concluded that you are a Great person just the way you are. You don't need hair, your personality outshines any controversy in the need for Hair and you certainly don't need to risk your health in any way for the public. As far as confidence in your situation, you have an audience that while we are really interested in what you do, if someone can't deal with your hair loss than they can watch another video elsewhere. That is the bottom line. I am really proud of you and what you do. I'm proud of you that you came forward about yourself and about how to help others that may really want to try to get their hair back. But hair is just a fraction of you and I could tell you stories about how much hair meant to me as a young person just getting a hair cut and now that I'm older and past that, I feel that it was kind of crazy. I will give you a laugh. As a young person, I was TREATED to a hair salon to get a cute pixie cut. They are really cute, and I did look really cute in one. But my goal was to have hair I suppose the way the Wella Balsam commercial put it in their shampoo commercials. Just flowing all over and wavy etc... What a laugh, but after one Treatment at a Hair Salon, I remember praying to have my hair be back on my head and to my shock, I had the same cut. I was really devastated at that. So crazy as it sounds, I would take cloth or old clothes in particular yellow, black etc... All sorts of colors and wear them all around with a headband to pretend it was hair. When I think back on all of that, I just laugh. But the truth of it is, what meant something to us as a younger person, has very little to do with us as an adult. You have your health even with an autoimmune disorder and I have 3 of them. One is Rheumatoid Arthritis. I am older now, but all of the things I thought were so important really weren't when it came to our physical identity and there is so much more to the Genuine Person that you are today. I did have to see some of your earlier days with lots of hair, and you were very handsome. You are today, and I love your glasses too. I love your wife's PJ's Ha Ha. They are cute and if I were her helping you, I wouldn't have cared. You have that right in your own home. We are the guests, not you. It was nice to see who she was. I bet she loves you just the way you are. So continue helping others, but don't feel you have to please us to have some hair because you don't. I hope this makes you feel better, don't worry, we love you the way you are.
Your a sweet heart Gary ;-) Love you.
Thank you for discussing the risk of side effects, the lack of long-term studies, and discussing the fact that the manufacturer funded the studies. Many people see ‘FDA approved’ on a medication and don’t look any deeper. And glad to see you opted not to take the medication. It’s always risky to take a medication that messes with our immune systems, you are showing signs of improvement without the medication, and are in a good place emotionally, and we all love your bald head, so why risk it!
Bro, you look good. You look smooth and aerodynamic... I realize it doesn't make that much of a difference, but you just look like a fast swimmer, cutting through the water like nobody's business. Much respect.
Always good to hear a professional talk openly and honestly about new medicines and treatments. Thank you.
I linked this to my friend with alopecia and she responded:
"Hair? LIABILITIES"
I died 😂 after decade into her alopecia, she became so comfortable and she said she doesn't need more liabilities in her life.. she already invested a lot on her pretty wigs - I'm happy how confident she is now...
I mean if she’s really confident she wouldn’t get wigs
@@shaunharn1998 she's modeling em' -selling them too..she can go out without it (which is on a day to day basis, but you know we ladies wanna look prettier when we feel like it..) wig is just like a hat for her, she even remove it inside the train to wipe off her headsweat lol, and sometimes also just to get a laugh~ :) all alopecias are different- her hair is still growing at times in tiny patches~ when it happens she doesn'r wear wigs :)
That's exactly why monks shave their heads ✌️
@@smallbeginning2 I've read that too.. purest form of simplicity is really difficult to practise.. Not only for monks but some sectors are avoiding the use of pillow, instead using elevated wooden plank, no perfume.. no dancing.. modern people would think it is sort of a punishment.. not easy to do.
@@shaunharn1998 that is rude
My son developed alopecia universalis (which is so incredibly devastating for an 11 year old 😢). We finally found an expert in this field and he was prescribed tofacitinib (Xeljanz) and minoxidil PO BID. It has been a miracle for him!!! Baracitinib is in the same family, so I would think it would bring similar results. I totally understand your point of view as well, especially being an adult, but I am so grateful we found this treatment for my son! All the best to you! ☺️
Did it bring back lost hair too?
@@moodmeditation4458 yes….he now has a head full of hair!! His eyebrows and eyelashes are also about 75% back.
Congrats! May I ask How your son is doing today??
@@Posch40 he’s doing great! Still has hair and no side effects after being on the medication about 5 years. He will most likely always need to take the medication-as with all autoimmune disease, it never goes away, but the medication suppresses it.
Also, my son has decided he wants to become a dermatologist so he can help others with what he’s been through. Very proud of him.
You rock baldness! No need to subject yourself to possible side effects if you aren't negatively effected by your baldness. I really enjoy your videos and shared information.
At the beginning of the video, I noticed the eyelashes and thought for sure Dr. Gary was giving the medication a try. I'm so happy that it's natural growth! I'm sure that gives hope to some others who have alopecia areata.
As one who is married to a nearly bald man, I don't see anything wrong with being hairless (I'd prefer his back to be as hairless as his head, just sayin! LOL). I'm sure it's a mental jolt, but for anyone affected by this, there are those who think it's attractive and we can see beyond skin (hair?) deep to see who you are. The Dr rocks the look, you can too!
NOTHING IN THIS LIFE HAPPENS BY ACCIDENT!! I came across your page it was actually a reaction video then the day after my daughter came crying showing me some hair loss she's very you and we're scared as to what this could mean, I took her to a doctor and we're waiting to see a specialist. However the night after we saw the doctor I came across another one of your videos in which you spoke about your condition by then I felt like I knew you and was comfortable to watch your videos I have subscribed and you are helping me cope thank you for your transparency doctor I appreciate you.
Some of the results are amazing! But also come at a potential cost. I think you're making the right decision.
Dr. you have a very handsome face and I think the lack of hair emphasizes it. Glad to hear you are happy without having to take the medication.
My respects to you Dr.Gary! testing the drug to self treating you speaks of the high commitment and professionalism you have.
I don't know, i think there are only a very few people that can rock a bald head and you are definitely one of them! I still wish good luck with this and it would be incredible if it does, but you don't need it :)
@@BloodSweatAndMeth stop being so offended by a comment that wasn‘t even related to you?
wow what a nice message. so many men lose their hair and you are basically saying that most of them are simply ugly now. Thanks a lot. Suicide seems to be the only way then
It’s so strange to see you with hair. I’m so used to your head shining brighter than my future 👨🦲 🌞
Hahha aww 🥰
That thumbnail picture is photoshopped much more than just hair!🤣
I watch your channel regularly and I have male pattern baldness. The hair fell out in a matter of two weeks and my hot flashes from menopause came on at the very same time. I was a mess! I've finally found a human hair wig that makes me feel like myself again and even if this drug would work for me, I wouldn't risk it. I've learned to love my wig.
I think you actually suit your current look. There's a high-fashion modelesque vibe about it. It's unique in a good way
I’m so happy for you, Dr. Linkov, that you have some hair growths returning, and that your nails are strengthening! Yay!!
Thank you for the excellent information on how JAK inhibitors work. I switched from a TNF blocker (which quit working after 16+ years) to the JAK inhibitor Rinvoq for my RA, and have been quite happy with the way my RA has been in remission for the most part (except for overuse flare ups). I’m glad that the FDA has approved this medication for alopecia areata, because many people are terribly distressed about the loss of their hair.
I enjoy your videos, particularly your lucid, informative and balanced summaries of published research studies. That takes a lot of work.
It’s refreshing to see such honest reviews. Of course there’s a huge bias in the study you talked about, and nobody knows long-term effects of this medication. Immunosuppressants are still very much an unknown. I have RA and had cancer (twice), so my oncologist strongly advised against any biologics.
I appreciate you mentioning who funds the studies, its easy to forget that major detail when assessing the risk of a product.
Started watching your channel a couple months ago, obviously do what feels safe and important to you, but from a random person on the street did not even notice your condition! Just thought you had a beautiful smile 😊
I hope this can work for you bro. You've helped so many others. It's time for you to get the help you need.
You look amazing. My son has thin hair shave his head . My nephew also . You do what makes you happy . I’m glad your eyebrows eyelashes are growing just be careful be safe . I enjoy watching your videos 🥰🙏
We need a new word for “bald” I think. Haha. My brothers lost their hair at a young age, shaved their heads and didn’t look back. They both (one has passed) looked beautiful. Truth is, it is much easier to appreciate how a man looks without hair than a woman. I just don’t know what I would do but I’m on meds for epilepsy with relatively mild side effects and fear the risks involved. Dr. Gary-your kind intelligence, lovely face and smile make you so beautiful! Good luck to everyone!
Bold looks great! As long as you are healthy that’s the most important thing!!
I lost ALL my hair in 2021. After Olumiant got approved by the FDA for alopecia in 2022, I started taking it. Today, I have a full head of hair, my eyebrows, eyelashes, every hair on my body has returned. I am very happy I started taking it and I'm extremely pleased with the results. No side effects.
@kajalbhendre8190 Why would I take a hair supplement for an autoimmune disease? A hair supplement would do absolutely nothing for someone with alopecia areata.
Congrats! How you are doing today? May I ask any side effects jet??
Hello, what was your dosage? 2mg or 4mg?
A lot of people are saying you look good as you are, true, BUT what matters is what looks good to you and you want. No one should feel presured to change or not change / seek or not seek medical treatment depending on how people see them. 😊
I've had Alopecia Areata universalis for 22 years now. It started when I was 12, but I didn't lose my hair completely until I was 19. I've had some growth here and there but it all ended up falling back out. Been completely bald now for about 10 years. I didn't fully embrace my beautiful baldness until 3 years ago during a trip to Israel. It was then I finally stepped out in faith and stopped being afraid of what others will say if they saw me without my wig on. I've never looked back and I know this is who I am and who God intended me to be. I also believe this medication is a blessing from God. I just found out about it yesterday thanks to a rep that stops by the medical office I work at. I then looked it up to get the info and the results got me so excited. I then realized this FDA approval was announced on June 13. That happens to be my birthday. I instantly felt like it was a God wink. 😉 Yes, I've embraced and fully accepted the true beauty within myself. But I also know that God bestows unexpected blessings even when we're not praying for them. Yes, there's risks. Just like with all medications. But I feel led to try this one and see what this new journey will bring. 🙏 Thank you for this insightful and honest breakdown of Olumiant!
❤️
Great video. One of the best things to comment about your videos is your demeanor. Always very positive. In addition the content is very informative. Always enjoy each of your videos. Keep up the good work 👍🏼
Dr. Linkov, apart from the difficulties you have enumerated concerning your nails that you need to use in everyday simple activities and as a surgeon, etc. I understand this and how you might feel, but as a female telling it straight to a male, you look just awesome! I know that you are married and I am not a psycho, just clarifying. Apart from that you seem to be a wonderful person, always kind and supportive in your job. I am wishing you a wonderful life the way that you are! Keep up the good job and thank you for your vids that teach us all and support our psychological health as well!
I love your bald head! My stepdad lost all his hair to alopecia over 20 years ago he also lost his eyebrows. My Mom loves him with no hair. I think he looks great with no hair. Don't change!
Good luck Gary, both for a good result and for minimal side effects.
This is really interesting - I just concluded my participation in a drug study for Upadacitinib, also a JAK inhibitor that was previously approved for rheumatoid arthritis.
In my case, it’s being used to treat hidradenitis suppurativa, an autoimmune dermatological disorder.
It’s been life changing. I’ve had a 90% reduction in my flares, which are not only an aesthetic issue, but also incredibly painful and leave behind extensive scarring.
Admittedly, I do get more frequent respiratory infections, but the payoff has still been worthwhile.
Thanks for this video and your clear explanation; I have a better understanding of how the medication works and why it’s been effective.
My relative has this for going on 7 years. Diagnosed at John Hopkins. Golf ball sized painful cysts. 2 years ago read an article and cut out nightshades. Told me that peppers are specifically linked to his flares. He told me he stopped eating them and doesn't even think about his HS anymore. I know everybody's different, but at least in his case, there was a dietary component to his disease.
1st of all, I think you look amazing without hair! I totally enjoy watching your channel and I’ve commented in the past and have been highlighted! The reason I’m commenting this time is because I’ve had rheumatologist arthritis since I was 20 and ulcerative colitis with removal of my colon at 34! I worked as a medical professional most of my life and knew all the “great Dr’s” in Dallas to go to for treatment of both autoimmune conditions. The one drug I took the longest, besides prednisone, was (note past tense) methotrexate. In the early 2000’s I took part in a study for a biologic called Kineret-I took it by injection & the study was blind the 1st year lasting for 3 years. That worked better than anything I had ever been on, however, at the 5th year I developed bacterial pneumonia which put a hole in my lower left lobe! Sooo, 2 yrs later, still flaring, I started Remicade, another biologic - 7 months into it, I had liver failure-this was in June of 2007 - a year later we tried it again and I became septic from MRSA! Not fun! I stayed away from everything for over 7 years suffering and had another really bad flare from of all things a flu shot, in 2015 - spring of 2016 I started on a DMARD called Arava - the one type of treatment I had not tried at this point at 60 yrs old. Lo and behold, I ended up septic again from a kidney infection (who knows where that came from) and ended up with PRES syndrome - 3 brain bleeds - spending a month on a a vent, fortunately, I don’t remember the violent intubation and subsequent broken neck at the atlas and axis that I now take Tizanadine 4mg tid forand probably will be on this the rest of my days! I tell you this because anything that messes with your immune system medicinally, for me anyway, has almost killed me! It’s not worth it to me to ever go on any conventional medications for the treatment of RA or UC.. I’m truly a miracle especially after the 16 weeks hospitalization in 2016 - I was on 26 meds when I got out & slowly weened myself off everything but prednisone 10mg qod and the Tizanadine 4mg tid! Truly a miracle! But I was one sick puppy & this story of my health is just the tip of the iceberg!
Moral of my story: I like your baldness and love your gray matter! This lengthy comment is just for educational purposes, but I’d hate to see you suffer a sickness brought on by a medication when “I love you just the way you are!”, which was also written and sung by (Billy Joel).. ❤️🙏🏻😇🙌 - DMW
👩🏻🎓
I have hair thinning due to thyroid condition and it's just something I have to live with. But it has really taken an emotional toll on me. its nice to see other people dealing with it positively.
I find your explanation of JAKi drugs side effects both comforting and disconcerting. I’ve been suffering from RA for the last 4 years and after trying many drugs, Rinvoq allows me to walk again but I feel like I’m playing Russian roulette every day. I’m 59 and a stroke survivor due to brain aneurysms and a blotched coiling surgery. My rheumatologist doesn’t seem concerned. He seems relieved that I’m not in pain. It’s nice to hear another MD talk about the reality of side effects. Thanks.
We'll miss the bald look but whatever makes you happy, doc!
Coming from a woman who's experienced extensive hair loss due to hypothyroidism, I wouldn't take ANY modern day medication with all of the potential side effects. I personally appreciate and admire you immensely JUST THE WAY YOU ARE. That said however, if it's important to you, of course I believe you should do what you want. But I much rather have you around with no hair than take a chance on risking your health.
✊️ I'm with you! I tried a couple of hormonal meds. One messed with my libido. The other made have the most painful period ever, with giant blood cloths. I gave up both of them pretty quickly. I just use a hair topper or a hat to hide my hair loss... It sucks, but health is more important!
And the wigs now a days are so real-ish. I couldn’t…. I’d have new dew everyday. Hehe And you look better bald. But that’s just my thoughts.
Every medication has side effects. But if you are healthy and young, I would say it might help people that want it.
I love your videos, Dr. Linkov!
I am taking it - I got my eyelashes and eyebrows and head hair is growing. It’s worth it- don’t deny yourself. It’s safe.
I’m 17 and I was able to get olumiant even though it’s for 18 and up which is stupid bc I’ve tried all other jaks and that’s the only one I saw results from and it’s so expensive I wish they could make it for younger people also
Thank you for clarifying the clinical trial data. As a parent of a teen with alopecia this was very helpful. The children's specialists we've seen have not discussed allergy shots as possible reset of the immune response. I know kids are limited to various treatment but that seems pretty safe.
A few years ago I was diagnosed with stress induced alopecia areata. What slowly helped get my hormones back on control and helped my hair to regrow was taking vitamin D3, getting back onto the birth control pill, and getting skincare issues addressed with spironoloactone which (I forget how) has helped my hair to regrow because it’s helping with a hormonal imbalance. Also I took gummy vitamins that contained collagen, keratin, biotin, and D3. A multivitamin helped so much too. Too much biotin can cause breakouts so I wouldn’t recommend going overboard with that. Massaging my head, brushing my scalp\hair hair with a gentle wet brush with boar bristles has proven to be the best for me. I also switched to using velvet scrunches instead of hair elastics and there is way less breakage overall. It’s been about 4 years now and I still have spots I have hair missing, but wigs from Amazon have made me feel better! Even if I don’t know how to properly apply them. Stress plays a huge part in it, at least in my case, and although I still have eyebrow hair missing and my hair is much thinner, and I have lots of scarring by my eyebrows, I’m grateful for how far I’ve come. Remember, you aren’t alone and remember that your physical features aren’t who you are, your heart is what defines you. If you’re struggling like I was don’t give up and see a dermatologist. (It was so bad at one point my primary care manager (doctor) told me to touch my hair as little as possible since it was just falling out so much. When I would shower I would have almost a handful of hair. I would say I lost at least 60% of my hair on my head and eyebrows, but mainly I’m just missing most of my eyebrows now.
I hope this is helpful to anyone also diagnosed with stress induced alopecia areata. ♥️ also doc, you look phenomenal, and it takes a strong man to open up about his insecurities/worries. You’re a great person to watch on TH-cam and I love learning from you. Thanks for the great video.
Thank you so much this is helpful :)
I've just seen your comment.I m from Bosnia and my daughter us diagnosed with alopecia areata(14).Stress is no.1 was the problem.Seeing your comment gave me hope.I know it takes time and l have to be strong and calm for the sake of my daughter.l hope You will recover completly,take care🤗.
@@pinkbear1242 thank you so much, God bless you and your daughter. I hope things improve for her and she knows her self worth and beauty isnt in her hair, but in her heart and actions. ♥️♥️♥️
@@pinkbear1242 you already have shown me you are strong ♥️you are a wonderful mother. I’m not sure if it will apply to your daughter, but starting on a birth control pill to help with hormones and taking vitamin D is what really helped me eventually. Now I know at least my hair grows back in if it falls out most of the time, and the hair loss is much less. I also had really bad acne that was unusual for me. It’s possible that if you could take your daughter to a dermatologist to see if they have some options/check her hormone levels, she could be low on her vitamin D or have her hormones unbalanced too. Stress definitely has an impact so remind her whenever you can that she is beautiful :) ♥️ and you are a great mom! Thank you for such a sweet message, I wish you and your family the absolute best and healing. ♥️
doc i wish you would reach out to me. my son has alopecia universalis. he was stricken at age 16 in high school. he was emotionally devistated and remains emotionall scarred and reclusive. he hangs only with a very close friend group and his 3 brothers… he has a twin with hair. tons of it). a dd am had amazing hair like his brother and at 61 i (his father) would still say it’s my best feature. adam never got 2ndary sex characteristic hair … always he was smoothe on his arms and legs …but he had great hair on his head and eyebrows. when it started to go he developed a severe speach impediment of mumbling and struggling to get words out and express himself (mortified by the attention speach brings to his appearance). 5 years later he’s 22 and moved to a new college for junior year. he has the friends but is now away from them. he’s not made any real friends yet in south carolina. recently he has had some spontaneous patchy regrowth which he feels even more self conscious about. his nails are bad. and he’s very thin. he’s sometimes happy when he’s around friends … but he’s not confident. i wish you you take the medicine yourself and inspire all those like adam who are struggling to function quasi-normally in public. trying to
make friends at college …and constantly having to explain his appearance … disease … explain its not cancer or contagious. i feel the good would likely outlay the sideeffects for him. rather than seeking out “lazer hair removal treatments” for the patches ….i’ld like to see someone encourage him to try this medicine and reassure him that he. am be safely monitored and medically supervised. i am a dentist a know a good bit of physiology and medicine. it’s my opinion and would be my expectation that he would improve every aspect of his life with this medication … even in was beyond what he believes are his only symptoms … i believe he would digest and. absorb nutrients better …, put on some weight … become more socially confident and outgoing. i believe he would talk more , smoke more and thrive. when adam was in6 th grade he was so popular that his lunch table of friends
made an agreement at the table and agreed to take turns sitting next to Adam. please reach out. please respond. 412 779 6064 from pittsburgh Pa.
When I first heard about baricitinib two months ago I immediately thought about you doctor!
It’s a cool thing that you won’t be taking it, except if it is needed
I’d tell you that even if it had 0 side effect, you still shouldn’t do it imo
You are rocking your own style so well, I guess it’s something that makes you different in a good way
(Even though that is still a condition, and that it’s probably not easy to deal with everyday in our world)
Dr. Gary you look fabulous. If I were forty years younger. Looks change in everyone, your intelligence, candidness and humor are what counts.
Great video and informative. My dad was bald from the age of 20. Still had a fringe. I loved him and his baldness ! Everyone’s perspective is different.