Susan's Place Transgender Resources

Community Conversation => Female to male transsexual talk (FTM) => Transsexual talk => Testosterone => Topic started by: KevinSeven on August 30, 2015, 08:29:31 AM

Title: Questions about applying Androgel
Post by: KevinSeven on August 30, 2015, 08:29:31 AM
I just started on Androgel a couple of days ago. The instructions say to only apply it to your upper arms & shoulders... but it's a lot of gel and I am a small dude so I've had to also apply it to my upper chest and back.

I live alone and there is zero chance I will transfer it to anyone. Is there a reason I shouldn't be applying it to my chest and back? Or stomach? What bad thing could happen? The instructions seem to be geared towards cis guys who might come into contact with women, neither of which apply to me.

Also - the instructions say to apply it after a shower, but sometimes on the weekend I skip a shower if I have not done anything to get sweaty/dirty. Does it really matter?

Lastly, when will I turn into the Hulk? :)
Title: Re: Questions about applying Androgel
Post by: Ms Grace on August 30, 2015, 08:39:22 AM
You should probably check with your doctor re application. Also, if they suggest "after a shower" there's probably a reason for that so I'd suggest you consider a quick weekend shower regardless...besides, once the T does take effect you'll probably find you need to wash more often anyway as it does tend to cause more BO in guys.
Title: Re: Questions about applying Androgel
Post by: Mr.X on August 30, 2015, 10:04:03 AM
I've been on Androgel for a while. My instructions didn't say anything about not applying it to my stomach. So I applied it there as well and haven't had anything bad happen. My T levels were still quite high, so the absorption there is not an issue.

As for the shower, it is recommended to take a shower because it opens up the pores. This makes the absorption of the gel into the skin easier and quicker. I doubt not applying the gel after a shower a few times will change a whole lot. I also skipped the shower part a few times and again, no adverse effects.

Lastly, you should have turned into the Hulk already. If you haven't, you have a big problem!
Title: Re: Questions about applying Androgel
Post by: KevinSeven on August 30, 2015, 10:43:43 AM
Quote from: Mr.X on August 30, 2015, 10:04:03 AM
As for the shower, it is recommended to take a shower because it opens up the pores. This makes the absorption of the gel into the skin easier and quicker.

This makes total sense, thanks!
Title: Re: Questions about applying Androgel
Post by: FTMax on August 30, 2015, 09:17:00 PM
I started on Testim, but the application is basically the same. It is a lot of gel regardless of how big you are :) The instructions are primarily worried about the transference, BUT those areas of the body apparently absorb better than others. So I would make an effort to get the majority of your daily dose applied there. Whenever I had excess, I would rub it on my sides and stomach. I've heard other people put it on their thighs.

My doctor also recommended applying after a shower, on the basis that your pores are more open then and the absorption rate is higher. I don't think it matters too much if you skip a shower. I've taken the stuff camping before and just applied it daily even without showering or getting wet. My T levels have been very consistent, so I don't think it'll have any kind of affect if you skip a shower once a week or so.

I started getting changes within a week on a half dose, so you should be well on your way to Hulkdom soon :)
Title: Re: Questions about applying Androgel
Post by: Elli.P on August 31, 2015, 11:56:16 AM
I have used this as a cis male. After the shower is best for absorbing it into the skin. I also bought a box of cheap sandwich bags and used them as disposable gloves to cut down on the mess. I also found rubbing it in helpful for limiting the area needed. Good luck.