TESTOSTERONE GEL INSTEAD OF INJECTIONS

[@nickneal3955]

I switched to gel because I have ADHD, I couldn't remember if I'd taken my shots every other week. I started to get very anxious and I messed my hormones up badly. Taking it every day means I can remember more easily. I didn't know my insurance covered it, my doctor was the one that suggested it to me and it really helped me.

[@nykstarr9015]

This is a big reason as to why I switched to gel. I can remember to routinely take meds but had a rough time remembering just once a week.

[@vvinum.]

this is also a factor to why i decided on doing gel as well!

[@riley0018]

same here, plus if i would ever have a bad experience w a shot the next week i would be so anxious i just procrastinated it

[@Way2muchreality]

That's so interesting because for me it's the opposite! I'm taking the gel now but switching to injections because I can't keep up with the daily applications of the gel because I forget and my pharmacy never gives me my gel at the right time so I'll miss days-a week at a time.

[@ad_kk16]

I'm the opposite. I set an alarm on my phone, and I receive the notification on my fitbit. It's easy to remember to take an injection since it's once a week, it's constantly on my mind. But for gel, I keep forgetting that I need to do it every day and I'll actually miss days. Also, I like injections, it's like riding on a roller coaster, I get excited lol. Plus, I do like the feeling poking myself with a needle. I'm kinda weird too.

[@cadenedwards2807]

I did injections for 5 years, got tired of stabbing myself, and switched to gel 3-4 months ago. It was a nice break, but unfortunately my T levels were super low and my cycle started back up for the first time in 5 years. I panicked and did my shot after the 3rd day of all that and it went away. Back on shots now. It really just depends on each individuals body and if they can absorb the gel or not.

[@englishmuffinpizzas]

Your dose may have been too low also, if you ever want to try again you could try a higher dose. Often a single packet/pump is a relatively small amount. People can be up to 4 pumps of the brand I was on for example

[@earthangel8875]

@@englishmuffinpizzas I wonder what would happen if one switched from weekly injections to gel with hysto. It would be comforting to know that after 20ys of being on injections, the gel would work without any interruptions. I suppose mood swings like menopause would happen. The thought of that is not good at all. Has anyone gone from long-term injections to gel without issues?

[@c.barnett7931]

After 47 years of injections I had to switch to jel because of congestive heart failure. The daily does is supposed to be gentler on the body than the injections. So there are medical reasons to use alternate applications as well.

[@vincestrahan3506]

Wow, finally someone older than me! I've been on injections for 38 years and just started Gel because I kept having issues with swelling in my knees and large mood swings. Fell has really stabilized my mood.

[@InquieteNightshade]

I use gel because my hands shake like a seismograph and I don’t trust myself administrating needles by myself. My gel doesn’t come in a packet, it comes in a pump bottle, and has the same smell and consistency as hand sanitizer. It only takes a few minutes to dry.

[@haydenbeatty633]

i also got overwhelmed by the changes from testosterone and took a year off before going back on. somehow it’s really comforting to hear that i’m not the only one that was unsure the first time

[@hrafnvanes3791]

I recently switched from gel to injections because my testosterone levels kept being low, I ended up with 3 sachets a day, quite messy and it made me very aware of being trans. I inject myself every three weeks now and am happy with that even though injecting myself still feels a bit weird, luckily I don't have needle anxiety.

[@alexander-leemess1318]

I'm on a Testosterone cream from a compound pharmacy, and my doctor recommended applying it to my inner-upper arm since that's where the skin in thinner and should absorb easier. I'm not sure where everyone else applies the T to their arm, but just thought I would share that.

[@apollo6326]

I have to apply it to my stomach, which is quite different

[@haseebhussain1548]

What brand is it please help me out

[@alexander-leemess1318]

@@haseebhussain1548 Mine isn't a specific brand, it's a formula my doctor made up and the compound pharmacy makes it per my doctor's formula.

[@hunternocedaclawthorn]

That makes a lot of sense, I wonder if it would affect my birth control implant or if I should apply to the other arm

[@ozziesnuffles]

I have been on the gel for just over 6 months now. Two pumps every morning. My skin absorbs it super well and my t levels are at the perfect Male range and my oestrogen levels are also at a male level. I also have the implant for birth control that I had before I started t which stopped my periods pretty much completely. I was told that the effects of the injections can be so sudden that it can be a bit dangerous. When I was put on the gel I was very disappointed because for some reason I felt like it wasn’t going to do as much. But obviously now I understand that is not true

[@greentree202]

My son is 11 and started blockers a year ago. He hates getting his injections. Thanks for the info! I'll have to see if this will be an option for us when he's ready to start T.

[@Jiihariial]

Definitely bring it up with a doctor! Gel can be a good choice for guys on the smaller side because it keeps levels far more stable.

[@heisenberg6103]

Adopt me please

[@mom23js]

Supermom. The world needs more like you!

[@samanthak9078]

I love that, that is all.

[@Recklessdigging]

Testosterone blockers on a 11 year old?? I feel so bad for HIM. Hopefully his body keeps making testosterone.

[@xxlonelylucid]

I also switched to the gel because I got the injection anxiety and I felt like I didn't want that pain to be what I think of when I think of transitioning. Thanks for this video frien

[@UnopinionatedBystander2393]

My Testosterone gel comes in a pump. It's generic from Lupin in Baltimore. I have carpal tunnel, so my doc hooked me up with the pump.

[@judetelischak5589]

Yes. I also have a pump and it’s great. So much easier than a packet.

[@underworldcows]

I am on Testosterone and I have been on it for 2 1/2 years and have very little / no changes. I have recently started getting acne and bottom growth, both of which I was told I'd experience on about 1 month on T. My doctors can't explain it. Anyway, I'd like to look into other options. Seeing this video was kind of eye-opening for me since I thought that the gel was slower than injection

[@Doglover-gh9ut]

Have u had your chromosomes tested? The reason I’m asking is because u may have some level of androgen insensitivity. I hope you get the changes u want

[@GrimCrumbz]

I know this comment is two years old, but I just saw it and it stood out to me because I'm going through the same exact thing rn. I've been on T gel for two years and hardly anything has changed. I've been thinking about switching over to shots but idk

[@NickUncommon]

My doctor does only know intramuscular injections and gel. The other methods are either not available or not known to the endocrinologists in Germany.

[@Gedankenwald]

True.

[@Ashikawahong]

Not true... I have one in Bochum and before moving I had one in Frankfurt an both prescribed gel ("Testogel" for me.

[@NickUncommon]

@@Ashikawahong i wrote IM Injections and GEL, so what about this is not true?

[@Ashikawahong]

@@NickUncommon oh sry xD I should learn to read xD

[@NickUncommon]

@@Ashikawahong good idea ;) , take time to read usually does the Trick. Just wanted to verify, if I did associate the "not true" comment to the right topic.

[@kadenasherr]

there’s deodorant and nasal spray??? why am i just now hearing about this.

[@anzelasmith2408]

**Hi Chase, I have been watching you for a while...I have a Trans son who I give injections weekly and I never knew about the auto-injector! Thank you so much for that information!! $150 is not a bad price at all!! I'm going to tell my son about it and see what he says! Thanks again & I'm glad you like the gel.**

[@sirlancelot6672]

I’ve been on the gel for 2 years now and it’s amazing. Same one you use. I just put it on before bed and it’s so easy. So much nicer than doing needle injection. I’m almost 3 months past a full hys so it made sense to just use gel because I don’t have to worry about bleeding

[@PaisleyPainbow]

I used the same US generic packets for a while but now I use gel in a pump. Great video - I’m always educating on the misconceptions and information of gel vs injections

[@Ratsoftheswamp]

Is there any difference between the packets and the pump?

[@PaisleyPainbow]

@@Ratsoftheswamp it isn’t necessarily packet VS pump, making the difference. There are multiple formulas of gel - some come in packets OR pumps, some only come one way

[@PaisleyPainbow]

@@Ratsoftheswamp the biggest difference for me is the pumps use less waste and less mess because I can squirt it directly on my belly instead of having to open and squeeze it out of the packets which gets all over my hands.

[@Ratsoftheswamp]

@@PaisleyPainbow oh good to know. I know what is being prescribed to me (still waiting on insurance to approve it so I can actually start using it) is in packets but I wonder if down the line I could get a pump one. I try to be as eco friendly as possible.

[@PaisleyPainbow]

@@Ratsoftheswamp one of the ways I got a pump version covered by insurance was that the packets were a lower strength, requiring me to use like 10 packets in order to keep my levels stable. I switched to Fortesta in a pump because it’s a stronger gel, so I only need a few squirts

[@NickUncommon]

There is a gel in a pump dispenser, where I am. It is a German company.

[@Gedankenwald]

Would you mind to name the company? The sachets annoy the shit out of me.

[@Ashikawahong]

@@Gedankenwald I think they are talking about "Testogel"

[@NickUncommon]

@@Gedankenwald dr Kade

[@tinyty6570]

Testosterone deodorant?? Ok I want that one lol

[@kidqueero420]

Thank you for this video! I actually had an appointment today with my endocrinologist and told him I wanted to switch from injections (to gel) after being on them for 5 years. All of the things you said really hit me because that is how I was feeling. I hated thinking that I would have to inject myself for the rest of my life. I had to be on injections my entire childhood because of a growth hormone deficiency and it traumatized me. I wanted to give up T because of the anxiety with needles. And that caused depression because I wasn't able to be true to myself. I am so excited to start gel! Thanks for the great content. It is helping so many of us!

[@ryubiskj]

i did not mind the injections itself (the nurse who gave it to me are really good and it never hurt) but i have really bad social anxiety and it was horror for me to have to go out regularly and talk to my doctor and a nurse, having to get the stuff from the infirmiary etc etc. so i switched to gel after a year or something like that, when i was happy with how much i changed already and thought to myself if the future changes come slower, i really dont mind that much (edit: to clarify, here in germany you're not allowed to inject yourself. you HAVE to go to a doctors office to get your shot)

[@bltzgwttr]

what I like about the gel (compared to injections) is that one can decrease and increase the amount according to feeling and changes. since testo has some unwanted side effects i found this very important during my transition. i think it is especially valuable for people (like me) that are not entirely certain in the beginning and also are not out yet everywhere. i cherished it so much to be able to choose my own pace with things and could for a very long time still decide for myself whether to be perceived male or female depending on circumstances. even a smaller amount than proposed from my doc gave me a massive improvement with my dysphoria and i felt very comfortable with taken it a bit more slowly.

[@hopeowl]

I'm on gel as well and the best advice I've gotten from someone is to spread it out with the inner side of your wrist! That way you won't "waste" any gel when you're washing your hands as the residue can still absord through the skin on your wrist!

[@hopeowl]

@space rover That's true, although the inside of my wrist rarely touches anything, especially not in the short period of time that the gel needs to dry. Usually only my elbows or hands touch anything (or other people)

[@TheLighterwolf]

i started on daily gel with my endo saying i could switch to injections after about 5 or 6 months but should start with gel because it's more even, im almost 3 months on gel and decided to stick w that because it works super well and doesn't fluctuate like a weekly/biweekly etc injection would. (also i rly dont like needles sskfjsjcjsj) so yeah i 100% recommend gel, worked really well for me :)

[@yourpalwes]

I don't think I knew you were on gel this whole time! I never watch youtube anymore but have been wondering about switching to gel and came back to the old 'tube for some info. Never disappoints. Thanks for the insights Chase!

[@x.pvp.gvtz.x]

As someone on gel, i was entirely convinced that the changes happen slower. As for me im about 5 months on T right now and i havent had more than the smallest voice drop. Ive grown body hair, gotten smellier and sweatier, gotten bottom growth, but not much at all for the voice. But i think im starting to learn that its not the gel and maybe my dose is just too small, or my body just develops slower than others do. I guess we will see! Ill update you all in a couple months if i remember!

[@bubblesamin]

I’m a sex educator who works with young people in a school-based clinic, I do one-on-one reproductive health. And I’m starting new programming to offer puberty blockers and HRT to our young folks in need right there in their hallway. And your info truly helps me provider gender-affirming care. I’m queer, but i love learning about other gender experiences as well! It helps round out the education i provide.

[@legallyrequired]

I used to watch your videos a lot as a kid when I was first transitioning. Its been 6 years since starting testosterone, I’ve always done in the injections. My fear of needles has always been bad. I go months and even years at times forgetting to do the injection or being to anxious to, but my doctors always turned me away from the gel. I’m finally putting my foot down and i’m just going to ask for the gel instead of needles. Thank you again for another super informative video, no matter what struggle i’m going through with being trans I always know I can fall back on your channel for help.

[@wormie77]

the part about dreading injections is one of the main reasons i switched over and honestly i’m relieved to hear that it’s not some irrational fear i was building up. thank u for posting this video i went searching for stuff like this in a panic after getting my gel prescription out of fear that it wouldn’t work as well as injections but this video made me feel a lot better

[@DanniJules]

I chose shots, and I get anxiety on the day I have to get it, but luckily my partner does it for me. I feel like I’d do gel eventually but for now, I like the shots. I do them in my stomach so the needle is TINY, and I can’t feel it at all. The T is what hurts because it’s thick. But I get excited about the cute bandaids I get to put on lol

[@LoveFactorySweatShop]

The gel seems to spike T levels too quickly, then crash 6~8 hrs later. I recommend splitting it 2x a day, or getting your blood work 12 hrs after application.

[@EliasGrimm420]

I also started testosterone with injections, developed severe needle anxiety and then I did some gel research and switched after my insurance agreed to pay for the generic pump!

[@nariseconnor7775]

I’ve been doing pellets and I love it!! Medicaid always try to fight me on it, but so far they’ve always paid for it.

[@gameshowsandhosts]

do you know how much the pellets cost w/o insurance? and how soon did it kick in? my mom and i were talking about getting me on testosterone lately and i wanted to show her the options people can use for pellets

[@nariseconnor7775]

@@gameshowsandhosts without insurance in the USA it’s at least like $1000+ 😭, the insurance thing is becoming more and more of an issue, I’m thinking of trying gel 🙃

[@nariseconnor7775]

@@gameshowsandhostsit kicked in pretty fast, I liked it a lot better than shots, less up and downs, I had great changes on it, but due to the big covid surge this winter I haven’t been able to get the pellets inserted, I was last due in December and they’re still trying to fit me in

[@omfgbrando9597]

I did shots for 5 years every week and now I’m on gel for a month and I use the same packets in California!

[@cg6751]

I was on injections for 2 years and switched to gel and have been on it for 4, and I like it way more. My levels are higher and I’m less moody.

[@sigzag_e385]

I identity as transmasculine. If I want to go on T, I be micro dosing to let the changes come at a slow pace rather than go on a average full dose and changes coming at a fast pace. Not sure if I want to micro dose T as injections or gel.

[@daxmarshel]

You'll find out pretty quickly what microdosing...or any dosing does. T is an interesting critter. Suggest you try the pump gel. It's in your body for awhile after the doses, so know that changes may occur for weeks after your last dose, so dose accordingly.

[@nykstarr9015]

My doc originally put me on the patches (at a really low dose) when I wanted a slow transition. I only used them for about 6 months and then my needs changed but it was a good idea for what I was wanting at the time.

[@englishmuffinpizzas]

My Dr told me no micro dosing on gel bc the minimum packet/pump amount is bigger than micro and just using half of a pump would be overly variable :(

[@deejeasmith4011]

I was on the gel for over a year when I first started out on T because my Trypanophobia was crippling, but my T levels never went above 40. There were literally ZERO changes for me. Apparently my body was not absorbing the gel properly. I was sort of forced to take the injections but once I settled on the deltoid as the site for injection it was really OK after I got over the first injection. So despite the gel working for most it definitely is not for everyone. I am glad it worked for most people though!

[@englishmuffinpizzas]

Wow seeing all these packets I’m grateful mine comes in a pump - much easier on your wrists and less waste too

[@theogarcia2786]

I have just messaged my doctor for testosterone gel, I have never met another trans person who had the exact same phrasing for what I was going through with my shot day. I had no preconceived notions except that I was on the shot because it was explained to me that way BC I had no insurance and it was cheapest. I now have insurance and I cry a lot on my shot days especially with my anxiety, this information has given me so much more than you could even realize. You don't understand that you saved me

[@davidmuller9989]

Stop doing it and pray to god to be in your natural gender with your body and your mind also, please

[@theogarcia2786]

@@davidmuller9989 simply no 👁👄👁 enjoy the monetized interactions you have given the creator and continue to from this point forward. I don't see you as a valid human being so go cease existing elsewhere

[@atchleyxx9063]

I actually had a lot of health issues related to injections. I started injections in 2018 a few months later I began having hot sweats heart palpitations shortness of breath itchiness all over and migraines. After seeing the doctor I was diagnosed with polycythemia Vera secondary. This meant my blood levels were extremely high to where my blood was clotting. I had to have phlebotomys every other week. I switched to gel and my blood has gotten much better and i only have a phlebotomy once a month and my symptoms for the most part are under control

[@SirGuy]

Are you much better yet? I'm sorry you went through that. I'm about to start gel and nervous.

[@emerson23946]

I just started T five days ago and I picked the gel. I heard the same thing from other trans guys that it’s not as strong, but I liked the idea of my hormone levels being consistent everyday

[@Vortece]

Yea, I got here looking for something different, so thanks for the heads-up --- but I'm not gonna leave before saying I LOVE your hair color!

[@dylan4142]

thank you for the informative video! i had no choice but to use gel bc of a supply issue here in singapore, probably unpopular opinion but i prefer IM bc it makes me feel like steve rogers. been on androgel 1.62 for about a month now and it's so nice to not have that dip in energy/mood the day before my shot! i think it's so awesome that you've been on it for so long bc i always see gel guys on low dose or only plan to do it until they switch over to shots. definitely never considered choosing gel before but i'm thinking of staying on now that i had all my misconceptions corrected 😭 sending love!

[@sirjaylollie7453]

I was on the pill for 2 months and they were the worst 2 months of my life. I have videos on my page with info. I was sick the whole time. I had such high hopes and then they all fell flat. I can tell in detail what happened if anyone has questions.

[@JordannAlexander]

Make a video

[@stgeorgevali9953]

This might be a stupid question but can any any use the gel pads

[@nykstarr9015]

Glad I saw this video. I finally had the guts last month to ask about gel bc I was getting so much shot anxiety. I just put on my first dose yesterday. Thanks for all the info!

[@nariseconnor7775]

Also a dry spray T deodorant would be amazing

[@sandyquinn491]

not good for those with animals inside that might lay on your laundry after you wore it all day after geling. fyi

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

My animals have had literally no issues at all. Just don’t flip your shirts inside out and put them on the floor. Throw them in the hamper where the animals don’t have access to them.

[@SirGuy]

​​​@@uppercaseCHASE1his is what scares me, I'm super afraid to start the gel, because I have an 11 lb dog who sits on my lap all the time, she licks my arms or wherever skin is exposed any chance she gets. I'm terrified that even if I can keep her from licking where the gel is applied, that she'll still end up getting some from laying against me (my clothes) sleeping right beside me in bed, taking a bath in the tub where I've showered etc... am I being crazy or are these real threats to her? Please help lol

[@spideymatttt]

i watched this video as i was putting on my testosterone gel

[@diresalope]

The generic Canadian packet is giving me cheap soy sauce at a suspect sushi restaurant vibes. You know, the ones you open and it splits all down the side?

[@daxmarshel]

A lil laugh here...that's awesome.

[@zaidensantanamercer6817]

I just switched to the gel, first time using it today and it was so easy. I couldn’t bring myself to use the needle

[@jeywolf]

I had so much trouble with injectables for years, not because of needles but I couldn't tolerate the side effects. I would do my injection and within and hour had panic attacks, heart racing etc and that would last the first couple days. Plus my hemoglobin kept going high. I kept cutting the dose and shortening the timing but it didn't help with any of this. I was cycling on and off it for the longest time because it was so intolerable. I've been on the gel now every day for a year, I don't miss any days. The gel experience is completely different from injections. There's no panic attacks, heart racing etc and in a year my hemoglobin has only rose a small amount. My t levels are good and I'm so much happier but this stuff is costing me more than what I can afford and my insurance refuses to cover gel at all. I'll never go back to injections tho the formulation was truly intolerable, the difference between that and gel is night and day. I haven't heard of anyone else having the issue I had with injectable but I wonder if people just suffer thru it because they don't realize a different delivery could help.

[@elijahiguess22]

Not me just admiring your wall of cats instead of paying attention to the actual reason i clicked on the video

[@kevincollins53]

That was soooo informative; thank you very much, Chase. I'm just starting my transition (ftm), and haven't gone on T yet. I now feel I can have a more productive conversation with my Dr. You look very handsome, btw; I love the cat pictures! I'm a cat guy, too! Much love to you and success on your journey. 💕

[@fazbunent]

Hey! Where can I buy testosterone gel? I literally can't find any on the internet..

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

You need a prescription from a doctor

[@wrf85]

with gel you have to be very careful, to not touch or leave any residue around you, on your partner, pets, bedding etc, also gels have alcohol in it, some people will get rashes and other reactions from prolonged use... you can administer T on daily basis in micro doses from an insuline syringe... it is abolutely painless...

[@alexhuynh3609]

Thank you for sharing. I will start my first gel application tomorrow morning. I like the way you laughed at youself 😂

[@quantrinh1411]

Hi, thanks for sharing but I wonder if we use gel, what is ideal time for us to take the blood test? For example, we apply it in the morning so it is reasonable for us to check your level on that morning? I do look forward your reply. Thanks a lot

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

I used to get my blood work done super early in the morning before I did my gel. But you can get your blood test 2 hours after the gel is applied so it’s not peaking

[@DracapellaDeetz]

The generic T has always been total crap for me. All brands of the generic and they are all hard to open. They are also all really high in alcohol, including the pump version which had so much alcohol and also smelt like plastic toys and was so watery that it irritated my skin. I will only use Androgel and my Dr had to fight the insurance for ages to get it for me. My levels are really screwed up though and have been for years but I need to take T for my osteoporosis too. I started doing needles and did them for so many years I ran out of places to stick them that weren't going through triple scar tissue and that's creepy and painful.

[@MarylandGuy-ey3st]

I started the gel about 4 days ago but I’m a straight male that had low testosterone. I’m curious to see how it works. Hopefully I won’t have to go on injections

[@avery-brown]

I switched to gel after just 3 subQ shots because every time I got an injection, I would have a syncope reaction. Not fun! I’ve been on the gel ever since and it’s been awesome. I tried the patches too but they caused a rash on my skin. The T I use now is custom compounded and I just dispense 3 ‘clicks’ which comes out to about a teaspoon of gel that’s a sunscreen-like consistency. I apply it to the back of my knees. Super easy, and keeps my levels nice and even instead of huge hormonal fluctuations you get with injections.

[@thetruthmonsterable]

I use a patch and I'm really happy with it. The changes have all happened within the expected time and I don't have to worry about it wearing off when I touch my kids and pets.

[@chamelio_creative]

I use the EXACT same packets, have for a few years now. So glad my insurance covers it here in TN

[@bctinio]

I have been on testosterone since 2013 and with each passing year I keep getting more and more lax with the injections and it suddenly dawned on me that I think it’s because of some needle anxiety. There are times where I won’t do it for a whole month. At the same time I have procrastination issues lol. If my insurance covers it (Medicaid) I would definitely switch to gel. I can work it into a morning routine more readily than the shots every few weeks where I’m more likely to forget/procrastinate/chicken out.

[@thoraneh7365]

I hope this isnt ignorant but does the Gel harm the environment in anyway? What i mean is if you are applying it in the morning then that evening get a shower, would it end up in the water supply? Or if it got on your shirts and then you washed them? This isnt from a place of hate am just curious

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

I think the body absorbs as much of it as possible. So there is probably a chance that some of it does enter the water supply. But just like any other hormone is in the water (like birth control / estrogen!)

[@thoraneh7365]

@@uppercaseCHASE1 thank you!

[@L1teralsatan]

My gel comes in a bottle with a pump and I do 5 pumps a day, its a lot but I don't mind it. Just gotta marinade myself daily

[@remymichael7051]

I’ve been on gel for 7 months and just had my first shot yesterday. I feel like changes happened about as fast as anyone on injections that I saw online. My voice has dropped over an octave and my fat has started to redistribute. My injections will be every 12 weeks which is good, and even though the injection hurt like a bitch it got better by the next morning. So I don’t think gel is slower but it is harder to remember and also more expensive (in australia it’s $40 per month for gel vs $30 every 3 months for injection. ik it’s a lot more in other countries tho I love my pbs). So I think the issue with gel is that ppl vary a lot more in how much their skin absorbs whereas with injection you know how much goes in because all of it is absorbed.

[@legendaryboss54]

I’m not sure if you’ve done this but I think you should make a video on all the testosterone types that there are. I’ve never heard of the deodorant before so that’s cool.

[@UndergroundUncle]

I use sub-q and gel for different reasons. I used to do intramuscular injections for years and that sucked and I also feel like I wasn't getting my t in the right way like it actually made me feel like my transition was going slower. I also used to be super afraid of doing injections in my stomach but I actually don't have any pain when I do it so I am not anxious about it at all. I also have this fear of as my doctor calls it lol "skin to skin" contact with the gel because I am always touchy feely. I feel you though and I totally know that gel is amazing and does work, so do not hold my story as what you should do. I just feel it's interesting how everything works for people in different ways and I find it amazing that we now have so many options for doing our t.

[@paladinsoren]

I was literally just looking to switch to gel so this was super helpful thank you!!!

[@angelpotts4799]

I’m on the same one it’s awesome. Dries really quickly.

[@TheSwanbear]

Thank you, this was very informative! I don't live in north america and this stuff works differently in every country. I'm in Sweden. I chose to go with injections since I don't like putting on gel/lotions and such, the stickiness is a big no for me and I also didn't like the side effect of not being able to touch or cuddle with my pets or my partner etc after. I get injections every 12 weeks in the butt cheek. I have a nurse that I trust that gives me the injections. Where I live they kinda don't want you to do it yourself since it's always riskier with hygiene and such when not in a sterile environment, but I know of other trans people here that do it themselves anyway. It works for them. But I can totally understand that if you have to do it yourself every week, it could get problematic. Handling needles is tricky business, even if you're not afraid to get injections. Thanks for great and informative content, as always! Cheers!

[@musclethestrong1522]

The gel is holy water.

[@AshtontheCryptid]

I want to microdose T because I'm non binary and want to look more masc. Does the gel come in a microdose? I have needle anxiety as well lol, so I'd definitely prefer the gel over injections. Another awesome video Chase. Thank you!!

[@Jiihariial]

You can get gel in multi dose containers, which you could microdose with

[@AshtontheCryptid]

@@Jiihariial Thank you :)

[@ImbracaturaHa]

some gels can be in pump dispensers, that would be very easy to dispense small quantities

[@englishmuffinpizzas]

I was told the answer is no. You can do “low” dose but not micro, and the lowest dose could still be enough for very quick changes depending on your body. I went off for this reason. I had a pump bottle but it is designed to always release the same amount unlike what some commenters said … you’d have to do something like only putting half of it on your skin but that would be tricky

[@Jiihariial]

@@englishmuffinpizzas maybe it depends on the type of pump bottle? Mine releases the same amount each time if I pump it completely but if i only push the pump part way each time then less comes out. There would be no way to measure the amount though so doctors might be hesitant to do it

[@CorgiDaddy2]

I was thinking of going on gel. Thanks for helping me decide.

[@jonasleonas173]

Can some of you please share blood results after gel? I am starting gel, but as I see some people when they do blood test injection gets T level 3x or 3x when gel just 2x. Just curiuos, I will do blood test in a month of using gel

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

Levels really vary by bodies. Some people like having higher levels, my body does not. That’s why there’s a range and if you’re in that range then you should Be good!

[@jonasleonas173]

@@uppercaseCHASE1 I agree, I just want to see before gel and after, as my doctor said it will take very long time to start feeling better. Also I cant find data on the medicine I am using... so feels a bit foreign to use something with very little actual data on it..

[@Reggie22ghejourney]

Hello sir where can I buy a testosterone gel because I want find it here in Hong Kong

[@bigmac6612]

Would the gel over injection slow hair loss? I'm on highest does according to my doc. I do 1cc of the 200/ml injection once a week. I'm late in life transitioning (I just turned 50 in July) and my dermatologist wont prescribe the propecia saying it will counteract my testosterone. Just curious. I've been told I will look good bald but am struggling with it.

[@daxmarshel]

MY EXPERIENCE ONLY: over 50, started T just before that age. Hair was always thin, but whoa, a year in and it was receding quickly. But I was in forums saying how evil Minoxidil was, yada yada. If you have cats, do your research, because it might harm them, yes. Dogs have been harmed if it is applied to their bodies for them to stop hair loss. Don't do that, duh. But I've gone from seeing hands full of hair when washing every single way possible to normal hair loss over two years since trying Minoxidil 5% 2x a day. It's not much, but it's something for me.....and hey, bald men are sexy as hell, I'm told, so Pitbull, watch out once this hair all gets gone! I'm researching head shavers now. It's a reality, and yeah, it will come for a lot of us. Best to you and your hair.

[@PaisleyPainbow]

No, gel will not be slower than injections in terms of hair loss. Propecia(Finasteride) does counteract T in some ways, but it sounds like that is what you are looking for - a way to counteract the T from causing your hair to thin. Propecia stops T from converting to DHT. DHT is the specific hormone causing facial hair, genital growth, and balding.

[@willywompa9663]

i’ve been taking shots for almost a year and stopped like two months ago because i DREAD the anticipation leading up to the day of the week i had to take it. to be clear, i dont have a fear of needles, i’ve been getting blood drawn since i was 14 for mental health med reasons. i just got sick and tired of those fuckin needles. my main worry about gel is it coming into contact with someone. i live with my sister and her four kids, i would completely combust if one of them got into contact with it. however its also pretty dangerous to have used T covered needles around too so im just kinda stuck. please someone help

[@jacecmiller]

You should also stay with the same brand every month. My pharmacy was really bad about giving me different brands of gel and I would have horrible acne. It doesn't matter which brand just stick to the same.

[@ZephariusBe]

I'm glad that there are alternatives because although needles aren't a problem for me, I'm starting to really build up scar tissue in my stomach (sub-Q) so pushing it in is a lot more painful. I'm just not sure how to approach it with my doctor since my FTM care was transferred over to my family doctor and she's not really well versed in that area. But it's something I'll look into because I actually had no idea that it was also available in Canada.

[@arnhood]

I am really lucky because my wife gives me my injections. I don't have to look or do it myself and that takes away the anxiety for me.

[@Kleineganz]

My insurance literally only covers injections (I'm in Colorado on Anthem). Everything else I requires I pay out-of-pocket and it ranges from $300/month to $5,000 month depending on the kind. I have severe needle anxiety so my solution has been to take my vial to my doctor's office and have them inject me. Thankfully, they allow me to just walk-in without an appointment and one of their MAs will give me the injection. It's odd to me that the insurance would rather pay for my doctor to inject me (because yeah, they cover that!) rather than allow me to take a different kind of testosterone. 🤷‍♂️ Maybe one day I can switch to gel, but that's not a current option for me.

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

Omg that amount of money is horrible

[@Kleineganz]

@@uppercaseCHASE1 Yeah it is. And because of where I live, if I changed insurances, I'd have to change *all* my doctors. So, for now I'm kind of stuck with injections.

[@Ratsoftheswamp]

I have very dry skin, does the alcohol dry out your skin? Could I put lotion on as long as it's been 8+ hours since applying it?

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

Surprisingly doesn’t dry out my skin

[@ryanjames1859]

How does the gel react with sweating? I’m a welder so I’m constantly DRENCHED in sweat, and I don’t want it to wash off. I’ve been having a lot of dysphoria being trans with using the needles like you were talking about and feeling anxious days before my shot. I’ve been thinking about the pellet, but it’s considered a “surgical procedure” and I don’t want to go through that every couple of months

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

I sweat a lot as well and I make sure to put the gel on at least 1-2 hours before I know I’m going to be in a position where I’m sweating a lot (like outside lol). Some people put it on at night also

[@masoncastillo1487]

I had the same issue. I sweat a lot at work and the directions say apply in morning. So right when I got to work I noticed after a week that my chin hair was taking longer to come back after shaving. I switched to applying at night after work and I sleep with it on, now I'm back to growing chin hair. I'm about a month and a half on T

[@fireflowersfruit]

I started on gel patches while in NYC & I was just too sweaty for it to be effective. the patch would peel off my skin & lower my dose. I've always been sweaty too & being on T obviously made it worse & I wasn't seeing hardly any changes (except my voice, but it's like my voice was ITCHING to change-- it's deeper than other many trans men report seeing change to that effect. genes maybe?) anyway I love taking the shot, as I see changes more regularly & is more effective. I only have to do it every 2 weeks, so I just put it in my phone calendar & reminders pop up every so often to let me know I have to do it when the time comes. I did develop a BIT of needle anxiety after going off injections (read: T altogether) for some months (just due to relocation, reestablishing care, & falling victim to executive dysfunction, etc) & not having done it for some time made me doubt if I was doing it right. I also have injected myself wrongly a time or two so that contributed 😅 But I have a long history with needles, giving blood, getting shots (I'm a vet(eran), so it's a LOT of history), & that keeps me level most the time. it also doesn't hurt much if you do it right. I will say I prefer subcutaneous needles to intramuscular. I see the same results in both, but subcutaneous needles are smaller, so they hurt less, & shorter (hitting skin, instead of muscle) so I don't have to do that annoying thing where you insert the needle only halfway (bc how tf am I supposed to do that when I'm wrestling with the notion of jabbing a long ass needle into my thigh while trying not to pierce my femur bone ya know?). so yeah for me, gel patches < intramuscular injections < subcutaneous injections, all the way!

[@Alex-Sews]

I far far far prefer the gel to injections. Factoring in needles and all that, I feel like it's slightly better for the environment too; not as much trash. Well, unless i'm babysitting or something, and I wear gloves to put the gel on so I don't have to wait that 3 hour block.

[@actualchangeling8365]

Gel is actually the most common form for HRT here in my country, both for estrogen and testo. you're not allowed to do the injections yourself and they happen every three months if you choose them over gel.

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

Omg! Wow! What country?

[@Jiihariial]

@@uppercaseCHASE1 I know it's like that (at least with some doctors) in germany, but I'm not sure if that's where this person is from of course

[@actualchangeling8365]

@@uppercaseCHASE1 yeah it's germany! you usually get your gel in a pump that kinda looks like handsoap so you count pumps instead of using those small packages.

[@stevenillig2767]

I switched back to gel too because the type of injections that is common where I live gave me some health problems

[@blackberrybunny]

Where were the injections? Do they go into a muscle, or a fatty area?

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

Depends on your preference. You can do subcutaneous or intramuscular

[@aaliyahsimione6982]

Thanks for the info! Seriously!

[@WlSDXM]

I’ve been on Gel for about 2 years now and my levels were around 1896 last august but bleeding never stopped. I felt it was too high so I lowered my dose and now two pumps has been increasing so idk what to do now. Not sure if 4 pumps will ultimately stop the bleeding or not.

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

If your levels are high, they actually convert back to estrogen, which is why a lot of people start bleeding again. Your levels are either too high or too low. You need to find a good balance and get your levels to like 400-800!

[@angganovridarmawan3681]

how many times a week do you usually use testo gel?

[@mikeyoung1002]

Thanks so much , love your attitude !!! And I actually do care what you explain and demonstrated 👍

[@tinyty6570]

If your levels go lower on the gel do they just up your gel dose? I just want to have a plan before starting in case mine go too low

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

Yeah, some people are on 2 gel packets. It all depends on how your body absorbs it!

[@tinyty6570]

@@uppercaseCHASE1 thanks!! How do I know if it’s not working well? Shark week? Planned parenthood doesn’t check my level too often

[@headintheclouds4art]

Ive been wanting to go with the patch option in canada for awhile, but Ive just only seen people use injections which isnt want I want to really do alot of. Wondering if you new anything about the patchs?

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

My doc told me that a lot of people get skin reactions from the adhesive of the patch. The patch is also SUPER BIG (or it was like 6 years ago. Hopefully it’s better now).

[@Victoriakt-19]

How do you get testosterone pills?

[@Articevibe]

I been on t for a year plus stop for one year and started again and everything ur saying is how I feel

[@melizza1213]

ive started having panic attacks before injections. i just hate them so much, that sometimes i say i would rather suffer and be a girl than inject. my insurance doesnt cover the gels, but i think i need to try it anyway for my own sanity. i really agree that they are super dysphoria inducing and really make me feel bad about my transition, which i hate.

[@uppercaseCHASE1]

I posted a video not too long ago of an auto injector for people with needle anxiety. It’s not a fix but it might help!

[@casket_biscuit2281]

Has there been a lot of people whom have had stomach issues or vomiting while on T?