DHEA cream can be really beneficial for correcting hormone levels and negating the effects of menopause or andropause. However, there can be a bit of a learning curve when you first start using it. Here are some questions patients often have when they first start using DHEA cream.

Can you apply the cream somewhere other than the recommended areas?

If you read the instructions on your DHEA cream, they likely specify that the product needs to be applied to your forearms or your rib cage. It can be a little annoying to have to apply the cream in these spots, but you really do need to stick to these locations. Most other spots on your body, such as your abdomen, buttocks, and belly, have more fat tissue, which can affect the rate at which the cream is absorbed. The reason your forearms and ribcage are recommended application sites is that there is little fat in these areas, allowing the DHEA to be more directly absorbed into your bloodstream.

If there's a reason why you can't or don't want to apply DHEA cream to your arms or rib cage, talk to your doctor; they may recommend a different site, depending on your unique fat distribution. Do not just switch application locations on your own, though.

What if you're not noticing effects yet?

Some patients immediately notice the effects of DHEA cream. Others do not notice the effects for a few weeks. If you've been using the cream for 2 weeks and have not yet noticed an improvement in symptoms, talk to your doctor. You may need a stronger formulation of the DHEA cream, or the issues you're experiencing may not be hormonal after all.

Can you apply moisturizer along with your DHEA cream?

If your skin is dry in the areas where you apply the DHEA cream, you can moisturize that area. But do so at least an hour after you apply the cream. Also, make sure you then wash the area before you apply DHEA cream again. The moisturizer may otherwise interfere with the absorption of the cream into your bloodstream. Make sure you're using a mild moisturizer with basic ingredients; steer clear of any that contain salicylic acid or other active compounds that may interfere with the DHEA.

Hopefully, this article has answered some questions you've had as a patient new to using DHEA cream. If any other concerns come up, you can bring them to the attention of your doctor or pharmacist.

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