Why Steroid Users Age So Fast

Summary

The video explains how anabolic steroids and related drug use may make some young users appear older, while also potentially affecting their health beneath the surface. The effects vary depending on a person’s genetics, the substances and doses used, and the duration of use.

Possible effects

• Facial changes: A larger body can carry more fat even at the same body-fat percentage, and water retention may contribute to a puffy appearance. Growth hormone and IGF-1 can enlarge soft tissues over time, while androgens may also enlarge jaw muscles. These factors can contribute to a broader or more “bloated” face. Some changes may ease after stopping, but others may not.
• Hair loss: Testosterone can increase DHT, which may speed hair thinning in people whose scalp follicles are genetically sensitive to it. DHT can have the opposite effect on facial and body hair, promoting its growth.
• Skin and veins: Steroids may contribute to oily skin and acne. Increased muscle size and reduced fat can make veins more prominent. Severe acne can leave scars, and faster muscle growth may contribute to stretch marks.
• Possible internal effects: The video discusses research associating long-term steroid use with older-appearing brain structure on MRI, as well as findings involving biomarkers related to brain injury. It also describes potential heart effects, including enlargement, high blood pressure, scarring, plaque buildup, and increased clotting risk. The presenter notes that these findings do not prove that any individual user will experience every effect.
• Sleep and recovery: High-dose testosterone may reduce sleep, while hormone fluctuations can disrupt it. The video also highlights sleep apnea as a concern for some very muscular people, since a thick neck can obstruct breathing during sleep.
• Oxidative stress and workload: Steroid use may increase oxidative stress, a form of cellular wear and tear. The video suggests that carrying a very large body and consuming or using more substances can also place greater demands on the body and heart.

Overall takeaway

Steroids can produce rapid muscle growth and a more impressive appearance, but that appearance is not proof of good health. The video contrasts steroid use with natural lifters who remain fit and urges viewers to consider the potential trade-offs rather than equating muscularity with wellness. It does not offer a step-by-step self-care plan.

Presenters and sources mentioned

• Presenter: Josh Brett.
• Research discussed: A 2021 MRI study of 229 male weightlifters; a smaller study of brain-tissue microRNAs; a placebo-controlled study of high-dose testosterone and sleep; a study comparing oxidative stress in natural and steroid-using lifters; and a 2020 survey of 2,385 steroid users.
• Other sources and examples: A case report of a 30-year-old man with jaw swelling, along with examples and accounts involving Larry Wills (also referred to as Larry Wheels), Kai Greene, Energetic Steve, Rich Piana, Dallas McCarver, and Sam Sulek. The video also mentions Mike Israetel, Jocko Willink, Sean Nalewany, Will Tennyson, Scott Herman, and Jeff Nippard as examples. ExpressVPN is identified as the video’s sponsor.