Testosterone is a hormone that’s vital to many bodily functions, including building muscle mass, maintaining bone density, fueling your sex drive, and giving you energy. We all produce testosterone naturally, but sometimes, people need to supplement with synthetic testosterone.
Synthetic testosterone can be delivered in many ways, including injections, pills, and topical creams or gels. Topical testosterone is absorbed through the skin directly into the bloodstream.
If you use topical testosterone, or even medications like Ozempic, you may wonder how they affect your testosterone levels. The answer depends on many factors, which we’ll explore in this article.
Synthetic vs. Natural Testosterone
It’s important to understand the difference between naturally produced testosterone and synthetic testosterone, as they behave differently in the body.
Natural Testosterone
Natural testosterone is produced by your body. In men, it’s produced in the testes, and in women, it’s made in the ovaries and adrenal glands.
Natural testosterone has a relatively short half-life, and its levels fluctuate throughout the day.
Synthetic Testosterone
Synthetic testosterone, on the other hand, is typically administered through injections, topical gels, skin patches, or pills.
It’s often used in Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) to help men combat the effects of low testosterone.
The length of time that synthetic testosterone stays in your system varies a lot depending on how it was administered.
How Long Does Topical Testosterone Stay in Your System?
Topical testosterone treatments, like gels and patches, are designed to deliver a consistent dose of testosterone through your skin. But how long does that testosterone actually stay in your system and what factors can influence that?
Transdermal Patches
- How they work: Transdermal patches release testosterone slowly through your skin.
- Application: They’re usually applied once a day.
- How long they last: Patches provide a steady stream of testosterone for about 24 hours.
- What affects absorption: The condition of your skin and where you apply the patch can affect how well it’s absorbed.
Gels
- How they work: Gels are absorbed into your skin after you apply them.
- Application: They’re also typically applied once a day.
- How long they last: Gels deliver testosterone for around 24 hours, with levels peaking shortly after you put it on.
- What affects absorption: Showering, washing, or even sweating soon after applying the gel can reduce how much testosterone your body absorbs.
- Important note: It’s crucial to avoid skin-to-skin contact with others after applying the gel until it’s completely dry to prevent accidental testosterone exposure.
Factors Affecting Testosterone Levels (Patches and Gels)
Several factors can influence how much testosterone your body absorbs and how long it stays in your system:
- Metabolism: Everyone’s body processes medications at different rates.
- Dosage: The strength of the product and how much you use plays a role.
- Adherence: Following the application instructions is key.
- Skin Health: The condition of your skin affects absorption.
Other Methods of Synthetic Testosterone Administration and Their Duration
Topical testosterone isn’t the only way to get a boost. Beyond TRT, lifestyle choices can also impact testosterone levels, and it’s worth exploring potential effects from things like Red Bull. Here are some other common methods doctors use to administer synthetic testosterone, along with details about how long they stay in your system:
Injectable Testosterone
- Types of esters: Testosterone enanthate, cypionate, propionate are common.
- Release duration: The ester determines how long the testosterone lasts. Enanthate and cypionate stick around longer than propionate.
- How often: Depending on the ester, you might get a shot weekly or every few weeks.
Testosterone Mouth Patch
- How it works: You stick it to your upper gum, and it releases testosterone into your bloodstream.
- Release: It’s a quick release.
- How often: You’ll probably need to apply these multiple times a day to keep your levels steady.
Testosterone Implants
- How it works: Small pellets get implanted under your skin and slowly release testosterone.
- Duration: These can last for several months.
- How often: Usually, you’ll get them replaced every 3-6 months.
Oral Testosterone
- Bioavailability issues: Historically, oral testosterone hasn’t been great because your liver breaks it down quickly.
- Newer formulations: Some newer versions are better absorbed.
- How often: You’ll usually need to take these multiple times a day.
How Can I Increase My Natural Testosterone?
If you’re looking for ways to boost your testosterone levels naturally, there are several lifestyle adjustments you can make. While these aren’t a substitute for medical treatment if you have a diagnosed deficiency, they can contribute to overall health and potentially support testosterone production.
Get Moving with Exercise
Regular physical activity is crucial. Weightlifting and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are particularly effective at stimulating testosterone release.
Eat Right
A balanced diet, including appropriate protein sources like pork, is essential for hormone production. Make sure you’re getting enough protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Prioritize Quality Sleep
Sleep is when your body repairs and rebuilds. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to optimize hormone production.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your hormones. Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine to manage stress levels.
Consider Supplements
Certain supplements may help support testosterone production. Vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium are often cited as beneficial. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for you.
How long do you have to take testosterone for it to be permanent?
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) isn’t always a life sentence. Whether or not you need to stay on TRT permanently depends on what’s causing your low testosterone in the first place. Everyone responds differently to TRT, so there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the withdrawal symptoms of testosterone gel?
If you suddenly stop using testosterone gel, you might experience withdrawal symptoms like fatigue, weakness, depression, mood swings, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction. It’s important to talk to your doctor before discontinuing use to manage any potential side effects.
Where not to apply testosterone gel?
You should avoid applying testosterone gel to your genitals, chest, armpits, or damaged skin. These areas can lead to increased absorption or irritation. Follow your doctor’s instructions on the best application sites, typically the upper arms, shoulders, or abdomen.
How long does AndroGel stay active on skin?
AndroGel is designed for daily application, and its effects last for approximately 24 hours. However, it’s crucial to allow the gel to dry completely and avoid washing the application area for several hours to ensure proper absorption.
Does edging increase testosterone?
While some anecdotal evidence suggests that “edging” (prolonging sexual arousal without reaching orgasm) might temporarily increase testosterone levels, there’s limited scientific research to support this claim. Any potential increase is likely to be small and short-lived.
How do you know if testosterone cream is working?
You’ll typically notice improvements in symptoms like energy levels, mood, libido, and muscle mass over several weeks or months of consistent use. Your doctor will also monitor your testosterone levels through blood tests to assess the cream’s effectiveness and adjust your dosage as needed.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re using topical testosterone, injections, or another method, it’s important to remember that each delivery system has a different timeline for how long it stays in your system.
Ultimately, the best way to understand how long testosterone will remain detectable in your body and what dosage is right for you is to talk to a qualified healthcare professional who can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as needed.