Choosing the Right Hair Growth Product
Figuring out which hair growth product suits you best can be quite the challenge. There’s a plethora of options out there—from pills to serums, and countless new products are hitting the market.
We took a first-hand look at Nutrafol, but our interest piqued even more when we explored Hers Growth’s online application process tailored for menopausal women or those facing thinning hair.
Nutrafol vs. Hers
Hers offers a different approach compared to Nutrafol—some of their products require a prescription. This, of course, comes with its own side effects. In addition to hair growth solutions, Hers markets medications for menopause and weight loss. But right now, let’s keep our focus on hair growth supplements.
Personally, my hair has always been thick and lush. Yet, over recent years, I’ve started to notice it thinning out, which is a bit concerning. I’ve been a fan of Nutrafol, but I think Hers addresses specific concerns for perimenopausal and menopausal women in a way that I find quite valuable.
The Hers Consultation and Quiz
The path to fuller hair kicks off with a Hers hair quiz—a free online assessment designed to pinpoint your needs, whether that’s hair thinning, hair loss, or hormonal complications related to menopause.
These quizzes are pretty interactive, often asking you to assess your hair density based on a series of images. Just a heads-up, though: this initial quiz helps tailor your experience but isn’t a concrete medical evaluation.
They’ll ask what your primary goal is. Do you want to halt hair loss, regain some fullness, or ideally, both? The obvious answer is… definitely yes.
If there were an option like “I want to look like Margot Robbie,” I’d hit “Yes!” But, while these products won’t transform you into a Hollywood star, they can enhance your hair health and boost your self-esteem.
One standout among Hers’ offerings is the Hair Blends line. These products are a bit more sophisticated, combining multiple ingredients like minoxidil, biotin, and vitamin B5 into a single serum, spray, or chew.
Hers has both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription (Rx) alternatives based on what you’re after. The traditional minoxidil foam available OTC can be bought directly, but for those seeking convenience, there are daily oral options like minoxidil + biotin chews, which do require a prescription. This “pop, bite, spray” method appeals to women who may struggle with messy topical applications. If prescription is needed, they deliver it straight to your home in discreet packaging.
Costs for hair restoration through Hers can vary based on product and subscription plans, typically ranging from $13 to $75 a month.
Who Is Hers Hair Growth For?
Hers specifically targets women experiencing early to moderate cases of female pattern baldness or hair thinning due to hormonal fluctuations like menopause.
This approach is perfect for those who take an active role in their hair health and are willing to maintain long-term daily habits. It’s especially beneficial for those who’ve tried OTC products without success or who want access to physician-approved ingredients like oral minoxidil or specialized anti-androgens like spironolactone.
Review of the Hers Hair Growth Quiz
The process took a bit longer than I anticipated—maybe it’s just my millennial impatience. I only had about ten minutes to spare.
After a short quiz with a handful of questions, things transitioned to a fully online acceptance process, where you’d consult with a licensed healthcare provider to see if a prescription is suitable.
You’ll need to provide a comprehensive medical history, particularly regarding any heart-related issues, as substances like minoxidil can influence blood circulation.
For some prescription treatments, you might also need to upload a clear photo of your hair and a valid ID. Once that’s done, healthcare professionals in your state will review your profile—pretty handy compared to waiting at a dermatologist’s office or pharmacy.
But, you really should pay attention to what’s in each product and how it interacts with your body. For instance, certain medications could increase the risk of depression—something that a hair restoration company isn’t likely to spotlight, but I think it’s crucial you know for making an informed decision.
An important note is that the FDA has yet to approve or validate the safety, efficacy, or quality of these combination drugs. While the individual ingredients have been researched extensively, the exact formulation you receive hasn’t undergone the typical FDA approval process.
Safety Concerns and Side Effects
Safety is key, especially concerning reproductive health. Generally, Hers products aren’t recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Common side effects of topical treatments include irritation and redness of the scalp. With oral minoxidil, some women might experience “hirsutism,” which means some extra hair growth on the face or body. Moreover, expect some initial shedding within the first few weeks; that’s just your scalp making room for new hair growth.
Is It Worth It?
Using Hers is more like a marathon than a sprint. If you’re opting for the daily foam or biotin gummies, you might notice positive changes in about three to six months. The active ingredients aim to lengthen the growth phase while minimizing the resting phase of hair follicles. Committing to a routine is essential for seeing results. Once you stop treatment, your hair is likely to return to its previous thinning pattern.
The Hers app provides ongoing support and reminders, allowing you to ask your provider questions or tweak your plan if your hair changes. For many, this approach proves to be a practical way to tackle hair loss without the long wait to see a doctor.
