Hers Hair Growth Review

Hers Hair Growth Review

Hair thinning is a common concern many women encounter as they age, often beginning during the perimenopausal years. For some, hair loss can impact self-esteem, personal relationships, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available that can help, with early intervention often leading to the best results.

Hers is a telehealth platform designed to support women experiencing hair loss. It connects users with licensed healthcare providers who can diagnose hair loss and recommend appropriate medications and treatments—all from the comfort of home.

What is Hers?

Founded in 2018 as the sister brand to Hims, Hers is a telehealth service dedicated to women’s health needs, addressing areas such as anxiety, depression, hair loss, weight management, and sexual health. Through the Hers platform, users can access virtual consultations with licensed healthcare providers and subscribe to both prescription and over-the-counter treatments, including topical hair loss solutions and oral supplements.

How does it work?

Consultations on Hers are typically conducted through messaging, though in certain states, video calls are required. Before your consultation, you’ll need to upload a government-issued ID for identity verification.

Once prescribed, Hers ships the medication directly to your door at no additional cost. You can buy hair regrowth treatments as a discounted subscription or as a one-time purchase. With a subscription, you gain access to unlimited messaging with healthcare providers for follow-ups, medication adjustments, and any questions you may have along the way.

Topical minoxidil

Minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine, is a widely used over-the-counter treatment approved by the FDA for androgenetic alopecia (AGA), a condition affecting up to 50% of women. Topical minoxidil has been shown to prevent further hair loss and stimulate new growth, making it a common first-line treatment for women experiencing hair thinning.

Minoxidil is believed to work through several mechanisms. It may increase blood flow to the scalp, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to hair follicles, as well as prolong the growth phase of hair and reduce inflammation in the scalp.

Hers provides both a 2% minoxidil solution and a 5% topical foam, both available over the counter. Research published in the *Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology* confirms that both options are effective in promoting hair growth in women. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference and comfort.

Oral minoxidil

The FDA initially approved oral minoxidil in the 1970s as a treatment for high blood pressure. It works by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow. During clinical trials, hair growth was frequently observed as a side effect, leading to the development of topical minoxidil specifically for hair loss.

Today, low-dose oral minoxidil (0.25–1.25 milligrams daily) is often prescribed for women who prefer an oral option or experience irritation from topical forms. Current research suggests that 1 milligram of oral minoxidil may be as effective and safe as topical minoxidil for hair growth, although larger studies are still needed to confirm these findings. Hers offers oral minoxidil in daily doses of 1.25 to 2.5 milligrams. It’s only available after a prescription from one of Hers’ healthcare providers, who will assess if it’s suitable for you.

Hair Blends

Hair Blends is a new line of hair loss treatments formulated by dermatologists for women seeking a more personalized solution. Available by prescription only, it combines dietary supplements and prescription ingredients in tailored dosages based on individual needs.

• Oral Minoxidil with Biotin Chewable: A chewable tablet that combines low-dose minoxidil with biotin, offering a sweet lemon flavor.
• Oral Minoxidil with Hair Vitamins: A supplement combining low-dose minoxidil with a blend of biotin, vitamin C, vitamin B6, zinc, and pantothenic acid.
• Hair Blends Serum: A topical serum that combines of 7% minoxidil with biotin, pantothenic acid, and ketoconazole.
• Hair Blends Postmenopausal Serum: A serum designed for postmenopausal women, combining minoxidil and finasteride with essential oils like rosemary, juniper, and tea tree to support hair growth.
• Hair Blends Postmenopausal Spray: A fast-drying, mess-free spray containing 0.3% finasteride and 6% minoxidil.

However, research has yet to show that these custom combinations are significantly more effective than traditional FDA-approved treatments. The postmenopausal serum has the most promising research supporting its potential benefits.

For instance, a small study involving postmenopausal women found that combining topical minoxidil and finasteride was more effective than using minoxidil alone to address hair loss. As for the vitamins included in these formulas, there is no strong evidence supporting the use of biotin, vitamin C, or zinc for hair growth, especially in the absence of a deficiency. While 7% topical minoxidil may seem to show potential, further studies are required to verify if concentrations above 5% provide additional benefits.

Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, even if they require a prescription, meaning they don’t undergo the same rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness as traditional medications. Because of this, the American Hair Loss Association advises caution when considering these products and recommends choosing brands that follow strict protocols to ensure quality and reliability.

Side effects of Hers

Minoxidil, the key ingredient in Hers’ hair growth products, is generally regarded as safe when used as directed. The most common side effects of topical minoxidil include scalp itching and irritation. Additionally, the alcohol in Hers’ minoxidil foam and topical solution can cause burning or irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes or sensitive skin. If this occurs, rinse the affected area thoroughly with cool water.

Topical and oral minoxidil may cause unwanted facial hair growth if it frequently comes into contact with the face or temples. This is more customary with oral minoxidil, with one study showing up to 17% of participants experiencing unwanted hair growth.

Other side effects of oral minoxidil include breast tenderness, headaches, and nausea or vomiting. Seek medical care if you suffer any of the following rare but serious side effects:

• Rash
• Dizziness
• Swollen feet or ankles
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Unexplained weight gain

Topical finasteride, found in the Hers Hair Blends postmenopausal serum, is not FDA-approved for use in women, though it is often used off-label with some success. However, it’s crucial for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant to avoid finasteride, as it is known to cause birth defects.

Other vitamins, essential oils, and botanical ingredients in Hers hair growth products are generally considered safe with minimal side effects. Still, it’s advisable to consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, especially if you have any preexisting medical conditions.

How much does Hers cost?

Here’s the pricing for topical minoxidil from Hers:

1. Minoxidil 2% Liquid Solution:

• $30 for a two-month supply

• $54 for a four-month supply

• $76 for a six-month supply

• $45 for a three-month supply (one-time purchase)

2. Minoxidil 5% Foam:

• $30 for a two-month supply

• $54 for a four-month supply

• $76 for a six-month supply

• $54 for a four-month supply (one-time purchase)

3. Oral minoxidil (1.25 – 2.5g): 30-day supply starts at $29.

4. Custom Hair Blends: Starts at $39 per month

Customer Support

Hers customer service is available 24/7 via email, but you’ll need to complete an online contact form on their website to start a conversation. For cancellations, you can reach the company at 800-368-0038, though this number is specifically for that purpose.

The Verdict

Hers offers women access to licensed healthcare providers who can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for hair loss when necessary. One benefit we appreciated was the option to choose products and skip the consultation for non-prescription medications. Our tester was also very satisfied with her hair growth results after using minoxidil foam for three months. If you decide to try Hers for hair growth, we recommend starting with the minoxidil foam or topical serum, as the Hair Blends and oral minoxidil are not FDA-approved for treating hair loss in women.

Hers should not be used as a substitute for medical care from your primary care physician or dermatologist. Since most consultations are conducted through messaging, you won’t receive a comprehensive physical evaluation, lab testing, or other in-person services. Additionally, Hers does not accept health insurance. If you have insurance and are seeking a prescription-grade hair loss treatment, it may be more cost-effective to go through your existing healthcare provider.