Rogaine vs Hims: Which Hair Loss Treatment Is Right for You?

If you’ve recently found more hair in your brush than on your head, you’re absolutely not alone, and you’re definitely not without options. Rogaine and Hims are two of the most well-known names in the hair regrowth game, with Rogaine being the OG for years now.

Both have topical treatments for male and female pattern baldness (a.k.a. androgenetic alopecia) that work by either stimulating growth or slowing down the root cause called DHT (Dihydrotestosterone).

I’ve tested a few, researched a ton of others, and stared at far too many before-and-afters to count, and I can tell you both brands have their strengths, but they’re also very different.

Let’s break it all down so you can stop doomscrolling and start doing something your follicles will thank you for.

Bottom Line Up Front

Go with Rogaine if you want a tried-and-true, FDA-approved topical minoxidil treatment that’s super affordable and widely available.

Try Hims if you want a more tailored solution (including topical finasteride options), but also access to medical advice and sleek branding for your bathroom.

But, if you’re looking for an even better alternative, one that’s totally customizable and made especially for your hair loss journey, Happy Head is my go-to. More on that later.

What’s the Difference Between Rogaine and Hims?

Both Rogaine and Hims target hair loss at the root (pun intended), but their approaches do tend to differ. Here’s the breakdown:

Let’s Look at Rogaine

Rogaine is the original, mainstream product. It’s been around for decades and is backed by FDA approval for both 2% and 5% topical minoxidil, the only ingredient currently approved for regrowing hair in men and women. It increases blood flow to the scalp, revitalizes hair follicles, and can actually extend the growth phase of your hair.

You can buy it online or in nearly every pharmacy, including Costco! And it’s available in foam or liquid form. No prescription required.

• Best for: First-time users, budget-conscious people, those with minimal hair loss
• Price range: $25–$45/month
• Delivery: Over-the-counter
• Application: Foam or liquid, once or twice daily

Pro Tip: Foam tends to be less greasy and better for sensitive scalps. The liquid form can absorb more quickly (but is a bit messier).

The downside to Rogaine is that it’s a blanket solution that doesn’t work with the range of body types, skin types, hair loss reasons, etc. So, one person can use Rogaine and get great results, and the next person may see zero. That’s why I firmly believe in a customized solution that’s tailored for you. More on that in a sec.

Let’s Look at Hims

Hims entered the hair loss scene as a sleek telehealth brand that promised not just hair loss treatments but ED meds, anxiety support, and skincare too. It’s sort of a hub for men (and even women) to find all sorts of solutions for their specific issues.

But their hair loss products? Surprisingly effective. Hims has topical finasteride combined with minoxidil, plus add-ons like biotin gummies, DHT-blocking shampoos, and conditioners.

They also offer telehealth consultations, which makes it a one-stop shop if you’re looking for guidance without a trip to the doctor or having to wait weeks for an appointment.

• Best for: Men with receding hairlines or early thinning, those open to prescription treatment
• Price range: $20–$60/month, depending on formulation
• Delivery: Subscription only (monthly or quarterly)
• Application: Serum or spray (daily)

Pro Tip: Finasteride is a DHT blocker, which is more effective for stopping hair loss at the root cause. But talk to your provider about any potential side effects that might arise for you specifically.

Key Comparisons to Keep in Mind: Rogaine vs Hims

Feature	Rogaine	Hims
Active Ingredient	Minoxidil	Minoxidil + Finasteride (optional)
Prescription Needed	No	Yes (for finasteride formulas)
Delivery	OTC or online	Subscription
Best For	Early hair loss, general use	Targeted male pattern baldness, telehealth access
Scalp Sensitivity Options	Foam option for sensitive skin	Yes, some non-alcohol formulas
Extras	None	Biotin, shampoo, full hair kits

So, Who Should Use Rogaine?

Remember, Rogaine is a basic, no-frills blanket solution. It doesn’t work for everyone. I personally think it’s ideal for:

• Men and women with thinning at the crown or general shedding
• Anyone new to hair regrowth treatments
• Those who have a strict budget for treatments
• People who prefer something quick, simple, and non-prescription

It’s clinically backed, easy to find, and it works. That said, it doesn’t do much to stop DHT production, which is why people often use it with a DHT blocker, like finasteride or saw palmetto shampoos that you can get from brands like Hims, Happy Head, Keeps, etc.

And Who Should Use Hims?

It’s a bit more expensive, but you get so much more compared to basic Rogaine. Hims is ideal for:

• Men looking for a more customized approach
• Those dealing with receding hairlines, not just crown thinning
• Users who want expert guidance and help from licensed providers
• People open to using a finasteride-based topical

It’s a better pick if you want full support beyond just one bottle on your sink. Think of Hims like a secret club you join.

3 Best Alternatives to Rogaine and Hims

I tried Rogaine once in a panicked attempt to regrow sudden hair loss during a new shampoo test. It worked for me, slowly, but it also irritated the heck out of my scalp. So, I immediately went looking for alternatives.

If neither of the two big names is clicking with you, there are other awesome options. And honestly? Some of them are even better, in my opinion.

1. Happy Head (Top Pick)

Happy Head has a ton, and I mean a TON of products for hair, skin, and sexual health. Their hair loss products combine topical finasteride, minoxidil, retinoic acid, and spironolactone—basically, the dream team of hair growth ingredients. It’s 100% customizable, dermatologist-formulated, and you can tweak the formula for your specific needs, even if you have sensitive skin.

• Pros: No pills, better absorption, personalized plans
• Cons: Pricier than Rogaine, but way more effective
• Best for: Men and women who want science-backed results, minimal side effects, and ongoing support like with Hims

2. Keeps

Keeps focuses on simplicity: choose minoxidil foam, topical finasteride, or pills. The platform is telehealth-powered and super affordable. They have a few great ready-made products you can one-click buy. But it’s their customized plans that will get the best results in the fastest time.

• Pros: Easy to get started, good pricing
• Cons: Fewer customization options
• Best for: Men under 40 with early hair thinning

3. Roman

Roman and Ro are one and the same and offers people topical and oral finasteride, plus minoxidil. You’ll go through a consultation, get matched to a plan, and then receive monthly shipments. It’s pretty much like Hims or Happy Head only this one went super viral with millions of users reviewing it online, showcasing their experience and use journey.

• Pros: Trusted brand, full men’s health suite
• Cons: Not as customizable as other brands like Happy Head
• Best for: Convenience seekers who also want discreet service

FAQs About Rogaine, Hims, and Hair Loss Treatments

Still have questions? I’ve got you covered right here. These are the most common questions I hear about hair loss products and the Hims and Rogaine brands.

Is Rogaine stronger than Hims?

Not really. Actually, it depends on the formulation. Rogaine only uses minoxidil. Hims offers topical finasteride, which is a stronger DHT blocker but also comes with more side effects and requires a prescription. So, it’s not a matter of “better” but “what works for you”.

Can I use Rogaine and Hims together?

You could, but it’s totally unnecessary. Hims products already include minoxidil, and using both could lead to some crazy skin irritation or overdosing on actives. Pick one and stick with it. Nothing wrong with using DHT-blocking shampoos and other supportive products, though!

Is Hims FDA-approved?

Hims uses FDA-approved ingredients (like minoxidil and finasteride), but their topical blends are compounded and customized by their partner pharmacies, so technically, the blends themselves may not carry FDA approval as a combination. You can always ask them, though.

Can women use Hims?

Yes, but they should be careful. Finasteride is not safe for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Women can use Hims minoxidil products, but always check with a doctor.

How long do results take with hair loss products?

Hair regrowth is not instant. The average timeline for noticeable results in 3–6 months. Don’t quit too early. Consistency is everything!

Final Thoughts: Which Is Better?

Go with Rogaine if you’re looking for a no-fuss, budget-friendly way to tackle thinning hair. It’s easy, effective, and doesn’t require a prescription.

Try Hims if you’re after a more comprehensive solution, don’t mind a subscription, and want the added power of topical finasteride.

But honestly? If you want next-level results with less hassle, go with Happy Head. It’s customizable, powerful, and works with your scalp, not against it.

Still deciding? Let us know what you’re using or considering. We’d love to hear about your hair journey! Be sure to check out our other helpful guides, too!