Roman vs Hims vs Keeps 2026: Which Is Best for Hair Regrowth?
Let’s cut through the noise on Roman vs Hims vs Keeps 2026: Which Is Best for Hair Regrowth? If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve already spent too much time staring at your scalp in the bathroom mirror, or worse, researching obscure remedies at 3 AM. Trust me, I’ve been there. My name’s Alex Turner, I’m 37, and I run Gourmet Style Wellness, a blog about living well – and that includes feeling good about yourself, hair and all. I’ve walked the long, frustrating road of hair loss, and I’m here to share what actually worked for me, and how the big players stack up. I’m not a doctor, but I have experience, and I’ve spent years figuring this out so you don’t have to.
Quick TL;DR:
- I spent years and money on useless products and anxiety before finding a real solution.
- My personal experience after 2+ years with Roman’s topical finasteride + minoxidil spray has been a game-changer for my receding hairline and crown.
- While Hims and Keeps offer similar effective treatments, Roman’s straightforward, discreet process and the specific combo I used gave me consistent results.
- The best option depends on your budget, preference for topical vs. oral, and how you value convenience and discretion.
My Hair Loss Nightmare: Before I Found What Worked
Honestly, I never thought I’d be writing about hair loss. I was 32 when I first noticed it – a little thinning at the temples, a slightly wider part. At first, I brushed it off. “It’s just the lighting,” I told myself. “Everyone thins a bit.” But denial is a powerful thing, and it didn’t take long for that little bit of thinning to become a noticeable recession.
By 34, I was wearing hats indoors more often than not. It became a crutch, a way to hide what felt like a huge flaw. I remember being at a friend’s barbecue in August 2023, sweating under a baseball cap, just wishing I could take it off without feeling exposed. The insecurity was real, and it started to chip away at my confidence. As a graphic designer back then, I was used to being creative and outgoing, but my hair loss made me withdraw.
Then came the panic. At 35, I was up at 3 AM, phone glued to my face, researching hair transplants in Turkey. The sheer desperation was palpable. I wasn’t just looking for solutions; I was looking for a way out of the constant worry. Before I even considered online services, I wasted a small fortune on everything under the sun. Caffeine shampoos? Tried ’em. Biotin gummies? Chewed through bottles of them. A pricey dermatologist in Beverly Hills told me, “It’s genetics, Alex. There’s not much you can do.” That visit, which cost me a hefty $350 for about 15 minutes of his time, felt like a punch to the gut. I remember leaving his office on Wilshire Boulevard feeling utterly defeated.
Warning: The Snake Oil Trap
Before you dive into solutions, be wary of “miracle” cures. I wasted hundreds, maybe thousands, on supplements, specialized shampoos, and gadgets that promised the world but delivered absolutely nothing. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
My turning point came in early 2023. A buddy, Mark, who’d also started losing his hair, mentioned Roman. I was skeptical, to say the least. After all the money I’d spent, another online service felt like another potential rip-off. But Mark swore by it, and the idea of a free, 2-minute quiz that didn’t require me to talk to another dismissive doctor was appealing. I figured, what did I have to lose?
Diving into the Big Three: Roman, Hims, and Keeps
When you’re facing hair loss, you quickly learn about the main players: Roman, Hims, and Keeps. They all operate on a similar direct-to-consumer model, connecting you with licensed physicians and shipping prescriptions right to your door. Their core offerings revolve around the two scientifically proven treatments for male pattern baldness: finasteride and minoxidil.
Finasteride (often branded as Propecia) works by blocking the production of DHT, a hormone that shrinks hair follicles. It’s usually taken orally, but topical versions are gaining traction.
Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a topical solution or foam that stimulates hair growth and slows down hair loss. It’s thought to increase blood flow to the hair follicles.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I gathered about each, even before I settled on Roman:
Roman: My Personal Success Story
I started with Roman after Mark’s recommendation. Their process was surprisingly simple. I took their free, private online quiz, answered a few questions about my health and hair loss, uploaded a couple of photos, and within a day or two, a doctor reviewed my case. No awkward in-person appointments, no insurance hassle (though they can provide receipts for reimbursement). It was discreet, which was a huge plus for my anxiety at the time.
The doctor recommended their topical finasteride and minoxidil spray. I was hesitant about finasteride initially because of potential side effects (which I dive into more in Roman Topical Spray Side Effects: My Experience After 9 Months), but the topical version seemed less likely to cause systemic issues. I figured it was worth a shot.
Pro Tip: Be Consistent
Whatever treatment you choose, consistency is absolutely key. Hair growth cycles take time. You won’t see results overnight. Stick with it daily, and be patient for at least 6-12 months before evaluating.
Hims: A Strong Contender
Hims is very similar to Roman in its approach. They offer finasteride (oral and topical), minoxidil (topical), and combination products. They also have a good reputation for user-friendly interfaces and discreet packaging. Many of my friends have considered Hims, and the reviews I’ve seen online are generally positive. Their branding is often a bit more playful, which might appeal to some. I’ve heard good things about their customer service too. You can find a deeper dive into their offerings and how they stack up in Hims Hair Loss Review 2026: My Results vs Roman.
Keeps: Focused on Finasteride and Minoxidil
Keeps focuses exclusively on finasteride and minoxidil, offering them individually or as a combination. They aim to be a straightforward, no-frills option for those who know exactly what they want. Their pricing can sometimes be a bit more competitive, especially if you’re looking for just one of the core medications. They also offer a similar online consultation model.
My Experience with Roman: The Unfiltered Truth
This is where my original insight comes in. I can talk all day about what these companies *offer*, but my real value is in what I *experienced*.
I started with Roman’s topical finasteride + minoxidil spray in early 2023. The bottle arrived discreetly packed, no flashy branding screaming “HAIR LOSS!”. It was simple: two pumps on my scalp, once a day, usually after my shower. It felt a little sticky at first, but it dried quickly, and I could style my hair over it without issues.
For the first few months, honestly, I saw nothing. Maybe a bit more shedding than usual, which is a known side effect of minoxidil as it pushes out old hairs to make way for new ones. I almost gave up. I remember thinking, “Here we go again, another wasted effort.” But I kept at it, mostly because I’d committed to the subscription and it felt like throwing money away if I stopped.
Around the six-month mark – roughly late summer 2023 – something shifted. I was getting my usual trim at my barber, Tony, down in Culver City. He’s seen my hair through all its stages. He paused, clippers mid-air, and said, “Hey Alex, your hairline looks.. thicker. And is that new growth near your crown?” I almost fell out of the chair. Tony had absolutely no idea I was using anything. That unsolicited comment was the real validation.
From then on, the progress was undeniable. My hairline, which had been steadily retreating, stabilized. The thinning area at my crown started filling in. It wasn’t a dense, teenage mane, but it was enough. Enough to stop wearing hats indoors. Enough to feel good about myself again. Enough to not constantly worry if someone was looking at the top of my head.
Now, it’s December 2025. I’m over two years in with Roman, and my hair is stable. The crown is filled in nicely, and my temples have enough regrowth that they don’t look like barren land anymore. The confidence boost has been immense. It sounds dramatic, but it’s true. Not just in social situations, but even just walking past a mirror.
I’m transparent about this: Yes, I earn a commission if you use my links to Roman. But I only recommend what I actually use myself and what genuinely worked for me. I wouldn’t put my name on something I didn’t believe in, especially after the years and money I wasted. The free 2-minute quiz at Roman is truly a no-brainer – it’s private, doesn’t involve insurance, and is super discreet. It’s how I started, and it’s the easiest way to see what a doctor might recommend for your specific situation. You can learn more about my specific treatment in Roman Finasteride and Minoxidil Combo: My 6-Month Update. And if you’re curious about what it looked like, check out Roman Hair Loss Kit Before and After: Real User Photos 2026.
Hims and Keeps: What I’ve Gathered (Without Trying Them Myself)
Okay, full disclosure: I haven’t personally gone through the full treatment process with Hims or Keeps for my hair loss. Since Roman worked so well for me, I didn’t feel the need to switch. However, I’ve done my research, talked to friends, and scoured countless forums (like Reddit, where people are *very* vocal about this stuff) to understand their offerings.
From what I’ve seen and heard, both Hims and Keeps are legitimate services offering the same FDA-approved medications (finasteride and minoxidil) that Roman does. The primary differences often come down to pricing, specific formulations, and user experience.
Hims: My Take on Their Offerings
Hims offers a wide range of products, including topical sprays, oral pills, and even hair thickening shampoos and conditioners. My coworker, Dave, who’s always asking about my hair (in a good way!), actually considered Hims because of their strong brand presence. I’ve seen Hims push a lot of topical solutions, and their finasteride/minoxidil combo serum is quite popular. They also offer oral finasteride. Their consultations are similar to Roman’s – online, discreet, and doctor-reviewed. Pricing is competitive, often bundled into subscription plans. A lot of users appreciate their sleek packaging and user-friendly platform. If I hadn’t found Roman first, Hims would probably have been my second choice. You can get more details on how they compare in Hims Hair Loss Review 2026: My Results vs Roman.
Keeps: My Take on Their Offerings
Keeps positions itself as a specialized hair loss solution, focusing purely on finasteride and minoxidil. They don’t branch out into other men’s health areas as much as Roman or Hims do. This might be appealing if you want a service that’s hyper-focused on hair. Their pricing can sometimes be a bit lower for individual products, but it’s always worth checking the current deals. I’ve noticed they sometimes offer a lower initial consultation fee or first-month discount. Like the others, it’s an online process with licensed doctors. I saw a review mentioning their focus on consistency reminders, which is great because, as I said, consistency is everything.
Comparing the Vibe and Options
* Roman: Feels mature, professional, and discreet. My experience with their topical spray was excellent. They also offer other men’s health services, so it’s a broader platform. * Hims: A bit more youthful in its branding, with a wide range of products beyond hair loss. Good for those who like complete options. * Keeps: Very focused on hair loss, potentially good for those who want a specialist feel.
Ultimately, all three offer effective, scientifically-backed treatments. The “best” often comes down to personal preference for their interface, specific formulations (e.g., Roman’s topical spray vs. Hims’ serum), and current pricing.
Choosing Your Path: Which One is Right for You?
Deciding between Roman, Hims, and Keeps isn’t about finding a single “best” answer that applies to everyone. It’s about finding the best fit for *you*. Here’s how I’d break it down:
Consider Your Treatment Preference
* Topical vs. Oral: Are you comfortable taking a pill daily, or do you prefer applying a spray or serum directly to your scalp? I personally opted for the topical route with Roman, partly due to my initial concerns about finasteride’s oral side effects, though many people use oral finasteride without issues. Topical finasteride, while potentially reducing systemic side effects, might not absorb as deeply as oral. * Combination Therapy: Do you want both finasteride and minoxidil? All three services offer combination treatments, which are generally considered the most effective for male pattern baldness. My Roman combo spray was key for me.
Think About Your Budget
* Subscription Costs: All three are subscription services. Compare their monthly costs for the specific treatment plan you’re interested in. Look for introductory offers, but also consider the long-term price. I’ve found Roman’s pricing for my topical spray to be very reasonable, especially considering the results. My subscription for the finasteride/minoxidil spray is around $65 a month, which is far less than what I spent on useless products. * Consultation Fees: Some services might have a small initial consultation fee, while others, like Roman, often offer it for free.
Value Convenience and Discretion
* Online Process: All three excel here. The convenience of an online consultation and home delivery is a huge benefit, especially if you’re busy or prefer privacy. * Discreet Packaging: They all ship in plain packaging, so your neighbors won’t know what’s inside. This was a big deal for me. * Customer Support: While I haven’t needed much from Roman, good customer support can make a difference if you have questions or need to adjust your prescription.
What Worked for Me (and Why I Stick with It)
My personal success with Roman’s topical finasteride + minoxidil spray is why I confidently recommend it. The ease of their free quiz (truly private, no insurance hassle, and discreet), the clear doctor recommendation, and most importantly, the tangible regrowth I experienced, made all the difference. After 6 months, my barber noticed; after 2+ years, my hairline is stable, and my crown is filled in. It’s what gave me my confidence back. For more on what the doctors recommended for me, check out Roman Hair Loss Quiz Results: What Doctors Recommended for Me. If you’re over 40, you might also find Roman Hair Loss Results Men Over 40: What to Expect helpful. And for topical users, Roman Mane Spray Review: Best for Receding Hairline 2026 is worth a read.
Ready to Start?
If my story resonates, I highly recommend taking Roman’s free online quiz. It’s a quick, no-pressure way to see what a licensed physician would recommend for your specific hair loss.
Key Takeaways & My Final Thoughts
Key Takeaways
- Don’t waste time and money on unproven remedies. Stick to FDA-approved treatments like finasteride and minoxidil.
- Consistency is important. You need to use these treatments daily for at least 6-12 months to see results.
- Roman, Hims, and Keeps all offer legitimate, effective treatments. My personal success was with Roman’s topical spray.
- Consider topical options if you’re concerned about oral medication side effects.
- Take an online quiz. It’s the easiest, most discreet way to get a doctor’s recommendation tailored to you.
Navigating hair loss can feel isolating and frustrating. I know because I lived it for years, hiding under hats and wishing for a miracle. The truth is, there’s no miracle, but there *are* effective treatments. My journey with Roman has been transformative, not just for my hair, but for my overall confidence and well-being.
I’m not a doctor — always consult a licensed physician for medical advice. But as someone who’s been through it, my advice is to skip the years of wasted money and anxiety I endured. Get started with a professional assessment. Your future self (and your barber) will thank you.
Is getting treatment for hair loss online worth the money?
In my experience, absolutely. I spent hundreds of dollars on worthless caffeine shampoos and biotin gummies before stumbling upon Roman. The monthly cost for my topical finasteride + minoxidil spray, around $65, is a fraction of what I wasted previously, and it actually delivered results. Considering the alternative of expensive in-person dermatologist visits and chasing unproven remedies, these online services are a very cost-effective and convenient way to access scientifically proven treatments.
Do I need anything else to make these hair regrowth treatments work?
Not really, in terms of active medications. The core is finasteride and minoxidil. However, a good diet, reduced stress, and gentle hair care practices can definitely support overall hair health. I personally use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, but I don’t rely on them for regrowth. They just keep my existing hair in good condition. Don’t fall for marketing hype promising extra “boosts” through other supplements; focus on the proven ingredients first.
How often should I use these hair loss treatments for the best results?
Consistency is key, and generally, that means daily use. My Roman topical spray is applied once a day, and I’ve been religious about it for over two years. Oral finasteride is typically a once-a-day pill. Minoxidil, whether topical or oral, also usually requires daily application or dosage. Skipping days can reduce effectiveness, as these medications work by maintaining certain levels in your system or on your scalp. Think of it like brushing your teeth – it’s a daily habit for maintenance.
Which online hair loss option should I choose if I’m new to this?
If you’re new, I’d suggest starting with a free online quiz from Roman. That’s exactly what I did, and it helped me get a doctor’s recommendation without any commitment or cost. It’s a low-pressure way to understand your options. Based on my personal success, I lean towards Roman’s topical finasteride + minoxidil spray. However, if you prefer oral medications or like a different brand’s aesthetic, Hims and Keeps are also solid, reputable choices offering the same effective medications. The most important thing is to just start the conversation with a doctor.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.
TL;DR: Don’t let hair loss dictate your confidence. My 2+ years with Roman’s topical finasteride + minoxidil spray brought my hairline back and filled in my crown. Start with a free online quiz to get a doctor’s recommendation tailored for you. Done.
