Hair doesn’t just cover our heads. It protects our scalp from sun damage, helps regulate body temperature, and even plays a role in how we express ourselves. (1) There’s no question that hair is important to many of us, which is why hair loss can be such a difficult experience.
It’s normal to lose about 50 to 100 strands of hair each day. (2) Usually, new hair grows to replace what’s lost. But certain health conditions and genes can get in the way of this natural cycle, leading to hair thinning or hair loss, affecting both men and women. (3)
For men, hair loss is often due to male-pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia. (4) It’s a genetic condition that tends to become more noticeable with age. (5) Race matters, too. White men are most likely to experience male-pattern baldness, followed by Asians and African Americans, while Native Americans are the least affected. (5) But as frustrating as that receding hairline or thinning crown can be, you don’t have to just accept it if you don’t want to. Hair loss treatments have come a long way. These days, you can find several options to help slow down hair loss and even spark new hair growth. (6)
But this raises the question: Which hair loss treatment is right for you? We thoroughly reviewed the best hair loss treatments you can use at home. Then we turned our attention to Keeps and put its entire line of hair loss products to the test. After meticulous testing, one product stood out from the rest: the Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel. Here’s why it’s our top pick.
Our picks for the best Keeps Hair Loss Treatments
Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel | Finasteride | Minoxidil Foam | Minoxidil Solution | Thickening Shampoo | Thickening Conditioner | Daily Hair Defense Supplement | |
Rating | |||||||
Price | $60 monthly with 3-month plan | $26.67 monthly with 3-month plan | $16.67 monthly with 3-month plan | $11 monthly with 3-month plan | $8 monthly with 3-month plan | $8 monthly with 3-month plan | $30 monthly with 3-month plan |
Active ingredient | Finasteride, minoxidil | Finasteride | Minoxidil | Minoxidil | Saw palmetto, biotin, green tea, caffeine | Saw palmetto, biotin, green tea, caffeine | Saw palmetto, biotin, and vitamins |
Form | Topical | Oral | Topical | Topical | Topical | Topical | Oral |
Side effect | Itchy, dry scalp; potential shedding of hair initially | Lower sex drive, ejaculation problems | Itchy, dry scalp; potential shedding of hair initially | Itchy, dry scalp; potential shedding of hair initially | Mild tingling on scalp | Mild tingling on scalp | Diarrhea, fatigue, headache, decreased libido |
Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel
Key product features
What you should know
With Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel, you get a powerful solution to help you manage hair loss. Here’s what you need to know about this treatment:
- It’s a prescription-strength treatment that combines two proven hair loss fighters—minoxidil and finasteride—in one convenient gel you apply to your scalp daily.
- The cost is $60 monthly for a three-month subscription, which includes your initial year’s medical consultation, typically priced at $5. Plus, you may get one free month when you first sign up. After that initial subscription, you can sign up for three, six, or 12 months at a time.
- This treatment is for men and those assigned male at birth, aged 18 and up. Most users start seeing results after four to six months of regular use.
- This product ships only within the United States. However, since Keeps’ medical consultation or telehealth service is not available in every state and finasteride requires a prescription, this product may not be accessible to you based on your location.
- Keeps doesn’t offer refunds on medications. But it’ll replace any damaged or defective items.
Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel overview
Hair loss can shake your confidence, but you don’t have to settle for it. Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel offers a powerful prescription combo of 0.25% finasteride and 5% minoxidil to fight hair loss.
Minoxidil, the same ingredient found in Rogaine, is FDA-approved and available over the counter. It has a solid reputation for hair growth by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. (7) The oral form of finasteride, known by the brand name Propecia, also has FDA approval for treating hair loss in men by blocking dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss. (8, 9)
Just a heads-up: The topical form of finasteride isn’t FDA-approved for hair loss. (10) However, research shows it significantly increased hair count compared to a placebo after 24 weeks. (11) Plus, it works similarly to oral finasteride but with fewer side effects, which is a plus if you’re worried about potential sexual issues associated with the pill form. (12) On top of that, a study found that combining finasteride and minoxidil can make hair loss treatment even more effective than using just one on its own while still being just as safe. (13)
What’s neat about Keeps is its personalized approach. You start by taking a quiz to get product recommendations. If it suggests the Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel, you’ll subscribe and buy it, then move on to a medical consultation because finasteride requires a prescription. You’ll also need to show your ID for safety and to meet state regulations.
We appreciate how quick the process is. Medical providers typically respond to your consultation request within 24 to 48 hours. This is an excellent option if you don’t have insurance and want to avoid doctor’s visit fees for a finasteride prescription. That said, Keeps’ consultation service isn’t available in every state, including Delaware, Washington DC, Idaho, Kansas, Mississippi, New Mexico, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. It doesn’t ship to APO, FPO, or DPO either.
You’ll receive an email letting you know when your treatment plan is approved or if your provider has any questions. Once approved, they’ll issue a prescription, and you’ll receive your first shipment in five to seven business days.
Keeps provides a three-month treatment supply, but if you want to stock up and save money, you can upgrade to a six- or twelve-month option. Having a subscription makes it easier to stick to the routine since you’ll need to continue using this product regularly to maintain any hair growth results. Keeps partners with pharmacies throughout the country to fill prescriptions, and you can even use your own pharmacy if you prefer. (11)
Applying the gel is easy and fits well into your daily routine since you use it once daily. You can even apply the gel in the morning before going about your daily activities. Start with dry hair, part it to expose thinning areas, and gently massage in one pump. After the gel has dried, you can style your hair as usual with other products. Just remember to wait two to four hours before getting your hair wet or lying down. Most users see results after four to six months of consistent use. Plus, we love how the gel stays in place, unlike liquid solutions.
At $60 per month for a three-month subscription, we found Keeps to be less expensive than other brands. Shipping is always a flat $5 per shipment within the US; they don’t ship internationally.
This treatment is for men and those assigned male at birth, aged 18 and up. It’s not suitable for everyone, though. Avoid it if you’re pregnant, have a history of prostate cancer or liver disease, or if your scalp is irritated or infected.
One interesting feature is the ongoing support. You’ll be assigned a medical provider for unlimited messaging during your first year, which is helpful as you start treatment. Each annual consultation costs just $5. Even if you have a prescription from your own doctor, you’ll still need a Keeps consultation. And if you live in a state where Keeps isn’t available, you can still benefit from its prices by getting an in-person prescription first, and then Keeps will ship your treatment right to your door.
Keeps also offers a Thickening Pomade that lets you style your way to fuller-looking hair. It can keep your style sharp as you work on regrowing your hair. No need to put up with flakes either as Keeps’ prescription Ketoconazole Shampoo fights dandruff and calms scalp inflammation, creating a healthier environment for your hair to thrive.
One downside is that Keeps doesn’t accept insurance or flexible spending accounts (FSAs)/health savings accounts (HSAs), and it doesn’t offer returns or refunds. But you can cancel or adjust your subscription by submitting a request online or calling 833-745-3377.
All in all, through our Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel review, we found consistency is the name of the game. It’s not a quick fix but a long-term commitment. You’ll need to use it daily to see and maintain results. If you stop, you’ll likely see your hair start to thin again within a few months. (14)
Specs
Price | $60 per month for a three-month supply |
Active ingredients | 0.25% finasteride and 5% minoxidil |
Shipping | $5 |
Type of treatment | Topical gel |
Prescription required | Yes |
Medical support available | Yes |
Accepts insurance | No |
We’ve featured Keeps in:
Who Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel is recommended for:
Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel is designed for men and individuals assigned male at birth who are 18 years or older. It’s ideal for those experiencing male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). If you’ve noticed thinning hair, especially on the crown or along the hairline, and are ready to take action, this product could be a good fit for you. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an easy, affordable, convenient, and non-messy solution, especially if you prefer to avoid pills.
Who Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel is not recommended for:
Not everyone’s a good candidate for Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel. Here’s a quick rundown of who should not use this treatment:
- Women and those who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant because finasteride can cause abnormal genital development in male fetuses (15)
- Anyone with a history of prostate cancer. This is because finasteride can affect prostate-specific (PSA) antigen levels, potentially making prostate cancer detection harder. (15)
- Those with liver problems (talk to your doctor first if this applies to you). Finasteride is metabolized in the liver, so liver issues could affect how your body processes the medication. (15)
- People with a history of mental health issues (consult your doctor before use). There have been reports of depression and suicidal thoughts associated with finasteride use. (15)
- Anyone allergic to minoxidil, finasteride, or other ingredients in the gel.
- Those experiencing sudden or patchy hair loss.
- Women with hair loss related to childbirth.
- Children and teenagers under 18.
- Anyone with a red, irritated, or infected scalp.
- People with heart conditions (check with your doctor first). In rare cases, topical minoxidil can be absorbed in the body and cause systemic effects that might affect your heart. (16)
- Those planning to donate blood while using this medication. You must wait a month after stopping finasteride to donate blood—this is to protect blood recipients, especially pregnant women, from any risk of exposure to the medication. (15)
Although these finasteride warnings apply to the oral form of the medication, it’s still important to be careful with the topical version, too.
Also, this treatment isn’t effective for scarring hair loss. This type of hair loss happens when inflammation damages the hair follicles and replaces them with scar tissue. Unlike male pattern baldness, scarring hair loss is often permanent and doesn’t respond to treatments like minoxidil or finasteride. If you notice scalp pain, itching, or see shiny, smooth patches on your scalp, you might be dealing with scarring hair loss and should schedule a visit with a dermatologist. (17)
Besides, it’s always best to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, even if it’s topical and, especially, if you have any health concerns or are taking other medications. They can help guide you on the best option.
Keeps ingredients
Keeps brings together two powerful ingredients in one gel: 0.25% finasteride and 5% minoxidil. You might recognize minoxidil from its brand-name form, Rogaine, which is FDA-approved for hair loss. While oral finasteride (like Propecia) is also FDA-approved, the topical version of this gel hasn’t received that stamp of approval yet.
This mix is what we call a compounded treatment. This means that although the individual ingredients can be effective hair loss treatment, the FDA hasn’t evaluated this exact combination for safety or effectiveness. (18) However some studies suggest that combining these two medications can make them work even better. (13)
Keeps side effects
Like any medication, Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel can have some side effects. We share a few below.
Minoxidil might cause: (16)
- Itchy, dry, or irritated scalp
- Flaking or scaling
- A burning sensation where you apply it
In rare cases, it could lead to more serious issues like:
- Unexpected weight gain
- Swelling in your face, hands, or feet
- Trouble breathing, especially when lying down
- Fast heartbeat or chest pain
- Feeling dizzy
For oral finasteride, potential side effects include: (15)
- Changes in sexual function, like trouble getting or keeping an erection
- Less interest in sex
- Issues with ejaculation
- Discomfort in the testicles
- Feeling down or depressed
In rare cases, oral finasteride might cause skin reactions, breast changes, or difficulty breathing.
Since topical finasteride is not FDA-approved, we don’t have a complete picture of its side effects. However, according to some studies, it might have fewer overall side effects than the oral form. (13) This is because less of the medication enters your bloodstream when applied to the skin.
Still, not everyone experiences side effects, and many are mild. But if you notice any of these, talk to your healthcare provider right away.
Expert opinion
“Hair loss is a common issue with significant psychological and social consequences,” says Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar, MD. “There are numerous causes of hair loss in males and females, each due to a different medical condition. Due to the unique physiologic causes of each type of hair loss disorder, the most effective treatment for your hair loss can be different than that of your neighbor, friend, or spouse. Two of the most effective FDA-approved treatments for hair loss are topical minoxidil and oral finasteride.
“Topical minoxidil influences follicular structure and cycling to promote hair growth. Regarding concentration, 5% minoxidil (in foam or solution) has been found to be more effective than 2% solution in increasing hair count. (19) Oral finasteride is even more effective than topical minoxidil, which inhibits dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production (DHT inhibits hair growth). Studies have shown increased hair count with either 1 or 5 mg of oral finasteride versus placebo. (20)
“Therefore, I would recommend topical minoxidil and oral finasteride in combination for both men and women experiencing hair loss. While topical finasteride has been shown to improve hair growth, it has not been shown to be as effective as oral finasteride in this regard. (21) Women can also take oral finasteride as long as they are not pregnant or trying to conceive. This is because finasteride can cause significant birth defects in male fetuses. As with all treatments for any medical condition, make sure you discuss the use of finasteride and/or minoxidil with your medical provider before use.”
“Finasteride and Minoxidil are proven hair-loss medications that can stimulate hair regrowth, adds Dr. Fatema Dawoodbhoy. “The gel consistency of the treatment not only offers a mess-free solution but also quicker absorption directly into the scalp, bypassing the gut orally. However, since finasteride has not been licensed for topical use, it is tricky to know if it works as effectively as oral use. We are also unaware if the side effects are directly comparable. It is good to see that Keeps regulates this product and only prescribes it after a medical consultation.”
How we rated Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel
We’re committed to giving you unbiased information, so our team of expert reviewers dug deep into Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel. We assessed everything from ease of use to value for money. We also considered how well the ingredients work, potential side effects, and overall user satisfaction.
Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel performed well in our tests, standing out for its non-messy, easy once-daily application and the powerful combination of two proven hair loss treatments in one gel. To learn more about how we test hair loss treatments, check out our full hair loss treatment testing methodology.
Testing criteria
Efficacy and reliability—40%
Efficacy and reliability are at the forefront of our hair loss treatment evaluation process. The primary concern for anyone seeking treatment is whether it will effectively promote hair growth and reduce shedding. This category carries the most weight in our scoring because a treatment’s effectiveness is critical to its value.
Here’s what we look for:
- Treatment efficacy
- Consistency
- Side effects
- Clinical support
- Dosage and application
Ease of use and accessibility—30%
A hair loss treatment’s ease of use and accessibility can greatly influence its effectiveness. If a treatment is cumbersome or difficult to apply, users are less likely to stick with it, diminishing its potential benefits. Ensuring these treatments are easy to understand and integrate into daily routines is crucial for sustained use and optimal results.
We assess:
- Application process
- Instruction clarity
- Convenience
- Support resources
Value—20%
Evaluating the value of hair loss treatments encompasses the initial purchase price, long-term financial implications, and overall cost-effectiveness. A high-value treatment delivers reliable results without imposing excessive costs over time, providing meaningful benefits for the user’s investment.
We evaluate:
- Cost of the treatment
- Insurance coverage
- Long-term cost analysis
- Warranty
Customer experience—10%
A positive customer experience helps users feel supported, informed, and satisfied at every stage of their interaction with their hair loss treatment. This category considers multiple touchpoints, including customer service, delivery and packaging, and return policies. Prioritizing customer experience ensures that treatments meet technical and performance standards and provide a seamless and supportive user experience.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Customer service
- Delivery and packaging
- Return policy
Additional products from Keeps
Key product features
What you should know
Keeps Finasteride is a simple, effective, and science-backed way to fight hair loss. Compared to Keeps Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel, this oral option provides the same benefits of blocking DHT but comes in a pill. It’s a convenient choice for people who would rather take a daily tablet than use a topical treatment. Here’s why it’s great for receding hairlines:
- Finasteride works by tackling DHT, a hormone that’s linked to male pattern baldness. (9) It lowers DHT levels, which can help slow down or reverse hair loss on the scalp. (22)
- The treatment costs $26.67 per month for a three-month supply, which includes your first year’s medical consultation. You can choose longer subscriptions to save more.
- It’s a 1-milligram (1 mg) once-daily prescription pill, making it easy to fit into your routine. Most men start seeing results after four to six months of consistent use based on Keeps’ website.
- This medication is FDA-approved for treating male pattern baldness in men 18 and up. It’s not for use by women.
- Like with other Keeps products, it’s only available in the U.S. Finasteride requires a prescription, and since Keeps’ medical consultation is not available in every state, this product may not be accessible to you.
We recommend Keeps Finasteride for:
- Men with receding hairlines and thinning at the crown who want an FDA-approved treatment that has strong backing for effectiveness in treating male pattern baldness
- Those who prefer a once-daily pill over topical treatments
- Men who have tried other hair loss treatments without success and are looking for a different option
Key product features
What you should know
If you’re experiencing hair thinning but want to avoid a prescription, Keeps Minoxidil Foam could be just what you’re looking for. Unlike Keeps Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel, this foam relies only on the power of minoxidil without adding finasteride to the mix. It’s an excellent over-the-counter choice if you’re not ready for prescription treatments. Here’s why we loved it for hair regrowth:
- This foam is FDA-approved to treat hair loss, working best on the crown and middle of your head. Minoxidil can boost blood flow around your hair follicles, which can lead to more hair growth. (16)
- At $16.67 per month for a three-month supply, it’s an affordable option for those looking to slow down or reverse hair thinning.
- You’ll need to apply it twice a day, which might be less convenient than once-daily treatments. But on the plus side, it’s unscented and doesn’t need a prescription.
- The foam formula is less messy and easier to control than liquid versions, and no need to deal with a dropper. Plus, it won’t run down the side of your face or neck like other forms of this treatment tend to.
- Most people start seeing results after four to six months of consistent use.
We recommend Keeps Minoxidil Foam for:
- Men with thinning hair on the crown and receding hairlines who prefer an FDA-approved, over-the-counter, non-prescription treatment that still offers proven results
- Those who want a quick-drying, easy-to-apply hair loss solution
- Men who are concerned about the potential sexual side effects associated with finasteride
Key product features
What you should know
Sometimes simpler is better, and Keeps Minoxidil Solution offers just that. It strips things back to basics with its straightforward liquid formula, all without needing a prescription. When stacked against Keeps Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel, this solution is a more affordable choice that doesn’t require a prescription, making it available to more people. Just like with Keeps Minoxidil Foam, you won’t get the DHT-blocking benefits from finasteride in this solution. Let’s break down why it’s our pick:
- This FDA-approved liquid targets hair loss on the crown and top of your head. It works by improving blood flow to your hair follicles, which can spark new growth. (16)
- At just $11 per month for a three-month supply, it’s one of the most affordable over-the-counter options out there for fighting hair thinning.
- You’ll need to use a dropper to apply it twice a day. While it might take a bit more effort than other options, it lets you focus on the exact spots and problem areas that need attention.
- Some people might find the liquid formula inconvenient compared to the foam since it could run down your face or neck if you’re not careful.
- It can take up to four to six months of consistent use to see results, but you’ll have to continue using it to maintain your progress. It’s only available in the U.S., and while refunds aren’t an option, Keeps will replace damaged products.
We recommend Keeps Minoxidil Solution for:
- Budget-conscious men looking for an FDA-approved, non-prescription, effective hair loss treatment
- People who prefer precision application with a dropper to focus on specific problem areas
- Those willing to commit to twice-daily use for hair regrowth but want a cost-effective option
Key product features
What you should know
With Keeps Thickening Shampoo, you’re not only getting a hair cleanser, but one that may also lead to thick, full, vibrant hair. Unlike Keeps Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel, which treats hair loss directly, this shampoo has a different role in your hair care routine. The gel works on maintaining and growing hair, and the shampoo helps your current hair look its best.
- This shampoo is designed to improve the appearance of thinning hair while keeping your hair follicles clean and healthy. But it doesn’t actually treat or stop hair loss.
- At just $8 per month for a three-month supply (or $24 for a one-time purchase), it’s an affordable way to upgrade your hair care routine.
- It contains natural ingredients like biotin, caffeine, green tea, and saw palmetto, which are thought to support healthy hair. (23)
- For best results, use this shampoo two to three times a week, and pair it with Keeps Thickening Conditioner. But if dandruff’s an issue, Keeps’ prescription Ketoconazole shampoo may be your best bet.
- While it can help your hair look fuller, it’s not clinically proven to improve hair growth. If you’re looking for a product to regrow hair, you might want to check out other options in Keeps’ lineup.
We recommend Keeps Thickening Shampoo for:
- Anyone looking to improve the appearance and volume of thinning hair
- Those who want to complement their hair loss treatment with a shampoo that can help maintain their overall hair health
- Those seeking a natural ingredient-based shampoo to support healthy hair
Related: The Best Shampoos for Hair Loss
Key product features
What you should know
Some people might overlook conditioner, but Keeps Thickening Conditioner can add that extra fullness your hair needs. It’s not a treatment like the Keeps Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel, but it’s more of a companion product. When used with the gel, the conditioner helps your hair appear thicker and fuller for a complete hair care strategy. Here’s why we think it’s the best natural product conditioner:
- This conditioner works together with Keeps Thickening Shampoo to give thinning hair a fuller, thicker appearance.
- It’s priced at $8 per month for a three-month supply, making it a wallet-friendly addition to your hair care routine. If you prefer, you can grab it with a one-time purchase for $24.
- It’s made with natural ingredients like biotin, caffeine, green tea, and saw palmetto, which can help promote healthy hair. (23)
- Use a dime-sized amount on the ends of your hair after shampooing with Keeps Thickening Shampoo two to three times per week. While you’re at it, consider adding Keeps Thickening Pomade to your daily styling routine for extra hold and fullness.
- While it can improve the look and feel of your hair, it’s not a hair loss treatment. If you’re looking to regrow hair, check out other Keeps products.
We recommend Keeps Thickening Conditioner for:
- Those using Keeps Thickening Shampoo who want to maximize its benefits
- Men looking to add fullness and thickness to thinning hair with a natural product
- Anyone wanting to improve the manageability and styling of their thinning hair
Key product features
What you should know
For those looking to support their hair health from the inside out, Keeps Daily Hair Defense Supplement offers a blend of nutrients targeting hair growth. Think of this supplement as the internal support to Keeps Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel. While the gel fights hair loss from the outside, these tablets work from within. The supplement doesn’t replace the gel’s targeted action, but it makes a great addition. Here’s why we like it:
- This supplement’s star ingredient is saw palmetto, which may help stabilize hair loss by blocking DHT, a hormone linked to male pattern baldness. (24) With less DHT, your hair follicles can stop shrinking, which may slow down hair thinning and give your hair a better chance to grow.
- It contains vitamins A, B6, B12, C, D, plus calcium, selenium, zinc, and biotin. These nutrients can not only support hair health but can also contribute to your overall well-being. (25, 26)
- Get it for $30 per month on a three-month plan or as a one-time purchase for $90. That’s 180 tablets, which should last you about three months.
- Taking the supplement is simple—just two tablets daily. No need for a prescription or consultation to start using it.
- If you’re pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a health condition, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider before starting this (or any) supplement.
We recommend Keeps Daily Hair Defense Supplement for:
- Men looking to support hair health from the inside out with vitamins and minerals that can help strengthen hair
- Those who want to support their topical hair loss treatments with nutritional supplementation
- Anyone interested in overall hair health, even if they’re not currently experiencing noticeable hair loss
Related: The Best Vitamins for Hair Growth
Keeps vs. competitors
Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel | Hims Topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Spray | Ro Hair Solution Rx | Nutrafol Men | MDHair Restore Serum | |
Rating | |||||
Price | $60 monthly with 3-month plan | $50 monthly with 3-month plan | $50 monthly with 3-month plan | $88 monthly | $44 monthly |
Active ingredients | Finasteride, minoxidil | Finasteride, minoxidil | Finasteride, minoxidil, tretinoin | Vitamin E, saw palmetto, curcumin, Ashwagandha, marine collagen peptides | Saw Palmetto, ginseng root, rosemary leaf, biotin, vitamin B5 |
Form | Topical (Gel) | Topical (Spray) | Topical (Spray) | Oral | Topical (serum) |
Side effects | Itchy, dry scalp; potential shedding of hair initially | Itchy, dry scalp; potential shedding of hair initially | Irritation, itching, burning sensation; potential shedding of hair initially | Digestive symptoms, upset stomach | Mild tingling on scalp |
If you want flexibility in purchasing, brands like Hims and Ro might be better fits than Keeps. Hims offers plans starting at $35 per month with a five-month commitment and serves all 50 states, including Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C., making it a solid choice where Keeps isn’t available.
Ro’s Hair Solution Rx is great for those who prefer flexibility with one-time buys or monthly subscriptions, and it includes tretinoin, which could benefit some users.
Nutrafol Men and MDHair Restore Serum are alternatives for those who prefer a natural approach to hair health. Nutrafol includes saw palmetto and curcumin and offers a subscription discount for six-month deliveries, while MDHair provides free shipping on larger orders. Nutrafol is ideal for those seeking an oral supplement with additional wellness benefits.
MDHair’s topical serum is for those who prefer a scalp application. Keeps charges for shipping, but most competitors offer free shipping, with MDHair providing it on larger orders. If easy customer service access is a priority, Keeps’ chat function on both the website and app may offer an advantage over competitors like Ro and MDHair, which lack this feature.
FAQs
Does Keeps work?
Keeps can work for many people dealing with hair loss. It uses FDA-approved ingredients like finasteride and minoxidil, which have been shown to slow down hair loss and even promote regrowth in some cases. (13, 16, 15) However, not everyone experiences the same results, and it usually takes a few months to even see noticeable changes. Plus, results may diminish if you stop using the product.
What are Keeps side effects?
Common side effects of Keeps Topical Finasteride and Minoxidil Gel include an itchy, dry, or irritated scalp, and some people may notice increased hair shedding when they first start using it. (16, 15) Finasteride can also cause sexual side effects like decreased libido in some men, though these may be less common with topical use than oral. (11) If you have any concerns, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting treatment.
How does Keeps work?
You start by taking a quick online quiz about your hair loss concerns and medical history. Based on your answers, they recommend a personalized treatment plan. If your plan includes prescription products, there will be a medical consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. Once approved, Keeps ships your products directly to your door on a subscription basis. It offers ongoing support from its medical team and plan adjustments through your online account.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Aneesha Dhargalkar, MD
Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar is a board-certified emergency medicine physician currently practicing in West Chester, PA. She graduated cum laude from John Hopkins University in 2002 and from Jefferson Medical College in 2006. After this, Dr. Dhargalkar attended and completed a three-year residency program in emergency medicine at Temple University Health System. Dr. Dhargalkar is the director of her hospital’s wellness provider program and sits on the executive board of both the Chester County Suicide Prevention Task Force and the Unionville Chadds Ford School District Education Foundation.
Fatema Dawoodbhoy, MBBS, BSc
Dr. Dawoodbhoy MBBS BSc (she/her) is an Academic Doctor working in London with a special interest in Obstetrics & Gynaecology. She is a double graduate from Imperial College London with an MBBS and a BSc in Business Management (First Class Honours).
Heather Morsellino
Heather Morsellino is a freelance writer and fact-checker with over four years of experience in healthcare. She has worked as a pharmacy technician, emergency room medical scribe, and anesthesia technician in the operating room and will finish her ADN within the following year.
Maggie Aime, MSN, RN
Fortune Recommends Longevity Writer
About Author
Maggie Aime, MSN, RN, is a health, wellness, and medical personal finance writer. With over 25 years of experience in healthcare, she draws on her rich background in nursing, case management, revenue management, medical coding, and utilization review nurse consultant to create educational and empowering content.