Frequently Asked Questions

Hair Loss

What causes hair loss?

Hair loss, medically referred to as alopecia, can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, aging, hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, and/or nutritional deficiencies. Stress, hairstyling habits, chemical treatments, and environmental factors can also contribute to hair loss. By the age of 50, over 85% of men and 50% of women have reported to experience hair loss.

At what age does hair loss start?

Male pattern baldness typically begins in the late teens to early 20s, with a gradual thinning of hair around the temples and crown. Women may start experiencing hair thinning and loss in their 40s or 50s, often associated with hormonal changes during menopause. That being said, it’s important to note that hair loss can start at any age.

Is hair loss hereditary?

Although hair loss can be hereditary, early treatment can effectively prevent severe hair loss. Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is often inherited from one's parents and is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Similarly, female pattern baldness can also be hereditary, although it depends on a variety of individual factors. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in determining who is more likely to experience hair loss, but other factors such as hormones, lifestyle, and environmental influences can also contribute.

Can women experience pattern baldness?

Yes, women can experience pattern baldness, which is often referred to as female pattern hair loss or androgenetic alopecia. It typically involves gradual thinning of hair on the top of the scalp, rather than receding hairlines or bald patches commonly seen in men. Female pattern hair loss tends to be more diffuse and less severe compared to male pattern baldness. For this reason, our dermatologists have designed solutions specifically for women. Shop our women’s hair loss solutions here.

Are natural remedies effective in treating hair loss?

Natural remedies may stimulate hair follicles and promote overall hair health, but it’s important to note that they are not guaranteed to prevent hair loss entirely. Instead, natural remedies are best used in combination with clinically-backed prescription grade medications.

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Our dermatologists have curated natural, drug-free supplements containing biotin, collagen, keratin, and saw palmetto. Shop our hair care solutions here! We also suggest consulting with a dermatologist in order to determine the most effective hair growth treatment plan for you.

What are the different types of hair loss?

There are several different types of hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia (male pattern or female pattern baldness) is the most common type and results in gradual thinning of hair over time. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition characterized by patchy hair loss on the scalp or other parts of the body. Telogen effluvium causes temporary shedding of hair due to stress, hormonal changes, or medical conditions. Traction alopecia occurs when excessive tension is applied to the hair follicles, often due to tight hairstyles or hair treatments. Lastly, cicatricial alopecia involves hair loss due to inflammation and scarring of the hair follicles, which can result from various conditions such as lupus or fungal infections. It is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist to determine which type of hair loss you are experiencing and the best hair treatment plan for you. Fill out our health intake form here to get started.

Are there any effective treatments for hair loss?

Yes! Happy Head offers several different types of hair loss solutions. The most effective treatments often involve clinically-proven, FDA-approved prescription (Rx) ingredients such as Finasteride, Dutasteride, and Minoxidil. These ingredients not only help prevent further hair loss but also promote hair growth. They work in combination by stimulating hair follicles and/or blocking the hormone responsible for hair thinning. While over-the-counter (non-Rx) options exist, prescription-strength formulations typically offer greater efficacy.

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Hair growth takes time and patience; it is a journey, not a sprint. With Happy Head’s custom topical hair growth treatments and consistent use, it can take 3 to 6 months to see results. Our board-certified dermatologists provide free consultations to discuss a personalized treatment plan and the best medications.

Ingredients

Why is topical Finasteride more effective than oral alternatives?

Topical Finasteride provides a modern and efficient hair loss treatment with potentially fewer systemic adverse effects, according to clinical studies. Our doctors recommend applying it twice daily onto the scalp.

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Happy Head uses the strongest version of Finasteride concentration (Finasteride 0.3%) because a clinical pharmacokinetic study of topical Finasteride (Caserini et al. in 2015) showed that only the 0.25% Finasteride produced a similar scalp DHT reduction as the oral Finasteride 1mg. In addition, topical Finasteride may be a safer alternative to oral Finasteride. The key difference is that topical Finasteride is applied topically to the hair loss areas of your scalp, not ingested, thereby reducing chances of side effects. With Happy Head, your dermatologist will prescribe the optimal concentrations of medications specific to your hair loss dynamics, medical history, and gender.

What is the efficacy of Minoxidil over a long period of time?

Minoxidil can maintain its efficacy over a long period of time, even if used year after year. Clinical studies have shown that Minoxidil is effective in promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss when used consistently. In a study conducted over a 48-week period, participants who used Minoxidil experienced significant hair regrowth compared to those who used a placebo. Additionally, long-term use of Minoxidil has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated. So, you can use Minoxidil for 10 years and still expect it to maintain its efficacy in promoting hair growth. That being said, results can differ, and not everyone responds to treatment equally. Some individuals may experience a gradual decline in effectiveness over time or may require combination therapy with other treatments for optimal results. If you’re interested in trying Minoxidil for hair growth, see our products formulated with Minoxidil here.

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Consistent and continued use of Minoxidil is necessary to maintain results, as discontinuation of treatment may lead to hair loss resuming. Shedding is a fairly common side effect when first starting Minoxidil. It sheds the telogen (resting) hairs as they are replaced with the anagen (growing) hairs. It usually lasts the first 6 to 8 weeks of starting the treatment and will stop afterwards as you start to see lasting results. Regular monitoring by a dermatologist can help assess the ongoing efficacy and you can adjust treatment as needed.

Which one is stronger: Finasteride or Dutasteride?

Regarding the choice between Finasteride and Dutasteride, both medications work by inhibiting the production of DHT. With daily application, you may start seeing results as early as 3 months, and up to 6 months of use. Individual results may vary. That being said, Dutasteride is generally considered to be stronger than Finasteride in terms of its inhibition of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. While both medications work by blocking this enzyme that is responsible for converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), Dutasteride inhibits both Type 1 and Type 2 isoforms of the enzyme, whereas Finasteride primarily targets only the Type 2 isoform. This broader inhibition of 5-alpha reductase by Dutasteride results in greater suppression of DHT levels in the body, one of the main causes of hair loss.

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If you have any other questions, we recommend speaking more with one of our hair specialists here. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and concerns.

Which ingredients block DHT?

Several ingredients are known to block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone implicated in hair loss. Some of these include:

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Finasteride: This prescription medication inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, thereby reducing the conversion of testosterone to DHT.‍
Dutasteride: Similar to Finasteride, Dutasteride inhibits 5-alpha reductase but is more potent and blocks both Type 1 and Type 2 isoforms of the enzyme.

What are the benefits of including Retinoic Acid (RA or Tretinoin) and Hydrocortisone (HC) to your formulas?

According to clinical studies, including Retinoic Acid (Tretinoin) and Hydrocortisone in your hair growth formula offers several benefits:

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Retinoic Acid: Is clinically proven to promote growth in combination with Minoxidil by allowing Minoxidil to penetrate the scalp more effectively. It’s for men and women who want to see a boost in their topical hair growth results.‍
Hydrocortisone: A topical corticosteroid that helps reduce scalp sensitivity and inflammation. It’s for men and women who may experience irritation with prescription-grade ingredients at higher strengths.

Usage & Side Effects

Does Finasteride affect PSA levels?

Yes, topical and oral forms of Finasteride may affect PSA levels. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and it is used for prostate cancer screening. If you are planning to get a PSA test done with your physician, please discuss with your healthcare provider that you are using Finasteride, as Finasteride has been shown to affect PSA lab results.

In what instances can I not use the formula?

You should not use topical Finasteride if you or your partner are planning to get pregnant, are pregnant, or breastfeeding. Finasteride is a Category X medication and should be avoided by pregnant patients and their partners.

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If your partner is pregnant and/or breastfeeding, you should not use Finasteride, Dutasteride or even Retinoic Acid. Some safe alternatives are oral Minoxidil or topical Minoxidil (without Finasteride, Dutasteride, or Retinoic Acid).

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It is advised to consult with a board-certified dermatologist for guidance on hair loss management options that are safe and appropriate during pregnancy. They will be able to provide personalized advice based on her specific situation. If you have any questions or concerns during your hair growth journey with Happy Head, I recommend reaching out to our hair specialists here.

Is topical Finasteride indicated for female use?

Yes, topical Finasteride may be used by women over the age of 50. However, it is not prescribed to women under 50 due to the risk of birth defects. We offer topical Spironolactone instead for women of childbearing age.

What are the side effects from topical Finasteride?

The common side effects of Finasteride can include decreased libido (sex drive), erectile dysfunction, and decreased semen volume. It's important to note that these side effects are generally rare, affecting only a small percentage of individuals. In most cases, these side effects resolve on their own over time or after discontinuing the medication.

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According to clinical studies, the risk of potential side effects may be lower with topical Finasteride compared to oral Finasteride. There are many clinical studies on topical Finasteride, and the majority of these studies showed little-to-no sexual side effects for patients using topical Finasteride. Specifically, out of the clinical studies referenced above, only one study showed one event with sexual side effects (testicular pain). This is 1 out of 268 subjects in all of the studies, which equates to a rate of 0.37%.

In the case of Happy Head, you will have a dermatologist consultation to determine your eligibility for topical Finasteride. Eligibility is based on medical history, current degree of hair loss, allergies, gender, age, etc.

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Your dermatologist will also review side effects with you in writing. We encourage our users to read our blog titled “Side Effects of Topical Finasteride: Review of Current Medical Literature.

Happy Head uniquely offers formulations for those concerned about side effects:

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Liposomal Formula, which infuses Finasteride and Minoxidil in a lipid-base solution that allows for gradual release and lower systemic absorption, applied only once a day
SuperCapsule^TM ED, which is formulated with Tadalafil (generic of Cialis®) to offset unwanted sexual side effects for men.

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At Happy Head, our formulas are prescription-grade, FDA-approved medicines, and our board-certified dermatologists specialize in hair, ensuring your safety and satisfaction. Talk more with one of our hair specialists here!

If I’m having irritation from the Happy Head topical solution, what should I do?

Unlike over-the-counter Minoxidil, Happy Head is made with a custom base solution that is designed to soothe the scalp and reduce any potential irritation. The addition of Hydrocortisone and Aloe Vera helps to reduce potential scalp irritation that can be caused by Minoxidil and/or Retinoic Acid. This makes our formulas more tolerable for individuals who may experience sensitivity or irritation with standard Minoxidil products.

If you're experiencing irritation from using Happy Head, we recommend reaching out to our team for personalized assistance. Irritation can occur in some individuals, but we have solutions to address this issue. Our formulas are 100% customizable, and we can adjust the concentration of the active ingredients, such as Minoxidil, to reduce the potential for irritation.

You can request to speak with one of our hair specialists here. We will work with you to find the best solution and ensure your comfort while using the product. Your satisfaction and well-being are our top priorities.

Can I take Dutasteride and Finasteride at the same time?

A combination of Dutasteride and Finasteride to treat hair loss may work better for some people. Happy Head offers an Advanced Formula, which combines lower levels of Dutasteride and Finasteride. Both medications are used to treat hair loss, but they work differently and have different mechanisms of action. Combining them may increase the risk of side effects and potential drug interactions.

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It's important to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional who specializes in hair loss to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your specific needs. Our board-certified dermatologists at Happy Head can provide personalized recommendations and guide you towards the most effective solution for your hair growth journey. Let us help you find the ideal treatment option tailored to your unique circumstances here.

How will Dutasteride affect my Estrogen and Testosterone levels?

Dutasteride primarily works by inhibiting the conversion of Testosterone to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, Dutasteride may indirectly impact Estrogen and Testosterone levels in the body. Some studies suggest that Dutasteride may cause a slight increase in Testosterone levels due to reduced conversion to DHT, but the effect on Estrogen levels remains less clear.

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Any changes in hormone levels are typically minimal and generally within normal physiological ranges. It's essential to discuss potential side effects and concerns with a healthcare professional before starting Dutasteride or any medication. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments can help ensure safe and effective treatment. If you have further questions or concerns, our dermatologists can provide more detailed information during your FREE consultation.

If my wife is pregnant, what are my hair growth options?

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It is advised to consult with a board-certified dermatologist for guidance on hair loss management options that are safe and appropriate during pregnancy. They will be able to provide personalized advice based on her specific situation. If you have any questions or concerns during your hair growth journey with Happy Head, talk with one of our hair specialists here. They will be able to provide you with more detailed information and address any specific questions you may have.

Products

How long does it take for Happy Head products to work?

With daily application, patients often start seeing results within 3 to 6 months. Optimal outcomes are typically observed after 12 months or more of consistent use. It's crucial to understand that hair growth is a gradual process, more akin to a marathon than a sprint, which requires patience and persistence. Happy Head’s dermatologists and hair specialists will guide you along your hair growth journey and customize your formula as needed for optimal efficacy.

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In a clinical trial study of 45 male patients (Hajheydari et al. 2009), researchers compared oral Finasteride (the pill) 1mg vs. topical Finasteride 1% for a total of 6 months. Both the oral Finasteride 1mg and the topical Finasteride 1% showed a statistically significant increase in total and terminal hair count just after 4 months.

Can I take both oral and topical medications for hair loss?

Yes, both the oral and topical medications can be taken at the same time, and is in fact recommended, especially if you have hit a hair growth plateau. Your dermatologist can assess whether combining these treatments is appropriate for you based on various factors, including the specific medications involved, your overall health, and any other medications you may be taking.

Which ingredients are in the Happy Head topical formula?

Happy Head’s topical formula is a liquid solution, not a gel, and each bottle contains 60 ml, which lasts about a month. Our products are compounded monthly, so they are made fresh to order, just for you. This means that your bottle has not been sitting on the shelf for months on end. Our most popular topical solution consists of the following active ingredients: 0.3% Finasteride, 8% Minoxidil, 0.001% Retinoic Acid, and 1% Hydrocortisone. Happy Head offers a variety of products, and it’s important to note that all active ingredients are customizable.

Can I customize Happy Head by removing ingredients?

Yes. Happy Head is a CUSTOMIZED topical hair loss solution made fresh monthly, just for you. This means that if you don’t want an ingredient in there, you can customize it by reducing its concentration or taking it out altogether. For example, if you are allergic to Finasteride and/or Minoxidil, you can request for those ingredients to be reduced or taken out completely. You can request such changes during the checkout process, by contacting your assigned Happy Head dermatologist, or by contacting one of our hair specialists here.

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Although our formulas are customizable, the best results are typically seen when all of the ingredients are included, and our standard formula is the most common one written by our physicians (more than 95% of the time). It is typically recommended not to change the formula unless you are allergic to one of the Active Ingredients (Finasteride 0.3%, Minoxidil 8%, 0.001% Retinoic Acid, and Hydrocortisone 1%).

Why is Happy Head a topical liquid and not a spray or gel?

Happy Head is a topical liquid that comes with a calibrated dropper for a precise, mess-free application. Our doctors have found the liquid formula to be more concentrated and efficacious because foam or spray gets caught in the hair and cannot support as much medicine. That’s why there’s other Minoxidil foam or Finasteride spray products but not a product that combines both ingredients together. In spray formulations, the hair traps the mist and prevents the actual medication from reaching the scalp, thus limiting the result significantly. Also, sprays are not precise and may limit how much you will apply directly on the scalp. Precise application is essential to reduce any chances of side effects.

What are the advantages of switching from OTC Minoxidil to Happy Head?

Happy Head’s combination of ingredients provide a formulation that is far stronger and more effective than any OTC Minoxidil on the market.

First of all, topical over-the-counter (OTC) Minoxidil is either 2% for women or 5% for men. Our Minoxidil is a higher dosage than the OTC versions: 6% for women and 8% for men.

Our formulas also include Retinoic Acid, an ingredient clinically proven to increase the efficacy of Minoxidil. In addition, OTC Minoxidil can be irritating, so our Happy Head has a custom base solution that contains Hydrocortisone, Aloe Vera, and other calming ingredients to reduce any potential irritation.

What's the major difference between the Liposomal and Latanoprost formula aside from its base and component?

The major difference between the Liposomal formula and the Topical Latanoprost formula lies in their base and formulation. The Liposomal formula is a creamy formulation that utilizes a liposomal base, which helps reduce any chance of side effects because the molecules are large enough to avoid being absorbed into the bloodstream. If you’re interested in reducing side effects best, our Liposomal formula is the only one of its kind on the market.

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Topical Latanoprost is a liquid formula that is typically applied with a dropper. Latanoprost promotes thicker, denser hair growth, especially when combined with Finasteride and Minoxidil as it extends the hair’s growth phase.

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Regarding effectiveness for hair regrowth, both formulas have shown positive results. That being said, The Liposomal formula, with its liposomal base, allows for better absorption into hair follicles and offers targeted delivery of the active ingredients to the hair follicles.

What is Happy Head’s SuperCapsule™?

Happy Head’s SuperCapsuleTM is the most potent 3-in-1 oral hair growth medication designed to maximize hair growth results and support long-term maintenance. Formulated with either Finasteride, Dutasteride, or Spironolactone and Minoxidil & Vitamin D3, this convenient, once-daily pill will boost hair growth and show results in only 3 to 6 months. Find the SuperCapsule formulation that’s right for you. If you have any questions or concerns, talk more with one of our hair specialists here!

Shipping & Orders

How is Happy Head shipped?

Our complimentary express shipping through USPS First Class guarantees swift delivery. Billing and shipping intervals are set at 25 days by default, ensuring timely receipt of your medication and that you always have the freshest formulation for optimal effectiveness.

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You can always reschedule upcoming orders under the ‘Subscriptions’ tab of your account page or by contacting customer service at www.happyhead.com/help.

Why is Happy Head a subscription service?

Happy Head is a hair loss solution formulated monthly just for you. Consistency is key to see results with Happy Head’s hair growth treatments. On average, it takes around 3 to 6 months to start seeing visible results. Optimal outcomes are typically observed after 12 months or more of consistent use. It's crucial to understand that hair growth is a gradual process, which requires patience and persistence. In order to maintain your hair growth results, the treatments must continuously be used daily, which is why our subscription service ensures you will always have your treatments monthly for fuller, thicker hair - right at the convenience of your home and without any trips to a doctor or pharmacy.

How does my subscription work?

Not only is your formula customizable, but your subscription is, too! By default, we bill every 25 days to ensure the payment goes through and provide ample time for your bottle to be compounded, shipped, and delivered. To change the date of your next order, log in to your account here.

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It is important to receive your medication on time to avoid any interruptions in treatment. Your first order includes a free telehealth visit with an assigned board-certified dermatologist who will evaluate your hair loss and prescribe you the medication.

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You can request to change your subscription frequency (ex. every 2 months, 6 weeks, etc.) at any time by contacting us online, phone, or email. Just make sure to let us know at least 3 days before your next scheduled refill date.

How do I cancel my subscription?

Choosing Happy Head is a step toward achieving your hair growth goals, and we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. Embarking on your hair growth journey requires patience and persistence as it typically takes 3 to 6 months to begin noticing visible results, with the full revival of your hair in about 12 months. Everyone’s hair is different, and Happy Head is confident that our customized solutions will work for you. You always have the option to pause, skip, or cancel your subscription at any time by contacting customer service here.

About Happy Head

Why do patients choose the topical Happy Head formula?

Happy Head is a customized topical hair loss solution made with the strongest concentrations of FDA-approved prescription ingredients manufactured monthly just for you. Every person is different and will react differently to each medicine, so that's why we emphasize customizing the formulation for every individual. Happy Head comes with a free consultation with a board-certified dermatologist and free ongoing support from our hair specialists. You can contact them here.

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Clinical studies show that topical treatments are equally efficacious and have lower chances of side effects, since it’s applied directly to the problem areas of the scalp, versus oral medication that runs through your entire body prior to reaching the hair follicles. Not only do Happy Head topical solutions contain

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We take a very consultative approach towards our patients and their hair growth journey, and want to ensure that our team is available to help you every step of the way.

Do I need to have a consultation with a doctor before I begin Happy Head?

Yes, a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists is the first step to starting your hair growth journey with Happy Head.

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All consultations are provided conveniently online, with concierge-level ongoing support from your assigned dermatologist and our team of hair specialists. Here are the steps:

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STEP 1: Click on the ‘Start Now’ button to complete the Hair Loss Questionnaire.
STEP 2: Have a consultation with your Happy Head dermatologist.
STEP 3: Upload a photo of your hairline and driver’s license, and upload it as directed in your ‘My Account’ page. This is highly recommended so your doctor can prescribe the best custom formula for you.

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Once you have completed those steps, you will be assigned a board-certified Happy Head dermatologist licensed in your state who will prescribe you a custom compound fit to your needs. Once approved, the pharmacy will discreetly ship it to your doorstep.

Remember, our dermatologists at Happy Head are here to guide you through your hair growth journey and provide ongoing support and customization. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your dosage or treatment plan, don't hesitate to reach out to our team here. We're here to help you achieve your hair regrowth goals.

It’s important to note that Happy Head also offers a wide variety of non-prescription products, which do not require a doctor consultation. Shop all our hair care products here.

Can women use Happy Head?

Yes! Happy Head offers customized hair growth formulas specifically for women under and over the age of 50.

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For women under 50, our standard formula consists of the following Active Ingredients: Minoxidil 6%, Retinoic Acid 0.01%, and Hydrocortisone 1%.
For women over 50, our standard formula consists of the following Active Ingredients: Finasteride 0.1%, Minoxidil 6%, Retinoic Acid 0.01%, and Hydrocortisone 1%.

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Your doctor will help determine which formula is right for you, depending on your age and medical hair loss history. Shop our women’s hair loss solutions here.

Can I use my local pharmacy?

Happy Head's pharmacy customizes all your solutions and ships it directly to your door, eliminating the need to visit your local pharmacy.

Why should I choose Happy Head for my hair growth goals?

Happy Head is a leader in dermatologist-prescribed, customized hair medicine and treatments. Our mission is to provide trusted and effective hair growth solutions for those experiencing hair loss. We offer a range of customizable treatments designed specifically for hair growth, helping people regain their confidence and sense of self. Our team consists of board-certified dermatologists who specialize in hair, ensuring that you receive the highest quality care. Skip the doctor’s office, as your formula can be prescribed 100% online after consulting with your dedicated dermatologist virtually. Your custom formula is sent straight to our pharmacy, compounded fresh, and delivered right to your door in discreet packaging so no one has to know. With thousands of happy customers, we know the results will speak for themselves! With Happy Head, you can say goodbye to one-size-fits-all products and inconvenient purchases. Let us help you find the perfect solution for your hair needs! If you have any more questions, talk with one of our hair specialists here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Hair Loss

Ingredients

Usage & Side Effects

Products

Shipping & Orders

About Happy Head

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