Roman vs Hims for Hair Loss
Both offer the same FDA-approved medications, but differ in product variety, pricing, and approach. Here's how to choose.
Quick Verdict
Choose Hims If:
You want more product options (topical finasteride, combination sprays, chewables), or you're interested in a 90-day money-back guarantee.
Choose Roman If:
You want simplicity and the core treatments (oral finasteride + minoxidil) at competitive prices with free 2-day shipping.
The Core Treatments Are the Same
Both Roman and Hims offer the same FDA-approved hair loss medications:
- • Finasteride – The prescription pill that blocks DHT, the hormone that causes hair follicles to shrink
- • Minoxidil – The topical treatment (also available OTC as Rogaine) that stimulates hair growth
These are the only two medications proven to stop hair loss and regrow hair. Both platforms can prescribe them after a free online consultation. The differences come down to product formats, pricing, and extras.
Full Comparison Table
| Feature | Hims | Roman |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | Free | Free |
| Oral finasteride | Yes (1mg) | Yes (1mg) |
| Topical minoxidil | Solution & Foam | Solution only |
| Topical finasteride | Yes (combo spray) | No |
| Oral minoxidil | Yes (up to 3mg) | Yes (2.5mg) |
| Combination products | Sprays, chewables | No |
| Money-back guarantee | 90 days | No |
| Shipping | Free (+$5 processing) | Free 2-day |
| Available states | All 50 | All 50 |
Product Selection
This is where the platforms differ most. Hims has significantly more hair loss products than Roman:
Hims Offers
- ✓ Oral finasteride (pills)
- ✓ Topical finasteride + minoxidil spray
- ✓ Finasteride + minoxidil chewables
- ✓ Minoxidil foam and solution
- ✓ Oral minoxidil (up to 3mg)
- ✓ Thickening shampoo & conditioner
- ✓ Biotin gummies
Roman Offers
- ✓ Oral finasteride (pills)
- ✓ Minoxidil solution
- ✓ Oral minoxidil (2.5mg)
- ✗ No topical finasteride
- ✗ No foam option
- ✗ No combination products
Why Topical Finasteride Matters
Hims' topical finasteride + minoxidil spray is a significant differentiator. Topical finasteride may reduce the risk of sexual side effects compared to oral finasteride because less is absorbed systemically. If you're concerned about finasteride's side effects but still want its DHT-blocking benefits, Hims' topical option is worth considering.
Pricing Comparison
Both platforms offer competitive pricing, though exact costs depend on what you order and subscription length:
| Product | Hims | Roman |
|---|---|---|
| Finasteride (oral) | ~$22-30/mo | ~$17-22/mo |
| Minoxidil (topical) | ~$15-26/mo | ~$17-22/mo |
| Topical fin + minoxidil spray | ~$35-55/mo | Not available |
| Oral minoxidil | ~$18-25/mo | ~$22/mo |
| Processing fee | $5/order | None |
Prices vary based on subscription length (monthly vs. quarterly vs. annual). Annual subscriptions typically offer the best per-month pricing. Verify current prices on each platform.
Note on Hims Processing Fees
Hims charges a $5 processing fee per order. For monthly subscriptions, that's $60/year in fees alone. Annual subscriptions only incur one $5 fee, saving $55. Factor this into your cost comparison.
The Consultation Process
Both platforms offer free, asynchronous online consultations—no video calls required for hair loss treatments:
Hims Process
- 1. Answer health questionnaire
- 2. Upload photos of hair (optional for some products)
- 3. Licensed provider reviews
- 4. Prescription filled, shipped free
Unlimited messaging with provider included.
Roman Process
- 1. Answer health questionnaire
- 2. Provide ID verification
- 3. US-licensed provider reviews
- 4. Prescription filled, free 2-day shipping
Free follow-ups with your provider.
Which Platform Should You Choose?
Choose Hims If:
- • You want topical finasteride to minimize sexual side effect risk
- • You prefer combination products (spray with both medications)
- • You want minoxidil foam instead of solution
- • The 90-day money-back guarantee gives you peace of mind
- • You're interested in higher-dose oral minoxidil (up to 3mg)
- • You want additional products like thickening shampoo or biotin
Choose Roman If:
- • You want straightforward treatment: oral finasteride + topical minoxidil
- • Slightly lower prices matter to you
- • You'd rather avoid the $5 processing fee
- • Free 2-day shipping is important
- • You're already using Roman for other services (ED treatment, etc.)
What About Effectiveness?
The medications themselves are equally effective regardless of which platform you use. Generic finasteride is generic finasteride, and minoxidil is minoxidil. The active ingredients are identical.
What matters most for results:
- ✓ Consistency – Taking/applying your medication daily
- ✓ Time – Results take 3-6 months to become visible
- ✓ Starting early – Treatments work best before significant hair loss
- ✓ Combination therapy – Using finasteride + minoxidil together is more effective than either alone
Ready to Start Treatment?
Both platforms offer free consultations. Try one to see if it's right for you.
The Bottom Line
Roman and Hims both offer the same core FDA-approved hair loss medications (finasteride and minoxidil) through free online consultations. The main difference is product variety: Hims offers topical finasteride, combination sprays, foam options, and a 90-day money-back guarantee. Roman takes a simpler approach with just the basics but often at slightly lower prices with free 2-day shipping. For most men, the choice comes down to whether you want more options (Hims) or simplicity (Roman). Either way, you're getting proven treatments that work.