Some people have metabolisms like a furnace, while some of us have metabolisms like a sous vide machine.
Even if you’re active and avoiding things that contribute to weight gain (think excess sugar, alcohol and frequent trips to the drive-thru), the pounds may not come off as quickly as you hope or as they once did, which can lead to feelings of frustration or failure.
But, before you beat yourself up, it should be noted that there are lots of reasons why some find it difficult to lose weight — and lack of discipline isn’t one of them. According to the Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, anything from sleep deprivation to contraceptive use can make trimming the fat far more complex than calories in versus calories out.
While GPL-1s are the buzziest weight loss aid, they’re not appropriate for everyone and maybe you don’t even want to go down that path to begin with. So, what do you do?
Some consumers are turning to Veracity, a doctor-developed group of products made of ingredients your body recognizes and can use to kick your metabolism from deep thaw to a high heat, if not an inferno.
It all starts with a simple quiz, where you share details about your daily experiences. Do you feel sluggish or bloated? Are you in menopause, fighting inflammation or struggling with brain fog? Once the quiz is complete, you’ll be given one of six protocols, each made up of supplements designed to address the specific challenging block you from losing weight.
Vercacity
Use Promo code: NYP20 to get 20% off your first order, including on the already 50% off Metabolism Ignite Supplement.
Even if you’re not looking to specifically lose weight, Veracity has a variety of options to give your wellness routine an edge. Two hero products from the brand — Metabolism Ignite and Metabolic Power Protein, which I had a chance to try, are excellent options, regardless of whether you need to drop a few pounds or simply want to snuff out cravings while boosting your protein intake.
I don’t write about it much at Post Wanted, but I love a protein powder and the Metabolic Power Protein was right up my alley. Building and maintaining muscle, especially as you age, not only keeps bones and joints strong but also the metabolism. And what do muscles require to thrive? Protein and lots of it!
90% of Americans do not get the recommended amount of protein per day. This means a lot of people are losing out on one of the essential macronutrients for muscle maintenance, not to mention healthy skin, hair and nails.
Contains nine amino acids, making it a complete protein
Doesn’t have any sugar
Holly J Coley
Another thing that makes Veracity’s Metabolic Power Protein special is the ingredient, MyoVera, which is made of a blend of minerals and amylopectin. These ingredients work to stabilize blood sugar and boost muscle protein synthesis when added to a protein.
And, if you were curious, it tastes great — sort of like a chai latte in the form of a protein shake. I made mine with lots of ice, a banana and a few frozen strawberries, and wasn’t disappointed in the outcome. It wasn’t chalky or gritty like some protein powders I’ve tried.
The powder can be used alone, but when paired with the brand’s Metabolism Ignite supplement, you have a duo made to not just fight the battle of the bulge but win it. Think of the supplement like a natural GPL-1, made of anti-inflammatory, calming ingredients that also help your gut health and trigger your body to start burning stored energy, aka fat, as fuel.
Holly J Coley
Based on multiple independent double-blind placebo clinical trials, the best-selling Metabolism Ignite has been shown to:
Lower weight
Increase satiety
Reduce fat
Lower cholesterol levels
While I’m personally not looking for a supplement to aid in the above, I can see the appeal, especially for those who may not require something like A GPL-1 but may need some help getting healthier habits in motion. It also doesn’t require a doctor’s visit or prescription, though it should be noted that you should always consult with your physician before adding a new supplement to your routine.
With spring finally here, there’s no better time to “spring” into action about pushing forward with all the wellness goals you made back in January. Although there are no quick fixes, there’s something to be said about having some support and thousands are reaching to Veracity for it.
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Navigating male hair loss can be tricky, especially given the sea of over-the-counter and prescription treatments flooding the market.
One of the most frequently searched solutions is minoxidil products for men. Originally used to treat high blood pressure, this medication was also found to stimulate hair growth by increasing blood flow to the follicles, thickening existing strands and encouraging growth.
Unlike popular finasteride treatments for hair loss, minoxidil is a non-hormonal drug. This means it carries a significantly lower risk of systemic side effects, such as the sexual dysfunction that has been associated with hormone-based medications.
While minoxidil use can have some minor side effects, they are typically localized to the scalp.
Today, minoxidil treatments are offered in multiple formats to target specific lifestyle needs and hair regrowth goals. For guidance on the best minoxidil treatments and answers to frequently asked questions, the Post consulted Dr. Kseniya Kobets, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care.
“The exact mechanism of action of minoxidil is not completely understood,” Kobets shared. “But, it is known to stimulate hair growth primarily by prolonging the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle and helping reverse follicular miniaturization — making hair follicles thicker. “
When picking the right minoxidil solution, Kobets suggests starting with 5% solutions, which is the standard FDA-approved dosage for hair loss treatment for men. Higher concentrations of minoxidil could be the right choice for men who have not responded to standard treatments.
“Over-the-counter generic 5% minoxidil is a great place to start, whether as a foam or solution, depending on scalp sensitivity and cosmetic preference, and there’s no need to splurge on the brand name because generic 5% minoxidil works the same way as brand-name Rogaine, for example.”
Below, find 5 of the best minoxidil products for men — from top-rated minoxidil serums to popular minoxidil foams and even minoxidil pills.
Check out the FAQ section for more information on proper dosage, potential side effects and more.
Ulo
Pros:
Ulo offers a higher potency formula with 7% minoxidil concentration, which could be more effective at treating hair loss
Tretinoin (retinoic acid) can help enhance the effect of minoxidil by increasing the permeability of the scalp
Multi-prong solution; Ulo incorporates caffeine, cetirizine and melatonin to target hair loss and support regrowth
Cons:
Tretinoin is a powerful retinoid, so it can cause some side effects (however, Ulo allows it to be removed via customization options)
Due to the more potent formula, it’s possible to experience temporary shedding due to cell turnover
Ulo’s Minoxidil + Tretinoin Plus offers a multi-angled solution to hair loss. It’s 7% minoxidil formula provides a slightly higher concentration than some generic brands, which is especially useful for those with advanced thinning or wider areas of concern. While a more potent formula could cause irritation for some users, Ulo’s formula intentionally does not use propylene, which can reduce some of the typical side effects like flakiness and scalp irritation. The addition of tretinoin also helps the minoxidil work more effectively. As a retinoic acid, tretinoin increases scalp permeability, making it easier for minoxidil to penetrate the hair follicles and get to work. Ulo allows tretinoin to be removed via the customizer for users with sensitive skin, and patients can optionally add other proven growth stimulants (cetirizine 1%, melatonin 0.01%, caffeine 0.2%). These unique additives also target hair loss from different angles by stimulating blood flow and supporting a healthy growth cycle.
Active Ingredients: Minoxidil, tretinoin (optional) | Expected Results: Results in 3 to 6 months
Hims
Pros:
The formula combines 6% minoxidil with 0.3% finasteride, which could be more effective at targeting the root causes of male pattern baldness
Minoxidil concentration is slightly higher than some other over-the-counter options, which could make it more effective
Quick-drying formula and easy spray application
Cons:
Some users have experienced rare sexual side effects from finasteride treatments, since it lowers levels of the male hormone DHT in the body
Hims provides a broad range of resources and treatment plans for men experiencing hair loss, and its topical Finasteride & Minoxidil Spray is one of the most in-demand choices due to the dual-action ingredients. Hims combines 6% minoxidil with 0.3% finasteride with this spray, which works to target the root causes of male pattern baldness. Finasteride helps block the potent male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — which shrinks follicles and eventually kills hair. When combined with minoxidil, finasteride could be very effective for treating men’s hair loss. However, due to the hormonal interactions, it is possible to experience some sexual side effects such as lowered libido or ejaculation problems.
Active Ingredients: Finasteride, minoxidil | Expected Results: Up to 4 months with consistent use
Happy Head
Pros:
This oral form could be more effective for individuals who have not responded to liquid or foam minoxidil treatments
Some may find taking a daily pill more convenient than liquid or foam application
Due to the oral format, users can avoid the common scalp side effects like itching and irritation
Cons:
Since oral minoxidil travels through the body, it’s possible to experience some cardiovascular side effects
Since the pill is more potent, it’s possible to experience temporary shedding in the early stages of use
For those who have not responded well to typical foams or liquid minoxidil treatments, oral tablets could be a stronger option. Happy Head’s prescription-strength oral solution is fast-working and absorbed effectively in the liver, which could be more effective for those struggling with severe hair loss issues. Taking a once-a-day pill could also be easier than application, and users can avoid some of the typical scalp side effects like dryness and itchiness. The tradeoff is that oral minoxidil comes with potential cardiovascular side effects, since the drug must travel all the way to the liver to work. Some users have reported dizziness and lightheadedness. Temporary shedding is also possible due to the higher potency of the oral format.
Active Ingredients: Minoxidil | Expected Results: Results in 3 to 6 months
Amazon
Pros:
This format may be better for those who have sensitive skin (foam does not contain propylene glycol, which could reduce some of the side effects)
Foam may dry faster than serums and leave less of an oily or greasy look
Cons:
Droppers allow for more precise targeting, whereas foam can be more difficult to apply directly to the scalp without getting absorbed by the surrounding hair
Rogaine’s popular minoxidil solution follows the standard FDA recommendation for 5% minoxidil — and it’s a well-known name brand with strong user reviews. While both foams and serums are effective options, the foam can be gentler on sensitive skin. Rogaine’s formula does not use propylene glycol, an ingredient found in many liquids that can cause scalp irritation like itching and dryness. While this can be a huge draw for some users, the foam format could also be more difficult to apply directly to the scalp than a dropper or spray, which targets the scalp more precisely. Some of the product could be wasted, and it’s possible that the formulation won’t absorb as well into the scalp.
Active Ingredients: Minoxidil | Expected Results: Results in 2 to 4 months
Amazon
Pros:
This 5% minoxidil formula follows the standard FDA-recommended formula and might offer less severe side-effects
Rosemary oil could help improve hair count, while also soothing the scalp and leaving behind a pleasant smell
As an over-the-counter brand, RootStim is typically offered at a lower price than some competitors
Cons:
The 5% formula may not be strong enough to treat all types of hair loss
The FDA has approved 5% minoxidil for hair regrowth, and RootStim’s formula adheres to that standard. This concentration provides an effective dosage for most users while minimizing the risk of systemic side effects. However, a 5% formula may not be potent enough to treat advanced hair loss. Still, the simple spray application can be easier and less messy to apply than traditional dropper serums. Additionally, the inclusion of rosemary oil can help mask the chemical scent and may provide soothing properties to help reduce scalp irritation. As far as a budget-friendly formula goes, Rootstim’s minoxidil is a solid choice.
Active Ingredients: Minoxidil | Expected Results: Results in 3 to 6 months
Best Minoxidil Products for Men FAQ
The Post consulted Dr. Kseniya Kobets, Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, for answers to frequently asked questions about minoxidil treatments.
How does minoxidil work?
While it’s not clear exactly how minoxidil works, Kobets said that it’s thought to help dilate the blood vessels and stimulate hair growth. She explained that the drug is converted in the skin to its active form, minoxidil sulfate, which is necessary for its biologic activity.
“It is thought to act through vasodilation via ATP-sensitive potassium channel opening, increased blood flow to the follicle, enhanced DNA synthesis and cell proliferation, possible anti-inflammatory effects, and activation of well-known hair growth signaling pathways such as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway,” Kobets explained.
What’s the difference between topical minoxidil and oral minoxidil treatment?
Minoxidil foam and serums are very popular treatment options, but they have some key differences.
“Foam formulations tend to be more drying because they contain alcohol, compared with minoxidil solutions that contain propylene glycol, which may feel more hydrating,” shared Kobets. “However, if someone has sensitivity or an allergy to propylene glycol, they may not want to use it.”
Kobets also notes that oral minodixil could be a more effective option for some candidates.
“Interestingly, it is thought that some people lack or have a lower capacity to convert the product to its active form, which is why topical minoxidil may be less effective in some individuals and may require oral minoxidil.
What are the common side effects of minoxidil products?
According to Kobets, commonly reported side effects include temporary shedding at initiation, scalp irritation or contact dermatitis.
She explained that the solution formulas, which contain propylene glycol, could cause more scalp side effects — especially for those with propylene glycol allergies. Ocassional headaches and some facial hair growth have also been reported. Cardiovascular effects are more common with the oral form.
“Serious cardiovascular side effects, such as low blood pressure or lower-leg swelling, are rare with topical use but should prompt immediate discontinuation if symptoms such as dizziness or palpitations occur,” Kobets added.
How long does it take to see results with minoxidil?
Kobets has found that most patients need at least three to four months of consistent use to see early changes, with even more noticeable improvement by six months to a year.
“However, you may not see as much improvement if you have other factors besides androgenetic alopecia contributing to hair loss, such as thyroid issues, metabolic issues, other persistent medical conditions, or even stress,” she noted.
These issues can continue to cause hair thinning and shedding even while using minoxidil.
What happens if you stop using minoxidil?
Consistency with minoxidil treatment is key if you want to see results and maintain them.
“If minoxidil is discontinued, any hair that was maintained or regrown with treatment will gradually shed over several months and return to its baseline state,” Kobets warned. “That said, if you’ve used topical minoxidil for years and maintained scalp health, you may still be better off than if you had never used it at all, because you supported follicular health during that time.”
In Kobet’s opinion, you may not return entirely to baseline and may retain some benefit compared with never having used it.
Does minoxidil work for a receding hairline?
“Per studies, minoxidil is most effective for vertex (crown) hair loss in androgenetic alopecia, and the frontal hairline and temples tend to respond less predictably, though some patients may report stabilization or modest improvement with consistent use,” said Kobets.
This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint Longevity Mix to the viral Oura Ring to Jennifer Aniston’s favorite workout platform – often with her adorable toddler by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.
As a health and wellness writer, I always have my doubts that something drug-free is going to be effective, especially sleep aids. After surviving the newborn trenches and spending years weaning myself off melatonin, I tried everything: lavender oil, chamomile tea, tart cherry juice. You name it.
But one natural sleep supplement on Amazon might have me sold. Reviewers say the KillSwitch sugar-free cocoa blend isn’t just delicious — it actually works. Dozens say it helps them drift off faster and wake up feeling refreshed. One user even reported their sleep score jumped 20 points after just one cup, reaching a range they hadn’t hit in the two years since they started tracking their sleep data.
“I have been collecting my sleep data for the past two years and, to my surprise, KillSwitch has elevated me to a sleep score of 93, which may not sound impressive to you, but for me… this is epic!!!” they raved. “My normal sleep score averaged in the 70s.”
Several others also reported similar improvements in their wearable sleep data. And when I dug deeper into the formula, it became clear why this one might work better than many others.
Amazon
In my quest for a sleep supplement that actually worked, I have only found two ingredients effective: magnesium and L-theanine. Conveniently, both ingredients are used in KillSwitch’s Hot Cocoa.
There’s research to back it up. An animal model study from 2022 demonstrated that combining magnesium and L-theanine can effectively improve sleep disturbances and extend sleep duration.
KillSwitch’s formula is made in America, rigorously tested in independent labs and crafted in GMP-certified facilities. All you have to do is mix with warm milk or water and enjoy 30 minutes before bed.
And considering the selective ingredients and user testimonials, I say it’s worth a shot.
This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint Longevity Mix to the viral Oura Ring to Jennifer Aniston’s favorite workout platform – often with her adorable toddler by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.
