Happy Head Launches World's First DNA-Powered Hair Growth System

Happy Head, a hair growth company founded by board-certified dermatologist Ben Behnam,
MD, FAAD, and hair transplant surgeon Sean Behnam,
MD, has launched a novel personalization method to improve the health of patients with hair loss.¹ The new StrandIQ system is the first and only dermatologist-developed hair care system powered by individual genetic analysis for both male and female patients.

According to research, 41% of new prescription therapies in the US are ineffective due to the lack of personalization for each patient.² However, clinical studies have demonstrated that genetic-guided approaches can significantly improve outcomes while reducing adverse effects and treatment duration.

"The launch of the StrandIQ System is a revolutionary moment for those looking for ways to preserve and restore their hair. Setting a new industry standard, StrandIQ reduces any guesswork and empowers you with truly personalized recommendations based on your unique genetic profile,” Ben Behnam,
MD, FAAD, said in a statement.¹

The StrandIQ system begins with a DNA Starter Kit, an at-home cheek swab that is then sent to the team’s specialists for review. This deep genetic analysis evaluates over 500 genes and variants linked to hair growth, scalp health, and treatment responsiveness. This makes StrandIQ the most advanced genetic examination available to patients and clinicians.

With this genetic information, dermatological experts can explore 33 traits to determine how a patient’s unique biology can impact the health of their hair. For example, the reports can discover how the body processes specific nutrients such as vitamins C, D, E, and Biotin, along with minerals like iron, selenium, and zinc. It can also detect sensitivities to common hair growth ingredients, including Minoxidil, Finasteride, and Dutasteride.

Through these insights, dermatologists are then able to provide individualized product, lifestyle, and dietary recommendations rather than a one-size-fits-all, trial-and-error approach. Patterns in graying, breakage, inflammation, sebum production, and scalp hydration are considered with this method to support long-term hair and scalp health optimization. All genetic analysis is conducted in CLIA-certified labs with HIPAA-compliant privacy standards.

“We saw a major gap between the consumer’s hair health discovery journey and the often trial-and-error treatment process at the doctor’s office. Our DNA test and wellness reports will help bridge that gap, delivering people an informed foundation for self- and elective care decisions. The StrandIQ System will also serve as a guidepost for dermatologists to choose more precise interventions right from the start. By reducing barriers on both sides, we can shorten the path to effective outcomes and help more people reach the right solutions, faster. The StrandIQ System is Happy Head’s best expression yet of giving every individual their best shot at hair happiness based on their own biology,” Ajaykumar Gopal, PhD, President of Happy Head, told Dermatology Times.

The StrandIQ System is now available to purchase, along with a limited-time offer of 1 month of custom prescription treatment at no additional cost.

"The goal of StrandIQ was to combine cutting-edge genetic science with our proven clinical expertise to help everyone make informed hair health choices. We understand that genes play an important role in hair health, but they’re just one piece of the reliable-outcomes puzzle. Our ultimate aim is to bring greater sophistication to our line of consumer products and services, helping more people to feel more confident and supported in achieving hair happiness,” Gopal said in the press release.¹

References

1. Happy Head Introduces StrandIQTM: The World's First DNA-Powered Hair Growth System. Business Wire. Press release. Published September 3, 2025. Accessed September 3, 2025. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250903228086/en/Happy-Head-Introduces-StrandIQ-The-Worlds-First-DNA-Powered-Hair-Growth-System

2. Watanabe JH, McInnis T, Hirsch JD. Cost of Prescription Drug-Related Morbidity and Mortality. Ann Pharmacother. 2018;52(9):829-837. doi:10.1177/1060028018765159