Have always bought direct in the UK, but you are in the US, so I would assume one of our US cousins will help you out on this one.
Most do prefer Nanogen to Toppik on here yes. It is better but only for some. Many think Toppik is the best. I didn't get on with it, found it too dark looking and fake.
When one of them come up with one that looks OK the next morning that will get my vote.
Have a nightmare with colours too. All medium browns are dark brown, and something else that's always baffled me is they get darker overnight. You sleep on them and they look darker where the spots haven't rubbed off overnight...
Have you tried Nano or any other one?