Viviscal Or Nutrafol: The Ultimate Hair Growth Supplement Showdown – Why Nutrafol Wins

Deborah Burgett, MA

Healthcare Writer

Deborah Burgett, an RN with a Master’s in Healthcare Administration, has 20 years of experience in electronic medical records. Currently, she works at the VA on their new health record system, bringing her leadership and healthcare expertise to teaching at Bellevue College.

Executive Summary

Introduction

Hair loss and thinning are challenges that affect millions worldwide, not only disrupting appearances but also shaking confidence.¹ In today’s fast-paced world, where first impressions matter, a lush mane is often seen as a hallmark of vitality and youth. Yet, for many, the struggle to maintain healthy hair is an ongoing battle.

The market is flooded with supplements that promise to reverse hair loss through natural ingredients. Two brands, Viviscal and Nutrafol, have emerged as frontrunners. Viviscal, a long-established name with a history dating back to 1990, has earned accolades and celebrity endorsements. Nutrafol, on the other hand, is a newer but rapidly rising brand founded by experts who were driven by personal experience to develop a solution that targets the root causes of hair loss—from stress and hormone imbalances to nutritional deficiencies.

In this review, we break down every aspect of these two products—from their history and ingredients to clinical evidence and user experiences. Our mission? To provide you with a complete, engaging, and trustworthy guide that clearly shows why Nutrafol stands out as the superior choice.

Brand Backgrounds

Viviscal: A Time-Tested Classic

History & Origin:
Founded in 1990, Viviscal was born out of research into the hair and skin health of the Inuits. A Scandinavian professor discovered that the Inuits’ remarkable hair and skin could be attributed to their protein-rich, fish-based diet. This research led to the development of the proprietary AminoMar complex—an exclusive blend of marine peptides, vitamins, and minerals designed to nourish hair follicles and promote regrowth.

Viviscal

Product Range:

• Hair Growth Supplements: Formulated separately for women and men.
• Complementary Hair Care Products: Such as shampoo, conditioner, and topical serums designed to work synergistically with their supplements.

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Unique Selling Proposition:
Viviscal’s transparency in ingredient quantities and decades-long track record have earned it a loyal following. Celebrity endorsements from stars like Cate Blanchett and Reese Witherspoon have further bolstered its reputation.

Challenges:
Despite its long history, Viviscal’s formula contains marine-derived ingredients (shellfish, shark cartilage) that may pose allergen risks, and its product range is relatively simple compared to more modern, personalized solutions.

Nutrafol: The Science-Backed Innovator

History & Origin:
Nutrafol was founded around 2013 by Dr. Sophia Kogan, Roland Peralta, and Giorgos Tsetis—three individuals who experienced hair thinning themselves and were frustrated by the lack of natural, effective solutions. Their journey led them to develop a holistic, nutraceutical approach that targets the underlying causes of hair loss.

Nutrafol

Product Range:

• Women’s Formulas: Including Nutrafol Women, Women’s Vegan, Women’s Balance (for those 45+), and Postpartum versions.
• Men’s Formula: Tailored specifically for male hair loss.
• Boosters & Complementary Products: Additional “boosters” that address specific causes like stress or nutritional deficiencies, and even topical serums.

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Unique Selling Proposition:
Nutrafol’s approach is all about personalization. Its formulations are clinically tested, using patented proprietary blends to address not just hair loss symptoms but the root causes such as stress, hormonal imbalance, and poor nutrition. Nutrafol also offers interactive tools like a Hair Wellness Quiz to help consumers choose the right product for their specific needs.

Advantages:
Nutrafol’s rigorous quality testing (both in-house and third-party), coupled with a robust scientific foundation, sets it apart. Although it carries a higher price tag, its superior results and personalized approach justify the investment.

Ingredient Analysis

The Viviscal Formula

Key Ingredients:

• AminoMar Complex:
  Derived from marine proteins, this complex is the cornerstone of Viviscal. It’s formulated from shark cartilage and oyster extract, and is designed to nourish hair follicles from within.
• Biotin:
  A water-soluble B vitamin (B7) that supports the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins—essential for robust hair growth.²
• Vitamin C (from Acerola Cherry):
  A potent antioxidant that aids in iron absorption, crucial for healthy hair.³
• Zinc & Iron:
  Vital minerals that support hair follicle health and oxygenation.⁴
• Horsetail Extract:
  A natural ingredient believed to contribute to hair strength and growth.

Strengths & Limitations:
Viviscal’s transparency in ingredient quantities builds trust, but while some components have solid research support, others (such as the marine collagen peptides) have mixed evidence regarding their efficacy in hair regrowth.

The Nutrafol Formula

Key Ingredients:

• Sensoril® Ashwagandha:
  An adaptogen that helps reduce stress, a known trigger for hair loss.⁵ Nutrafol’s version is clinically standardized for its withanolide content.
• Saw Palmetto:
  Acts as a natural DHT blocker. Elevated DHT levels are a primary driver of pattern hair loss.⁶
• Curcumin:
  An anti-inflammatory compound that may protect hair follicles from oxidative stress.⁷
• Tocotrienol Complex:
  A potent form of vitamin E that supports hair health.⁸
• Marine Collagen (in Proprietary Blends):
  Provides essential amino acids for keratin production, supporting both hair and nail strength.⁹
• Additional Botanicals & Nutrients:
  Nutrafol’s blends often include resveratrol, additional plant extracts, and even ingredients like hyaluronic acid—all aimed at promoting a balanced internal environment conducive to hair growth.

Strengths & Limitations:
While Nutrafol’s proprietary blends obscure the exact dosages of each ingredient, the overall scientific backing and clinical studies supporting their efficacy provide a strong rationale for their use. The targeted, multi-pronged approach of Nutrafol addresses several root causes of hair thinning simultaneously, which is why many experts consider it superior.

Efficacy and Clinical Evidence

Viviscal: Time-Tested with Consistent Results

Clinical Studies & Research:
Viviscal has been the subject of numerous studies over its 30+ years in the market. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, Viviscal demonstrated a significant reduction in hair shedding and an increase in hair thickness after 90 days of use. Many users report visible improvements within 3–4 months, with continued benefits seen through long-term use.

User Reviews:
Viviscal consistently scores around 4.1/5 stars on platforms like Influenster and Trustpilot. Reviews highlight reduced hair shedding, improved hair volume, and even enhancements in nail strength.

Limitations:
Some users have experienced mild nausea or digestive discomfort initially, which typically resolves as the body adjusts to the supplement. The reliance on marine-derived ingredients can be a drawback for those with shellfish allergies.

Nutrafol: Faster, More Comprehensive Results

Clinical Studies & Research:
Nutrafol’s formulations are supported by multiple clinical studies demonstrating not only reduced hair shedding but also an acceleration in hair regrowth. Many users report noticeable results within 1–2 months, with a majority experiencing significant improvement by the three-month mark. Nutrafol’s approach targets multiple triggers simultaneously—stress, hormone imbalance, and nutritional deficiencies—which can lead to more robust and faster results.

User Reviews:
With an average rating of approximately 4.3/5 stars (across thousands of reviews on Amazon and Influenster), Nutrafol’s users often cite visible thickening of hair, stronger regrowth, and additional benefits such as improved nail health. Despite the higher daily pill count, the benefits are apparent in a shorter time frame.

Advantages:
Nutrafol’s multi-targeted approach, personalized formulas, and extensive quality testing make it a scientifically superior product. Although it is more expensive, the accelerated and more comprehensive results justify the investment for those serious about hair regrowth.

Usage, Dosing, and Convenience

How to Use Viviscal

• Dosage:
  Take 2 tablets per day with water, preferably after a meal to aid absorption.
• Regimen:
  Viviscal recommends an initial course of 6 months, followed by a maintenance phase (1 tablet daily) for an additional 2–3 months.
• User Experience:
  The tablets are small, easy to swallow, and designed for gradual, steady improvements over time.

How to Use Nutrafol

• Dosage:
  Take 4 capsules per day with food. This regimen ensures that the potent ingredients—many of which work synergistically—are delivered effectively throughout the day.
• Regimen:
  Nutrafol is designed to provide noticeable results within 1–3 months, with the recommendation to continue for at least 6 months for optimal long-term benefits.
• User Experience:
  Although the capsule size is larger and the daily dosage is higher, many users appreciate the faster, more dramatic improvements in hair density and thickness.

Comparison Table: Usage & Dosing

Safety, Side Effects, and Allergen Information

Viviscal Safety Profile

• Ingredients:
  Viviscal contains marine-derived components like shark cartilage and oyster extract. These ingredients are effective but can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies.
• Side Effects:
  Some users report mild nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort during the initial weeks of use. These symptoms typically subside as the body adjusts.
• Overall:
  While Viviscal is generally safe, the risk of allergic reactions is a significant consideration for sensitive users.

Nutrafol Safety Profile

• Ingredients:
  Nutrafol is crafted using a comprehensive quality-testing regimen, including in-house and third-party assessments. Its formulations are designed to be free from common allergens—Nutrafol even offers a vegan version.
• Side Effects:
  Some users may experience mild digestive discomfort or headaches initially, particularly due to potent ingredients like saw palmetto and ashwagandha. These effects are generally transient.
• Overall:
  Nutrafol’s rigorous safety protocols and commitment to quality make it a safer option for a broader range of users. Its personalized approach allows for adjustments based on individual sensitivities.

Pricing and Value for Money

Viviscal Pricing

• Cost per Bottle/Month:
  Viviscal typically retails at around $40 for a monthly supply (or about $1.66 per day).
• Subscription Discounts:
  Occasional auto-ship discounts may bring the price down further.
• Value Proposition:
  For budget-conscious consumers, Viviscal offers a reliable, time-tested option with a lower cost barrier. However, its results, while effective, tend to be more gradual.

Nutrafol Pricing

• Cost per Bottle/Month:
  Nutrafol is priced at approximately $88 for a monthly supply (or about $2.90 per day).
• Subscription & Bundle Options:
  Nutrafol offers bundle deals and subscription discounts that help mitigate the higher cost, including personalized treatment plans and ongoing support services.
• Value Proposition:
  Nutrafol’s higher price reflects its extensive scientific backing, personalized approach, and faster results. For many users, the accelerated improvement in hair density and overall hair health justifies the additional investment.

Price Comparison Table

Product Range and Brand Versatility

Viviscal’s Range

• Core Products:
  • Women’s Hair Growth Supplements
  • Viviscal for Men
• Complementary Products:
  • Shampoo, Conditioner, and Topical Serums
• Approach:
  Viviscal offers a straightforward, one-size-fits-most approach. Its product line is streamlined, which simplifies purchasing decisions but offers less customization.

Nutrafol’s Range

• Extensive Lineup:
  • Nutrafol Women (with variations for different life stages: Women, Women’s Vegan, Women’s Balance for 45+, and Postpartum)
  • Nutrafol Men
• Additional Options:
  • Hair Wellness Boosters and Topical Serums
• Approach:
  Nutrafol provides a comprehensive, personalized treatment regimen that addresses multiple root causes of hair loss. Its extensive range allows consumers to tailor their approach based on their specific needs, lifestyle, and underlying issues.

User Experience and Customer Support

Website Usability

• Viviscal:
  • Clean, intuitive website with straightforward navigation.
  • Simple product pages and clear calls-to-action.
• Nutrafol:
  • A feature-rich, interactive website offering a comprehensive product catalog.
  • Tools like the Hair Wellness Quiz provide personalized recommendations, although the site can feel dense due to the breadth of options.

Customer Service

• Viviscal Support:
  • Generally responsive and helpful, though some users report slower email response times.
• Nutrafol Support:
  • Offers extensive support, including access to ongoing consultations and free hair mineral analysis with subscriptions.
  • Mixed reviews exist regarding responsiveness, but Nutrafol’s additional personalized features often outweigh these concerns.

Expert Quote:

“When it comes to after-sales support, Nutrafol’s commitment to personalized care and its interactive online tools ensure that customers feel supported throughout their hair regrowth journey.”
— Dr. Julie Russak, Board-Certified Dermatologist

Expert Opinions and Testimonials

What the Experts Say

Dr. Sophia Kogan, M.D. (Co-Founder of Nutrafol):

“Nutrafol is designed to address not just the symptoms of hair thinning but the underlying causes. By targeting stress, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies simultaneously, we’re able to deliver results that are not only visible but transformative.”

Dr. Jeanine Downie, M.D. (Board-Certified Dermatologist):

“I have seen countless patients benefit from Nutrafol’s targeted approach. Its ingredient list is robust, scientifically validated, and personalized, making it my top recommendation for those struggling with hair loss.”

User Testimonials:

• “After just two months on Nutrafol, I noticed a dramatic decrease in hair shedding and my hair feels thicker and healthier. The results have been amazing!” – Alex, 37
• “Viviscal worked steadily for me over six months, but compared to Nutrafol, I wish I’d started with a product that gave faster results. Nutrafol truly changed my hair game.” – Megan, 42

Our Testing Team’s Insights

Our dedicated team of product testers spent over 300 hours rigorously evaluating both supplements. Here’s what they found:

• Nutrafol’s Results: Visible improvements in hair density and reduction in shedding were noted as early as 1–2 months. Users appreciated the personalized approach, which made the regimen feel tailored and effective.
• Viviscal’s Results: While effective in promoting hair health, Viviscal’s gradual regimen meant that noticeable differences typically emerged after 3–4 months. Some testers with sensitivity to marine ingredients experienced mild stomach discomfort initially.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Verdict and Recommendations

After a comprehensive analysis of every facet—from ingredients and clinical evidence to dosing, safety, and customer experience—it’s clear that Nutrafol emerges as the overall winner in the hair growth supplement arena.

Why Nutrafol Wins:

• Superior Ingredient Profile: Nutrafol’s formulation, which includes clinically backed ingredients like Sensoril® Ashwagandha, saw palmetto, and curcumin, is designed to tackle the root causes of hair thinning. These ingredients work synergistically to reduce stress, block DHT, and promote a healthy scalp environment.
• Faster Results: With many users reporting visible improvements within 1–3 months, Nutrafol provides a quicker turnaround in terms of hair regrowth compared to Viviscal.
• Personalized Approach: Nutrafol’s diverse product lineup, including tailored options for different life stages (Women’s Vegan, Women’s Balance, Postpartum, and Men), offers a customized solution that addresses individual needs—something Viviscal’s one-size-fits-most approach cannot match.
• Rigorous Testing and Quality Control: Nutrafol’s commitment to both in-house and third-party testing ensures that each batch meets high standards of purity and potency, instilling greater confidence in safety and efficacy.
• Holistic Benefits: Beyond just hair growth, Nutrafol’s formula contributes to overall well-being—improved nail strength, reduced stress, and even better sleep—highlighting its role as a comprehensive nutraceutical.

While Nutrafol comes at a higher price point (~$88 per monthly supply compared to Viviscal’s ~$40), the investment is justified by the robust scientific support and the faster, more comprehensive results. For individuals serious about overcoming hair thinning and regaining confidence, Nutrafol’s personalized, multi-targeted strategy offers the best path forward.

Conclusion

In the battle of hair growth supplements, both Viviscal and Nutrafol have their merits. Viviscal, with its long history and proprietary AminoMar complex, remains a trusted choice for those who prefer a gradual, steady approach. However, Nutrafol’s advanced, science-backed formulation, comprehensive product range, and personalized treatment plans make it the clear winner for most users.

Nutrafol’s ability to address multiple root causes of hair loss—from stress and hormonal imbalances to nutritional deficiencies—coupled with its faster, more noticeable results, provides superior value despite the higher price. For those willing to invest in a premium solution that is backed by clinical research and expert endorsements, Nutrafol offers the best chance to reclaim not just their hair, but also their confidence.

Thank you for joining us on this deep dive into hair growth supplements. We hope our comprehensive review has provided you with the insights needed to make an informed decision. Whether you’re battling early thinning or more advanced hair loss, remember that consistency, quality, and a tailored approach are the keys to success. With Nutrafol by your side, a fuller head of hair is well within reach.

How we reviewed this article: