Viviscal vs Nutrafol Review

About Viviscal

Hair loss happens for all kinds of reasons, such as stress, genetics, age, hormones, over-styling, nutrient deficiencies, or even environmental conditions and more. Regardless of why it happens, at the end of the day, you just want your hair back. My Viviscal vs Nutrafol review may be able to help.

Viviscal is here to help too. The brand was founded in 1990 with an extensive history in hair loss research. Clinically tested 10 times for efficacy, its hair growth supplements fortify your stands from the inside, while its hair care products work from the outside.

The brand’s two-way targeted approach can add volume, reduce thinning, and restore luster to stressed-out strands. Its formulas have been picked up by celebrities like Karlie Kloss and Hailey Bieber. Owned by Irish parent company Lifes2Good, Viviscal’s HQ resides in windy Chicago, Illinois.

About Nutrafol

Like Viviscal, Nutrafol infuses natural, safe ingredients into the realm of hair growth. Drug-free and formulated for potency and results, the brand’s men’s and women’s line of hair growth supplements tackle hair thinning and damage both internally and externally.

The brand was created in 2014 by a team of three people who were all touched with some form or other of hair loss–Roland Peralta, Giorgos Tsetis C.E, and Dr. Sophia Kogan, M.D chose medical-grade ingredients and a doctor-supported service to ensure your hair gets the nourishment and attention it needs.

Praised by celebrities like Hilary Duff and Naomi Watts, Nutrafol uses clinically-tested ingredients. Today, it operates from its headquarters in NYC.

As they’re both science-backed brands, it’s about to get heated in this Viviscal vs Nutrafol review. Ahead, I’ll comb through all the fine details, compare products, and challenge their policies to help make finding the right product from the perfect brand a little less stressful.

What to Consider

Product range

With both of these brands, everything is geared towards hair growth. Viviscal offers men’s and women’s-specific supplements, as well as hair care products in its women’s range.

Nutrafol has a similar product line, with separate male and female supplements, along with regimens for postpartum and post-menopausal women. You’ll also find boosters and scalp support in its selection too.

Target audience

Both Viviscal and Nutrafol make products aimed at adults. The serving sizes are for adult bodies, and neither line is recommended for children. While Viviscal maintains a to-the-point aesthetic, Nutrafol has a more modern feel. Based on its packaging and website appeal, it has a fresher, younger vibe than its competitor.

Clinical research

Nutrafol is a supplement and not a drug, and therefore it cannot be evaluated by the FDA. The brand does make its supplements in an FDA-certified facility and has tested them in clinical trials. In addition, Nutrafol supplements are dermatologist-recommended, the brand has a scientific advisory board, and its dermatology team is board-certified.

In a clinical trial, researchers tested the efficacy of Nutrafol Capsules for hair growth in women with thinning hair. Forty women between 21 and 65 years old were randomly assigned to receive Nutrafol supplements (containing curcumin, ashwagandha, saw palmetto, and tocotrienols) or a placebo for six months.

The authors found that the group that received the supplement experienced a significant increase in the hair count and quality compared with the placebo group. Additionally, the Nutrafol group reported an improvement in quality of life with decreased anxiety levels.

Viviscal is a clinically-tested and proven product made from 20+ years of scientific research. It also offers a drug-free nutraceutical and cannot be evaluated by the FDA.

A clinical study published in the International Journal of Medical Research, evaluated the efficacy of Viviscal supplements containing marine extracts and silica in young men with hereditary androgenic alopecia. 40 participants were randomized to receive Viviscal supplements (2 pills daily) or a placebo containing fish extract for six months. Men who received Viviscal supplementation experienced a significant increment in hair growth (38% on average) when compared with the control group. 

Similarly, in another clinical trial researchers investigated the efficacy of Viviscal supplements  for alopecia areata and alopecia totalis. 40 men and women affected by these types of hair loss received Viviscal supplements (2 pills a day) and Viviscal shampoo (once a week) for 8 months. 

Results showed that 85% of participants with alopecia areata experienced complete hair regrowth. Among participants with alopecia totalis, 25% were cured and 20% experienced a significant improvement.

However, I want to point out that these results might be biased by conflicts of interest since the studies are often funded by the companies that manufacture the products.

Accessibility

Viviscal can be purchased from a range of popular pharmacies like CVS, Walmart, Walgreens, Target, and RiteAid. You can also order directly from its website and subscribe. Its prices are relatively affordable and it offers bundle deals.

Nutrafol, on the other hand, is pricier but also offers savings with its subscription. You can find its supplements in dermatology offices, Walmart, and online skincare stores. Both brands are available on Amazon.

There’s a lot to uncover in this Viviscal vs Nutrafol review, so we may as well step to it. Be sure to keep the above points in mind as you browse as this article will dive deep down into each company to help you see them at their roots.

Viviscal vs Nutrafol: How Do They Work?

Both brands offer natural, drug-free supplements, so you may be thinking that they work in similar ways. You’re right, but this section will kick off our Viviscal vs Nutrafol review to show you their differences too.

Viviscal’s claim to fame (or should I say mane?) is an ingredient called AminoMar. It’s essentially a blend of marine extracts and building blocks called polysaccharides. Its signature formula also uses vitamins and minerals like biotin, zinc, and iron, along with fish oil and horsetail extract.

A clinical trial involving 96 women (21-55 years old) with self-perceived hair thinning tested the efficacy of AminoMar for hair growth. Participants were randomized to receive the marine protein supplement or a placebo daily for 6 months. The group receiving AminoMar experienced a significant reduction in hair shedding with an improvement in hair thickness.

Another clinical study evaluated the efficacy of AminoMar supplements for hair growth in men with male pattern hair loss. Participants were randomly assigned to take AminoMar supplements or a placebo twice a day for 6 months. The authors concluded that the marine complex was proven to reduce hair shedding and increase hair growth in men with thinning hair.

As stated by the American Academy of Dermatology, biotin, zinc, and iron deficiencies are associated with hair loss. If you are not getting enough of these micronutrients from your diet, supplementation is recommended as it may be the cause of hair loss.

A clinically-proven combination, this formula works by nourishing thinning strands and encouraging growth, reaching a level of visible results in 3-6 months. So how does this seemingly strange mix of ingredients work? The mechanism of action is unclear. The brand claims that the active ingredients promote By promoting blood flow to vessels attached to your hair follicles.

With higher rates of nutrients (and the right kind), more make their way into lifeless strands and thus help them do their natural thing: grow. Extending the growth phase of your hair, your strands can thicken and become healthier thanks to all the nutrients in Viviscal’s formula.

Viviscal products don’t have to be part of a subscription, but the brand does offer members a 20% discount on certain products (see the “Promotions” section of this Viviscal vs Nutrafol review to find out more) and will ship your orders for free. With auto-ship options that range from 30 to 90 days, you’ll receive enough product to last you that time.

As a member, you have the right to cancel your subscription anytime you like without penalty. 

Nutrafal’s subscription terms are similarly flexible, offering delivery every 1 month or 3 months. If you’d prefer a more custom approach, you can subscribe as part of a personalized GrowthPlan.

The GrowthPlan starts with a Hair Wellness Quiz (eye-opening and thorough) and ends with your recommended supplements plus one or two boosters if needed. Along with your formula, you’ll have ‘round the clock access to an ND (Nutrafol doctor), a 1-on-1 consultation with a naturopathic doctor for additional guidance, and a hair mineral analysis.

Whichever plan you choose, if you’re taking Nutrafol supplements for men or women, these are the kind of results you can expect:

1. Months 1-3: Nutrients get your head ready for max growth, supplying cells with fresh vitamins and minerals to feed your hair
2. Months 3-6: You’ll begin seeing hair growth
3. Months 7+: More growth is to come, along with shine, strength, and volume—even better sleep

By feeding your body with what it needs (21 potent ingredients like Ashwagandha and Marine Collagen) and dealing with imbalances (many of which cause hair loss), Nutrafol supplements help to stop excess shedding and encourage new hairs to sprout.

A review article by P.K. Farris (Nutrafol and Nutraceutical Wellness Inc. Advisor) and colleagues highlights that marine collagen promotes hair growth in individuals with telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia. They also describe that the anxiolytic properties of ashwagandha may help with stress-related hair loss. synthesis

Though both brands have the same sort of time frame for results, and both deliver key nutrients to your hair, Nutrafol appears to be more concerned with whole-body balance. I also appreciate its personalized approach with the GrowthPlan—and who would ever turn down free advice from a doctor?

In contrast, Viviscal has a looser structure. It offers a subscription but figuring out which products to purchase is totally up to your own judgment. This approach may be more appealing to those who just want to try something without commitment and who want a less expensive product.

Viviscal Women’s Hair Growth Supplements vs Nutrafol Women Review:

Thinning hair can be a tough experience. Changing the way you look, some folks go to extreme lengths to get their old hair back. Both of these brands offer natural formulas for those who don’t want to receive drugs because of their side effects, have any clinical contraindication, or want to supplement their current treatment with nutraceuticals. prove (clinically) that hair growth doesn’t have to be done with drugs—instead, it’s possible through a natural formula.

This part of our Viviscal vs Nutrafol review will look at each brands’ women’s hair growth supplements. Let’s start with the first name on that title.

Viviscal Women’s Hair Growth Supplements are designed to thicken thinning strands and help grow new ones. With a healthy blend of vitamins and minerals, this formula offers a drug-free alternative to hair loss treatments. Get a one-month supply for $34 or a three-month supply for $102.

Viviscal Women’s Hair Growth Supplements: 

• Drug-free
• Uses some naturally-derived ingredients
• Free Shipping with auto-delivery
• Modify or cancel anytime
• 20% Off on all Viviscal Gorgeous Growth Densifying products (with subscription)
• Clinically-proven

Nutrafol Women works with your body to get to the root of why your hair is thinning. Whether that’s the environment, too much stress, or poor nutrition, its medical-grade supplement focuses on full-body health to help restore hair to its naturally healthy state.

A clinical trial published in The Journal of Drugs in Dermatology evaluated the efficacy and safety of Nutrafol Woman Capsules for hair growth in perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal females with self-perceived hair thinning. 70 women were randomly assigned to receive Nutrafol supplements or a placebo for 6 months. 

The authors reported a significant reduction in hair shedding (34.4%) in the group that received the nutraceutical. The total hair count was significantly higher in the Nutrafol group when compared with the placebo group. The supplement was well tolerated.

Using a mix of 21 potent ingredients like Sensoril® Ashwagandha, Tocotrienol Complex, and Marine Collagen, its women’s daily supplement helps combat the effects of stress, strengthen follicles, and restore health. To buy as a one-time purchase, a one-month supply is $88.

Nutrafol Women: 

• Contains 21 hardworking ingredients
• Natural formula
• Helps restore full-body & hair health
• Dermatologist-recommended

Both brands have the same level of transparency and use a spectrum of natural ingredients. Though neither contains drugs, the Nutrafol formula is the more natural product and contains a wider range of plant-based ingredients to help take on whole-body health, not just hair.

With that said, Viviscal’s supplement is much less expensive for a one-month supply and is still an effective option for those looking for hair-specific results.

Viviscal Man Dietary Supplements vs Nutrafol Men Review:

I don’t have to tell you that hair growth isn’t the same across genders, and even though the goal is the same as female-specific products, the amount and type of nutrients needed vary slightly.

Viviscal tells us that about 40% of men have some sort of hair loss by the time they’re 35. Its Man Dietary Supplements are designed to feed hair from the inside, fortifying it so that it grows more and thickens up.

Hair folliclesThe male body don’tdoesn’t respond well to something called dihydrotestosterone—more commonly known as DHT. As described in a review article by E.T. Ustuner, this hormone miniaturizes hair follicles from the scalp. The enzyme 5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone into DHT.

This conversion is accelerated in the scalp of men as they age. High levels of DHT in particular areas of the scalp are responsible for the When  are it’s produced, they experience male pattern baldness that affects most men (androgenic alopecia). Nutraceuticals with antiandrogenic activity (capable of inhibiting 5-alpha reductase) help revert this process. by miniaturizingblocking key nutrients from the hair follicle.

Viviscal’s formula infuses your cells with a blend of healthy nutrients to give strands what they’re lacking, in turn, promoting hair growth. Unlike the women’s supplement, it doesn’t contain iron, biotin, or niacin, and has slightly different amounts of everything else. Pick up a 30-day supply for $34 or a 90-day supply for $102.

Viviscal Man Dietary Supplements: 

• Male-specific formula made with 25 years of research
• Uses vitamins, minerals, and natural ingredients
• Drug-free
• Subscribe to save 20% + get free shipping
• 90-day money-back guarantee

If you’re a man who’s tried hair growth formulas made with drugs, then you know they come with nasty side effects. The Nutrafol Men supplement uses natural ingredients, vitamins, and minerals to address hair thinning by way of combating stress, balancing hormones, and properly nourishing cells.

Hair follicles don’t respond well to something called dihydrotestosterone—more commonly known as DHT. As described in a review article by E.T. Ustuner, this hormone miniaturizes hair follicles from the scalp. The enzyme 5-alpha-reductase converts testosterone into DHT. 

This conversion is accelerated in the scalp of men as they age. High levels of DHT in particular areas of the scalp are responsible for the male pattern baldness that affects most men (androgenic alopecia). Nutraceuticals with antiandrogenic activity (capable of inhibiting 5-alpha reductase) help revert this process.

As the winner of the 2019 Esquire Grooming Award, this formula helps thicken and strengthen hair for better scalp coverage. It uses saw palmetto to block DHT production, along with Tocotrienol Complex to protect against environmental stressors, and Sensoril® Ashwagandha to level out the effects of stress.

A systematic review recently published in Skin Appendage Disorders concluded that saw palmetto has been proven to improve hair growth in patients with androgenic alopecia and telogen effluvium. The authors reported that patients experienced a 60% improvement in hair quality and a 27% increase in hair count. 

Additionally, 83% of patients presented an increase in hair thickness and 52% experienced no progression of the hair loss. However, larger randomized clinical trials are required to confirm these findings. 

Pick up a one-month supply for $88, or get 10% off when you subscribe.

Nutrafol Men: 

• Helps balance stress & hormones
• Full of nutrition
• Drug-free
• Highly natural
• 10% off with subscription
• Clinically tested

Both of these formulas do similar things, they just use different ingredients to do it. Nutrafol’s formula, like its women’s, contains a larger array of vitamins and minerals, its focus on a mission that extends past hair health. Viviscal’s supplements are just as effective but less expensive.

Viviscal Gorgeous Growth Densifying Elixir vs Nutrafol Growth Activator Serum:

So many people treat their hair growth from the outside in. In reality, an effective regimen uses a combination of treatments, including one that rebalances your cells and one that nourishes your strands.

The Viviscal Gorgeous Growth Densifying Elixir is a lightweight treatment for luscious hair. Amping up hair’s body and thickening limp strands, it fixes damage to the outside of hair, treating breakage and helping to reduce shedding.

The elixir uses something called Ana:Tel™. This complex uses natural ingredients like pea sprouts, biotin, keratin, and zinc claimed to totally transform hair in as little as one week. See for yourself with a 1.7 fl oz bottle for $20.

Viviscal Gorgeous Growth Densifying Elixir:

• Primarily natural formula
• Lightweight
• Non-greasy
• Works quickly
• 90-day money-back guarantee

The Nutrafol Growth Activator promises similar effects. It absorbs into your hair quickly and doesn’t feel greasy, using ashwagandha exosomes to increase cell renewal and shield your scalp from stress, along with pea sprouts, green tea, sea buckthorn, and moringa.

The result is thicker, stronger hair in 90 days, but customers report seeing a difference in just 30. Hydrating, drug-free, and free from synthetic fragrance, the ingredients in the Growth Activator are incredibly natural and nourishing. Pick up a bottle for $70.

Nutrafol Growth Activator: 

• Clean formula
• Absorbs quickly
• Lightweight
• All-natural & drug-free
• Free from common allergens like soy, dairy, and gluten

At the end of the day, if a pricey product works, people are willing to pay for it—and by people, I mean us, but I know I’m not alone…right? I also love how easy it is to pick up a $20 bottle of something without having to think about it.

Both use similar ingredients. Though Viviscal packs in the natural ingredients, Nutrafol is the more natural product—if natural is what you’re looking for. That’s not to say Viviscal would be any less effective—its mix of ingredients is clinically tested for efficacy.

Viviscal vs Nutrafol: Price & Value

In terms of price, these two brands are very different. This section of our Viviscal vs Nutrafol review will put these to competitors head to head to see how they compare when it comes to cost, but more so, what value each of them holds.

First, I’ve rounded up a few of Viviscal’s prices. You’ll find those below.

• Women’s & Men’s Hair Growth $33
• Gorgeous Growth Densifying Elixir $20

When signing up for a subscription you’ll get your order shipped for free along with a 20% discount on the Gorgeous Growth Elixir. Viviscal is a clinically-proven brand too, and both of these give the brand a little extra value, along with the fact it uses a good majority of natural ingredients and its formulas are drug-free.

In comparison to Viviscal, Nutrafol contains more beneficial ingredients, but it’s also more expensive. Let’s take a look at its prices again:

• Women & Men hair growth formula: $88
• Growth Activator: $70

Dermatologist-recommended, Nutrafol has great value in its clinically-tested, highly natural formulas that provide benefits beyond just hair. The real value I found was in its GrowthPlan.

Delivering a supplement and booster for under $100 with an included on-call doctor, 1-on-1 consultation with a naturopath, and hair mineral analysis, this plan is a big allure for anyone who wants to get serious about their hair. It’s a $318 value, by the way.

Vivascal doesn’t offer the same kind of program, but you can buy its products together to create your own. There’s value in flexibility too.

Viviscal vs Nutrafol: What Do Customers Think?

Brands…they sure do suck you in, especially when they’re selling something you need. I’m often quick to jump on products with big claims, but it’s important to take the time to read reviews before you click “buy” and spend your hard-earned money on something you’re not sure works.

This section of our Viviscal vs Nutrafol review will do just that, and below, you’ll find a smattering of ratings I compiled from around the web, starting with Viviscal.

• Amazon: Women’s Hair Growth has an average of 4.5/5 stars from 2,899 reviews
• Ulta: Women’s Hair Growth has an average of 4/5 stars from 331 reviews
• Lovely Skin: 4.5/5 stars from 705 reviews

Viviscal is used by celebrities, and though there’s no direct proof that celebrities only buy the most amazing products, I do know that they do get some great advice about what works. I mention this because it speaks to the effectiveness of the brand’s formula. Here’s what else I found about it:

• Improves hair density
• Fills in bald spots
• Helps eyelashes and eyebrows grow too

Nutrafol’s ratings are very similar. Since it’s a newer company, it has fewer reviews overall, but its scores are fantastic.

• Amazon: Women’s Hair Growth has an average of 4.4/5 stars from 155 reviews
• Influenster: Women’s Hair Growth has an average of 4.6/5 stars from 35 reviews
• Innerbody: 4.5/5 stars

I found that just like Viviscal, Nutrafol’s feedback reports everything the brand claims it does and is used by high-profile stars. Here are some common threads I found among reviews:

• Stops shedding
• Helps restore hair from balding areas
• Helps hair grow and repairs damaged strands

For both companies, users love that their formulas are drug-free, giving them an effective alternative that doesn’t cause negative side effects. Viviscal is the more popular brand according to the results of our search, but it also has 24 years on its competitor. Other than that, their ratings are well matched.

Viviscal vs Nutrafol: Promotions & Discounts

Online shopping is the best. You get to sit on your couch, wear your giant robe, and browse to your heart’s content while stuffing bon bons in your mouth as you scroll.

Another reason to skip the lines, crowds, and your shoes, is that online is where you’ll be able to access deals. Yes, glorious deals that pop up on brands’ websites year-round and award online shoppers for the simple act of staying home.

Up ahead in this Viviscal vs Nutrafol review, I’ll tell you all about the deals each of our featured brands have to offer. Take a look:

Viviscal

• Get exclusive perks when you choose a 3-month subscription (free shipping, 20% off Gorgeous Growth Densifying products)
• Mystery coupon code

Nutrafol

• Subscribe & get 10% off
• Free shipping for US customers

Each company offers two special discounts and promotions to its shoppers and members. You don’t need to subscribe to take advantage of free shipping with Nutrafol, just like you don’t have to be a member to receive a mystery coupon code with Viviscal.

In one way or another, both brands offer free shipping options and give discounts on your order. Depending on how you’re ordering (one-time or subscription), you may find one more appealing than the other.

Viviscal vs Nutrafol: Shipping & Returns

Many people overlook the humble shipping and returns policy sections, later to be shocked when their new products don’t arrive in a matter of seconds. Eager folks aside, it’s important to be aware of how long shipping takes and what it costs when you shop online so you know exactly what to expect.

Depending on your needs, it may be easier to pop over to a nearby store instead of waiting for the mailman to plop a box on your doorstep. In this section of our Viviscal vs Nutrafol review, you’ll see exactly what’s involved in getting your package to you, as well as what it may take to return it if needed.

First, I’ll show you a brief summary of how Viviscal shipping works:

• Ships from within the USA
• Delivery takes 7-10 business days
• Free shipping for subscribing members
• Tracking is provided
• Available through other retailers (Walmart, Walgreen, CVS, etc.)

The returns process couldn’t be easier. With a 90-day money-back guarantee, you can return any of your Viviscal products if you’re not happy with them for whatever reason. Try them out and return the unused portion for a full refund. The guarantee is only available for products purchased through the brand’s website.

Next up, I’ll take a look at its competitor. Below you’ll find all the details of Nutrafol’s shipping policy:

• Ships for free within the US
• Offers international shipping
• Delivery in 3-7 business days (US)
• Tracking included
• Available from partner retailers (Amazon, Walmart, etc.)

With Nutrafol, you have 30 days from the date of receipt to return your products. The brand does not accept returns on used products, so your items will need to be in the same condition you received them (packaging and all).

Viviscal’s money-back guarantee is ultra appealing. Being able to try out a product risk-free is always a winning strategy. But though this policy is alluring, depending on where you live, Nutrafol may be your best option as it ships to international locations. Plus, free shipping is a great perk.

Both alluring policies, your pick may depend on which brand matches your needs better.

Who Will You Shop With?

Now that it’s all said and done, this Viviscal vs Nutrafol review will leave you to make your final decision. Whichever one you choose, you know you’re getting a clinically-tested formula that’s proven to work. Of course, results do vary, but there’s a comfort in knowing that both pack in effective, potent ingredients.

Viviscal has been around for over 30 years. Its drug-free formula and nourishing hair care are used by those looking for a natural alternative to conventional hair growth products. Loved by customers and extremely affordable, it’s a smart solution for something that’s designed to be used long term.

Nutrafol products are slightly more expensive, but they also have a wider spectrum of plant-based medical-grade ingredients, vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, and antioxidants inside. It’s like getting a nutritional supplement alongside one for hair growth. With the option to have a more targeted, custom approach, its products can come alongside an on-call doctor and virtual meeting with a dermatologist.

What means most to you? Clinical proof and low prices or a whole-body health approach and a dermatologist recommendation? The choice is yours.

---

Check out some similar reviews you might find useful:

Prose Hair Care Review

HAIRtamin Review

Hair Club Review