Viviscal vs Nutrafol: Which Hair Growth Supplement Works Better

If you want a proven formula backed by clinical studies and trusted for years, Viviscal is best.

If you’re looking for a modern, holistic supplement that targets stress, hormones, and nutrition, Nutrafol could be the better choice.

Introduction

Hair loss can feel frustrating. You spend hours online searching for solutions, and two names keep popping up: Viviscal and Nutrafol. Both claim to help with hair growth, but which one is actually worth your money?

Let’s break it down in a simple, honest way.

About Companies

Viviscal has been around for more than 25 years. It’s owned by Church & Dwight (the same company behind brands like Arm & Hammer). That tells you it’s not a small startup but a widely recognized brand.

Nutrafol, on the other hand, is newer. Founded in 2016, it quickly became popular and was acquired by Unilever. Nutrafol has positioned itself as a wellness brand, blending science with holistic health.

How They Work

Both products aim to support hair growth, but they approach it differently.

• Viviscal focuses mainly on nutrition with its proprietary AminoMar® complex, a marine-based protein blend that nourishes hair from within.

• Nutrafol takes a broader approach, targeting multiple causes of hair thinning such as stress, hormones, inflammation, and nutrition gaps.

Key Ingredients Compared

Let’s talk about what’s inside.

Viviscal includes:

• AminoMar® marine complex (protein blend from fish)
• Biotin (supports keratin production)
• Vitamin C and Zinc (boost collagen and immunity)
• Iron (important for oxygen transport to hair follicles)

Nutrafol includes:

• Saw Palmetto (helps block DHT, a hormone linked to hair thinning)
• Ashwagandha (stress management)
• Curcumin (anti-inflammatory)
• Marine collagen, Biotin, Zinc, and other vitamins

The difference is clear. Viviscal keeps it simple with a handful of nutrients, while Nutrafol loads up on adaptogens, botanicals, and vitamins for a more holistic effect.

Who They’re Made For

Viviscal is marketed mainly for women with thinning hair, though there is also a Viviscal Man version. It’s especially popular among women post-pregnancy, during menopause, or those experiencing age-related thinning.

Nutrafol has more tailored formulas:

• Women’s Balance (for perimenopause and menopause)
• Postpartum (for new moms)
• Men (to fight hormonal hair loss)
• Women’s Vegan (fish-free option)

If you want a supplement that feels personalized, Nutrafol gives you more choices.

Do They Actually Work?

Here’s what research says:

• Viviscal: Multiple clinical studies have shown that Viviscal users experience thicker hair and reduced shedding after 3–6 months of consistent use. Many dermatologists recommend it.
• Nutrafol: Also clinically tested. Studies suggest it helps improve hair density and reduces shedding within 3–6 months. It’s often praised for addressing stress and hormonal triggers.

Both work but patience is key. Neither will give you instant results. You need to stick with them for at least 3–6 months to see real changes.

Pricing

This is where things get interesting.

• Viviscal costs around $40–50 per month (60 tablets, 2 per day).
• Nutrafol costs around $79 per month (120 capsules, 4 per day).

So Nutrafol is almost double the price. That higher cost reflects the broader range of ingredients, but for some people, it’s simply too expensive long-term.

Possible Side Effects

Both are generally safe, but here’s what you should know:

• Viviscal contains fish-based ingredients, so it’s not suitable if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or allergic to seafood.
• Nutrafol is plant-based (except for marine collagen in some versions) and may be easier to tolerate. However, some people report mild stomach upset or nausea from taking 4 capsules at once.

Always check with your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.

Customer Reviews

What real users say often tells more than studies.

• Viviscal users often mention seeing noticeable regrowth at the hairline and crown after 3 months. Many also report stronger nails as a bonus.
• Nutrafol users praise reduced shedding and fuller hair volume. Some also say their stress levels improved, thanks to ingredients like Ashwagandha.

That said, not everyone sees results. Genetics, lifestyle, and overall health play a huge role.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Viviscal Pros:

• Backed by decades of use and studies
• Cheaper than Nutrafol
• Easy-to-take 2 tablets a day
• Trusted by dermatologists

Viviscal Cons:

• Contains fish (not vegan-friendly)
• Formula is less comprehensive

Nutrafol Pros:

• Holistic approach (stress, hormones, nutrition)
• Vegan option available
• Multiple targeted formulas
• Clinically tested with positive results

Nutrafol Cons:

• Expensive (nearly $80/month)
• Requires 4 capsules daily
• Some users see slower results

So, Which One Should You Choose?

• Pick Viviscal if you want an affordable, proven supplement that focuses on nutrition and you’re okay with marine-based ingredients.
• Pick Nutrafol if you’re willing to spend more on a comprehensive, wellness-focused formula that tackles stress and hormones too.

At the end of the day, both work. The choice comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and personal needs.

Final Thoughts

Hair growth supplements aren’t magic pills. But they can support your body in creating healthier, stronger hair.

If you choose Viviscal, you’re leaning on a trusted, straightforward formula. If you go with Nutrafol, you’re embracing a modern, holistic approach.

Whichever you pick, consistency matters more than anything else. Take them daily, give it time, and pair them with a healthy lifestyle. Your hair deserves patience.

FAQ

Can I take Viviscal or Nutrafol if I’m on prescription meds?

Both are generally safe, but always check with your doctor. Nutrafol’s saw palmetto and ashwagandha could potentially interact with blood thinners or hormone medications, so consult a physician. Viviscal’s main risk is fish allergy (not a “medication” interaction, but an allergy alert).

Are these FDA-approved treatments?

No. Both are dietary supplements, not FDA-approved hair-loss drugs. They are regulated as foods. Claims must be supported by “competent evidence”, but no FDA drug trials are required.

How long before I see results?

Typically at least 3 months, often closer to 6 months for full effect. The brands’ clinical studies measured outcomes at 3-6 monthspmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.govpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. If no change after ~6 months, it may not work for you.

Can pregnant or nursing women take them?

Usually not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical approval. Ingredients like saw palmetto (Nutrafol) and shark collagen (Viviscal) lack pregnancy safety data. Better to wait or use doctor-supervised prenatal vitamins instead.

Are Viviscal or Nutrafol vegan?

Viviscal is not vegan (marine collagen from fish/shellfish). Nutrafol has a vegan formulation for women (no fish collagen); other Nutrafol formulas contain marine collagen but are free of dairy, gluten, soy. Always check labels for allergens.

Which is better for male-pattern baldness?

Nutrafol Men includes saw palmetto and has more DHT-blocking action, making it more targeted for androgenetic alopecia. Viviscal Men provides collagen nutrition, which may help overall hair health but lacks hormonal ingredients. For classic male-pattern loss, combining both Nutrafol Men (or finasteride/minoxidil) might yield better results.

Can Viviscal cause hair growth on my face/body?

Unlikely. Viviscal is not a hormone; it simply nourishes follicles. According to the maker, if you don’t lose hair in unwanted areas (e.g. face), it shouldn’t cause new growth there. No widespread reports of facial hair from Viviscal.

Why are these supplements so expensive?

They contain patented, concentrated ingredient blends (marine extracts, adaptogens, high-grade vitamins) and have been tested in clinical trials. Nutrafol’s price also reflects heavy marketing and physician networks. Cheaper multi-vitamins exist, but these brands bundle many specific actives and fund research, which adds cost.

What if I miss a dose?

Missing a day or two won’t harm you, but try not to make it a habit. Hair growth is a slow process; irregular dosing may delay seeing results. Restart your daily regimen as soon as possible.

Do they come with a satisfaction guarantee?

Nutrafol offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on their site. Viviscal does not have an official refund policy through retail, but some sellers (like some online pharmacies) offer return windows. Always check the retailer’s return policy before buying.