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Nutrafol is an oral supplement for hair loss that uses naturally sourced botanicals in its products. The company offers several options depending on a person’s needs.
Nutraceutical Wellness Inc. manufactures the oral supplement Nutrafol, which it claims can address thinning hair. It markets versions for:
The company also makes a line of Nutrafol boosters that it has developed to address specific underlying causes of hair loss and thinning. These causes are:
Nutrafol offers supplements for males and females.
Women’s supplements
Below, we look at the range of products Nutrafol offers for females.
Men’s supplements
Below are all of Nutrafol’s products for males.
Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of Nutrafol.
Nutrafol contains “nutraceuticals.” Although there is no formal definition of a nutraceutical, a widely used description is “a food or part of a food that provides medical or health benefits.”
The manufacturer uses a proprietary approach to collect nutraceuticals, which reportedly makes them easier for the body to use and allows the company to provide a standardized dose.
The manufacturer claims that Nutrafol supports hair growth by helping the body work against contributing hair-thinning factors.
As many factors contribute to hair thinning and hair loss, the company says a multifaceted approach is necessary to address these issues.
A 2022 study found that Nutrafol capsules successfully improved hair growth and reduced shedding in males and females. Over 6 months, males saw an 83.7% improvement, and females experienced a 79.5% improvement in hair density, volume, growth, and coverage.
Hormonal hair loss
DHT is a hormone that, in high levels, can cause hair loss. This hormone is most common in males, although it is also present in females. DHT binds to receptors in the hair follicles, which causes shrinkage and hair loss or thinning.
High DHT levels are common in people with androgenic alopecia, or male pattern hair loss. Saw palmetto, an ingredient in Nutrafol, may have properties that can help reduce DHT levels in the body.
However, a 2020 review points out that many saw palmetto products also contain vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients, which makes it difficult to determine the effectiveness of saw palmetto alone.
Stress-related hair loss
Hair loss may occur as a result of intense stress. This hair loss may resolve once the person is out of the stressful situation.
One of Nutrafol’s ingredients is ashwagandha, which research suggests may help manage stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha can reduce serum cortisol levels — the hormone responsible for stress — alongside serum C-reactive proteins and blood pressure.
Metabolism-related hair loss
Conditions that affect the metabolism, such as thyroid conditions, hormone imbalances, and inflammation, can affect hair growth.
Nutrafol contains curcumin, a polyphenol with many properties that may benefit health. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may help protect against chronic conditions such as diabetes.
Reducing metabolic stress may help increase hair growth.
Nutrafol’s products are for males and females with thinning hair due to age or stress. The company also sells postpartum supplements and supplements for those who are nursing.
Nutrafol states that individuals can take its supplements to reduce the risk of hair becoming thin.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredits Nutraceutical Wellness, Inc., and awards the company a B grade. The BBB gives the company 1.15 stars out of a possible 5, based on 34 customer reviews.
On Trustpilot, Nutrafol scores 1.8 stars out of a possible 5, based on 63 reviews.
Positive online reviews state that Nutrafol’s supplements are multitargeting, contain naturally sourced botanicals, and do not contain drugs.
Some less favorable comments include unnoticeable effects for months due to the growth rate of the hair, difficulties with shipping, and the expense of the products. Some customers were still receiving charges after trying to cancel a subscription.
Nutrafol states that its products should not cause side effects and should not affect a person’s libido.
However, according to 2019 research, people who consume kelp, one of Nutrafol’s active ingredients, may develop hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Edible seaweeds such as kelp may also contain harmful metals, such as lead, aluminum, or cadmium.
Learn about heavy metal tests.
Saw palmetto is also present in these supplements. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that this ingredient may cause headaches or digestive symptoms. Doctors may not recommend it for those who are pregnant or nursing.
The FDA classifies Nutrafol as a supplement, not a medication. As a result, the FDA regulates it as a food rather than a medication. A 2020 review of hair, nail, and skin supplements raised concerns about this, as manufacturers do not have to demonstrate a product’s efficacy or safety prior to releasing it into the market.
As with all supplements, anyone considering taking Nutrafol should first discuss it with a doctor.
Researchers have noted that some Nutrafol ingredients can cause health issues when people take the supplements in large quantities for extended periods. Pregnant people should also use caution and consult a member of their healthcare team before taking Nutrafol.
The ingredients that a person should monitor include:
In general, Nutrafol offers the following payment options:
One-time price: This covers the cost of one bottle, which is $88 for most products.
Monthly delivery: Monthly deliveries cost $79 per month for most products. Individuals receive a 1-month supply of treatment and may also benefit from free consultations.
3- or 6-month delivery: People who opt for this plan receive a 3-month supply of their chosen supplements alongside free doctor consultations. Prices start from around $330. Individuals can pause or cancel their subscriptions at any time.
Many different products supposedly treat hair loss, but there is limited scientific evidence to back many of the claims the manufacturers make. This is one of the ways in which Nutrafol differs from its competitors.
The FDA has approved two medications for treating hair loss: minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia). Clinical studies show that minoxidil prolongs certain phases of hair growth while finasteride slows hair loss and promotes hair regrowth. However, the side effects associated with these drugs include:
People can purchase minoxidil and finasteride from companies such as Hims, Hers, and Roman.
Viviscal is another dietary supplement. Similar to Nutrafol, this product aims to provide the nutrients the body needs to support all stages of hair growth. The company also sells “densifying” shampoo, conditioner, and elixir.
Nutrafol vs. competitor comparison
The following table compares Nutrafol to the above alternatives.
Hair loss can be hereditary or age-related, but there are many other causes, including:
Despite the multiple factors that can cause hair loss, many treatments are available for the condition, ranging from shampoos and scalp treatments to hair transplants and supplements, such as Nutrafol.
To get optimal results from any hair loss treatment, a person should address any underlying causes and seek advice from a doctor.
A person can consult a doctor if they are concerned about their hair health or wish to try a new product.
They should also seek medical advice if they develop any of the following symptoms:
sudden hair loss
patches of hair loss
scalp itching
losing hair in clumps
The United Kingdom’s National Health Service explains that doctors can determine the cause of hair loss and suggest the right treatment plan for the individual’s needs.
There is little evidence to support consistent results across all Nutrafol products, and some of the existing evidence does not appear to be wholly impartial.
It is important to note that what works for one person might not work for another. Individuals should discuss any hair loss treatments with a qualified medical professional beforehand.
Users and researchers have generally found Nutrafol to be safe. However, some Nutrafol ingredients may interfere with medical tests, worsen bleeding conditions, or increase the risk of congenital abnormalities. As a result, a person should practice caution, particularly if they are pregnant.
Nutrafol products are available for purchase online.
According to the company, it may take around 3–6 months before a person notices any visible results from taking Nutrafol.
Rogaine contains minoxidil, an FDA-approved medication that is effective for male and female pattern hair loss. There have been more scientific studies on the effectiveness of this medication.
Hair loss is a widespread condition that can have a significant effect on some people’s quality of life. Many different factors can combine to cause hair loss, including hereditary genes, hormones, and stress.
Nutrafol is a supplement made from nutraceuticals. The manufacturer claims it is specially formulated to provide a person with the nutrition their body needs to support hair growth.
Limited clinical studies show that Nutrafol may moderately help hair loss. However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for hair loss. Discussing different forms of treatment with a doctor may help a person find the best approach for them.
