Update 4/7/24. Does Viviscal help thinning hair grow thicker and stronger or is it a scam? Viviscal is one of the best-known hair growth supplements. And for good reason. There are several clinical studies on this dietary supplement. In this review, you will learn about the research on ViviScal to help you decide if it really works or not. In addition, I'll address the side effects some people are reporting. Does it really work? Let's see.
Viviscal Ingredients
According to the Supplement Facts label, 1 tablet of Viviscal Extra Strength has the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount per serving | Percent Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Total Carbohydrates | <1 g | <1% DV |
| Vitamin C | 59 mg | 98% DV |
| Niacinamide (Niacin) | 12 mg | 60% DV |
| Biotin | 120 micrograms | 40% DV |
| Iron | 10 mg | 56% DV |
| Zinc | 11 mg | 73% DV |
| AminoMar Marine Complex | 450 mg | N/A |
| Horsetail Extract | 36.7 mg | N/A |
| Millet Seed Extract | 7.5 mg | N/A |
No prescription is needed to buy Viviscal.
AminoMar Marine Complex
The AminoMar complex is said to be the main key ingredient. The AminoMar Marine Complex is composed of:
- Shark Powder (shark cartilage)
- Mollusk Powder (from Oysters)
What parts of sharks and mollusks are used in Viviscal, I can't say. But, these ingredients do come from “sustainable marine sources.”
I called the company that makes the supplement and was informed shark cartilage is part of the AminoMar complex. The name “AminoMar” complex is the name the company gives to the shark and mollusk powder combination.
Horsetail Extract
The scientific name for this is Equisetum arvense. While they don't tell us what extract of horsetail Viviscal contains, we are told it comes from the stem. What I can say is that when I searched the National Library of Medicine for “Horsetail and hair growth” and “Equisetum arvense and hair” no studies showed up.
Horsetail does appear to have some anti-inflammatory properties and I wonder if this might help “support” hair growth. I am speculating about this.
Millet Seed Extract
The scientific name for this is Sorghum bicolor. It's also called “broom corn,” a reference I believe comes from when this stuff was used to make brooms. The role it plays in human hair growth, I can't say.
Vitamin C
I located one study on vitamin C and hair growth. Technically this study was on a vitamin C-like compound called L ascorbic acid 2 phosphate. Basically, the compound caused the elongation of hair shafts in mice and also in isolated hair follicles in a test tube.
This is intriguing but as far as can be determined by this reporter, no study has shown that L ascorbic acid 2 phosphate caused hair growth in a human. What about vitamin C itself? Does vitamin C grow hair? Well, it does help us make collagen. Collagen is a protein in our hair. But, I could not find any direct proof for vitamin C supplements promoting hair growth.
Viviscal Before & After Proof
See the research and before and after pictures
Watch on my Youtube channel if you prefer
Niacinamide
This is the type of niacin found in the product. My guess is niacinamide is used because it does not cause facial flushing and redness.
Some may have heard of an anti-aging supplement called nicotinamide riboside (NR). While NR is not in Viviscal, it does contain one of its building blocks – niacinamide.
See the nicotinamide riboside review for more on that supplement.
Biotin
Biotin, a B vitamin (sometimes called vitamin H) is found in many shampoos and other hair products. While a lack of biotin may lead to hair loss in some people, I'm not convinced that most of us are lacking in it because many foods provide it. Bacteria inside of us can make it too. Either way, while a lack of biotin might lead to hair loss, I'm not aware of any evidence that biotin supplements grow hair.
Iron and Zinc
Viviscal provides a good amount of both of these minerals and both of these minerals have been linked to hair loss. For more on this see this review of iron and hair loss and zinc and hair loss.
There is a Viviscal for Men but it does not have iron. I think this is wise because too much iron may not be healthy for men.
Other Ingredients
Viviscal also contains these “other ingredients” according to the product website:
- Microcrystalline cellulose
- Maltodextrin
- Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose
- Silicon dioxide
- Magnesium stearate
- Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose
- Glycerol
- Artificial orange flavoring
- Modified starch
Ingredients are listed in order as they occur as they appear on the label. These ingredients don't play any role in the hair growth benefits of Viviscal.
ViviScal Research
Let’s review the Viviscal research next.
Pilot Study #1 (not published)
Study title. “A 10-week pilot consumer perception test to evaluate the overall acceptability of a viviscal oral supplement when used by females with self-perceived thinning hair.”
This study involved 40 women and lasted 40 weeks. Results indicate that Viviscal reduces hair loss by 46%.
Problems with this study. This investigation does not seem to be a published peer-reviewed study Also, it's said they started with 40 women, but only 16 completed the study. Why did so many drop out? This high dropout rate reduces the significance of the study.
Clinical Study #2
Researchers in Finland published what appears to be the very first published Viviscal clinical study. The investigation lasted 6 months and involved 40 young men. Half the people got ViviScal and half received a placebo (fish extract).
After 6 months, those taking Viviscal had a 38% increase in non-vellus hair (in other words hair that’s not “peach fuzz”). Those getting the placebo saw a 2% increase in non-vellus hair. That's pretty good.
Clinical Study #3
Study title. Treatment of Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis and Alopecia Universalis with Oral Viviscal® for 12 months.
This study appears to have been conducted in 1994.
Study problem. This does not seem to be a published, peer-reviewed study.
Clinical Study #4
Revista Brasileira de Medicina. 1997. Vol 53; No. 3; p 1-5. Pareira, Jose Marcos.
This study does not appear to be in English and can’t be located.
From what I could gather, researchers looked at 200 men with male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). After 6 months of ViviScal treatment, 75.3% had decreased hair loss. 14.6% of men showed partial hair re-growth.
2012 Study
Researchers in the US conducted a small study of 10 women aged 21-75 years of age who had thinning hair. The women took either Viviscal (10 women in this group) or a placebo (5 women in this group) twice a day for 6 months.
After 6 months, those taking Viviscal showed significantly more hair growth compared to the placebo group, which showed more hair loss. Those taking Viviscal also reported more hair shine and skin improvements.
2015 Study
This investigation lasted 3 months and involved 60 women (21-65 years of age) who were either given Viviscal Extra Strength (2x per day) or a placebo. After 3 months of use, women who took Viviscal:
- Had more hair in the areas of their scalps measured
- Had less hair shedding
Women also reported they felt better also. It's possible they felt better because their new hair growth helped their confidence and outlook on life.
2016 Study
This investigation involved men with thinning hair. For 6 months, 60 men with thinning hair were given either a placebo or ViviScal. After 6 months, men taking the supplement were shown to have significant improvements in
- total hairs counted
- density of hairs
- more terminal hairs (terminal hairs are the thick hair on the head)
When researchers performed the “hair pull test' fewer hairs were removed. This appears to show ViviScal strengthened hair too.
See the video review of ViviScal for before and after pictures.
Summary of Research
Here is a quick summary of the research. Refer to the studies above to see their specifics.
| Study | Study Results |
|---|---|
| Pilot Study (unpublished) | Viviscal works |
| 1992 study | Viviscal works |
| 1997 study | Viviscal works |
| 2012 study | Viviscal works |
| 2015 study | Viviscal works |
| 2016 study | Viviscal works |
Viviscal vs. Viviscal Extra Strength
There are different types of Viviscal. When I called Viviscal, I was told that this mostly has to do with the number of Amino Mar complexes they have. Here are the differences between them:
- Viviscal Extra Strength: 450 mg
- Viviscal For Men: 450 mg
- Viviscal Professional: 475 mg
When I called the company, I was told the professional version (Viviscal Pro) was not to be sold to the public. it's only available through doctors or salons.
Viviscal For Men
I get a lot of questions about which hair growth supplements are best for men. Here are the ingredients in Viviscal Extra Strength vs. Viviscal For Men side by side:
| Viviscal Extra Strength | Viviscal For Men |
|---|---|
| Total carbs <1g (<1%DVP | Total carbs <1 g (<1%DV) |
| Vitamin C 59 mg (98%DV) | Vitamin C 30 mg (50% DV) |
| Niacin 12 mg (60% DV) | Zinc 8 mg (53% DV) |
| Biotin 120 mcg (40% DV) | N/A |
| Iron 10 mg (56% DV) | N/A |
| Zinc 11 mg (73% DV) | 8 mg (53% DV) |
| Amino Mar Complex 450 mg | Amino Mar Complex 452.9 mg |
| Horsetail 36.7 mg | Horsetail 24.5 mg |
| Millet seed 7.5 mg | N/A |
| Flaxseed extract 50 mg |
In the table above % DV = percent daily value. “N/A” = does not contain that nutrient.
As can be seen, both the men's and women's versions are very similar. They both have the same key ingredients. In fact, the Male version has a tad more of the Amino Mar Marine complex and Horsetail extract compared to Viviscal Extra Strength. Also, note that Millet Seed Extract has been replaced with Flaxseed Extract in the Men's version. I liked that the Men's version did not contain iron. Too much iron might not be good for men.
Bottom line: I believe men could take the women's version and have the same results as if they took the men's version. Since the men's version may be more expensive, this is something to consider.
Viviscal vs. The Competition
Let's now take a look at how the supplement stacks up to other popular hair growth supplements.
Viviscal vs. Nutrafol
Nutrafol is another very popular hair supplement. Like Viviscal, there is a version for men and women. Nutrafol is said to work by reducing inflammation and inhibiting a hormone called DHT. Nutrafol has more ingredients than Viviscal. Nutrafol does have 1 clinical study showing it might work. So which is better? It would be nice to see a head-to-head comparison of Nutrafol vs.
Viviscal. I won't hold my breath for that to happen anytime soon.
Watch this video: Nutrafol vs. Viviscal
Viviscal vs. Provillus
The Provillus website (Provillus.com) states that it is “Clinically Proven and FDA Approved.” And they are correct. It is. This is because Provillus is minoxidil (Rogaine), the hair growth drug we've all heard of. Provillus is not a supplement. Provillus is a 5% solution of minoxidil that's applied topically to the scalp. It's no different than any other kind of minoxidil you've seen.
In theory, Viviscal might work better with minoxidil. They both have studies showing they can help women and men. Fortunately, Rogaine (minoxidil) is available without a prescription and it's not too expensive.
Viviscal vs. Keranique
Keranique is touted as a hair growth system. There is Keranique shampoo, conditioner, Keranique Regrowth Treatment, and hair spray. The Keranique Regrowth Treatment contains “the only FDA-approved and clinically proven non-prescription ingredient to regrow hair and revitalize hair follicles.” It does – the ingredient is minoxidil (Rogaine). Keranique may be a fine product that can help support hair growth, but it's the minoxidil in it that regrows hair.
While there are no head-to-head studies comparing Viviscal to Keranique, in theory, they may work better together when combined with the minoxidil in Keranique's Regrowth Treatment serum.
Viviscal vs. Halo Beauty
Halo Beauty is a skin, nails, and hair supplement by YouTube star Tati Westbrook. Halo Beauty is a combination of various vitamins, herbs, and other compounds. While there is a little crossover between these two supplements (Halo Beauty has vitamin C and horsetail, too), it doesn't have the Amino Mar complex. So, how they stack up to each other is unknown.
Viviscal vs. Joyome
Joyome is an anti-wrinkle cream developed by the makers of Plexus Slim. As far as it can be determined, Joyome has no effects on hair growth or hair loss. As such, I don't think these products are comparable to each other. Here's my video review of Plexus Joyome:
Viviscal Side Effects
I believe Viviscal is safe for healthy people. Few side effects and adverse reactions have been reported. Here is a brief list of things to consider when taking this supplement. This list is not complete:
- Start with less than is recommended for the first week to see how you respond.
- Speak to your doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Stop taking at least 2 weeks before having surgery.
- Show the supplement to your pharmacist if you take any prescription medications like blood thinners.
- Avoid this supplement if you are vegan.
- Speak to your doctor first if you are allergic to fish. Viviscal contains shark cartilage and mollusk powder.
- Viviscal has iron and vitamin C. Speak to your doctor if you have hemochromatosis (iron overload disease).
- There's no good proof that Viviscal causes liver damage. However, if you have liver disease, speak to your doctor first.
In “scientific study #1” summarized above, there is mention of a study participant getting headaches which caused the person to drop out of the study. In the Pdf file of this study – which you can view on the Viviscal website – they make reference to “Appendix V” which lists the reasons why people dropped out of the study. Unfortunately, Appendix V is not part of the Pdf file.
Viviscal And Sleep Problems
If you read the comments below, you'll notice several people reporting that Viviscal may cause insomnia. I saw no mention of insomnia in any of the Viviscal clinical studies so it's not known how common this is.
Horsetail does contain small amounts of nicotine. It's very little, but could this cause sleep problems? I can't say. For more on this topic, read the comments section below.
Does Viviscal Contain Mercury?
I called the company that makes this supplement – Church & Dwight Co. I was told that Viviscal does not contain mercury. The controversy over this involves shark cartilage powder. Previous research has noted that shark cartilage supplements may contain toxic mercury. But this doesn't mean Viviscal has mercury. When I called the Viviscal company, I was told their latest testing showed levels of mercury were 0.02 mg per kg, which is lower than the amount permitted by both US and EU standards.
I was also told the version of Viviscal sold on Amazon does not contain any mercury at all. It's at a zero level. This is because of the rules Amazon must follow when shipping internationally. Church and Dwight formulates a different version for Amazon that does not contain any shark cartilage, a source of mercury. Because the Amazon version does not contain shark cartilage, this means it also does not contain any mercury.
Does Viviscal Contain BMAA?
β-Methylamino-L-alanine, also known as BMAA, is a brain toxin that is produced by some types of bacteria (called cyanobacteria) and other microorganisms. BMAA has been implicated in the development of Parkinson's disease and ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). Because BMAA has been found in shellfish, this is of concern to some who use Viviviscal. Thankfully, this is not a problem. I called the Church & Dwight company and asked about the amount of BMAA in Viviscal. I was told Viviscal does not contain any BMAA.
Viviscal And Gaining Weight
Some people have also reported Viviscal has caused them to gain weight. None of the studies reported this side effect. I am not sure how common weight gain side effect is or if it might be a fluke? See the comments for more on this.
Who Makes Viviscal?
Viviscal is sold by Lifes2good (Lifes2Good.com), a company that markets many health and beauty products. While the global corporate office is located in Ireland, in the US, they can be found at 355 N Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606. They also have an office in London.
Lifes2Good is part of a larger company called Church & Dwight Co., Inc, located in New Jersey. This organization has several familiar brands including OxyClean, Kaboom, Orajel, and even Arm & Hammer Baking Soda. Church and Dwight is a publicly-traded company (stock symbol CHD).
I was told they are phasing out the Lifs2good name and just using Church & Dwight in the future.
The Lifes2good company has been in business since 1997 according to the Better Business Bureau. The BBB gave this company a rating of A+ when this review was updated. See the BBB file for updates and more information.
Church and Dwight has an D rating with the BBB. See the BBB file for updates and more information.
Contact Viviscal
According to the company website, customer support can be reached at 877-333-4581. The Better Business Bureau also provides this number: 312-454-6167. The address for Viviscal is 355 N Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606-1207. The product website states the supplement is made in Ireland.
Church and Dwight, which now owns Viviscal, is located at 500 Charles Ewing Blvd Princeton South Corporate Center Trenton, NJ 08628-3448. The phone number is 609-683-5900.
Finola Hughes And ViviScal
Previously, actress Finola Hughes has appeared in Viviscal ads. She is listed on the website as a spokesperson. I assume this means she’s a paid spokesperson.
Viviscal And Molly Sims
Actress, model, and author Molly Sims is also a spokesperson. She is listed as a 20-year user of Viviscal. Her story of how she started losing her hair in her 20s is on the product website. I assume she is a paid spokesperson.
Buy Viviscal
This supplement is VERY popular and can be purchased at a wide range of stores like Walgreens, Costco, BJs, Sam's Club, Walmart, CVS, Rite Aid, Ulta, and Target as well as on Amazon. Here is Viviscal on Amazon
Viviscal Cost
Viviscal extra strength costs $99 per bottle according to the supplement's website. There is also a scalp lotion which is $19.99 but it doesn't have the same ingredients as the pill– and there is no good proof that the scalp lotion helps re-grow hair. The same thing is true for Viviscal shampoo and other products.
My advice: stick with Viviscal tablets. Don't worry about the shampoo or scalp lotion.
Interestingly, the shampoo does not contain caffeine, which is part of Thicker Fuller Hair I reviewed previously.
Viviscal Elite
The Elite supplement contains an auto-ship program where they send you a 90-day supply every 3 months (90 days) so you don't run out. Shipping is free with the Elite program and some free gifts are included also. It looks like the Elite program is for combo products. There seems to be no proof the Elite program offers clinically proven advanges over the regular viviscal formula.
Viviscal Pro & Con
| Pro | Con |
| Supplement has research | May take 3-6 months to see changes |
| All studies show it works | |
| Company supports studies | |
| The company is well known | |
| Reports show no side effects | |
| Seems to work in women and men |
Other Hair Products
Several people have told me that they have gotten good results using a product called Toppik. This is not a hair growth supplement but rather a fine powder that binds to existing hair, making it look thicker and fuller. I have met people with thinning hair who have used this product, and they give it high marks.
The Church and Dwight Co. now owns Toppik (smart move if you ask me).
Does ViviScal Work?
Viviscal has various clinical studies to prove it grows thinning hair and/or slows hair loss. For the most part, the studies appear to be well done. In the testimonials below, several people have stated it does work. Based on the research and testimonials, this may be something worth trying.
Here's Viviscal on Amazon
Other Hair Growth Supplement Reviews
- Viviscal vs. Nutrafol Review
- PHYTO Re30 Review
- Castor Oil: Does It Grow Hair?
- Gray Hair Supplements Review
- Pseudocatalase Review
- Halo Beauty Review
- Amla Fruit and Hair Growth Review
- Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
- Hair Essentials Review
- Rosemary oil for Balding and Regrowing Hair (video)
Hi joe, can you make sense of this. My dad went bald before he was 20, I’m 34 and my hair has gone thinner but not drastic my brothers aren’t bald either. I usually shave my head paranoid maybe of my hair looking like a combover.
I recently took a course of testosterone I’m a bodybuilder when I finished my course my natural test levels dropped a lot.
While my test levels dropped my hair thickened up and grew really fast back normal.
Four months on my testosterone levels are back to normal and my hair has become thinners again. Any theories??
Thanks dean
Dean, have you ever been to an endocrinologist or dermatologist? Testosterone can play a role in hair loss. I wonder as your levels fell this was reflected in less hair loss or hair growth? Just speculating. I’ve never heard of this happening in a bodybuilder before. Anyone else you know ever experienced this?
Thanks for the reply.
I’ve never been to see anyone about my hair loss. My girlfriend says it’s a vicious circle. I go to the gym because I don’t want to be thin with a shaved head but yet. The more I go,the higher my testosterone goes so my hair thins out more.
I should go see my GP but denial, stops me I kinda don’t want be told by a doctor that I have male pattern baldness. Even though I obviously know.
At the minute I have lots of hair but I know it’s only a matter of time before I have to shave it again. I know this has nothing to do with viviscal. I just hoped somebody may know reasons why. It’s frustrating and odd.
Thanks again. Oh I have never used any hair growth products. I think they’ll be snakes blood. Promising great gains but in reality not working. I have varied but good diet meats greens grains eggs so I don’t think that will be a factor.
Dean it still can’t hurt. At least you’ll have an answer. Try an endocrinologist or dermatologist.
I’m just adding an update; I’ve added 50 mgs of B complex to the viviscal intake.
Other than peeing orange, I hope it helps and cannot hurt.
Robin, the orange color is likely due to the B vitamin, riboflavin. I dont think it will hurt any.
Thanks! I’ve nearly completed my 2nd 20 day supply of Viviscal Professional (tablets) by the way. I will say that less hair appears to be actively falling out, tho it still is, perhaps at a normal rate…however, I will report back monthly. I have also added vitamin D to the mix.
Robin, that sounds like a good sign to me. I will keep my fingers crossed (and everything else too) that the hair loss continues to improve.
Hello. I started taking Viviscal Professional strength about 6 weeks ago at the suggestion of my very astute + open-minded doctor; he is both an traditional practicioner as well as an integrated physician. Several of the women at his office took it and one had fantastic results; the others had just begun.
I am female. 56. In very good health, other than thyroid. I eat no wheat or gluten. No refined sugars. Am a vegetarian.
I have a thyroid condition that is held in check with a natural perscription called Naturthroid. Being an idiot, I decided I didn’t really need it during the summer and simply stopped taking it. Punishment ensued; I was exhausted and suddenly, losing hair.
Ridiculous friends said I need to “eat meat.” I know billions of vegetarians with utterly lovely hair, so that is clearly not going to happen.
I resumed the Naturthroid about 6 weeks ago as well, when I went on Viviscal.
My hair, which had always been very thick and full, had so suddenly it seemed, thinned, become weedy and broken. It was falling out everywhere, all the time it seemed. And I became frantic. So now I’m back on track, hopefully.
My hair was just cut, in the hopes of cleaning off the dead, broken strands. It is though, astonishingly thin and limp. The whole underlayer is missing, the part that gave it depth and made it look healthy. I can see my head thru my hair strands now.
When I put my hair in a bun, it is a feeble little nub (rather than the hefty, hearty bun of the past). My daughter shrieked: “It’s SO SMALL!” (she’s just 10 so has little tact).
So, after 6 weeks on the Viviscal Professional I do believe LESS hair is coming out. However, I do not sense that any new growth is visible or discernable, if it is happening.
As there are so many of us in this horrible position and there are so many money draining products our there, I will be happy to report back as time progresses. By Viviscal’s instructions, if I continue to take 2 per day, I should be seeing something tangible in 6 months.
I hope so. This is breaking my heart, my confidence and making me feel startled and sad when I look in the mirror. Hair is a comfort; it’s a part of ourselves that we take for granted. That’s simply the human condition. And I do so miss that freedom to take hair for granted.
If I were a man I’d certainly shave my head and go cool, hip, disaffected.
But that’s not who I am, so I’m hoping Viviscal is my new bestie.
Thanks for creating and curating this symposium about supplements.
It’s hard to find viable information and interesting to hear other experiences.
By the way, I have been having TERRIBLE problems with getting to sleep at night…now I’ve seen that it might be the Viviscal so I’m not particulary concerned (just tired) and plan to tough it out.
Best wishes to all for health and hair.
Robin, you are very welcome and I hope you start to see new hair growth soon. Keep me posted.
Robin, its my pleasure and I do hope viviscal helps you. Keep me posted on what happens.
Thanks Joe. I will do that on a monthly basis. I don’t understand why there is no single location for this kind of info (obviously, you are making a great effort to do this!)
I would like to add Evening Primrose oil to the Viviscal Professional that I’m taking but there’s no place I know of to check to see if that’s wise; if it can actually help or if the combination of the two is in any way unsafe? (frankly, the sleeplessness from the Viviscal is rough enough but if it works, I’ll deal).
Then I was reading that Zoloft can cause hair loss. The article didn’t expand to say if that was over a long period of time, like years (such as I have taken it) or if that meant for a new user.
In addition, I’m wondering if going to an endocrinologist is a waste of time or a good idea…I went to a dermatologist; she had never heard of Viviscal (alarming, considering her field of work) and she said, “Oh you just have non-scarring alopecia. It’ll eventually grow back.”
When I asked why it was happening (so perhaps I might avoid the cause in the future) she simply shrugged her shoulders.
Me, I’m a problem-solver by nature. I like studies, facts, clarity.
I wanted to punch her in the face but instead I paid my copay and left in a snit.
Viviscal costs approx. $60 a month with a proviso that it takes approx. 6 months to see results (if they are to happen). In the meantime, I’d like to take as much control over this condition as possible and trying to find root causes and productive responses is just making me crazy.
If stress is partly “responsible” for this hair loss/quality of damaged, thinning hair…then the stress over finding answers for the situation is creating a hard to break cycle.
Anyway, thanks for all your research and efforts, and for creating a “landing place” for information to come in from different sources.
Cheers,
Robin
Robin you’re very welcome. That’s odd about the dermatologist not knowing about vibiscal. I first heard about it from a dermatologist on the radio.
Hi,
I have been suffering from hair loss since I was 19 I’m now 35. I have found it very very distressing. All of my levels were normal even went to Harley street but to no avail. I have tried various things nourkrin, thymuskin, saw palmetto, maca etc but nothing has worked.
I started taking Viviscal on 10th November and it is really working for me hair loss has reduced dramatically and i have noticed quite a lot of new hair growth.
After reading the reviews it doesn’t work for everyone but thankfully it is for me. I just wanted to share my experience.
Kelly
Kelly, I’m really glad its helping you!
I’m so pleased it’s working for you.
I’ve nearly completed my first month of Viviscal. However, I am experiencing MORE hair fall (not breakage, but actually coming from the root).
I started out with a full head of hair, but it’s thin, fragile, & doesn’t grow very fast (about 1/4″ per month).
I am noticing new growth around my crown and hairline. But, the old hair is falling at an alarming rate.
I’ve been scouring the reviews to see if anyone else is experiencing the same side effects. But, I haven’t found anyone with the same complaints.
The only evidence I can find is a comment from an expert saying “hair is like teeth,…they need to fall out before new ones can come in”.
I’m stuck deciding if I should stop immediately, or ride it out for a 6-month trial in hopes of faster hair growth.
Deb, have you consulted with a dermatologist (they know about hair) or an endocrinologist (hormone doctor)?
Jon, I haven’t consulted with either yet, as this just started happening when I began Viviscal 1 month ago. I stopped taking it yesterday since what seems like endless amounts of hair are falling out. I’m sticking with Biotin supplements, and I will go back to using Garden of Life ‘Maxi Hair”.
I’ll also take a trip to the Endo, and see what they can find. I’ll keep you posted if anything interesting arises.
Happy New Year!
Deb, thanks and Happy 2015 to you also 🙂
Deb,
I am having the same problem! I’m so glad I found you. I have baby-fine hair to begin with, and was using Biotin up until 3 months ago. I had read somewhere (reviews, probably) that the first month or so on biotin, you may notice your hair coming out, (mine didn’t) but have not read anywhere that it happens when taking viviscal. I have been taking viviscal now for 2 1/2 months and suddenly, I have noticed an extreme amount of hair loss in the crown area.
I’m freaking out…I am on levothyroxine for hypothyroidism (total thyroidectomy 10 years ago) I’m trying desperately to get into an endo doctor but need a referral. Haven’t been to a dermo doc yet but have purchased a hair topper. The problem is – the clips on the topper do more damage to what hair I have left..and in the near future, there won’t be ANY hair left on top.. I am so desperate, depressed..embarrassed… PLEASE keep us informed on your progress… don’t be a stranger.
Ali, are you having trouble getting a referral from your doctor to see an endocrinologist? Why cant you get a referral?
It’s not a problem to GET a referral..I’m just annoyed that I need one…time is of the essence when you are a woman losing your hair…! My insurance doesn’t require a referral, my doctor does.
Ali, oh ok, I understand. I’d say do what you need to do to get to the bottom of this.
Merry Christmas joe, a quick one, do grogranics DHT blocker system head full of hair work? Thanks
Jerome, Im not sure. I haven’t heard of it before. Ill add it to my list and try to get to it in the future. Let me know what happens if you try it.
Hi.
Thanks for this awesome review.
I have naturally thin hair but after weight loss surgery, my hair started falling. I had it long so I cut it (bob short), is less depressing this way. I’m well aware this is a surgery side effect due to the reduced protein and food intake. I’m 5 months post-op and I take my vitamins and proteins daily. I know this process will take time for my hair to stop falling and I try not to think about it but every time I wash my hair I want to scream and cry.
I bought Viviscal for $30 on eBay so It’s not that much to try it out. I have read a lot of positive reviews so I’m hoping it works for me too.
The only problem is that I also bought a shampoo treatment called “High Performance Hair Growth Stimulating Shampoo from Revita” that I started today so I won’t be able to really tell which one is helping.
Merry Xmas to all!
Brendaliz, Merry Christmas to you too! I wonder if the shampoo has minoxidil in it? if not, take a look at getting some of that as it will grow hair.
Hello joe, i saw you advise someone to use a shampoo with midoxil init but correct me if im wrong when you stop using it, all the newly growed hair will fall out, so your basically dependant on it forever?
Jerome honestly I’d just use the minoxidil without the shampoo. Yes one would be dependent on the stuff unless there was some underlying correctable cause to the hair loss.
I used Viviscal for more than nine months a year ago, and it didn’t work for me. I think these supplements work for some and not for others. A lot of it depends on what you put into your body (food and drink) and plenty of sleep. Since you’re trying two different products, you might not be able to tell which one is doing the job. I’ve seen advertisements on television for Rogaine for Women and Keranique. I’m in the same place as you. It seems like my “bald” spots are filling in but I can’t tell which one is doing the job. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Merry Christmas Janey and to everyone else too ! 🙂
Merry Christmas and Happy Healthy 2015 Joe and all.
I’ve been using this product for one year. I’m not seeing any new hair growth, in fact, I’m continually losing more hair. I’ve been taking care of my 95 yr. old mother for 20 months; therefore, I feel my hair loss is due to stress. I’ve had a blood test run and it is normal. I was really hopeful that this product would help. Prior to a year ago, I had thick healthy hair.
Do you have a response?
Marie, I wish I did. Are you taking any medications that might cause this? If you are taking medications, ask your pharmacist if any of them -alone or in combination – might cause hair loss. Another idea is to consult with a dermatologist. They might be able to offer some insights on your hair loss as well.
Believe me, when I say I DO understand some of the stress you are going through with your mom. There is an emotional and psychological stress as well as physical stress too when it comes to caring for an ailing parent. That said, I am so happy that your mom is still alive at 95 years old. My grandmother lived to 104 (and a half) and while it was hard to see her decline during the last year of her life, I have so many great memories of her and the amazing stories she would tell (like when the Titanic Sank!). While it’s never easy to see hair loss (I’ve had my share of it too), you have a privilege that few others have and I’m really glad for you. You are a great daughter and human being. I know your mom appreciates everything you are doing for her.
I used Viviscal for almost a year and didn’t see any results. I went to my doctor first to determine if I had any medical reasons that could be the cause of my thinning hair. Luckily, the answer was no. I think these products work for some and not at all for others. Be aware of your diet and eat leafy greens. That’s one remedy and stop worrying so much about your hair. I know that’s difficult, but worrying won’t help.
There are so many different remedies including supplements out there. You just have to try a few for a reasonable amount of time to see what works best. If none work, prayer is always good.
Ive been reading about jojoba oil, does this have any health benefits for thinning hair?
Michel, Im not aware of any good proof that jojoba oil helps hair grow or helps it look thicker? I don’t think it will hurt to try. If its helped you, let me know.
Any more news on saw palmetto and its uses for hair regrowth?
Jerome, nothing new that I’ve come across. Anyone else hear if anything?
In response to my hair loss…lots of it…by the roots….freaked me out big time…no family history of this..I went to 2 dermologists. The first one told me to use Rogaine for men..I am a 67 yr. old female. She said it would take six months to know if it works…if it works she told me to keep using it. She also said I could continue to color my hair. The second dermatologist recommended Viviscal professional strength. She of course sells the product from the office. A discount is available if purchasing more than one box at a time. She told me to drink more water and to cut down on sugar. She also advised me NOT to color my hair.
I noticed Viviscal extra strength is available at CVS. I learned on the web that Professional strength does not contain iron. On a subsequent visit when I asked the dermatologist the difference between Extra Strength and Professional Strength she told me the Professional Strength had more of the proprietary ingredient. When I specifically indicated I understood Professional Strength did not contain iron she confirmed this. Why didn’t she just tell me that in the first place?
I have been taking Viviscal for 12 weeks. I am experiencing less and less hair loss. Before if I just rubbed my hand over my head I got a handful of hair. I was collecting bags of my hair. I am not having sleep problems. When I mentioned I had heard some folks had problems with headaches, the dermatologist suggested taking both pills at night. But, since I’m not having headaches I continue to take one morning/one evening.
I would prefer not to take Viviscal simply because I don’t really know the ingredients totally. I would like not to take professional strength because it’s expensive. I am afraid to switch to another product or to a different strength. I called the Viviscal company and the woman with whom I spoke seemed surprised/unaware PROFESSIONAL strength is available through Amazon. But, I will keep using until my next visit with the dermatologist in March.
I am relieved to see my hair coming back. I know fall-out might happen again. I recommend calling the Viviscal hot-line (number is on the box) for answers if necessary. However, keep in mind the company is in the biz of making $$$.
Good luck to all finding hair-loss solutions.
Karen, thanks for writing and for what its worth, I am really glad it is helping you.
Hi, ive been on accutane for 5 months and i am starting to notice hair loss… im panicking… im 29 years old woman and im freaking out. Will this product stop my hair loss.?
Dav, its hard to say. best advice is first talk to your doctor about what might be causing your hair loss. Maybe its accutane or maybe its something else. Some people here say viviscal help and others say not so much. Get to your doctor is your best first step.
If you’re losing your hair at 29, you should definitely speak with your doctor. It could be a lot of things going on. If you’re on medication of some sort, that can have an effect on your hair. I used Viviscal for almost a year and saw no change but that doesn’t mean it won’t work for you. I think different products work best for different people.
After checking with your doctor and it has been determined that your hair loss isn’t anything related to medical reasons, try Keranique or Scalp Med. Look at their websites for information to see if this is something that you might be interested in. I presently use Keranique and QVC has a wonderful offer and it’s on easy pay.
I found your site while investigating PRP for hair loss. My search took me to the website of the Greco medical Group (http://www.grecohairrestoration.com/). Dr. Greco is said to be a leading hear loss researcher. This little snippet is taken from that site:
“Viviscal is a top choice for a supplement for hair loss because it contains Zinc & Vitamin B7 or Biotin. Viviscal also contains a unique, rare ingredient called AminoMar. A professor from Scandinavia created AminoMar after studying the diet of Inuits, who were known for their great hair and skin. He isolated protein molecules and created this product. Celebrities often use this supplement because they focus a lot on their hair during events and they need hair is strong and can withstand continuous hair styling.”
I find that interesting because I have read several references on other sites about using biotin and zinc together for hair loss. According to my doctor there is science behind the claims for biotin but it should only be taken for a set period and not continually.
Ethel, we probably saw the same thing about PRP and hair loss. I just heard about it today! As for biotin, if you ever find any research it grows hair let me know. I’ve never seen any.
Hi. I would not recommend the Greco PRP treatment to anyone. I had two treatments which did nothing at all. I was not told until AFTER the treatments that the area I was concerned about (thinning on top and at front, where most problems occur for women) were considered bald areas and hair would not grow back there.
I thought this was a strange response from them, since bald areas are the place people want to regrow hair. PRP was a waste of time, travel and money.
There are two strengths of Viviscal. Mine is the extra strength, which does contain iron as Cheryl has stated. Just started today. Will let you all know how it works. I do have hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism (Hashimotos). My hair loss fluctuates depending on my ana titers no matter how perfect my tsh, t4 and t3 look. It’s autoimmune and attacks when it feels like it.
Vitamin D definitely helps with lowering antibodies. I take it daily. Good luck to everyone trying Viviscal. Now I’m wondering which strength each person is using?
Does any one have issues with the iron in Viviscal?
Cheryl, I’ve never seen that Viviscal has iron. where did you see this? I’d like to see the info you saw so I can address this in my review if needed.
I just purchased Viviscal from a local retail store, and iron (from ferrous fumarate, 10 mg per tablet) is a listed ingredient.
Joy, I don’t remember seeing that. Hmm wonder if they changed the formula? Anyone else see iron too?
My box doesn’t list iron
Conclusion of 9 months of Viviscal use:
Its has been quite some time since I have updated last time.
I am a male, 27 years old from Germany. I used 2 pills per day and in the beginning few months my nails and hair grow fairly faster than I have ever expected.
Please note that the nails appear to be stronger than before whereas the hair thickness is more or less the same as before. And the rate of hair loss is exactly the same as before. After regular us my body well adjusted to the content in the pills.
After 6 months mark, I saw that my nails and hair were still growing faster but no improvement in the density or thickness of my hair. So, I was happy that I had to go for hair cuts every 2.5 months or so. So, I ordered a new batch for 6 months.
Guess what guys the second cycle is not so effective, meaning I had kind of a Gaussian distribution with this pills.
My nails and hair growth rate started to decline as I continued the treatment. I have a contact person from Viviscal Ireland and she was always in touch with me regarding my progress. And with the help of their experts they found that its not effective for me.
In conclusion, I can assure you MPB or genetic hair loss (for male or female) can not be stopped with these pills. The pills will work for people with full head of hair with some sort of nutrition deficiency (if you have such a thing). It’s a good add for your hair regime, if you are looking for a solid hair supplement. This applies for both men and women.
So, don’t for a second think that it will make you hair loss go away. Quite expensive for what it does, and more than 20 years in the market they have no significant outcome to convene the customer. Except for their outrageous ad campaign.
Finally, to judge that this produced recommendation : price to performance ratio is rather low and I would not recommend this to anyone.
There is no further discussion about this, except if you are rich and have a full head of hair and searching for something to make it look good from inside, go for it.
Robert, really appreciate you taking the time to try it for all that time and keeping everyone updated on what happened.
Does saw palmetto, taken with biotin and zinc tablets help with hair loss?
Jerome, while biotin may help speed hair growth, I dont see any proof it stimulates new hair growth. Zinc is pretty easy to get so unless you are lacking in it, I dont think it helps. Sal palmetto is interesting and some have speculated it might help hair by reducing hormones that cause hair loss. How effective it is Im not sure.
What about “jason thin to thick” products?
I’ve never heard of it. Is it a supplement or shampoo?
They have various products, from holland and barret, existing of shampoo’s, conditioners, “hair elixers” and extra volume sprays
Jerome, thanks I’ll add it to my list of things to look at.
The herb saw palmetto works…give it 3 months, you will notice a difference. The brand – A.Vogel – is great for a high dosage – one pill a day.
Will do, much appreciated,The soft capsules, the hard ones or it doesn’t matter which?
Jerome I don’t think it matters which you use.
I also believe we should be incorporating proper diet and foods that promote healthy hair growth, like eating more eggs in place of meat and a lot of berries, raw greens, raw almonds, raw pumpkin seeds, raw sunflower seeds just to name a few 🙂 no pop, and stay away from processed sugar and processed foods as these stunt hair growth.
Hi, My wife started taking Viviscal about six weeks ago on the recommendation of a friend of hers that is using it and swears by it. I found it online cheap ($35 per pack) and so decided to try it myself when I got the latest refill for my wife.
Since we both started taking it, there is obviously no way to know yet if it works for us but I’ll try to remember to come back in six months for an update. So far no side effects for my wife. I took my first pill this morning so we’ll see how I fare.
We are both over fifty and I used to have thick hair but now have male pattern baldness, my wife always had fine/thin hair for a woman. No thyroid or weight issues to deal with.
At least you’re willing to give it a try as I did. I used Viviscal for about one year and I didn’t see any change in my hair loss. I’m also over 50 with no weight issues or health problems. Prior to purchasing Viviscal (which I had seen on the Dr. Oz show), I went to a famous dermatologist to see if there were any medical issues with my scalp. Everything was fine. I think these products work well for some folks and not as well for others. I’m looking forward to hearing you and your wife’s progress in six months. Good luck.
Hi there, I always had long long long hair my whole life…I am now 35 years old and last year I had my hair trimmed about 2-3 inches to clean off dead ends. And my hair has not grown back!!! I am so upset because my hair was cut about mid back length and nothing changed. My stylist said I should try Viviscal.
I am on Box #6 which means month #6…our ingredients here in Canada are listed…Acerola Cherry, Oysters and sigh…Shark fin….believe I am not happy to know that sharks are in my pills!
Well it’s month#6 and the overall length of my hair has maybe grown less than an INCH….I haven’t lost as much hair (was going through lots of stress at one point), but my ends are breaking off like no tomorrow…this could be from using a flat iron once or twice a week.
Oddly enough when I had super long hair before I used heating products and had no issue…then I just started using Nioxin to somehow make my hair grow longer (shampoo) but it burned my scalp and kept me up at night…..I am not sure if I can say Viviscal has worked for me…
I can see by my roots that my hair IS growing, but they break off so much at the ends that I can’t see a huge difference in actual length. The thing is, I have spent over $60 a month on Viviscal and they say that it takes at LEAST 6 months before you notice change…so I have to be patient and maybe try it another month or two…my hubby was having thinning hair and I had him use HAIR VOLUME capsules…his hair has grown out nicely and no weird bald patch. Although he is using Nioxin as well and I am noticing that it has stripped his hair color almost completely.
It’s hard to say what works really…I have been taking BIOTIN in liquid gel and my nails are nice and strong now…so maybe it will work for hair growth. I just know that I want my JLO length hair back, but at this point I have to cut it shorter to clean off all the broken ends….and who knows how long it will take to even get back the NEW 2-3 inches I have to cut 🙁
I have been using Viviscal off and on for a few years. I say it works. In my mid-40’s I had started losing hair around the front of my scalp due to stress and not taking care of myself. I noticed a definite change and have recommended it to friends, family and my hairdresser.
It is expensive but there are ways to buy it at discount via Amazon and even the retail stores such as Rite Aid and CVS who have loyalty programs that give you coupons to use in future purchases for 20% or $10.00.
No side effects noted but when you start you have to use it consistently as recommended which is twice per day for at least 3 months. I am now 50 and have a head of long, below the shoulder,shiny thick hair that I receive lots of compliments on. Try it!
question: I am pending my 2nd cataract surgery. Dr Derm recommended Viviscal professional but am concerned about the reviews indicating eye lash growth.
I also take synthroid . do you see any potential problems.
Ann, Im not aware of any interactions with synthroid. Id think that with most things, seperate them from each other by a couple of hours. You might also want to show the ingredients in viviscal to your pharmacist when you pick up your next batch of synthroid to get their thoughts too.
I’ve tried Hairfinity as a challenge for 90 days and seen much improvement. But the side effects with Hairfinity is that I had major breakouts and itchy scalp. However, I did obtain some Horsetail which helped a lot with my skin and spot the breakouts.
I just recently switched over to Viviscal as advised by my hairstylist and I am experiencing headaches. I also have a thyroid issue too. So I’m going to lower to dose and see what happens. If the headaches still continues taking the one pill instead of two, I’m discontinuing the product.
Melissa, did you develop the thyroid issue after starting viviscal?