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Supplements for Hair Loss -- woman looking at hairbrush

Answer:

Before discussing possible treatments for hair loss, be aware that there are some avoidable causes of hair loss.

Avoidable causes of hair loss:

Deficiencies in nutrients such as iron, zinc, biotin, riboflavin, vitamin D and protein can cause hair loss. Supplementing to offset these deficiencies may reverse this hair loss. However, supplementing with these nutrients is unlikely to benefit people who already get adequate amounts.

Possible treatments for hair loss:

Certain supplements — such as DHEA, selenium, St. John's wort, and vitamin A — as well as many drugs (including some blood pressure medications) can also cause hair loss. In some cases, discontinuing use of these agents can reverse hair loss.

Many supplement ingredients including acetyl-cysteine, amla (Emblica officinalis), beta-sitosterol, black currant seed oil, black seed oil, cysteine, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), glycyrrhizin, Korean red ginseng, pumpkin seed oil, saw palmetto, peony, and wheat polar-lipid complex (Ceramosides), as well as topical essential oils, aloe vera gel, castor oil, CBD, caffeine, chitosan, green tea, lavender oil, melatonin, onion juice, peppermint oil, poison primrose, rice water, rosemary oil, saw palmetto, and squill lotion are promoted for hair regrowth but have shown only modest benefits, at best, and the quality of the evidence is generally weak.

Similarly, there is little to no evidence to support the benefit of "hair formula" supplements, such as Forti5, Hair La Vie Clinical Formula, Lambdapil, Nourkrin, Nutrafol, and Viviscal (which includes marine protein) products, as well as hair loss shampoos such as Pura d'or Hair Thinning Therapy Shampoo or Nioxin shampoos.

There is preliminary evidence taking a low dose of the drug minoxidil orally (as opposed to its approved, topical use, as in Rogaine) or dutasteride (which is used for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia) may help regrow thinning hair and may work better than low-dose finasteride (Propecia, which is approved for treating male-pattern baldness), although there are possible side effects with these drugs, and there is mixed evidence as to whether low-dose oral minoxidil is more effective than topical minoxidil. Be aware that women often pay more than men for topical minoxidil products, but there are ways to avoid this, as explained in our full article.

Sign in as a member to learn more, including our assessments of the following supplement formulas and shampoos promoted for hair growth:

  • Armra Colostrum Immune Revival
  • Forti5
  • Hair La Vie Clinical Formula
  • Hair Strong Gummies
  • Lambdapil Hair Density Capsules
  • Nioxin
  • NourishVita Hair, Lash & Brow Growth
  • Nourkrin
  • Nutrafol
  • Pura d’or Hair Thinning Therapy Shampoo
  • Vegamour GRO Hair Serum
  • Viviscal

Also find out if low-level light devices such as laser or LED caps and helmets (such as Capillus and Theradome) increase hair growth and are safe.

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206 Comments

Jean21643
January 14, 2025

I have been taking Viviscal for 2 years now and the hair results were great BUT I have developed Liver disease and have stopped. Hair is thinning rapidly now even with the use of topical Minoxidil.

john21516
December 30, 2024

FYI for those that might benefit: I take 1.25 mg/d minoxidil and was prescribed a 2.5 mg generic pill that can be easily be broken in half by hand, so getting low dose oral minoxidil has been pretty straightforward for me. (And pretty low cost)

Beverlee21164
November 23, 2024

I have had such great results by adding Nutrafol into my regimen - I am so sad to see this article.

Adr3034
December 07, 2024

I tried Nutrafol for 5 days. I had constant uncontrollable gas, put-putting around my house. First I thought it was something I ate, then I thought maybe a GI bug. Finally, I stopped the Nutrafol and the gas stopped too. What’s the point of more hair if you can’t go out in public?

Thomas21156
November 22, 2024

Does anyone know if the Viviscal PRO or any of the other Viviscal products have been tested for heavy metals such as mercury? The PRO product does contain a Marine Complex. This is especially important to me since I have had mercury toxicity.

Thanks-

Marlene21008
October 31, 2024

Where can you purchase CERAMOSIDES? Even the company you mention, Seppic, doesn’t sell them. I did a general search on wheat polarlipid complex and found nothing on any of this except the clinical studies. Thank you!

ConsumerLab.com
November 12, 2024

We've added information about products containing Ceramosides to the following section of our article: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#ceramosides

Nick20480
August 24, 2024

TLDR: When it comes to finasteride, vanity is not worth the price of your sexual health.

Hi hair loss community! Healthy, early-40s guy with mild/moderate MPB. Felt compelled to share my cautionary tale of oral and topical finasteride use.

Used for just about six months recently, but over the course of that time, it torpedoed my libido and caused substantial sexual dysfunction and testicular pain.

You read about finasteride-related sexual side effects “only” occurring among 5-10% of men…but yeah, I’m one of those men. I couldn’t believe it happened to me, and I’m also sure it’s substantially underreported.

It really sucked, I’m off it, and starting to sloooowly get back to normal. Going back to good old minoxidil and iRestore helmet.

I’m obviously biased, but I say avoid at all costs.

Conical3341
September 22, 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience with finasteride. I have my own story with this drug, and it’s one that I wish I had known before ever starting it. Like many others, I turned to finasteride to combat hair loss, hoping it would be the answer to my worries. Yes, it helped a bit in slowing down the hair loss, but the price I paid was far too high.

Before I started taking it, I was reassured by a clinic and articles online that only a small percentage of people experience side effects, and even if I did, stopping the medication would bring everything back to normal. But that was a lie. It didn’t just affect me temporarily; it left a lasting impact that I’m still struggling with today.

Finasteride destroyed my sexual health and wreaked havoc on my hormones. It didn’t just diminish my libido; it ruined my ability to function sexually. I was once strong, muscular, and confident in my body, but finasteride stripped that away from me. The worst part? The drug didn’t work well enough to justify even a fraction of what I’ve endured.

Stephen21519
December 31, 2024

Finasteride did not affect my libido, but It caused depression. My Dr put me on Paxil, which was worse. Went through many years on different kinds of SSRI's, then I read that Propecia (finasteride) caused depression in "some" men. I stopped taking Propecia and eventually weaned my self off SSRI.

Sean20199
July 25, 2024

I was on low dose methotrexate (chemo drug) for 7 months which ironically slowed hair loss that picked up when I stopped taking it. Still don't have a diagnosis for my skin issues so can't elaborate from a diagnostic perspective.

ConsumerLab.com
July 29, 2024

Thank you for sharing your experience! Interestingly, there is some preliminary clinical evidence that methotrexate may increase hair growth in some people with hair loss, although more research is needed to confirm: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4155950/

Virginia19289
April 14, 2024

What are the other antidepressants that can cause hair loss?

ConsumerLab.com
April 19, 2024

Thanks for your question! We've added more information about specific antidepressants that might cause hair loss - including which are most and least like to have this effect - in the following section of our article: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#antidepressants

drb
April 02, 2024

I used topical Monoxidil in my late 30’s but stopped after a month or so because I developed edema in both ankles. I am 77 and have no heart disease and hav never had ankle swelling before the Minoxidil use or since stopping. I don’t think it’s such a rare side effect even for topical alone treatment. It dysregulates vasodilation and vasoconstriction.

ConsumerLab.com
April 05, 2024

Thanks for sharing! We've adding information about this possible side effect, including factors that may increase the risk, to the following section of our article: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#minoxidil-swelling

Jon19172
April 02, 2024

Would you mind checking out harklinikken shampoos and extracts? My wife started using their products after some post-partum hair loss and seems happy with the results so far. Thanks for the great work!

Kristy19268
April 12, 2024

Me too - would like to see this!

Holly19303
April 16, 2024

I’m seeing results with harklinikken and my hair stylist also noticed.

Giselle19371
April 23, 2024

Me as well

Marie19823
June 23, 2024

Me too

Jennifer20376
August 13, 2024

I am also seeing results with Harklinikken - 57 year old female.

Enid19159
April 02, 2024

Are there any studies on VEGAMOUR hair growth products?

ConsumerLab.com
April 09, 2024

We've added information about VEGAMOUR to the following section of our article: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#vegamour

Laurie Tsitsivas18830
February 23, 2024

What works for our hair loss is LED caps. We bought and used Capillus and Theradome caps which both work for me and my husband. We take a lot of supplements, exercise, and eat pretty healthy, but without the LED caps our hair falls out and becomes thinner. We are
We have used the capillus for 3 years and the theradome for 1.5 years. I prefer the theradome which has a longer treatment time than capillus but use less often. The light from the theradome goes down the sides of the head better, but is less comfortable me to wear. Theradome was nice enough to send more padding for me when asked. Capillus had bad service when the battery didn't work, but they came through in the end, and there have been no more problems since we stopped sharing the same cap.

LYNN18729
February 13, 2024

Walmart's Equate Minoxidil foam, and other, products are separated into those for men and those for women, yet the ingredients are the same. Only the dosing instructions are different. Is there really any difference? The men's say "not for women. Those for women seem more expensive.

LYNN20262
July 30, 2024

Your analysis confirmed my observations about expense of women's Minoxidil. I tried the foam, but found it difficult to apply and get to the scalp, as I have long hair. It's been thinning (shaft 1/2 the size it used to be) since I was 65 and reach a critical point with less volume at 75. I had been taking bupropion for 3 months at that time and wonder if it was contributing to hair loss. No way to know. I didn't like the stickiness of topical Minoxidil. My doctor agreed to give me 2.5 mg tablets of oral Minoxidil, since I'm on high blood pressure medication anyway. It worked well to control BP, less dizziness when standing than when I was taking 10 mg. olmesartan. Also, I lost 15 lbs. I started seeing facial "peach fuzz" at 3 months and may have been getting some hair growth on head. I didn't notice new hair being thicker. Then I had a cardiac ablation for A-fib and atrial tachycardia. Post-proceedure I had BP of 150/80, not my normal 118/65 and resting heart rate of 85-99! The Minoxidil was no longer controlling BP. The cardiologist changed my BP med to a beta-blocker. I'm going to try dutesteride. My head is spinning with all the medication changes. Just when I might have been making progress, everything stopped. May update this after trying dutesteride. I see ConsumerLab reports it may cause depression, so I'll have to watch out for changes. Hope this helps someone.

Mary21541
January 03, 2025

Minoxidil is poisonous to domestic animals. In addition, it says very clearly on the label of the product for women not to use it if you do NOT have a family history of hair loss.

Kii4585
December 28, 2023

Has anyone tried Dr.UGro Gashee products or anything else for scarring alopecia?

Jack5427
November 17, 2023

I have noted that my hair loss has really slowed down since taking a prostate supplement (life extension). I also supplement using iron three days a week and zinc.

Annette19163
April 02, 2024

What is the prostate supplement called, please?

CHRISTOPHER19211
April 07, 2024

He's referencing Life Extension Ultra Prostate Formula that has 200mg of Pumpkin Seed Oil often spoken about for hair growth plus many other ingrediants unique to their formula however has no zinc for some reason.

ROBERT20256
July 30, 2024

Saw palmetto, the top ingredient can thin the blood, so may not be advisable if taking any blood thinners.

ConsumerLab.com
August 28, 2024

We include information about the potential blood-thinning effects of saw palmetto in the Concerns & Cautions section of our Prostate Supplements Review: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/prostate-supplements-beta-sitosterol-phytosterols-saw-palmetto/sawpalmetto/#cautions

LYNN5425
November 15, 2023

Where can I buy WPLC, Ceramosides? I'm interested because of the above research you posted on it. I've searched and find repeats of the information CL posted, but no products.

ConsumerLab.com
January 10, 2024

Ceramosides is a branded ingredient in products such as NOW Solutions' Glutathione Skin Brightener with Ceramosides®, Beauty by Nature's Bounty's GlowOn Dietary Supplement, and Swanson Advanced Phytoceramides. ConsumerLab has not tested or reviewed these products.

Laurie Tsitsivas19193
April 03, 2024

I continue to use Theradome, and I now have a little widow's peak (forehead hair) that I didn't know I ever had! It is 25 minutes 4 times a week. I also take biosil, but I have no proof that works...because I don't see any differences in anything when I stop taking it. If I stop the theradome, my hair will increase shedding in 2 weeks, but will stop soon after resuming. I don't take the dome on vacations!

Susan5423
November 14, 2023

I took a skin supplement for years that contained ceramides. Also for years I had consistently high blood pressure. When I read somewhere (here?) that ceramides can cause high blood pressure, I quit taking the skin supplement, and my blood pressure is consistently lower.

ConsumerLab.com
January 10, 2024

Thanks for sharing your experience. Please see the following section of our article about phytoceramides for information about the effects of this ingredient on blood pressure: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-phytoceramide-supplements-really-work-to-improve-aging-skin/phytoceramides-aging-skin/#blood-pressure

Burrito
August 10, 2023

So... my hair started falling out. I sorta freaked out. I started taking a bunch of things --- and amazingly, it worked.

Not only did the hair loss go back to a normal level, I got regrowth in areas where hair had come out.

Unfortunately, some will find this post unhelpful --- as I'm taking many things -- so I don't know what actually is working, and what is extraneous.

Based on what I've read here (ConsumerLab) and to a lesser degree, a few other places... this is what I started taking.

-Started topical Minoxidil. As mentioned above, I use a copy-cat brand. A 5% Minoxidil Topical liquid Solution. But I just use it once a day, after I shower.

-Shampoo with ChitoClear Chitosan, a polysaccharide.

Supplements:

-One PSO capsule daily
-Hair supplement with Keranat
-Saw Palmetto -- standardized to minimum 85% fatty acids
-Beta-Sitosterol (from Phytopin® pine phytosterols)
-Horsetail
-Bamboo extract I'm about to let this one go. Maybe. The one I'm taking is
standardized to 70% silica. I have no idea if that is relevant. But the term
'silica' comes up in multiple hair growth formulas.
-Nitrosigine (This could be a longshot... based on two personal testimonials of people from the gym who took it for one purpose, but noticed apparent hair growth)

This REALLY worked. Again (sorry), not sure what parts of the regimen are the active parts -- and which are unnecessary.

It worked to the point that several of my friends (who had no knowledge of the new regimen) noticed and inquired.

I'm just about at a year -- and it's going great.

I have no association with anybody or anything in the supplement or hair growth industry. I'm an upcoming retiree (1.5 years out, Yay!) in the Defense business.

Best wishes to those -- like me -- who found it rather unpleasant to be heading toward baldness.

I wish you all luck and skill on the path to hair recovery.

ConsumerLab.com
August 14, 2023

Topical minoxidil can be effective. The effectiveness of the rest of your regimen is not known.

Minirider
October 01, 2023

I am a 70 year old woman who experienced female pattern hair loss. Topical minoxidil caused scalp irritation and itching. I convinced my doctor to prescribe low dose oral minoxidil and it stopped my hair loss and over half of my hair has regrown. I have had some facial hair growth but removing it is a small price to pay for getting my hair back!

Pam5421
October 03, 2023

Is the new facial hair “peach fuzz” or more coarse and dark?

Lori18894
March 03, 2024

What brand Shampoo with ChitoClear Chitosan do you use?

Simon19169
April 02, 2024

@kathy5420 topical minoxidil is normally formulated with propylene glycol, which causes irritation, flaking and itching in about 10% of people. Get it from a compounding pharmacy without the PPG.

Aray
April 02, 2024

I’m surprised no one has mentioned the possibility that this was telegenic effluvium—a type of sudden hair loss after trauma or stress after which the hair grows back in its own in several months. I have had this twice.

Mark19188
April 03, 2024

Topical minoxidil can cause skin irritation and is not consistent dosing with manual application. An alternative that I'm currently using is oral minoxidil which is a cheap generic that is used for hypertension. If you go to a dermatologist they should be familiar with the protocol and dosing and it provides a consistent application. A Google search will show NY Times and other articles on the benefits of oral minoxidil. Am using a red laser hat daily and daily low dose of oral minoxidil and it seems to be working .

Marlene19203
April 05, 2024

Burrito - what is the brand of shampoo you use? Thanks

Burrito
April 14, 2024

Marlene & Lori, I use Swanson Ultra Icelandic Secret Volumizing Shampoo. I let it sit and soak on my head. I'm still amazed at the changes brought by supplements, a topical solution, and a shampoo.

Dee5416
July 29, 2023

I have read (drweill.com) that black currant seed oil will alleviate hair loss. Black currant seed oil is not the same product as black seed oil, which I have used before for respiratory/allergy problems. Consumer labs, can you comment on black currant seed oil for hair loss, please.

ConsumerLab.com
August 04, 2023

We've added information about black currant seed oil for hair loss in the following section of our article above: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#black-currant

Mary21543
January 03, 2025

It contains GLA. I took it years ago and had incredible hair growth and thickening after six months. Then I did not have hair loss. Now I do and have taken it again for seven months and see some progress.

Mary21568
January 05, 2025

I have used black currant oil successfully. It contains GLA. It also tends to thin the blood.

Bernice5414
July 28, 2023

Huberman Labs podcast mentioned that topical products containing caffeine applied to the scalp can be helpful in halting hair loss. I bought one that must be used for 3 months to see any improvement. It hasn't yet been three months, but the product has no negative effects. Is caffeine effective in cessation of hair loss?

ConsumerLab.com
August 04, 2023

We've added information about topical caffeine for hair loss to the following section of our article above: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#caffeine

Krista5407
April 04, 2023

I am very hesitant to take anything that isn't natural or organic so when my hair started to seem thinner I decided to start taking an organic collagen product. So glad I did... My hair is definitely healthier, thicker and I am not losing nearly as much as I was before, I have new growth all over and my nails are growing like crazy as well and I have less pain in my joints. A good collagen addresses more than just hair, but it does help with that too!!!

Barbara5412
April 14, 2023

What brand and kind of collagen did you take?

nancy5410
April 14, 2023

Which collagen product do you use and how much do you use. Is this by mouth or rubbed into scalp.

Sue B.
May 08, 2023

My collagen experience was different. I had terrible knee pain, needing help for months with getting in and out of a chai. I saw a surgeon and worked with a physical therapist. One night I took a collagen, and the next morning my pain was gone, and it has never returned. That was about three years ago. I am 86. I take NOW Supplements, UC-II Type II Collagen.

ConsumerLab.com
May 08, 2023

As discussed in the Joint Pain section of our Collagen Review https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/collagen-supplements-review-peptides-hydrolysate/collagen/#jointpain, UC-II and other collagen products have been used for joint pain, typically taken for at least 3 months. Results have been mixed. Overnight success like yours would seem unusual, but glad that you're feeling better.

Aray
April 02, 2024

Wow Sue B., thank you for sharing!

Elaine5401
March 06, 2023

The only thing that has helped for hair loss has been PRP. I don't notice anything growing back, but the extreme falling out has just about stopped. Also, I used pumpkin oil for cystitis and it was the only thing that helped.. I can't wait to try it for hair loss.

TEJINDER
March 28, 2023

Hai Elaine, can you tell which brand of pumpkin oil you use and is it available in the US and Canada?

Amy5404
August 08, 2023

Hi Elaine, What is PRP?

Dana5403
September 08, 2023

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy for hair loss is a three-step medical treatment in which a person's blood is drawn, processed, and then injected back into areas of hair loss

Darlene18918
March 07, 2024

Quercetin with Biomelain helped me with hair loss.

Marlene19204
April 05, 2024

Darlene 18918 I can’t find Quercetin with Biomelain only Quercetin. Do you take two separate pills? I see the best Quercetin may be powder. What is the brand(s) you use. TY

ConsumerLab.com
February 01, 2023

There is some research in animals that suggests a potential benefit with blue butterfly pea flower (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22178180/); however, we aren't aware of any studies in people.

Martha5397
January 27, 2023

Having undergone Chemo and them 7 years of an aromatase inhibitor, my hair got very thin and sparse. I recently began using Pura "dor Hair Thinning Formula and have seen significant reduction of hair loss. I have not yet seen it increase the thickness of my hair or the volume, but certainly not losing as much as before. I did not want to ingest drugs as the side effects did not seem worth the risk. My sister who is older and has no medical conditions swears by La Vie Clinical Formula. I think body chemistry in combination with the drugs one may be taking may well play a role in whether one product works over another.

Enid5391
December 07, 2022

I’m 80 yrs plus, having managed Crohn’s disease for half my life. In old age l began to have all sorts of extra-intestinal problems as well as severe malnutrition and a shocking amount of hair loss. I have always used supplements, but a new gastroenterologist increased the whey protein, quadrupled the zinc, increased my vitaminD dose and frequency of B12 shots for three months. Miraculous-my gut symptoms improved, the terrible itching under the skin of my lower legs vanished and my heavy hair loss stopped and regrew.

I’m a fervent supporter of ConsumerLabs and have used modest amounts of these supplements for years.

Jean5394
March 02, 2023

I am curious whether anyone has had trouble with diarrhea since trying Nutrafol? I am towards the end of my third month and I’ve had a pretty tough week. I forgot to take Nutrafol one evening for the very first time and the next day I was much better.

Sue5393
October 20, 2023

Not yet but only on it for one week

Peggy5392
November 26, 2023

I got bad diarrhea after taking the first dose of 4 pills. I been reluctant of trying it again. It was expensive.

Hanna5383
November 16, 2022

I have been using topical minoxidil (7%) with topical Finasteride (0.25%) for 4 months for female hair loss. Definitely started to work.

Vicki5385
December 11, 2022

Is 7% Minoxidil a prescription? I am 71 and have overall hair thinning and female pattern baldness. It was good until 65yo. I use a hair max. 3X a week. I spend so much time trying to cover my almost bald spot on the back of the head. I think o want to try minoxidil. Where do buy it from? Thank you for the encouragement!

Eloise5388
May 25, 2023

In just one month of using Walmart's equate Hair Regrowth Treatment for women (Minoxidil topical aerosol, 5% foam), baby soft new hairs are emerging. So easy to use -- like applying a mousse; and costs about $21 for two months' supply. The directions indicate it may take up to 3 months to work, so I'm ahead of schedule. I like the foam because it doesn't have any alcohol, which can dry the scalp and make it itch. I do not have a financial interest in this product.

Lawrence18852
February 27, 2024

Costco on line

Robert5376
October 07, 2022

Although gastroesophageal reflux is not a commonly reported side effect of minoxidil, I came across a report by a doctor who definitively associated his own use of topical minoxidil with GERD. That led me to investigate whether topical minoxidil might be causing or contributing to my long-term GERD. Esophageal manometry while using minoxidil found my lower esophageal sphincter pressure to be abnormally low. After stopping minoxidil for 12 days, a repeat manometry found the lower esophageal sphincter pressure to be normal. Minoxidil is thought to release nitric oxide, which is the neurotransmitter responsible for relaxing the esophageal sphincter. Early studies of the pharmacokinetics of topical minoxidil found that systemic absorption can be significant.

ConsumerLab.com
October 10, 2022

Thanks for sharing your experience. We were not able to find reports of acid reflux as a side effect in clinical studies of topical minoxidil. However, according to eHealthMe, which conducts web-based analyses of drug side effects, it appears that acid reflux is a possible side effect of minoxidil (Rogaine), although very uncommon.

Catherine5368
September 21, 2022

I noticed that you mention Pur d’Or Hair Thinning Therapy Shampoo. Recently, I had noticed a lot of hair loss after washing my hair. Eventually, I tried this product and saw less hair loss almost immediately. I have continued using it for almost two months and I am still experiencing less loss of hair. The hair loss I do experience is the normal amount that occurs after shampooing.

Sandra5370
October 24, 2022

Hi! Did you have chronic hair loss, from meds or? Or was this
observation of hair shedding after shampooing a newer symptom?

Barbara5369
October 28, 2022

That was also my experience with the product. I had three friends who started using Nioxin products--their hair loss was more significant than mine--and all of them had noticeable improvement in hair thickness. All of us were in our 60s or 70s when we started using these products. My hair is two feet long, and I get compliments on it all the time for how thick and healthy it looks. (I do not have a financial interest in any cosmetic or supplement company.)

Debbie5374
January 13, 2023

A few years ago I noticed my hair had become very thin after always having had thick hair. I assumed it was age related as I'm 70 and eat the healthiest diet I can. Love this shampoo, noticed such a difference I bought some for my daughters (40ish) who found it made such a difference they now recommend to their friends... I love this shampoo and now have my husband using it and he has all these new little hairs coming up on his thinning top. Totally recommend! I have NO financial interest in any thing but real estate.

Lorraine5373
January 22, 2023

Debbie, Are you talking about Pur d’Or Hair Thinning Therapy Shampoo or Nioxin products.

SUSAN5371
February 06, 2023

A shampoo's claim of thickening hair probably should not be connected with growing hair. Shampoos can be manufactured to leave a coating on hair that will make it look thick. That does not mean that hair is growing.

Shirley5366
September 21, 2022

I use a product, Hair Volume, with success. I have no financial investment in this product or any other.

Frank5367
December 07, 2022

Hello Shirley , is hair volume a styling product that helps with male female thinning ? If so can you please provide information on the product . I’m using finasteride and minoxidil bur at night but looking for something natural or close to it after I wash hair style it or help with thickness or volume thanks ??

Elaine5358
September 20, 2022

I am a 73 yr old woman and, despite using minoxidil for at least 5 years, my part just kept increasing. There were also areas on the front, top of my head and at my crown where my scalp would show, and those too, was increasing. In fairness, I wasn't always consistent with minoxidil for 3 reasons: 1) it made my scalp itch, 2) it left a sticky residue on my hair and scalp 3) I'm not good at keeping up topicals. In desperation, I tried Viviscal. I did not use the PRO. I used the men's formula mainly because it doesn't have iron, and because it has more of the marine complex. To be clear, I have no connection, financial or otherwise, to the company that makes or markets it. I read about it here and thought WTH? I'll try it. The results were so quick, I thought I had to be imagining them. But I wasn't, and it's only gotten better. Within about 4-6 weeks, my hair seemed thicker and the areas where my scalp showed through were decreasing. I'm now approaching 3 months and am so impressed. It has worked for me so much more quickly and more dramatically than minoxidil ever did. I can even see little baby hairs sprouting in areas where the hair had been missing. I do have concerns about taking something orally when long term effects are not known. But the improvement has been so great, that for now, I'm going to continue it. I may try vital proteins and/or saw palmetto at some point. But the Vivsical has been so effective, I could not be happier!

Carolyn D.
September 21, 2022

Thankyou that was very helpful.

Barbara K5360
October 05, 2022

I too have experienced a dramatic turnaround with Viviscal! It was fabulous to see short hairs along my hairline springing up! My hairdresser was really impressed, too!

DDA1234
September 24, 2023

Minoxidil liquid irritated my scalp too. My dermatologist told me a lot of people get irritated by the minoxidil liquid delivery system, and to switch to the foam which does not irritate me at all!. I am going to try Viviscal as well based on your review. Thank you

sandra18886
March 02, 2024

I am 75 and my hair was thinning and falling out. My hairstylist also noticed the thinning. I went to the dermatologist who said it was because of my age. I started taking Viviscal Pro 4 months ago. I also take biotin and collagen. I have very few hairs falling out now and new growth all over. My hairstylist noticed the improvement.

Mark19374
April 23, 2024

I'm 72 year old male. Couldn't tolerate topical minoxidil. Recent press on oral minoxidil was promising and avoided the nuisance of topical and side effects. Dermatologist prescribed a 2.5 mg generic once a day -- easy, peazy. A cheap generic. Also us a Revian laser hat that is 10 minutes once a day I do while reading the morning news. Combination has kept my hair healthy and thick so satisfied with therapy -- cheap and easy to do.

Neal5351
August 31, 2022

I assume that once you start on low-dose minoxidil, you have to stay on it, otherwise any hair gains will be reversed. Is that correct?

ConsumerLab.com
August 31, 2022

Right.

kirondeep5346
August 30, 2022

The NY Times article was very compelling about use of oral minoxidil for hair loss. I am going to try it. The topical application does not help plus it leaves a sticky residue that I hate.

Martha5349
August 30, 2022

I’ve been using it with spironolactone for 4 years with great results as a woman

Kathy5348
October 05, 2022

Be sure to monitor your kidney function periodically since you are taking spironolactone.

Bahar5347
May 08, 2023

Spironolactone caused me excessive hair shedding which I am still struggling with 9 months after discontinuing the drug.

Johanna20257
July 30, 2024

Martha5349 What dose of spironalactone have you been taking?

AARON5343
August 30, 2022

If one is taking Finasteride, could it be worth switching to oral minoxidil? How should one decide?

ConsumerLab.com
August 31, 2022

In our article above, we summarize the results of an analysis that compared and ranked the relative effectiveness of finasteride vs. minoxidil (oral or topical) for male-pattern baldness based on the dose of drug used. Details can be found here: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#minoxidil-vs-finasteride-vs-dutasteride

Claire19342
April 20, 2024

Wow. Thanks to everyone! I'm sure my thinning hair got thicker and definitely grew after reading everything! Publix supermarkets now has a ton of expensive and inexpensive shampoos and conditioners. Difficult to know which are good. Amazon reviews if some are there may help. No one mentioned frequency of shampooing, whether brushing 50 to 100 strokes every day or few days/massaging scalp with vibrator or hands would help or how long to leave conditioner on or if alcohol/preservatives in almost every dang product is harmful.Some shampoos read like the Garden of Eden but frankly they have other ingredients that may or may not be harmful. What about dry shampoo or just plain water??? THANKS from a sad thinning head

Mary5341
August 30, 2022

I took Nutrafol for about 6 months and did not find it effective (female, in my 70's at the time, no financial interest). Just a bunch of vitamins and good marketing.

Ann Lee
May 05, 2023

Same. Nutrafol did nothing to increase hair growth for me either following six months of use.

Carla20083
July 18, 2024

Ditto. I took Nutrafol for 6 months, didn't see any difference in shedding or any increase in new hair growth. Wasted a bunch of money. -- Female, 70 years old

Joyce Goldsmith
July 31, 2024

I had the same non-effect. I saw no hair growth. I took Nutrafol for about 6 months.

Robert5339
August 26, 2022

Any comments about hair restored after chemo?

Nan5336
August 25, 2022

Has anyone had experience with https://vegamour.com/
I have been using for about a year on one particular area and have not seen results

kathleen5337
April 19, 2023

I used for 9-12 months and saw no difference. Ne careful because they will sign you up for auto-renewal as well.

Jennifer5338
October 02, 2023

I recently started this due to hair loss from fungal infections. I haven't noticed an improvement yet.

Meribeth19177
April 02, 2024

I just finished 3 months and no difference.

Beth19219
April 09, 2024

I have used Vegamour several times over a 2 year period. I noticed no improvement either time. Waste of money

Jaime5333
August 23, 2022

pumpkin seed oil caps

Maria5324
June 06, 2022

I'm a woman with hereditary male pattern baldness. What really helped me was taking 2 capsules daily of Swanson's saw palmetto/beta sitosterol supplements totaling 640mg of saw palmetto and 320mg beta sitosterol. I started by taking just one capsule a day but when I doubled it the increase in hair growth was noticeable.

Lee Ann5328
August 24, 2022

Hi Maria,
Did you have any side effects?
Thank you for your post,
LA

ANNE5326
August 31, 2022

What time of day do you take it? All in one dose? Empty stomach? Thank you!

Kathleen5325
September 20, 2022

Saw palmetto upset my stomach with diarrhea, cramping and nausea.

ConsumerLab.com
September 21, 2022

Saw palmetto may cause nausea and abdominal pain in some people. For more information see https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/prostate-supplements-beta-sitosterol-phytosterols-saw-palmetto/sawpalmetto/#cautions.

Maria19350
April 21, 2024

Sorry to be so late in responding: I've had no side effects and I take it at bedtime on an empty stomach.

Holli5320
June 05, 2022

My husband tried nutrafol and had to go off because of insomnia and anxiety. It seems that some of the herbs are too stimulating for him.

Linda M5321
August 26, 2022

I had to stop taking it due to Saw Pametto ingredients. I had chemo and the drug I take now for 5 yrs makes Nutrafol a no-no.

Deborah5313
June 05, 2022

I joined a group on social media for female hair loss. There are lots of suggestions, including Viviscal and rogaine. My dermatologist suggested only rogaine. This wasn't practical, so I kept looking. Meanwhile, I added one Viviscal/day with the rest of my supplements. Finally, someone suggested pumpkin seed oil caps. Apparently, it doesn't work for all, but I kid you not: the "shedding" stopped almost overnight. I dug into this and think it's due to phytoestrogens, which is something soy also has. PSO has 'historically' been recommended for men's issues, also worth a look. As with anything, always check interactions with anything else you're taking. For me, PSO was a miracle. My hair is getting a bit thicker (and so says my hairdresser, also), and filling in along the hairline. Good luck to all. It's one frustrating problem.

Helen5314
August 23, 2022

I had tried Viviscal and Rogaine without success. I started using Puritans Pride Pumpkin Seed Oil and have noticed a dramatic reduction in hair loss over the past month. My hair texture is unchanged- I used to have very thick, coarse hair that became very fine—but I don’t think I’ve been taking it long enough to see a change.

Deborah5318
August 28, 2022

"Dramatic" is the right word! Interesting that CL cites a study in which the PSO was applied topically. I would find that totally impractical, as I would applying Rogaine for the rest of my life, which is why I looked for another solution. I wish "traditional" physicians would get with the alternative medicine program. This isn't the first time I've cured a condition on my own by researching more natural solutions, one of which was a chronic one that probiotics eventually knocked out, after trying meds, having an endoscopy (all to no avail), etc. CL is an invaluable resource in these quests, too,

Yvonne5319
September 07, 2022

Hey, Deborah, please tell me more about the pumkin seed oil caps. Not sure what that is and where to purchase it. Is a pill or something else? I'm shedding hair like my cat since I've added medications. I wish I could pinpoint the exact medication that is responsible for this. Any info would be appreciated? thanks, Yvonne

karen5316
December 02, 2022

My hair loss is from Lisinopril, but I understand many blood pressure pills cause hair thinning/loss. Tried a couple other blood pressure pills but had worse side effects.

Robert5317
August 14, 2023

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, a class of drugs of which hair loss is a recognized side effect. Beta-blockers can also cause hair loss. But another class of hypertensives, Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), is not thought to cause hair loss, and according to what I have read is also less like to cause other side effects overall. Have you tried one of those?

Kim5309
June 01, 2022

One thing that has helped me tremendously to grow hair (and nails!) quickly and with more strength is adding one scoop of unflavored Vital Proteins to my cup of coffee. I've been using it for nearly three years. I'm 64 years old and my hair grows so quickly that I now have to have the roots colored every four weeks instead of six. The first thing I noticed is that fine lines near my eyes diminished within a week (yes! it happened!). I don't eat a lot of protein and that's typically a problem with seniors, so adding the Vital Proteins helped my hair and nails, which had thinned due to a Hashimoto's diagnosis in 2011. I know longer have thyroid issues or take thyroid meds either (stopped two years ago), but I don't think that's due to the Vital Proteins.

Gale5311
July 04, 2022

I add a heaping scoop of Vital Proteins to my morning coffee, too, plus a tsp. of organic cocoa powder and I empty the contents of stinging nettle and glucosamine capsules I take for arthritis into my cup along with a bit of half and half cream-- best part is I'm no longer consuming all those hard capsules meaning my supplements are assimilated much quicker. Stinging nettle (which grows everywhere) used fresh or in capsules is an old arthritis remedy. I have severe shell fish allergies, but my glucosamine sulfate is shellfish free. I drink lots of purified water. Tendonitis in my foot has healed, thanks to my "spiked" coffee plus curcumin and daily walks. My skin looks healthier and arthritis has improved. I keep a jar of candied ginger on the counter and chew a piece daily (with a walnut half to blunt the ginger's "bite'). Staying young and mobile requires educating ourselves about "what works"! ConsumerLab keeps us up on the latest--and what works! Thanks!!

Charlene5312
August 28, 2022

I started Vita Proteins collagen about 3 weeks ago. I was hoping for thicker hair, which doesn’t appear to be happening, but my nails are gorgeous!

Laura5310
August 29, 2022

Re: Vital Protiens, I am sis female mid 50's began it about 6 mo. ago. Have found my vocal cords are stronger and skin holds more moisture on hands and feet. I have not seen any dramatic results w/wrinkles, hair or joints. Taking 10mg / day.

Barbara K5306
June 01, 2022

I have had great results with Viviscal! I have an autoimmune disease and am on lots of meds, including DHEA, but my hair has filled in dramatically. Love it! I am not connected in any way with Viviscal .

beverly5308
June 05, 2022

How long did you use it before you saw good results?

sharon5307
July 04, 2022

I started using it in February, and saw results within two months. I'm also using tricomax shampoo, viviscal serum and a red light hat. (Illumiflo 272 laser cap)

I'm a brunette, so there's a lot of contrast between my scalp and hair color. The difference is dramatic. My hair is also growing like crazy and my nails are rock hard.

Diana5303
June 01, 2022

Finesteride blocks DHT but doctors refuse to prescribe it for me. I am an older woman who had a hysterectomy. It blocks DHT but I can’t get a prescription.

Anne5305
August 06, 2023

Try taking saw palmetto, as it also blocks DHT. I began taking it when my hair started thinning 25 years ago (320 mg. 2X per day). That plus use of a red laser comb has saved my hair.

Bettie19009
March 19, 2024

Anne5395......
What brand of red laser comb did you use?

Jennifer5299
June 01, 2022

I see a lot of comments about Viviscal for Fe mail hair thinning/loss. My derm recommended Nutrafol. Has anyone used Nutrafol? Does anyone know pros/cons of Nutrafol vs Viviscal?

john5301
July 05, 2022

my dermo recommended both nutafol & viviscal for my hair loss. I ordered a 3 mo supply (to save $) of nutrafol womans balance & broke out in a rash. their customer service was very good & gave me a full
refund. I've been taking viviscal pro for several months and have noticed a lot less hair shedding when I wash it & it seems fuller. I will continue taking it. 2 pills/day and my nails seem better also. hope this helps

Mary5300
August 23, 2022

I'm 68 and been using Nutrafol for about a year. To be honest, I haven't seen much of an impact. Ditto with using finasteride - there was some very very small improvement. Viviscal didn't help either. I'm intrigued by oral minoxidil and will speak to my primary about it. As Bette Davis famously said, "Getting old ain't for sissies".

Carla20084
July 18, 2024

I only did Nutrafol, not Viviscal.

I took Nutrafol for 6 months and saw NO difference whatsoever... hair shed rate was the same and no new hair growth either. I have a friend who swears by it though (which is why I tried it to begin with). You just never know what will work so it tried it -- and wasted a lot of money.

Edith5297
April 22, 2022

I am turning 72 this fall and have hair thinning. After over 5 years of searching for answers seeing medical specialists and spending thousands of dollars not much has changed for me.
Following is all that I did to keep my hair:
1). I restore helmet ( 2 different versions). I used it every other day for 25 minutes for over 2 years.
2). Viviscal professional hair growth supplement. 1 year.
3). Nutrafol, Womens Balance. 4 months.
4). Viviscal shampoo and condition. 6months.
5). keranique Hair Regrowth program. 6 months

6.). Collagen Peptides, Every day in the morning: Native Path, Vital Proteins, Amy Myers M.D. version of Collagen. I've been using collagen for numerous years faithfully.

malena5298
August 23, 2022

Which of these worked the beat for you?

Carla20098
July 18, 2024

The Keranique Hair Regrowth Program is probably what is probably saving your hair as it has Minoxidil in it which is the FDA approved ingredient for hair loss/growth. All the other stuff you take certainly doesn't hurt, but you could probably do just a generic Minoxidil only (from Target, Walmart, Amazon, etc) and get the same result for a lot less money.

I think it would be wise for most people to start with MINOXIDIL FIRST (comes in serum or foam... foam being less irritating especially for women) to see if it solves the problem. For a lot of people it will. If not, then abandon it and branch out from there. Just give it at least 3-4 months as a fair test first. If it does work, YOU HAVE TO STAY ON IT -- consistently -- or your hair will revert back to what it was.... but that's the case with all these other products too.

Joann5294
January 16, 2022

Yes, I concur, Cunsumer Labs take the guess out of a lot of supplements.

Catherine5292
January 13, 2022

People do have to realize that the average person loses 50 to 100 strands of hair per day. Women tend to lose more than men because they do more with their hair: curlers/curling irons (heated and regular), hair dryers, straighteners, etc. Also, my hairdresser told me not to shampoo everyday and not to shampoo twice when you do wash your hair. He said that hair is a textile, just like any fabric or material, and over working it will lead to more fallout and breakage.

Cynthia5293
October 15, 2022

I was in health products before I retired. I always advise clients to wash their hair every other day with shampoo but conditioner on ends daily. Hair at 32C for 30 sec will be efficient to rinse off dirt and oil of the scalp for the day. Shampoos can strip the scalp of too much natural oil, and actually stimulate oil production and dry scalp.
Best if you can rinse off the shampoo away from the body. I see too many case when people have eczema with the shampoo over the bodies and bath gel.
Firstly, unless you get really dirty, it’s unnecessary to apply soap to the entire body daily, maybe just sensitive parts. The same logic with the hair.
And if you can, a naturally cured soap is better than bath gels

Carla20085
July 18, 2024

Yes, up to 100 hairs a day may be normal loss for women BUT if you are not actively re-growing all those your hair will get thinner over time.

Jill5290
January 12, 2022

I've been using Viviscal for four months and I have definitely seen a highly significant decrease in hair loss. I was having to comb hairs out of my brush weekly and found numerous hairs in the sink every time I brushed or combed my hair. Now, I occasionally have a single hair in the sink and I can go weeks without needing to clear my hairbrush.

Chris5291
January 12, 2022

I concur with Viviscal, the Pro version, which I get from Lovely Skin. My dermatologist 1st put me on oral minoxidil in Dec. 2019 (hated the foam) along with the Capillus laser hat. In Jan. 2020, I also started Viviscal Pro out of desperation (only 1/day 'cause I didn't want to overdo). In Jan. 2021, I added the HairMax comb for the back/sides of my head as well. Stopping hair loss was pretty fast as well as finding annoying baby hairs on my face. Hair started looking fuller - albeit slow/steady/modest - and my part was still evident but getting narrower. I few months back, I upped to 2 Viviscals per day (per the box) and that's when I saw a more dramatic difference. Now my hair has more lift at the roots, so you don't see my scalp/roots as fast between colorings (too vain to stop these chemicals). Net:net: I don't think that I have a lot more hair but feel that the diameter is definitely thicker. It took 2 year for all of my tactics to come together along with a healthy diet and no sugar/dairy to reduce inflammation. For ions, I took TwinLabs multi/Solar 100mg B complex/Cosamins/Bone Up/Citracal/collagen/omegas/probiotics. But in 2021, I added B3/B5/Heliocare/K2 for skin and zinc/D/magnesium for immune, etc. I'm early 7x and yeah, it's a ton of work.

Steven5289
January 12, 2022

I have used Minoxidil (aka Rogaine) for MANY years after first learning about it. Originally, you paid more for the brand name, then it could be found as Costco's Kirkland or CVS' company brand. I pretty much have used it daily and I believe it has kept me from going bald and often I find new hair growth. While it has not completely covered the area on the back of my skull, it has not gotten worse. I also have never noticed any side effects. At times I did not use a while, but I did not notice major hair loss like they claim, just a thinning amount.

Researcher
January 12, 2022

This is a good article. I have two things to say. One (I think there is new hair growth coming around the sides of my hair like side burns and temple area. I just noticed it all at once. But not real sure. The only thing different, is I have been doing constant is taking d3 with my calcium.
The second thing is that i massage my scalp every morning before getting out of bed.
Thirdly, My hair is thin, so I keep my eye on it and unsure really if it is thinning or staying the same.
I always have hair in my hair brushes BUT I ALSO HATE TAKING THINGS that I dont know side effects down the road. I dont know what hair thinning products have in them, so its scary to want to thicken my hair and not know what chemicals are in them and long term effects.

Researcher
February 10, 2025

Im the same way. I just dont want to take supplements for no reason and worry about long term effects. I do have hair thinning, but just let life do that course for now.

Cathie5284
January 11, 2022

Thank you Consumer Lab for the attention you pay to your members & all the research you do! You provide us a great value for our membership??????

Rosalind5278
January 11, 2022

My hair has always been fine but several years ago it began slowly falling out - I was in my early 70's. I had to buy a wig it looked so bad. I then stopped using hair thickening shampoos, switched to Nutriox shampoo and conditioner, and began using Rogaine regularly. After about 3 months I noticed some new hair growth. By month four, I stopped wearing wigs and now I have more hair than I ever did. I am astounded at the change. I now only use the Rogaine when I wash my hair - not every day. One important thing - at the beginning, my dermatologist took follicle samples. They were healthy. My assumption is that if the follicles are dead nothing will help.

Shirley5281
January 11, 2022

Could you let me know if you first tried Nutriox shampoo & Contioner (which type if any) and Rogaine at the same time and then switched to just Rogaine? Thank you for your reply.

Jeannine5282
January 11, 2022

Thank you, I will follow your suggestion!

Researcher
January 12, 2022

Thank you Rosalind. So it is possible to have healthy follicles in our 70's. DO you think nutriox shampoo and cond helped or was it rogaine? Thanks. I want to begin a regimen and am working so hard to find a good recommendation for age 70 plus gal

njb
January 20, 2022

Me too, Rosalind. I'm 70. Want to know if should do shampoo and rogaine, or just rogaine. Also did you use formula for women or men? Saw where you lose some hair when you first use it, so was afraid to try!

Cathie5273
January 02, 2022

Has anyone tried hair la vie supplements for thinning hair? If so does it work?

Alessandra5274
January 11, 2022

I have been taking it for 8 months and think the loss has slowed down. I am 71 years old and assume my thinning hair is due to age. I look like I have a lot of hair, but I feel I've lost 40% of it compared to 20 years ago.

alexandra5269
September 17, 2021

I have always had fine hair and a normal amount of it. This spring I was put on Dorzolamide /Timolol glaucoma meds. After about a month of using this eye drop, I noticed that the hair around my temples and forehead was thinning quickly. The glaucoma meds were the only thing that was different in my daily life. I googled hair loss caused by eye meds and learned that Timolol causes this in people with alopecia areata, which I have. I had doctor change my meds right away but it is still too early to tell if my hair will regrow. Hair regrowth after an episode of alopecia may take up to a year. Those taking ANY glaucoma eye meds should read about them. Good luck to my fellow hair loss sufferers.

Deborah5272
August 28, 2022

Thanks.

Robert5271
November 07, 2022

Thank you Alexandra23390. I am also experiencing the same with Timolol & temple hair loss. It has been a year since your comment & switching glaucoma meds. Did yr hair regrow?

Lois5264
September 17, 2021

I purchased the important ingredient of viviscal (horsetail) and took half a tab a day daily for months. I had forgotten about it because I was just adding it to my daily vitamin, not really giving it thought. After months, I began having "good hair days" without apparent reason. I then realized that the horsetail had been working and my hairline had many, many more hairs, even a return of "baby" hairs along the hairline. My receding areas were gone. Yes, horsetail returned about 10% of new growth--not a full, full head of hair--but greatly improved, unlike biotin that just made my hair grow too fast. I take B2 with it and take a month's break every so often.

Judy5266
June 01, 2022

What brand did you use? I stopped Viviscal because I was also taking a daily vitamin which put me over the limit for some vitamins and minerals.

Judy5268
August 29, 2022

I had the same issue.

Carla20086
July 18, 2024

There are quite a few ingredients in Viviscal.... how did you determine that Horsetail was the important one? Just curious.

Cynthia5261
June 25, 2021

So boil it down. Is there anything to al least stop hair loss in women. Sorry guys I don't care about male pattern baldness. I do have autoimmune disease. I used to have a lot of hair and now it is getting very thin. Help I can't stand it. I know there are worse things, but for someone who use to get complements on her hair and now have it wash away.......

KAREN5263
September 10, 2021

I too have an autoimmune disease, am 64 and was diagnosed with telogen effluvium following a particularly stressful year. I used to have very thick hair and was alarmed at the rate I began losing hair. The dermatologist I saw suggested the Viviscal which I began taking. It took about 3-4 months before I began seeing a benefit and then my hair really did come back to about 90% of what it was prior to the loss. I wondered if perhaps it was a placebo effect or if my hair would have started to return anyway over time. Within a couple of months of stopping the Viviscal, I again began losing my hair. I restarted it and again had the same results of improved hair growth. I decreased to a maintenance dose of one tab daily (after I took the twice daily dosing for about a year) and my hair growth is the same for the last year. I'll stay on it as it worked for me.

Marija5262
July 01, 2022

I have

Melanie5255
December 27, 2020

If I take two capsules of Viviscal daily as directed, that amounts to 20 mgs of iron a day. More than 100% of daily requirement. Should I be concerned?

ConsumerLab.com
December 30, 2020

As long as you are not getting more than 25 mg of iron from other sources, the 20 mg would not put you over the upper tolerable intake level (UL) for iron, which is 45 mg for adults. This UL is the maximum amount of iron that you can safely take per day without risk of an overdose or serious side effects. Taking a supplement providing 20 mg of iron per day in addition to dietary intake of iron (which averages 10 to 20 mg daily) would not put you over this limit. You can see the RDA and UL for iron by age and gender here: https://www.consumerlab.com/rdas/iron/

LYNN18725
February 13, 2024

Started taking Viviscal Pro for all over hair loss. Don't see iron in the formula. Is is hidden somewhere? Have constipation issues, so don't want hidden iron.

ConsumerLab.com
February 22, 2024

As noted in the following section of our article, Viviscal Professional supplements do not appear to contain iron: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-help-for-hair-loss/hair-loss/#viviscal

Jeff5252
December 10, 2020

I just started using it. I have a fairly large spot on the back of my head. I tried the OTC pharmaceuticals, they caused irritation and redness. I read the observational results here and decided to give it a try. To my great surprise, I felt the growth before I could see it. Now it's visible. Both my wife and I are amazed. Whoda thunk!

Berrek5254
April 02, 2021

That's great! How has it been progressing? How long did it take to see the results?

Researcher
January 12, 2022

Jeff what did you start taking Viviscal?

Terri5248
September 22, 2019

Has anyone tried Visiscal hair growth supplement? I don’t believe Consumer Lab has tested them.

Robin5249
August 02, 2020

I've used it for 6 years. It made enough of a difference in the first year, that I hesitate to stop using it now. I have been losing more hair over the last year or so, but I think it might have been more if not for Viviscal. I'm in my early 70s and my somewhat younger sister, who doesn't use a hair-growth supplement, has thinner hair than I do. BTW, I started using Viviscal because there was a reference to it in a 2014 article in the NY Times that referred to testing done on Viviscal with positive results.

eileen5250
November 25, 2020

yes I have been using it for a few years. and it does work-for me anyway. I believe there are many factors other than just taking a supplement that help hair growth, like the other supplements/vitamins/ diet choices. But, Vivescal has helped me after I had hair loss due to medication/combined with perimenopause. I am guessing I got about 30% back- hair is still thinner, but loss stopped and some growth occurred.

Carol5243
September 05, 2018

I've had some stress filled years (job, eldercare, loss and a fall). I suffered with constant bouts of hair loss and needed help in keeping my strength up. Over the past couple years I've added collagen and bone broth in an effort to rebuild cartilage along with making me stronger in general. A hip transplant was out due to Illius when using anesthesia. My hair loss has almost completely stopped and I am feeling stronger. The hip will take time, but thank you for your research on best brands of bone broth. The old ways really are better.
UPDATE: 5.24.20
Some time has passed since my last post and I thought I might update my progress with hair loss, general body strengthening and replacing lost cartilage in a hip joint due to a fall. I am still taking Great Lakes collagen each morning with my normal vitamins. I am also making soup or a slow cooker dish using bone broth each week. Recipes usually make a few days meals, so I freeze meal sized portions. While I am still walking with a cane, I feel continued improvement and am starting to do steps using alternate lags more often. Progress is being made in general strengthening and my "new" hair" is so nice! I see continued improvement in all ways.

Rose5245
July 29, 2020

HI! I appreciate your comments. I am curious if you are using any specific supplements for the hair oth than the broth and collagen? I have been using collagen for 2 months. My hair is thinning in the front. Are you using anything in particular? I used Pantogar in the past and it works after about the 3rd month. You see results. I used pantograph from Germany...now I see it comes from Russia ...I may get some again. Let me know if you us

Researcher
July 27, 2022

if you see this in year 2022, I'd like to know how bone broth has continued to help you and hair and bone strength? I think of all things read here, instead of visical, I'd like to try great lakes collagen. I buy bone broth and also make my own bone broth when possible. Hope you see this.I have not tried great lakes yet.

Patricia5242
September 13, 2017

I asked a Dermatologist for suggestions on what works to slow hair loss 4 years ago. She suggested 5,000 mgs. of Biotin daily. So my son I have been taking Natrol Biotin 5,000 mg. daily for 4 years and it did nothing to alleviate continued hair loss for both of us. But it
did greatly strengthen our nails.

Paula5240
September 13, 2017

I found that Biotin absolutely helps with hair loss. I noticed that I need to take 10mg daily. 5mg is not enough. taking 5mg has no affect on my hair.

Ann5239
September 13, 2017

I tried supplementing with zinc for thinning hair. Initially (1st month or 2) my hair stopped shedding. But as I continued supplementing every day (not sure of dosage) my hair began falling out more than before. After researching more deeply into zinc for hair loss I learned that both inadequate and excess amounts in your system cause hair to fall out. So I stopped supplementing with it daily and only take one every now and then.

Lawrence5237
September 13, 2017

Are you aware of any studies for long term hair loss due to cancer therapy? My wife had cancer 13 years ago with chemo therapy; of course she lost her hair but it grew back albeit thinner. She then had a second incident three years ago with radiation therapy. Over time, her hair keeps getting thinner. She fears losing it all within several years.

Patricia5238
September 16, 2017

I too did chemo and radiation and my hair is slowly growing back, but much thinner. Coconut oil only on my scalp did help with the itching I had as the hair was beginning to grow. It is now about two inches long. No I am trying a mixture of half caster oil and coconut oil and a little of vitamin E as a preservative to my scalp at night. I just started it so I am not sure if it is working. Too soon to tell!

Susan5229
August 21, 2017

I've found three things that contribute to loss of hair:

1. Not eating enough protein.
2. Huperzine, which is used for memory. Anything over 50 mcg daily isn't good. But, it removed hair from my head and the hair didn't grow back.
3. Rx prescription for over-active Thyroid: Tapazole (Metamizole). Hair gone; but, not bald.

ConsumerLab.com
August 22, 2017

Hi Susan - Thank you for sharing your experience with this. You can find more information about Huperzine A in the Huperzine A Supplements Review: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/huperzine-a-supplements-review/huperzine-a/.

MizzF
January 11, 2022

I just want to second #1 with my experience. I was actively losing weight and eating about 90g a protein a day. It should have been enough. However, I was working out with weights and bands and decided to try to boost my protein to more like 120g a day. I don't keep records or logs, but basically upped target by adjusting my lean protein serving size up an ounce or so. I'd also use more beans for side dishes, top a potato with cottage cheese, and made use of incorporating more liquid egg whites into things. I also do use protein powders and shakes to supplement ever so often. Anyway, this made a noticeable improvement in my hair and nails. My hair isn't like it was in my 20s and 30s, but it is better with more protein, and I'll take it! I also don't think it matters if you take collagen or whey protein. I almost think plain old whey protein is better - no studies, just my N=1 experience though!

Researcher
July 27, 2022

Hi MzzF. I am active 70 plus and trying to lose weight, doing weights and bands, etc., I am going to start logging my protein to ensure getting enough. What type of plain old whey protein do you use or take? I will keep track of my hair. I have some mini hair growth on front scalp area, but unsure what vitamins are causing it. I take b, calcium, d3 , and multi. But I still need some thickness and strong bones, so was interested in your types of protein you are using and the whey protein. You mention you dot think it matters, but then again mentioned plain whey protein. Thanks.

Mesaverde
August 26, 2022

See Consumer Lab's review of protein (whey) supplements.

Paul R5232
August 26, 2022

As a long time exerciser -weightlifter, I have tried maybe 30-40 different brands-types of powdered protein over the years. If the powder tastes sucky, you will not use it. The overall best tasting and complete protein I have used is BSN Syntha, various flavors. I currently use the vanilla and banana flavors, but most all Syntha flavors are good. Syntha is a mixture of 6 proteins including basic whey. Note that I have no vested or commercial interest in Syntha protein and my comments are only based on my experience. No product was provided to me for my opinion. Syntha is readily available on-line in several different sized containers.

Limeylass
May 19, 2017

I had 3 surgeries within a 2 week period and my hair which use to be very thick began to fall out and became thin. I researched online as to what I could use for that problem and Biotin supplements were suggested. I took one every day and after 3 months noticed how much thicker my hair was getting. It did nothing for my nails however or my skin but I was very pleased with what it did for my hair. I also used a biotin shampoo during that time then stopped using it when my hair became thicker. Maybe this will help someone else with thinning hair after surgery.

ConsumerLab.com
May 25, 2017

Hi Vivien - We aren't aware of any clinical studies showing improvement with shampoos containing biotin, but thank you for sharing your experience with this.

Theresa5225
December 14, 2017

I was just wondering what dosage Vivien used (mcg/day) to get such good results for her thinning hair. Others here have noted that 10,000mcg/day worked for them when 5000 mcg/day did not. Thanks!

ConsumerLab.com
December 19, 2017

Hi Theresa - Please be aware that high doses of biotin can interfere with a number of laboratory tests. You can learn more about this in the "Biotin" section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/review-best-b-vitamins-and-complexes-energy-b6-b12-biotin-niacin-folic-acid/bvitamins/#kummer

Barbara5227
August 25, 2019

My endocrinologist stated that Biotin supplementation can interfere with thyroid medication

ConsumerLab.com
August 26, 2019

Hi Barbara - As noted above, high doses of biotin can interfere with thyroid laboratory tests. You can find more information about this in the B Vitamins Review: https://www.consumerlab.com/reviews/review-best-b-vitamins-and-complexes-energy-b6-b12-biotin-niacin-folic-acid/bvitamins/#kummer. Also see the CL Answer about supplement interactions with thyroid medication: https://www.consumerlab.com/answers/do-any-supplements-interfere-with-thyroid-hormones/hypothyroidism-and-supplements/.

Jeanne5219
November 01, 2015

I have read about topical melatonin (sold outside US) for hair loss. Has anyone used this product with success?

Cathie5220
September 29, 2023

Red light therapy work for anyone?

Marsha7390
April 02, 2024

I've been using a laser cap for more than a year now in addition to minoxidil. I've had excellent results with the process. My hair is much thicker, especially in the crown. Not sure if I'm supposed to mention the specific product but it is one mentioned in the reviews.

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