Viviscal Review – Do These Hair Growth Vitamins Actually Work?

Today, millions of men and women suffer from hair loss. Approximately 2/3rds of adult men over the age of 35 experience thinning hair and more than 30 million women in the US experience noticeable hair loss. Unfortunately, this can negatively affect a person’s self-image, confidence, and lead to other mental issues such as anxiety and depression.

And in a culture that places emphasis on youth and longevity, losing your hair can make you feel old and like your best years are behind you.

That’s where hair growth supplements come in. Hair growth supplements are often used with the hopes that they will stimulate new hair growth and prevent hair loss and thinning. Many hair health supplements are in the form of a cream you spread over your head, while others are in a convenient pill form you can take every morning.

Regardless of the form, it’s important to gauge whether or not hair supplements are actually effective. And in this article, we’ll be reviewing one such hair supplement called Viviscal. Look no further than this comprehensive Viviscal review to see if it works, how it works, and ultimately whether or not you should use this product for your hair concerns.

About Viviscal

Viviscal is a hair replenishment supplement used to prevent hair loss and promote existing hair growth. The Viviscal company has over 25 years of research, development, and expertise in the hair industry and this is why they claim they are the best for the business. Viviscal is promoted as being 100% drug-free and made from natural ingredients, and all of the Viviscal hair growth supplements are available for both men and women.

Regardless of what form, both Viviscal hair growth supplements are highlighted by a proprietary collagen complex called AminoMar, along with key vitamins and minerals to promote hair health and contribute to healthy hair growth. The makers also say that all of the benefits are clinically proven and based on sound clinical research from 10 studies.

Viviscal hair growth supplements have received much support from some famous A-Listers, including Cate Blanchett, Miley Cyrus, and top hairstylists, such as Mark Townsend, Oscar Blandi, and Andy Lecompte. 

Viviscal Benefits

Viviscal claims that taking 1 to 2 pills daily for six to twelve months will slow hair loss, increase hair growth in problem areas, and overall support healthy hair, such as by increasing hair strength, hair volume, and hair density.

And again, these benefits are attributed to the key ingredients in the product designed to optimize the body’s natural hair growth and repair processes. 

Sounds almost too good to be true, huh? But let’s dive a bit deeper into the Viviscal review to see whether or not this is actually an effective hair growth supplement.  

Viviscal Ingredients

Viviscal is drug-free and only includes naturally occurring compounds. The ingredients in Viviscal differ slightly, depending on whether you get the men’s or women’s product. But here are the main ingredients in Viviscal that are included in both formulations:

• Vitamin C
• Calcium
• Zinc
• AminoMar Marine Complex, which contains:
  • Shark Cartilage
  • Oyster Extract Powder
• Horsetail Extract 

There are also seed extracts in each formula; the men’s formula contains flax seed extract and the women’s formula contains millet seed extract. 

Finally, the women’s formula contains additional ingredients, which are niacin, biotin, and iron. Right below are the labels for each of the formulas, so you can see exactly what (and how much of the) ingredients are in this product.  

AminoMar Complex

The main component of the Viviscal is the AminoMar Marine Complex, which is a trademarked form of shark cartilage and oyster extract. This complex is exclusive to Viviscal (i.e. it is not found in other hair supplements) and one of the main reasons why this product stands out amongst the competition. As such, Viviscal considers this complex their secret weapon. 

Both shark cartilage and oyster extract are rich in many different compounds. For example, shark cartilage contains chondroitin, fish oil, calcium, phosphorus, and various minerals, as well as collagen and other key protein molecules. And oyster extract is rich in zinc, calcium, B12, and copper.

Essentially, the AminoMar Complex delivers vital nutrients into the body, which eventually end up in the blood circulation and can nourish hair follicles. Shark cartilage also promotes collagen production, which can increase the strength and health of hair. 

AminoMar has a lot of specific research on it, and it has been studied in numerous clinical trials. These clinical trials have shown that AminoMar can increase hair count, increase hair density, reduce hair thinning, Furthermore, it appears to be appropriate and effective for all hair types.

Vitamins and Minerals

Viviscal also contains a few vitamins and minerals that are designed to promote hair growth and healthy hair in general. These include vitamin C, calcium, and zinc, along with niacin, biotin, and iron (in the women’s version).

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is included to help the body absorb iron into the bloodstream, which is known to promote hair growth. Moreover, vitamin C helps to increase collagen production and acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, all of which could strengthen hair and reduce thinning hair. 

Zinc

Zinc is included to help with hair growth as well since zinc deficiency can lead to hair thinning and hair loss. It also has antioxidant properties and helps to nourish hair follicles. 

Calcium

Calcium is also important for hair health, as research also shows a calcium deficiency is a primary factor in hair loss. 

Horsetail Extract

Also included in both formulas is horsetail extract. Horsetail is known for its high silica content, which strengthens hair and promotes hair growth. Additionally, horsetail may act as an antioxidant and increase blood circulation. 

Seed Extracts

There are also seed extracts in Viviscal: flaxseed in the men’s formula, and millet seed in the women’s formula. Both of these are rich in fatty acids (e.g. omega-3, omega-6) which may help nourish the hair. They may also play a mild role in increasing hair follicle cell proliferation, which could help lead to greater growth.

Extras in the Women’s Formula

As noted, the women’s formula also contains additional active ingredients in iron, biotin, and niacin. Iron is vital for hair growth and strength, especially since it’s so involved in supplying oxygen-rich blood to the hair follicles. Unsurprisingly, an iron deficiency is tightly linked with hair loss and shedding, so supplementation can be beneficial.

Biotin

Also included are two b-vitamins, biotin (B7) and niacin (B3). The main reason biotin is included is that it is involved in amino acid metabolism and therefore involved in the proteins that make up hair. However, only limited research shows biotin as beneficial.

Niacin

Lastly, niacin supports blood flow and thus helps to bring oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicle. Still, more research is needed, and it may not be needed in people with sufficient dietary intake of niacin.

Overall, the extra ingredients in the women’s formula may very well help ladies with aspirations of dense and long hair to achieve that gorgeous growth. 

Does Viviscal Really Work?

While there is no magic pill that will grow your hair 5 inches overnight, the evidence shows that Viviscal does help with hair growth. The product includes high-quality ingredients, such as AminoMar, and various vitamins and minerals that have been proven to support hair growth, prevent excess shedding and lead to fuller, thick hair.

In addition, it has also demonstrated its capability in multiple clinical studies, which provides a solid backbone upon which the makers can base their claims. Specifically, significant research shows that AminoMar (along with other ingredients) should definitely reduce hair loss and promote greater hair density, strength, length, and health.

Claims vs. Reality

Now, Viviscal isn’t going to make your hair reach the floor in a week, but for those looking for a supplement that will support hair growth long-term, it seems to be a solid choice and can promote significant hair growth, as evidenced by peer-reviewed studies.

Also, while it helps to nourish thinning hair, it is likely best used for people who have mild or temporary hair thinning. If you are already bald or have a lot of hair gone, this product likely won’t magically make it all come back. But it definitely should produce noticeable improvements for people with mild hair loss and self-perceived thinning hair, especially over a long period of time.

It’s important to have realistic expectations. There is no product or supplement that is proven to reverse hair loss or completely resolve thin hair. With that said, certain supplements can slow hair loss and improve the health of thinning hair, just like Viviscal. In line with the research, I’d expect improvements after around 3 months, with the best results after 6 to 12 months.

Is Viviscal a Good Product?

Overall, we would rank Viviscal as one of the leading hair growth products. The ingredients are well-researched, and it’s easy to take the pills daily.

Viviscal reviews show that a large percentage of customers are happy with the product. When we set out to review Viviscal, we weren’t entirely sure what to expect. There are a lot of subpar hair growth products on the market (to put it lightly), and we didn’t know where Viviscal would fit in. We were relieved to find that Viviscal is one of the better products on the market. The supplement is formulated by a reputable company, and purchases are backed by a 90-day money-back guarantee.

Also, there are many other Viviscal supplements that can be used alongside their hair growth supplements. Such products include shampoos, conditioners, and elixirs.

Advantages of Viviscal

• Easy to use. No creams or lotions, just take 1-2 pills per day as needed.
• Options for one month and three-month supply so you can try it out for a bit first before you commit.
• 100% Drug-free
• Also contains proteins, vitamins, minerals, and vital nutrients for health
• Dairy, soy, and gluten-free
• Well-researched

Disadvantages of Viviscal

• One month supply is relatively expensive ($40+)
• For some people, all hair grows faster, not just the hair on your head
• Pills can make you nauseous if taken on an empty stomach

Is Viviscal Safe?

Viviscal contains no synthetic products and has been shown to be safe for human consumption. A 2012 clinical study found that Viviscal was more effective at promoting hair growth compared to placebo alternatives. Moreover, Viviscal does not contain any dairy, soy, nuts, eggs, gluten, or wheat, so it is generally safe for people with common allergies.  It does, however, contain shellfish, so it is not suited for vegans and can trigger an allergic reaction in those intolerant to seafood. 

Side Effects

As far as side effects go, they are very minimal and not serious. Some might notice the pills initially make them nauseous, especially if taken on an empty stomach. Another “complaint” is that it doesn’t just promote hair growth on your head, but all over your body. This is not necessarily a bad side effect, but it’s something you should keep in mind. Also, some people report that while Viviscal helps promote hair growth, it can make hair oily and greasy. Regular hair cleaning should alleviate this side effect.

Overall, Viviscal is regarded as safe and posed mild side effects.

Where to Buy Viviscal

You can buy Viviscal directly from their website.

A 1 month supply of Viviscal costs $33.99, and a three-month supply costs $101.97. The prices are the same for the women’s and men’s formulas.

You can also choose their Auto-Shipment program special offer, in which you get a 3-month supply at a time. You can choose to be billed every month at $33.33 or every 3 months at $99.99. 

You also have the option to purchase other Viviscal supplements (shampoo, conditioner, elixir) with this supplement to complete your routine. That would cost an additional $30 every 90 days.

Common Questions About Viviscal

After posting our initial Viviscal review, we received a lot of the same questions about the product. Below are the most common questions and answers.

Is Viviscal FDA Approved?

No. The FDA does not regulate supplements and vitamins, so there is no such thing as an “FDA approved” supplement. This is not unique to Viviscal. None of the supplements on the shelves at any health store or grocery store are FDA approved. That said, Viviscal conforms to FDA requirements and best practices.

When Will I See Results from Viviscal?

You should start seeing results within 3-6 months, with full results showing up in about 12 months. Viviscal works in three stages:

1. Nourish the hair follicles
2. Strengthen existing hair
3. Promote the growth of hair that has slower growth or has stopped growing

The end result should be stronger, healthier hair.

Does Viviscal Regrow Hair?

Currently, there is no product that is proven to regrow hair successfully. If a hair follicle is completely dead, it can no longer grow hair. Viviscal will not change that. If you are entirely bald, you should not expect this product to return the mane of your youth. Viviscal will not help you grow new hair.That said, if you are at the early stages of hair loss, a product like Viviscal may be exactly what you need.Viviscal helps to promote the growth of existing hair. This could be thinning hair or follicles with slowed growth. In this sense, the product helps avoid future hair loss while also making your hair look healthier and fuller.

Viviscal Alternatives

Finally, it’s important to see how Viviscal compares to some other popular hair growth products on the market, such as Nutrafol, KeraViatin, and Hair Sweet Hair.

Nutrafol

One of the products most commonly compared to Viviscal is Nutrafol. Nutrafol uses various natural ingredients to target what they say are the six root causes of hair loss: hormones, stress, lifestyle, nutrition, metabolism, and aging. Key ingredients in Nutrafol include saw palmetto, maca, ashwagandha, astaxanthin, and curcumin, along with similar ingredients in Viviscal, such as horsetail extract and marine collagen peptides. A one-month supply costs $79. Check out our review of this product here. 

KeraViatin

Another similar product to Nutrafol is KeraViatin, created by Keranique, which also aims to target the underlying causes of hair loss through natural means. It includes vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients involved in various aspects of hair growth, scalp health, and more. Key players are curcumin, omega-3s, B-vitamins, zinc, amino acids, and saw palmetto.Each bottle costs $59.95. 

Hair Sweet Hair

The final product to look at is Hair Sweet Hair, created by Hum. This hair growth product comes in gummy form and contains B-vitamins, zinc, biotin, and herbs, among other ingredients. It is designed to nourish the hair follicles and scalp with healthy nutrition, leading to healthier, fuller hair. This product is definitely the cheapest as it only costs $26 for 30 servings.

Viviscal Review: Final Thoughts

Overall we would say Viviscal is worth the purchase. Viviscal customer reviews (as well as our own review) have shown that this is one of the better hair growth products on the market. Viviscal has clinical studies demonstrating its efficacy, and Viviscal has been on the market for quite some time, so you can be sure it’s not a scam. If you can afford the product, it is absolutely worth trying. Just make sure you stick with your regimen for at least 3-6 months.