Demystifying Hair Supplements: Nutrafol vs. Vegamour vs. Biotin & More

As a dermatologist, I often encounter patients seeking solutions for hair thinning and loss. The supplement market is flooded with products promising miraculous hair growth, but not all of these claims are backed by scientific evidence. It's important to understand the root cause of hair loss, but if none other than stress can be found after consulting your healthcare provider, nutraceuticals can be a great option for those not ready to start prescription therapies. Let's dive into the world of hair supplements and separate fact from fiction.

Evidence-Based Hair Supplements

Nutrafol 

Nutrafol has emerged as a leading hair growth supplement, and for good reason. Clinical studies support its efficacy in promoting hair growth for both men and women of improved hair strength and quality noticed at about month 3, and increased hair volume & baby hair growth and lengthening noticed at about month 6 [1][4]. This supplement combines clinically tested and proven ingredients such as marine collagen, vitamins, minerals and plant extracts such as Ashwagandha, Saw Palmetto and Curcumin to address multiple factors contributing to hair thinning, including stress and hormonal imbalances [2].

Viviscal

Another well-researched option is Viviscal. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study demonstrated significant increases in hair growth after 90 and 180 days of use [5]. Viviscal contains a proprietary marine complex along with vitamins and minerals that support healthy hair growth [8].

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oil has gained attention as a potential supplement for hair loss, particularly for those experiencing androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. The primary mechanism by which pumpkin seed oil may benefit hair growth is through its ability to block the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for hair loss [11][17].

The oil contains phytosterols and other compounds that can inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT [4][11]. By reducing DHT levels, pumpkin seed oil may help prevent follicle shrinkage and hair thinning associated with hormonal hair loss. This makes it particularly promising for individuals experiencing hair loss due to hormonal factors, such as during menopause or in cases of male pattern baldness [4][17]. However, it's important to note that pumpkin seed oil's efficacy is primarily targeted at hormonally mediated hair loss and may not be as effective for other types of hair loss with different underlying causes. While some studies have shown promising results, with one reporting increased hair growth in men taking 400mg daily for 24 weeks [16], more research is needed to fully establish its long-term effectiveness and optimal dosage for hair growth.

The Biotin Myth

While biotin is often touted as a hair growth miracle, the evidence supporting its use alone for hair growth is lacking. In fact, high doses of biotin can interfere with important medical tests, potentially leading to misdiagnosis of conditions like thyroid disorders or heart problems [3]. 

Biotin's efficacy for hair growth in healthy individuals has been largely debunked by scientific research. A comprehensive review of the literature revealed that there have been no studies demonstrating biotin supplementation to be beneficial for hair growth in healthy individuals [13]. The hype surrounding biotin seems to have originated from a misunderstanding of its role in hair health. While biotin deficiency can indeed cause hair loss, this has been erroneously extrapolated to suggest that excess supplementation would promote hair growth in those with sufficient biotin levels [13].

Despite the lack of scientific evidence to treat hair loss in health individuals, biotin's popularity as a hair growth supplement has soared in recent years, largely driven by social media influence and celebrity endorsements [14][15]. The rise of e-commerce and easy access to a wide range of biotin products has also contributed significantly to its market expansion [15]. This social media-driven popularity has led to a disconnect between scientific evidence and public perception, with many consumers and influencers perpetuating biotin supplements as a remedy for hair loss despite insufficient evidence to support its use for hair growth in healthy individuals [13]. I recommend consulting your primary care provider and a dermatologist who will curate a personalized treatment plan to target any possible root causes contributing to your hair loss.

Topical vs. Systemic Treatments

It's important to note that while topical treatments like Vegamour can be beneficial, they generally produce weaker results compared to systemic supplements. This is because oral supplements work from within, addressing underlying factors that contribute to hair thinning [7].

Vegamour 

Vegamour topicals, particularly the GRO and GRO+ Advanced Hair Serums, have gained popularity as hair growth treatments. These products contain a blend of plant-based ingredients, including mung bean, red clover, turmeric, and caffeine, which are claimed to promote hair growth and reduce shedding. In the GRO+ Advanced line, CBD is also included to potentially enhance blood circulation and reduce inflammation [18][19].

Despite Vegamour's claims, the clinical backing for these topicals is limited. While the company cites several studies to support their ingredients' efficacy, a closer examination reveals that some of these studies don't fully align with the claims made [22]. For instance, cannabinoids may actually antagonize hair growth, contrary to their intended purpose in the product [22]. However, an independent clinical study commissioned by Vegamour reported up to 52% more density and 76% less shedding in some subjects using their hair serums [20]. It's important to note that there are currently no known clinical trials specifically looking at the effects of Vegamour products [18]. Consumers might consider Vegamour topicals as an alternative to systemic nutraceuticals due to their ease of application (once daily on wet or dry hair) and the appeal of a natural, vegan formulation [18][21]. However, for those seeking more robust clinical evidence, systemic treatments or FDA-approved options like minoxidil might be more appropriate.

The Importance of Clinical Evidence

When recommending hair supplements, I always prioritize those with strong clinical backing. Nutrafol and Viviscal have consistently shown positive results in scientific studies [4][6]. These supplements not only promote hair growth but also improve hair quality and reduce shedding.

Conclusion

While hair supplements can be an effective part of a hair growth regimen, it's crucial to choose products supported by scientific evidence. Nutrafol, Viviscal, and even pumpkin seed oil have shown promising results in clinical studies. However, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist before starting any new supplement regimen, as the underlying causes of hair loss can vary from person to person and may require further medical testing for definitive answers. 

Remember, healthy hair growth is a journey that involves more than just supplements. A balanced diet, proper hair care, and addressing any underlying health issues are all crucial components of maintaining luscious locks.

Citations:

[1] https://www.rochesterregional.org/hub/hair-loss-treatment-nutrafol

[2] https://www.mdhair.co/article/nutrafol-vs-viviscal-for-hair-growth

[3] https://www.tryonmed.com/resource/do-hair-supplements-work-guidance-from-a-dermatologist/

[4] Drake L, Reyes-Hadsall S, Martinez J, Heinrich C, Huang K, Mostaghimi A. Evaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of Nutritional Supplements for Treating Hair Loss: A Systematic Review. JAMA Dermatol. 2023;159(1):79-86. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2022.4867

(A systematic review in which 30 articles were included: 17 randomized clinical trials (the highest quality testing available), 11 non-randomized clinical studies, and 2 case series studies.)

[5] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3509882/

[6] https://modernaesthetics.com/articles/2024-jan-feb/hair-supplements-combing-through-the-pros-cons-and-cautions

[7] https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a24894704/hair-growth-vitamins-supplements-tablets/

[8] https://www.healthline.com/health/viviscal

[9] https://nutrafol.com

[10] https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/medical-student-contributors-health-and-nutrition/nutrafol-holy-grail-hair-loss-or-overpriced-supplement

[11] Farris PK, Rogers N, McMichael A, Kogan S. A Novel Multi-Targeting Approach to Treating Hair Loss, Using Standardized Nutraceuticals. J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(11):s141-s148.

[12] Soleymani T, Lo Sicco K, Shapiro J. The Infatuation With Biotin Supplementation: Is There Truth Behind Its Rising Popularity? A Comparative Analysis of Clinical Efficacy versus Social Popularity. J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(5):496-500.

[13] Yelich A, Jenkins H, Holt S, Miller R. Biotin for Hair Loss: Teasing Out the Evidence. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2024;17(8):56-61.

[14] https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/biotin-supplements-market

[15] https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/biotin-supplement-market-111086

[16] Ibrahim IM, Hasan MS, Elsabaa KI, Elsaie ML. Pumpkin seed oil vs. minoxidil 5% topical foam for the treatment of female pattern hair loss: A randomized comparative trial. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021; 20: 2867–2873. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.13976

[17] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/pumpkin-seed-oil-for-hair

[18] https://www.hims.com/blog/vegamour-vs-minoxidil

[19] https://www.innerbody.com/vegamour-vs-nutrafol

[20] https://vegamour.com/pages/science-customer-reviews

[21] https://www.mdhair.co/article/vegamour-gro-hair-serum-vs-nutrafol-growth-activator-serum

[22] https://perfecthairhealth.com/vegamour-review/