Androgenetic alopecia, or hair thinning, affects roughly one-third of women at some point in their lifetime. (1) It doesn’t stop there. Hair thinning and fallout can be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, stress, or even medication. (2) While it’s normal to lose between 50 and 100 strands of hair per day, it’s possible to minimize hair loss. (2)
For those experiencing hair loss, Nutrafol’s line of treatments can be an excellent solution. Read on to learn how Nutrafol can combat hair shedding to give you a fuller, thicker mane.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best Nutrafol hair loss treatments
Compare Nutrafol Hair Loss Treatments
Core for Women | Women’s Vegan | Women’s Balance | Postpartum | Men | |
Rating | |||||
Price | $88 for one month’s supply | $88 for one month’s supply | $88 for one month’s supply | $88 for one month’s supply | $88 for one month’s supply |
Active ingredient | Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, Ashwagandha, Marine collagen peptides, Keratin, Resveratrol, Kelp minerals | Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, Moldavian dragonhead, Ashwaganda, Bamboo, Chlorella, Pea Sprout | Biotin, Ashwagandha, Saw Palmetto, Maca, Vitamin C, Vitamin E | Vitamin C, Biotin, Vitamin E, Shatavari, Stringing nettle, Collagen-OSA | Biotin, Ashwagandha, Saw palmetto, Tocotriencol complex, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E |
Dosage | Four capsules once a day | Four capsules once a day | Four capsules once a day | Four capsules once a day | Four capsules once a day |
Form | Pill | Pill | Pill | Pill | Pill |
Key product features
What you should know
The Nutrafol Core for Women Hair Treatment offers a physician-formulated supplement explicitly designed for premenopausal women struggling with unwanted hair loss. This formula is clinically tested and directly addresses the root causes of hair loss.
- Nutrafol Core for Women claims to support a healthy scalp and hair growth to achieve thicker, stronger hair in as little as three months with consistent daily use.
- This supplement, priced at $2.93 per serving, offers an affordable alternative to more expensive salon or dermatological treatments.
- Nutrafol Women’s is designed specifically for women aged 18-44 and is a great option for those who want to support their hair and overall health.
- This treatment is clinically proven to safely and effectively promote hair growth in women experiencing self-perceived hair thinning.
- This treatment addresses six underlying root causes of hair health, including hormone levels, stress, metabolism, and aging. (3)
Nutrafol Core for Women overview
We like Nutrafol for Women because offers a convenient way to improve hair strength and promote growth. It’s a daily supplement designed to support premenopausal women with all hair types aged 18-44 who are experiencing hair thinning. While supplements are not regulated by the FDA like medications are, Nutrafol’s results have been clinically tested, and rigorous testing has been undertaken to validate their efficacy.
In a six-month clinical trial, participants noticed a 90% overall improvement in their hair, with 86% noticing improved hair growth. This means that those who took the Nutrafol supplement had more hair regrowth than those who took the placebo group. (4)
Hair grows slowly, and results will vary from person to person depending on various factors, but users may expect to see results between 3-6 months of consistent use. This means that this supplement is most effective if it is taken consistently over time and requires one serving (four capsules) daily.
The product is available in one-, three-, or six-month automated delivery options and comes with free shipping. The company also offers the option to pause or cancel a subscription at any time. Its website offers quick access to contact information and an instant chat feature to answer any questions you may have.
If you decide to order from the company’s website, your subscription includes additional benefits. Included is a monthly Headspace subscription that allows you to browse a library of sleep, meditation, and stress management resources to help Nutrafol’s overall goal to minimize the effects of stress and improve well-being.
Additionally, you’ll receive a free in-depth hair mineral test, usually valued at $200, to identify the root cause of your hair loss. To complete the test, simply collect a small hair sample at home and mail it to the laboratory for analysis. This test lets practitioners examine the molecular composition of your hair to help determine any imbalances that could be affecting hair quality and quantity. (5)
Furthermore, you can schedule a 1:1 wellness consult with a naturopathic doctor to discuss your test results and create a personalized treatment plan.
Unlike topical treatments, which only address surface-level symptoms, Nutrafol supplements work to address the root cause of hair loss from the inside out. A whole-body approach is at the core of Nutrafol’s strategy for hair regrowth.
On its website, Nutrafol offers a self-assessment quiz for those interested in learning more about how Nutrafol might benefit them. The quiz takes less than five minutes to complete and provides product recommendations based on your hair health goals.
The quiz starts by gathering your demographic information. Next, it prompts you to articulate your goals for your hair, whether you want to increase hair growth, improve appearance, or just want to strengthen it. You’ll also be asked to reflect on any changes you’ve noticed in your hair and when they started.
They also ask questions about your lifestyle including the types of foods that you typically consume and what beauty products you use regularly. These external factors have been shown to affect hair shedding and growth.
Once completed, you’ll receive personalized recommendations for the products that best help you achieve your desired hair results. From there, you can easily browse and purchase your desired products or sign up for an automated delivery subscription.
For those seeking an all-inclusive hair loss solution, Nutrafol offers the GrowthPlan+ at $299/month. This plan includes unlimited and direct access to naturopathic doctors, Nutrafol products necessary to achieve the results you are looking for, and a six-month money-back guarantee.
Specs
Price | $88 for a month’s supply |
Shipping | Free |
Active ingredients | Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, Ashwagandha, Marine collagen peptides, Keratin, Resveratrol, Kelp minerals |
Type of treatment | Oral supplement |
Prescription required | No |
Clinical support | 1:1 wellness consult with a naturopathic doctor |
Servings per container | 30 |
What customers are saying
Reviews on trusted third-party sites like Amazon are overwhelmingly positive. The product has over 17,000 reviews, and nearly 70% of users give it a five-star review. One verified Amazon purchaser, “Wt Mtn Shopper,” said, “During my most recent hair appointment, my hairdresser remarked that I had a lot of 2″ long hairs growing from my scalp. I was delighted to hear this. Nutrafol works as advertised.”
However, we did find a handful of unsatisfied customers. While this treatment is meant to give hair the nutrients it needs to grow stronger and longer, some users may see fallout in the first few months of treatment. This is due to a potential delay in stress levels as the supplement begins to target the hair shedding from within. (6)
“I thought things were going well for the first few months until month five,” says Rachel Bacon, verified Amazon purchaser. “That is when the excessive hair shedding started. When I say excessive, I mean around 200 hairs a day. I don’t know about you, but I went on this because my hair was already thin and fine… I don’t have 200 hairs a day to lose. I decided to stop the Nutrafol as I wasn’t entirely sure that was the cause of my shedding. Two weeks later, wouldn’t you know my hair shedding has drastically decreased and is returning to normal?”
We’ve featured Nutrafol in:
- The best hair loss treatments for men
- The best vitamins for hair growth
- The best hair growth products
- The best shampoos for hair loss of 2024
Who Nutrafol Core for Women is recommended for:
The Nutrafol Core for Women is specifically designed with the supplemental needs of women aged 18-44 in mind. It’s the right product for:
- Anyone concerned with hair loss and thinning who wants a quick and convenient treatment option.
- Those who have noticed hair thinning and are interested in understanding and treating the root cause of their hair loss.
- Women who prefer a natural, drug-free approach to hair health.
Who Nutrafol Core for Women is not recommended for:
Nutrafol Core for Women is not recommended for:
- Men should not consume the product. While none of the ingredients in the supplement are harmful, this formulation is specifically designed for the overall health of females.
- Children should not take Nutrafol as it has not been proven safe. (7)
- Some of the ingredients in this product are not proven safe during pregnancy; because of this, pregnant women should not consume this product. (7)
- Those who want to see immediate results. This product works from the inside out to address the root cause of hair loss. It is not intended to provide results after just one dosage.
Nutrafol ingredients
Different Nutrafol products contain slightly varied ingredients to address the root cause of hair loss in different groups of the population. Both the Nutrafol Core for Women and Nutrafol Core for Men contain Nutrafol’s patented Synergen Complex.
This powerful blend of ingredients supports hair health and works to combat hair loss. The Synergen Complex benefits from the active ingredients of:
- Sensoril® Ashwagandha
- Saw Palmetto
- Tocotrienol Complex
- Marine Collagen Peptides
- Curcumin
Additional ingredients found in the Synergen Complex include:
- Kelp Minerals
- Resveratrol
- Horsetail
- Keratin
Supporting ingredients include:
- L-Cysteine
- L-Lysine
- L-Methionine
- Black Pepper
- Capsicum
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Biotin
- Zinc
- Selenium
- Hyaluronic Acid
A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology assessed the effectiveness of Nutrafol’s Synergen Complex. The study involved 98 participants who took the supplement for six months and included men aged 20-55 and premenopausal women aged 20-45 from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. The study’s results found improved visible hair growth with less notable shedding. (8)
Differing slightly from the Synergen Complex formulation, the Synergen Complex Plus is found in Nutrafol’s Women’s Balance supplement. This blend includes active and supporting ingredients of:
- Maca
- Saw Palmetto
- Sensoril® Ashwagandha
- Astaxanthin
- Marine Collagen Peptides
- Curcumin
- Tocotrienol Complex
- Kelp Minerals
- Resveratrol
- Horsetail
The Nutrafol Postpartum provides additional support for new mothers as they transition from pregnancy to postpartum recovery. This formulation includes Nutrafol’s Synergen Recovery Complex™ and includes active ingredients like:
- Shatavari
- DHA Omega-3s
- Apple Polyphenols
- Tocotrienol Complex
- Stinging Nettle
- Collagen-OSA
- Theanine
- Kelp Minerals
- Pea Sprout Extract
- Sea Buckthorn
The Nutrafol Women’s Vegan includes ingredients that target the root cause of hair loss for those who follow a Vegan lifestyle. This formulation includes the Synergen Plant Complex® and includes:
- Sensoril® Ashwagandha
- Moldavian Dragonhead
- Tocotrienol Complex
- Curcumin
- Saw Palmetto
- Pea Sprouts
- Bacillus subtilis DE111® Probiotic
Nutrafol side effects
Nutrafol is a natural supplement carefully crafted to support hair health and growth. While there have been no reported adverse reactions during clinical studies, it’s possible to have a reaction or sensitivity to one or more of the ingredients used. (9) Do not take it if you have a known allergy or sensitivity to any of the listed ingredients.
The company’s website has a full list of ingredients. If you are concerned about any of the ingredients used, it is advised that you consult your healthcare team.
Expert opinion
“If you are looking for a natural supplement that can improve hair growth and decrease shedding, Nutrafol Core Women may be a good choice for you,” according to Dr. Aneesha Dharaglkar, MD. “Many of the active ingredients in this supplement have been found to improve hair loss issues over time. For example, a review of multiple studies centering around the use of saw palmetto found improvements in hair quality and hair count and increased hair density when using both oral and topical formulations of this product. (10)
“In addition, a study evaluating the use of oral tocotrienols increased hair count in those volunteers receiving this supplement versus placebo. (11) Keep in mind that this supplement is not FDA-approved. Therefore, it is essential to discuss the use of this product with your medical provider prior to using it to make sure it is safe for you and does not interfere with any other medications you may be taking.”
How we rated Nutrafol Core for Women
Our team of experts assessed Nutrafol’s Core for Women hair loss supplement in categories such as the value that the product provides, the clinical support available, and the treatment efficacy. Hover over the icon to learn more about the different categories, or scroll down for more detailed information on each category.
Additional models from Nutrafol
Nutrafol Women’s Vegan
Key product features
What you should know
The Nutrafol Women’s Vegan is a physician-formulated supplement designed to support the unique nutritional needs of a plant-based diet while combating the underlying cause of hair thinning.
- Rather than covering up the problem, this supplement targets the root cause of hair loss. It’s clinically proven to promote hair growth in at least three months with daily use. (9)
- This supplement is priced similarly to other Nutrafol supplements at $2.93 per serving, offering an affordable solution for thinning hair.
- The Women’s Vegan is intended for premenopausal women aged 18-44 who follow a plant-based diet.
Nutrafol Women’s Vegan overview
The Women’s Vegan formulation is specifically formulated for premenopausal women aged 18-44 who follow a plant-based, vegan diet. We like Nutrafol for its assurance of quality ingredients.
Removing animal-based ingredients may add additional nutrients to optimize the formulation for a vegan lifestyle.
Among those nutrients is the Moldavian Dragonhead, which has been shown to support the body’s collagen production. (12) Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in our hair, skin, and nails. Studies have shown collagen to combat hair thinning and improve hair loss by addressing underlying factors like inflammation, stress, and oxidative damage. (13)
This product is available for auto-shipment from the company’s website. Subscribers can choose between one-month, three-month, or six-month delivery options. Your subscription includes a consultation with a naturopathic doctor, an in-depth hair analysis, and a monthly subscription to Headspace.
This 1:1 time with a Naturopathic Doctor provides the perfect opportunity to discuss your hair analysis results and create a customized, targeted treatment plan. The Headspace app encourages mind-body awareness to reduce stress and promote hair growth.
Recommended for:
The Women’s Vegan is recommended for premenopausal women aged 18-44 who are experiencing hair loss or have noticed hair thinning and who follow a vegan lifestyle. It’s specifically designed to address six root causes of hair loss in women who follow a plant-based or mainly plant-based lifestyle.
It’s important to note that this supplement has not been tested for safety and efficacy in pregnant or breastfeeding women. For this reason, it’s not recommended for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or for those who are currently breastfeeding.
Nutrafol Women’s Balance
Key product features
What you should know
Nutrafol Women’s Balance is physician-formulated to support women through the hormonal changes during and after menopause.
- Nutrafol Women’s Balance offers a drug-free supplement with results backed by science and clinical evidence. (9)
- This supplement is priced at $2.93 per serving, much less than more invasive dermatological treatments.
- This supplement is best for women aged 45+ who are or have experienced menopause or perimenopause. However, it can be used in adult women who have noticed receding hairline, excessive facial hair, or irregular periods.
- This treatment requires consistent use. Clinical studies found that most results were noticed within three to six months of daily use. (9)
Nutrafol Women’s Balance overview
Aging is often associated with unwanted side effects. For some, this time of hormonal change brings hair loss. (14) The Nutrafol Women’s Balance is specifically formulated for the needs of women aged 45+ who have undergone menopause.
These hormone changes cause the hair to grow more slowly and become thinner over time. Testosterone naturally increases during menopause. (15) Several ingredients, such as saw palmetto, inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT. (16) Due to this conversion, hair follicles shrink, resulting in shorter and finer hair. (17)
Because Nutrafol Women’s Balance contains ingredients like saw palmetto, it combats hair loss from within. It also helps reduce inflammation and stress, which are major contributors to hair loss. Finally, it helps to maintain a healthy scalp, which provides the foundation for healthy hair growth.
The product is available for autoshipment, with subscription options of one month, three months, and six months available on the company’s website. As part of your subscription, you’ll receive a monthly membership to Headspace. This Headspace service includes guided meditations, sleep playlists, and relaxation techniques to promote calm and relaxation.
Recommended for:
Nutrafol Women’s Balance offers a root-cause solution for women aged 45+ who want a drug-free way to support hair health and growth during menopause. This formula is designed to help women experiencing menopausal symptoms regardless of their age.
It is recommended for women experiencing symptoms of menopause who are looking for a supplement to support their needs during this phase and for women who want a comprehensive approach to hair health.
Nutrafol Postpartum
Key product features
What you should know
Nutrafol’s Postpartum formula is a hair growth supplement that targets the needs of postpartum women to support hair health and growth in the first year after giving birth or breastfeeding.
- Nutrafol Postpartum was developed by OB-GYNs and is made with all-natural ingredients that are safe to use while breastfeeding. (17)
- With prices at $2.93 a serving, many women will find that this supplement can support them during this transition period without breaking the bank.
- This hair loss supplement is best for new moms who want an all-natural supplement that’s safe to use during recovery.
- This supplement addresses the root cause of postpartum hair thinning, with ingredients that help support the body’s stress response, hormonal changes, and nutrient depletion. (18)
Nutrafol Postpartum overview
After childbirth, the body undergoes a series of transitions. (19) Nutrafol Postpartum is tailored to the specific needs of new mothers. Postpartum shedding is common due to the dramatic shift in hormone levels that occurs after childbirth. It usually peaks within the first few months of this transition before eventually stabilizing as the hair growth cycle returns to normal. (19)
The ingredients in Nutrafol’s Postpartum Synergen Recovery Complex are meant to give postpartum bodies the nutrients they need to support healthy hair growth during this period.
According to the company’s website, one clinical trial found that 91% of postpartum women reported a visible decrease in shedding after two months, and 98% of participants found an improvement in their hairline after four months of consistent daily use with Nutrafol’s Postpartum hair loss treatment. (17)
Nutrafol’s Postpartum is available on the company’s website in one-, three-, or six-month auto-delivery options. Each subscription includes an in-depth hair analysis, 1:1 consultation with a Naturopathic Doctor, and a Headspace subscription to promote mindfulness practices in mothers’ and newborns’ daily routines.
Recommended for:
Women who have noticed increased hair shedding or thinning postpartum are advised to use Nutrafol Postpartum during the first year after giving birth. It’s also recommended for women who have stopped breastfeeding within the last year.
Nutrafol Postpartum is not recommended for women who are pregnant or may become pregnant. Although all ingredients are breast-feeding-safe, this product has not been tested for safety during pregnancy.
Nutrafol Core for Men
Key product features
What you should know
Nutrafol Core for Men is a patented daily supplement designed for men to combat hair loss and scalp thinning.
- This supplement addresses six root causes of male hair loss from the inside out.
- Priced at $2.93 per serving, this supplement is more affordable and convenient than messier topical treatments.
- Nutrafol Core for Men is best for men who want to proactively approach hair thinning.
- Unlike other hair loss treatments that can cause sexual side effects, Nutrafol is formulated differently and does not compromise sexual performance.
Nutrafol Core for Men overview
The Nutrafol Core for Men is an all-natural supplement designed to address the root causes of hair loss in men, such as stress, hormones, metabolism, and lifestyle factors. (20) Unlike other hair loss products, this once-a-day supplement easily integrates into your daily routine, allowing users to proactively minimize hair loss and regrow what has already been lost.
Nutrafol’s Core for Men is clinically proven to improve men’s hair quality and scalp coverage. One study found that 84% of men saw an improvement in hair quality, and 72% saw an increase in the amount of hair covering their scalp after six months of continuous use. (8) This is due to the active ingredients found in this supplement, including vitamin C, which is known to protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and increase collagen production—essential for hair growth.
Unlike other hair loss products, this supplement does not require a prescription. It’s available for auto-delivery on the company’s website in quantities of one-, three-, or six-month subscriptions. As with the women’s formulations, Nutrafol offers an optional all-inclusive monthly membership to address your hair loss concerns.
For $299/month, Nutrafol offers the GrowthPlan+ Guarantee, which includes a money-back guarantee. Your monthly subscription includes all the Nutrafol hair care products and supplements you need, unlimited access to a naturopathic doctor, an in-depth hair analysis, and a monthly Headspace subscription to promote mindfulness.
Popular hair loss drugs like Minoxidil or Finasteride often have unwanted side effects like erectile dysfunction and low sexual desire. (21, 22) Nutrafol Core for Men has no known sexual side effects associated with it, unlike other prescription strength hair loss treatments.
Recommended for:
Nutrafol Core for Men is an excellent option for men who have suffered from side effects associated with other hair loss treatments. Supplements like Nutrafol could help men stop hair loss before it starts. This is a great alternative for those seeking a proactive solution to hair loss.
Nutrafol vs. competitors
Core for Women | Hers | Hims | Keeps | MDHair | |
Rating | |||||
Price | $88 for one month’s supply | Treatments start at $39/month | Treatments start at $39/month | $60 for one month’s supply | Starting at $66/month |
Form | Capsule | Chewable | Chewable | Topical | Topical |
Active ingredients | Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, Ashwagandha, Marine collagen peptides, Keratin, Resveratrol, Kelp minerals | Minoxidil, finasteride | Minoxidil, finasteride | Minoxidil, finasteride | Horsetail, saw palmetto, rosemary leaf oil, argan oil, tea tree oil, wheat proteins |
Side effects | No reported side effects during clinical studies | Headaches, acne, irregular menstruation, decreased libido | Headaches, acne, irregular menstruation, decreased libido | Headaches, acne, burning sensation to the affected area | These ingredients are generally not associated with adverse effects when applied topically |
Hers offers a variety of hair loss treatment options for women, many of which require a prescription. Hers is best for women who have tried over-the-counter hair loss supplements before with little to no results.
Similarly, Hims offers a variety of hair loss products for men, many of which require a prescription by a licensed medical professional. Notably, Hims and Hers offer chewable formulations, which may be a suitable option for those who cannot swallow pills.
Keeps offers topical and orally administered solutions to thinning hair. One advantage to topical medications like minoxidil and finasteride is that they are typically associated with fewer side effects in comparison to ingesting the medication. (23)
MDHair provides a wide range of topical solutions, making them a good choice for anyone who does not want to consume daily supplements.
We’ve featured Nutrafol in:
- Best hair loss treatment for men
- Best vitamins for hair growth
- Best hair growth products
- Best shampoo for hair loss
FAQs
What is Nutrafol?
Nutrafol is a brand known for its hair-targeted supplements. These supplements are designed to address hair loss and thinning by promoting hair growth. The company’s range of products includes 100% drug-free hair loss supplements for women and men at different stages of life.
Each supplement is physician-formulated, clinically tested, and comes with Nutrafol’s patented Synergen Complex. In addition to its prescription-free line of hair loss supplements, Nutrafol offers a line of topical serums and hair care products.
Nutrafol took a whole-body approach to hair loss. Unlike topical treatments that address symptoms, Nutrafol works at the molecular level to address six root causes of hair loss, including changing hormones, stress levels, lifestyle factors, metabolism, nutritional gaps, and aging. (4)
Is Nutrafol safe?
Nutrafol’s products are physician-formulated and backed by science. To ensure the safety and efficacy of its products, 19 clinical studies have been conducted with Nuratfol’s patented Synergen Complex. No adverse effects were reported during these studies. (4)
Does Nutrafol really work?
Nutrafol’s products have undergone rigorous clinical testing to ensure their efficacy. In clinical studies, Nutrafol’s patented blend of ingredients was found to show results in as little as two months of consistent use. (4)
While everyone responds differently to interventions, Nutrafol stands by its efficacy and offers users a six-month money-back guarantee as part of its GrowthPlan+ subscription.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar
Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar is a board-certified emergency medicine physician currently practicing in West Chester, PA. She graduated cum laude from John Hopkins University in 2002 and from Jefferson Medical College in 2006. After this, Dr. Dhargalkar attended and completed a three-year residency program in emergency medicine at Temple University Health System. Dr. Dhargalkar is the director of her hospital’s wellness provider program and sits on the executive board of both the Chester County Suicide Prevention Task Force and the Unionville Chadds Ford School District Education Foundation.
Dr. Fatema Dawoodbhoy, MBBS, BSc
Dr. Dawoodbhoy MBBS BSc (she/her) is an Academic Doctor working in London with a keen interest in Obstetrics & Gynaecology. She is a double graduate from Imperial College London with an MBBS and a BSc in Business Management (First Class Honours).
Heather Morsellino
Heather Morsellino is a freelance writer and fact-checker with over four years of experience in healthcare. She has worked as a pharmacy technician, emergency room medical scribe, and anesthesia technician in the operating room and will finish her ADN within the following year
Brittney Bertagna, RN, BSN
Fortune Recommends Longevity Writer
About Author
Brittney Bertagna is a registered nurse passionate about educating online audiences about health-related topics. As a healthcare professional, she brings a unique perspective to her work, creating credible content that is engaging and accessible to readers. As a freelance health editor and writer, Brittney ensures the dissemination of evidence-based, patient-centered content. Brittney has worked with numerous notable healthcare brands, reporting on topics such as healthcare entrepreneurship, reproductive health, and nutrition.