Nutrafol offers many products to encourage hair growth, including:

• Nutrafol Women, designed for women 18-44 experiencing hair thinning. Its clinically-proven formula targets key root causes of thinning, such as stress, lifestyle, and nutrition. Nutrafol Women also comes in a vegan formulation suitable for those following plant-based lifestyles.
• Nutrafol Women’s Balance, designed for women 45 years and over experiencing hair thinning. Its clinically-proven formula targets key root causes of thinning, such as hormones, metabolism, and aging.
• Nutrafol Postpartum, designed for those in the first year after giving birth or breastfeeding. Its clinically-proven formula targets key root causes of postpartum thinning like stress, hormonal changes, and nutrient depletion.
• Nutrafol Men, designed for men of all ages who want to take a proactive approach to hair thinning. Its clinically-proven formula visibly improves hair growth and thickness by targeting key root causes like hormone imbalances, stress, and poor nutrition.

How is Nutrafol different from traditional hair supplements?

Nutrafol is a nutraceutical – a word combining “nutrient” and bioactive “pharmaceutical.” Nutraceuticals like Nutrafol use natural, bio-optimized ingredients. According to Nutrafol’s website, nutraceuticals are “standardized to contain guaranteed amounts of bioactive phytonutrients, and tested for efficacy and healthy use in clinical studies showing specific bioactivities, health benefits, and growth improvements.”

Nutrafol supplements differ from traditional hair supplements in a few ways. They’re backed by public research and clinical studies, including randomized, placebo-controlled trials. They’re also physician-formulated with 100% drug-free ingredients. Many hair supplements aren’t clinically tested and don’t address the root cause of hair loss. Nutrafol is dermatologist-recommended and has proven results when it comes to hair growth, strength, and thickness.

Images courtesy of nutrafol.com

The 100% drug-free and natural ingredients used in Nutrafol’s patented formulation are backed by research to be effective. These ingredients include:

Saw palmetto 

DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is an androgen hormone that shrinks hair follicles. Saw palmetto is an extract of the Serenoa repens fruit and blocks the conversion of testosterone into DHT. This helps to maintain healthier hair follicles. (Please note: If you have a medical condition or are taking prescription medications or blood thinners, it is always advisable to consult your doctor prior to using DHT inhibitors and any new dietary supplement.)

Sensoril® ashwagandha 

Stress can play a significant role in hair loss, and the ashwagandha herb can help. It’s a natural adaptogen that helps to regulate cortisol levels. This means reduced stress as well as reduced hair shedding.

Marine collagen

You may be aware of collagen’s beneficial effects for skin, but it can help improve hair strength and elasticity too. Nutrafol’s marine collagen peptides are sourced from the skin and scales of low-toxin fish from the cleanest waters. Its marine collagen is specially hydrolyzed to make it easier to migrate through the skin of the scalp and reduce breakage and hair shedding.

Nutrafol Women’s Vegan does not contain this ingredient.

Biotin

Also known as Vitamin H, biotin works on a cellular level to enhance the structure of keratinocytes, the cells producing keratin. Keratin helps to form hair, nails, and the epidermis. It’s the primary component in hair.

Tocotrienol complex

Tocotrienol complex is a concentrated form of vitamin E, an antioxidant that fights environmental stress to improve hair density.

Curcumin

Curcumin is the active compound in turmeric, an antioxidant that has been shown to reduce inflammation. It fights free radicals to support cellular health.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is found in the skins of grapes. Its antioxidant activity promotes hair density by protecting the scalp from environmental damage.

Kelp minerals

A naturally-derived, rich source of iodine. These minerals support hormones that manage hair growth rate.

Horsetail

Despite the name, horsetail is a perennial plant. It’s an organic source of silica, an essential mineral that’s linked with hair growth.

Scientific evidence of Nutrafol

Nutrafol has conducted 20 clinical studies at the time of writing, and undertakes continual research to refine their products based on the latest studies. This is a key difference between Nutrafol and other hair growth supplements, which aren’t clinically tested.

Nutrafol’s research has been featured over 25 scientific outlets overall, 14 of which were medical journal publications. Peer-reviewed publications like these are considered credible and reputable, because scientific experts evaluate the research.

According to their website, “Nutrafol’s rigorous clinical testing includes various types of clinical studies, each of which is utilized for a specific scientific purpose. Our studies are designed with clinical and scientific experts, according to accepted research standards and the most up-to-date techniques available.”

In 6-month clinical studies, people taking Nutrafol Women, Nutrafol Women’s Balance, Nutrafol Women’s Vegan, and Nutrafol Men experienced significant hair growth.

In a year-long clinical trial, people taking Nutrafol Postpartum saw a notable improvement in hair growth, hair quality, and reduced shedding.

Other before-and-after results of Nutrafol include visibly thicker hair volume, visibly fuller hair, and noticeably reduced hair shedding.

Images courtesy of nutrafol.com

Potential side effects and interactions of Nutrafol

Nutrafol’s hair growth supplements are assessed by expert toxicologists. However, always consult your doctor before using Nutrafol, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications like blood thinners or other supplements.

Nutrafol Women’s, Women’s Vegan, Women’s Balance, and Men’s products are not recommended for those who are breastfeeding; and none of their formulas are recommended for those who are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Some Nutrafol users report mild stomach upset, and Nutrafol advises taking the supplement with a meal to minimize this issue.

People with seafood allergies or sensitivities should be aware that some Nutrafol supplements contain fish-derived collagen. Please review Nutrafol ingredients carefully for other potential allergens.

If you have an adverse reaction to Nutrafol, the company advises you to “discontinue use, contact your doctor as appropriate, and contact us to tell us about your experience at support@nutrafol.com.”

Always be sure to purchase Nutrafol products from a reputable source, such as Pennoyer MD. As a general rule, if the product isn’t in a glass jar then it is not Nutrafol but a knockoff.

Who is (and isn’t) a good candidate for Nutrafol?

Because stress, hormones, and metabolism fluctuate with age and life stages, there are with specific Nutrafol formulations for different needs, including Postpartum for the first year after childbirth or while breastfeeding, and Women’s Balance for perimenopause and menopause.

Consulting your doctor before starting Nutrafol is advised, especially if you’re taking blood thinners, using other supplements, have chronic health conditions, have or have had a hormone-responsive cancer, or have an allergy to fish or the herbs used in Nutrafol formulations. If you’re pregnant or may become pregnant, do not take Nutrafol. Nutrafol Women’s, Women’s Vegan, Women’s Balance, and Men’s products are not recommended for people who are breastfeeding, though Postpartum is safe to use while breastfeeding. Nutrafol isn’t recommended for people under 18 years of age.

Nutrafol’s formulas are compatible with most prenatal and postnatal vitamins you may be taking.

What to Expect When Taking Nutrafol

Nutrafol is designed to support hair growth from within, but results are not immediate. Because it works by addressing underlying imbalances—such as stress, inflammation, hormone shifts, and nutrient deficiencies—users should approach Nutrafol as a long-term, cumulative solution rather than a quick fix.

Timeline of Effects

While individual results may vary based on age, health, and the root causes of hair thinning, Nutrafol users often experience changes along this general timeline:

• First 1–3 Months
  Many users report reduced hair shedding, stronger hair strands, and improved hair texture. Some also notice healthier skin and nails as a result of the vitamins and antioxidants in the formula.
• 3–6 Months
  As new growth begins to emerge, hair may feel fuller, denser, and more resilient. Bald or thinning patches may appear less noticeable, and the hairline may start to appear healthier.
• 6+ Months
  Continued use supports ongoing improvements in hair volume, thickness, scalp coverage, and scalp health. For many, this is when the most dramatic results are seen.

Important Considerations

• Consistency is key: Nutrafol should be taken daily and consistently to see results. Skipping doses occasionally won’t derail progress, but regular use leads to more significant improvements over time.
• With food: To reduce the risk of mild stomach upset (a commonly reported side effect), it’s recommended to take Nutrafol with a meal.
• Hair growth cycle matters: Because hair growth occurs in cycles, it can take several months to notice visible changes. Some people may experience temporary increased shedding around month 2–3—this is often a sign of the follicles shifting into a new growth phase.

Follow-up and re-evaluation: For best results, regular follow-ups with your provider can help assess progress and determine if additional hormone, thyroid, or nutritional testing may be beneficial.

How Nutrafol fits into your holistic hair loss treatment plan

Hair loss can have negative effects on self-image and confidence, and can be a sign of other health concerns. Whatever the specific cause of your hair loss, Nutrafol can fit into your holistic hair loss treatment plan.

With new procedures, you can reverse hair loss with no downtime or side effects. Nutrafol is the #1 dermatologist-recommended hair growth supplement brand, and Dr Pennoyer is proud to offer it to patients in Hartford county. Message us via Klara at (860) 787-8396 to book a hair loss evaluation at the practice where we can advise on the best Nutrafol product for you. Our providers can also make recommendations on the need for potential hormone testing or thyroid panels to help uncover the cause of your hair loss.

As part of a holistic hair loss treatment program, we can also combine your Nutrafol regime with other hair loss solutions like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to stimulate natural hair growth, Hydrafacial Keravive treatments for scalp health, or (plated) Skin Science Hair Serum which harnesses the power of platelet-derived Renewosome™ technology to make hair look fuller, stronger, and thicker.

Frequently-asked questions about Nutrafol

How long does it take to see results from Nutrafol?

Most people notice less shedding and breakage within 1 to 3 months, fuller-looking hair at 3 to 6 months, and the best results after 6 months of daily use. Hair grows in cycles, so give it a full 6 months before judging. Some people see a temporary increase in shedding around months 2 to 3, which usually settles as new growth comes in.

Do I need to take Nutrafol forever?

Results depend on consistent use. If you stop, the triggers behind thinning, such as stress, hormones, and DHT, usually return, and gains can fade gradually over several months. Missing a few days won’t undo your progress. Many patients stay on it long term, and Dr. Pennoyer can help you decide at your follow-up visits.

Can I take Nutrafol while pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive?

Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and trying to conceive each call for individual medical guidance. Before starting Nutrafol or any supplement during these times, talk with your OB/GYN, midwife, or the physician who manages your care. The same applies to men who are trying to conceive with a partner. Your own doctor knows your full health history and can tell you what is right for you.

Does Nutrafol interact with medications like blood thinners or thyroid medication?

If you take any prescription medication, including blood thinners, thyroid medication, or medication for diabetes or blood pressure, check with the physician who prescribes it before starting Nutrafol. Bring the Nutrafol ingredient list to that appointment so your doctor can review it alongside your current medications.

When should I take Nutrafol, and can I take it on an empty stomach?

Take your daily dose with a meal. Food lowers the chance of stomach upset and helps your body absorb fat-soluble ingredients like curcumin and tocotrienols. Time of day matters less than taking it every day. Many patients take it with breakfast or lunch, and it can be split between two meals if that is easier on your stomach.

Can Nutrafol upset your stomach?

Some people notice mild bloating, gas, nausea, or loose stools, usually in the first few weeks and most often when it is taken without food. Taking it with a full meal helps in most cases. If symptoms continue, stop taking it and call our office.

Does Nutrafol contain hormones or estrogen?

No. Nutrafol contains no hormones. Some of its botanicals, such as saw palmetto and ashwagandha, support the body’s own hormone-related pathways, which is different from taking a hormone. If you have a history of hormone-sensitive cancer, talk with your physician before starting.

Is Nutrafol FDA approved?

Nutrafol is a dietary supplement, not a drug. The FDA does not approve supplements before they are sold. It regulates them differently from medications. Nutrafol’s formulas have been studied in clinical trials, and Dr. Pennoyer recommends it as part of a physician-guided plan. When appropriate, it can be paired with FDA-approved treatments like minoxidil.

Explore all of Dr. Pennoyer’s hair loss treatments: Hair Restoration at Pennoyer Dermatology

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/hair-loss/women-hair-loss-causes
https://www.healthline.com/health/baldness-gene#genetics-of-balding
https://nutrafol.com/story
https://wellwisp.com/what-are-nutrafol-ingredients/
https://cityhealth.com/nutrafol-key-ingredients/
https://nutrafol.com/results/
https://www.clinicadvisor.com/hair-loss-and-baldness/nutrafol-reviews