Nutrafol: A Dermatologist’s Take on the Pros and Cons

As a board-certified dermatologist, I’ve always approached hair loss treatments with a strong preference for evidence-based, FDA-approved options like minoxidil and finasteride. However, the rising popularity of nutraceuticals like Nutrafol has led me to take a closer look at the research behind it. While it’s easy to see why patients are drawn to the promise of thicker, healthier hair, many dermatologists—myself included—have historically been skeptical.

So, let’s break it down: What’s in Nutrafol, what does the science actually say, and why don’t most dermatologists typically recommend it?

What’s in Nutrafol?

Nutrafol is a dietary supplement designed to target multiple causes of hair thinning, from hormonal imbalances to stress and inflammation. Some of its key ingredients include:

• Sensoril Ashwagandha – An adaptogen that may help lower cortisol (the stress hormone), which has been linked to hair shedding.

• Saw Palmetto – Thought to block the conversion of testosterone to DHT, the hormone responsible for androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss).

• Curcumin – Has anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce scalp inflammation.

• Marine Collagen Peptides – Provides amino acids that support hair strength.

• Biotin – Often associated with hair health, though deficiency is rare and supplementation is usually unnecessary for most people.

• DHA Omega-3s – Supports overall hair and scalp health.

A Note on Biotin: While biotin is a common ingredient in hair supplements, it’s important to know that high doses can interfere with lab tests, particularly thyroid function tests, cardiac markers, and hormone panels. I always advise my patients to let their doctor know if they’re taking Nutrafol (or any biotin-containing supplement) before getting blood work done.

What Does the Research Say?

Nutrafol has been studied, but the research is still relatively limited. Some small, industry-funded studies have shown modest improvements in hair density and thickness, particularly in women experiencing stress-related hair loss.

• One 2018 study found that women taking Nutrafol for six months saw an increase in hair count and perceived hair quality compared to a placebo group. However, this study was funded by Nutrafol itself. (PubMed)

• Another study in menopausal women showed improvement in hair growth and shedding after six months of supplementation, also funded by Nutrafol. (JDD Online)

While these results are promising, there’s a lack of large, independent, long-term studies proving Nutrafol’s effectiveness beyond mild improvement.

Why Many Dermatologists Don’t Recommend Nutrafol

1. Lack of Strong, Independent Data

   • Most dermatologists prioritize treatments with robust, peer-reviewed research behind them. Minoxidil (Rogaine) and finasteride (Propecia) are backed by decades of clinical trials showing real, measurable hair regrowth. Nutrafol’s data is far less extensive.

2. Cost vs. Benefit

   • At $88 per month, Nutrafol is expensive. Compare that to generic minoxidil ($20 for a 3-month supply) or finasteride (~$10/month), which have far more substantial evidence supporting hair regrowth.

3. Saw Palmetto’s Weak DHT-Blocking Abilities

   • Many dermatologists are skeptical about saw palmetto as a DHT blocker, since studies on its effectiveness are inconsistent and show much weaker effects than finasteride.

4. Not FDA-Approved

   • Unlike minoxidil and finasteride, Nutrafol is classified as a dietary supplement, meaning it isn’t regulated by the FDA in the same way as prescription medications. This means less oversight on ingredient efficacy, dosing accuracy, and safety claims.

5. Potential Side Effects

   • While generally well-tolerated, Nutrafol isn’t risk-free. Some users report digestive issues, acne flare-ups, or allergic reactions to ingredients like marine collagen.

   • Biotin supplementation can interfere with lab tests, leading to false readings on thyroid, cardiac, and hormone panels—something to be mindful of if you routinely get blood work done.

Who Might Benefit from Nutrafol?

Despite its drawbacks, Nutrafol isn’t a bad product—it’s just not a first-line treatment for most dermatologists. But if you:

✔️ Have stress-related or mild hair thinning
✔️ Prefer a natural approach
✔️ Want a supplement with anti-inflammatory & antioxidant benefits
✔️ Are already using minoxidil or finasteride and want to add-on a nutraceutical

…then it may be worth trying, as long as you have realistic expectations.

Final Thoughts: Where Does Nutrafol Fit In?

If you’re looking for the most effective, evidence-based treatments for hair loss, minoxidil and finasteride remain the gold standard. However, if you’re dealing with stress-related shedding or looking for a supplement to complement your existing routine, Nutrafol might provide some benefit—just don’t expect dramatic regrowth.

As a dermatologist, I don’t routinely recommend it because of the price, the lack of strong independent studies, and the availability of more proven alternatives. But I also recognize that some patients do see results, and if it works for you, I wouldn’t discourage it.