Hair loss can set in because of a number of factors and before you try to fix the problem, you would have to figure out why hair fall occurs. It could be a number of reasons.
- Hormonal Imbalances: This is an issue for both men and women – an excess of androgens, male sex hormones or just general ups and downs in hormones can work a number on the hair growth cycle. When the hormones reset, you would see your hair grow again.
- Thyroid Issues: An underactive or overactive thyroid could cause problems. This is because the thyroid gland has a blanket effect on several physiological systems. Getting the thyroid gland to behave itself is sometimes the easiest way to promote hair health.
- Medications: Prescription medications can do some damage too. Drugs for depression, blood thinners, too much vitamin A, chemo-drugs, and calcium-channel blockers are famously known to cause hair loss. If you speak to your doctor, you could change your medication for hair-friendly drugs.
- Alopecia Areata (AA) & Trichotillomania: Alopecia is a medical hair loss condition where the immune system attacks and destroys hair follicles. The condition may result in hair thinning, patches of hair loss, or total baldness. Trichotillomania is a stress-related medical condition where one pulls out one’s hair as a reaction to stress.
- Autoimmune diseases: This class of diseases can affect hair density. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and lupus are two diseases that influence hair growth and hair fall cycles.
The above causes of hair fall require medical intervention and you should see a doctor. You could also see a change in existing hair growth because of the following: - Pregnancy: The change in hormones and the fact that most of the nutrients that you consume are directed towards the growing fetus, pregnancy can also see some degree of hair loss. But this usually corrects itself with good post-partum care.
- Stress: Clinical trials have proven that stress can affect hair health and the greater the exposure to physical and mental stress, the greater the effects. Removing oneself from a stressful situation is one way of remedying the situation.
- Deficiencies: Like every part of the human body, the hair follicles need nutrition too. If your diet lacks the necessary vitamins and minerals, it would be difficult for your hair follicles to produce healthy hair.
- Hair Care: In an attempt to make hair shinier, healthier, and longer, the treatments become extensive. Going overboard with spas, heat therapy, and chemical reconstitutions damages the hair strands and weakens the follicles.
However, if you don’t believe yourself to have any of the above conditions or issues, but simply want healthier hair you shouldn’t need to see a doctor. Instead, you may want to look at hair supplements and that too natural ones. But how would you choose? We decided to compare three popular hair supplements – Viviscal, Biotin, and Folexin. By the end of this article, you should be able to choose the one that fits you just right.
Viviscal vs Biotin vs Folexin: What Are They?
No. #3- Viviscal
Viviscal is a brand of popular hair growth supplements which includes hair care, spa treatments, and various packages dedicated to healthier and thicker hair. The brand has been around for close to a quarter of a decade and in that time has managed to acquire quite a fan following. Viviscal hair growth supplements are designed to encourage hair growth and keep the hair follicles healthy and thriving. The brand promotes separate supplements for men and women but the ingredients are essentially the same. So, for this review, we shall be looking at Viviscal Hair Growth which the brand claims is a clinically proven formula that stops hair thinning, curbs hair loss, and give you thicker hair.
To enjoy the complete scope of benefits the Viviscal supplements can provide, take 1 pill twice a day with food and water. It is also advised that the use of the supplement be continued for at least 3 to 6 months.
No. #2 – Biotin
Biotin is not a supplement brand but is the name for vitamin B7. This essential micronutrient is required by the human body for a number of functions from the metabolism of fats, carbs, and proteins to the production of neurotransmitters. Biotin is added to several dietary supplements because of its range of influence. For hair, research suggests that biotin can enhance hair regrowth, and only for people who suffer from a vitamin B7 deficiency. The jury is still out on whether this vitamin alone can influence new hair growth in those who do not suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Biotin hair growth results also seem to vary depending on the product you buy and whether the source of biotin is a healthy one.
There are several brands that offer biotin to support healthy hair growth. How you dose biotin would depend on the brand that you purchase and the instructions mentioned there must be followed.
No. #1 – Folexin
Unlike other hair supplements, Folexin is a stand-alone hair growth supplement meant for both men and women. A Vita Balance Inc. product, Folexin uses clinically tested natural ingredients that are known to support healthy hair growth and to encourage the natural hair growth process to work efficiently. The product is designed to maintain healthy hair and to improve hair quality in those that need it. Since the product uses only natural ingredients, Folexin works on almost all facets of new hair growth, from balancing hormones to nourishing the hair follicles. This natural dietary supplement has had no reports of side effects and has more than a few positive reviews under its belt. Folexin also includes a wide range of herbs, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are equipped to improve not just hair health but your overall well-being as well.
All you have to do is take 2 capsules a day with food. It is crucial that you do not take Folexin within an hour of taking any prescription medication. The inclusion of minerals may reduce the effect of certain medications. Even though the chances of this happening are small, nevertheless, it is better to practice caution.
For more deals and deals on Folexin, visit this link!
What Benefits Can You Expect from These Hair Growth Supplements?
Viviscal conducted a clinical study that resulted in a 32% increase in the number of terminal hairs and up to a 40% decrease in hair loss and shedding in 3 months. This would definitely qualify as a result that you could look forward to. The Viviscal supplements are suited for all hair types and Viviscal claims to work for issues caused by stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, menopause, genes, radiation, and even menopause. In terms of benefits, Viviscal claims to nourish thinning hair and also promote hair growth.
Biotin is usually added to supplements that are meant for hair health. However, there is no relevant scientific evidence that backs the claim that it can promote hair health. There is proof that it benefits those who have nutritional deficiencies but that is about the extent of influence. There is a chance that you would experience no benefits unless you have a deficit of vitamins. Benefits for those lacking in the nutrient can include hair regrowth and improved hair quality. There are also claims of biotin helps with brittle fingernails and toenails, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and nerve pain. Again, evidence for these claims is still lacking.
Folexin includes the use of natural ingredients. Each of these components is proven to provide normal hair growth and nourish hair follicles. Like other hair growth products where the key ingredients can activate the natural hair growth cycle, Folexin supports the growth of healthy hair and provides constant protection of the hair strands from the elements. By maintaining a healthy blood flow to the scalp and providing a unique blend of nutrients, Folexin can nourish hair follicles, promote hair growth and enhance hair quality.
How Do These Supplements Work?
Taking a closer look at the formula a supplement uses is a great way to determine whether a supplement works or otherwise. Yet another litmus test is the reviews left by customers. And we shall take a look at both these factors before we come to a conclusion. The ingredients for each product first.
Viviscal Ingredients
The ingredients in Viviscal are all natural. The list of components is impressive as the nutrients added all work towards increased hair growth. The formula is as follows.
Vitamins C (59 mg), Niacin (12 mg) & Biotin (120 mcg)
- Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can reduce free radical stress that can damage the hair follicles. The vitamin is also instrumental in preventing dandruff and keeping the hair healthy. Vitamin C is also needed for collagen production which is needed for keratin protein synthesis.
- Research dictates that niacin aids hair growth. The vitamin improves blood circulation to the scalp and this helps the hair follicles get all the nutrition necessary for thicker hair.
- Biotin helps to arrest hair loss and encourage hair growth, especially in those who suffer from biotin deficiencies.
Minerals – Calcium (60 mg), Iron (10 mg) & Zinc (11 mg)
- Calcium is required for the synthesis and secretion of hormones that influence hair growth cycles. Also, calcium stops hair from becoming brittle and prone to breakage.
- Iron aids in the production of hemoglobin which carries oxygen to all parts of the body including the hair. It also ensures that the follicles have a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients.
- One of the first signs of zinc deficiency is damaged and thinning hair. Zinc improves hair strand count, can increase hair density, and also raise keratin content in the scalp.
AminoMar™ Marine Complex: Shark Cartilage & Oyster Extract Powder – 450 mg
This trademarked marine collagen complex is available as a supplement on its own.
- It works to nourish the scalp and hair follicles which results in improved hair growth, better quality hair, and greater length.
Although some research backs the use of this component for healthy hair, it contains shark cartilage and mollusk shells which renders this supplement unusable for those with shellfish allergies, vegetarians, and vegans.
Horsetail Extract – 36.7 mg
- This oil-based extract helps to regulate hair growth cycles and strengthen and improve the elasticity of hair strands.
- It is even believed to reduce inflammation in the scalp and promote cell regeneration making it easier for the hair follicles to thrive.
- Moreover, horsetail extract has the ability to block DHT and promote hair growth instead.
Millet Seed Extract – 7.5 mg
Many swear by millet seed extract and use it instead of biotin.
- The extract can encourage the growth and strength of hair and even provide the follicles with nutrition to stay healthy.
- It also has tissue-regenerating properties and strengthens the roots to arrest hair loss.
Biotin
Biotin as a supplement in itself does not have a list of components. Instead, it is a component that appears in other supplements. Biotin is also known as vitamin H and is responsible for the enzymes that are responsible for keratin synthesis. This can strengthen the hair fibers and also promote hair follicle health. However, a Biotin supplement taken in isolation was not seen to have so much of an effect on hair quality. Many have used biotin in tandem with collagen products. Collagen supplements also improve hair, skin, and nail health.
Folexin Ingredients
Folexin, in comparison with the Viviscal supplements, has a stronger recipe. With stronger dosages and a nutrient-rich formula, this may be a better concoction for your hair. The Folexin ingredients are as follows.
Vitamins A (120 mcg), C (120 mg), D (20 mcg), E (14 mg), B1 (6 mg), B6 (8 mg), B12 (12 mcg), B5 (30 mg), Folate (1467 mcg DFE) & Biotin (5000 mcg)
In addition to vitamin C, Folexin includes:
- Vitamin A for increasing hair cell growth and the production of sebum – the natural oil that keeps the scalp healthy and moisturized, and vitamin D which is a precursor of the anagen phase of the hair cycle when new hair grows from the follicle and the vitamin also reduces the symptoms of alopecia.
- Vitamin E for stopping scalp erosion caused by the action of free radicals.
- Vitamins B1 and B6 for improving blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles.
- Vitamin B12 for the production of red blood cells that carry oxygen to the scalp.
- Vitamin B5 for the proper building and repair of the hair shafts.
- Folate for healthy hair cell growth
- Folic acid also keeps the red blood cells healthy
- And Biotin, the benefits of which have already been mentioned above.
Minerals Calcium (80 mg), Iron (14.5 mg), Magnesium (120 mg), Zinc (7 mg), Manganese (4 mg) & Potassium (12 mg)
- Folexin adds magnesium to its formula for stronger and healthier hair follicles that can grow stronger hair shafts.
- Manganese for the regulation of the thyroid hormones that affect hair health.
- Potassium for hair cell renewal and growth for faster hair growth,
- And last but not least, calcium, iron, and zinc as well.
The Folexin Proprietary Blend (359 mg)
This proprietary blend includes several herbs and natural ingredients like PABA, Fo-ti (traditional Chinese medicine), bamboo extract, stinging nettle extract, Chinese peony, spirulina, plant sterols (soy being the source), Alfalfa, Chinese peony, Spirulina, Saw palmetto, plant sterols from soybeans, and barley grass. These botanicals all have clinical backing stating that their use can benefit scalp, follicle, and hair health.
As you can see from above, the Folexin formula is a much stronger one which translates to a more effective hair growth product. With a larger number of ingredients, it is able to influence a wider range of hair and overall health as well.
Where & How Can You Get These Supplements?
Buy Viviscal
For Viviscal Hair Growth supplements, simply log on to the Viviscal company website or from Amazon or other established e-commerce websites. You would see some products ranging from pills to serums for hair. Additionally, you would have a choice of pills for males or women.
- A month’s supply of the pills as a single purchase would cost $40.00.
- The brand also offers a subscription where if you order a monthly supply, you pay $36 and for a 3-month subscription, you pay $96, and get free shipping and a free gift.
- A 6-month subscription would get you a 25% discount, free shipping, and 3 free gifts for a price of $180.
Viviscal offers a 30-day refund policy, the only condition being that you return the product in its original packaging.
Buy Biotin
There are plenty of biotin supplements on the market and you would be spoiled for choice. Before you opt to invest in a particular product, ensure that the brand is a reputed one and that the biotin is fortified with other nutrients.
Buy Folexin
Folexin can be purchased exclusively from the official website, visit here!
- A bottle of 60 capsules, which is a month’s worth, would cost you $24.95.
- If you buy 2 bottles at once, the cost would be $44.96.
- You get the most savings if you purchase 4 bottles for $89.92 because you would get a fifth bottle free.
Also, if you are unhappy with the results, Folexin offers you a refund and return policy that lasts 5 months from the date of purchase.
Viviscal vs Biotin vs Folexin: Which is the Better Supplement?
Once you have eliminated medical issues as a cause for hair fall, chances are that your hair problems stem from environmental factors, stress, or subpar nutrition. For these matters, it would be wise to begin the use of a hair supplement. Ideally, good hair supplements should sustain the existing hair stands, nourish and fortify the follicles and keep the scalp moisturized for increased hair growth. In theory, most supplements claim to live up to these expectations but many don’t in reality.
Let’s start with the use of Biotin. Not us, but science claims that biotin can have little to no effect on hair growth or health unless you suffer from a deficiency of the nutrient. In the US, this sort of deficiency is rare and on the off chance that it does occur, it can be corrected easily. Using biotin alone and expecting it to fix your mane issues is not a very smart move. Regardless of what the brands may claim, science does not lie.
Viviscal is not a bad product; it is a reputed brand and has quite a fan following. However, when compared with Folexin, it does come out shabbier than one would expect. The ingredients are the foremost area of concern.
- With so many nutrients, herbs, and botanicals that are readily available to promote hair growth, Viviscal restricts itself to a select few.
- For the price that the brand charges per month, it would only be fair to expect a stronger formula.
- The use of ingredients like shark cartilage and mollusk powder is another wrong move. The ingredient deems the product out of bounds for vegans, vegetarians, the squeamish, and those with allergies. With more and more people turning to a vegan lifestyle, Viviscal may want to rethink its inclusions.
- The price is also a big deciding factor. $40 a month is no small amount and over the course of 6 months, it adds up to a pretty large sum. Many would opt for a product that does not cost as much but one that would still pack a punch – like Folexin.
- Viviscal may have clinical trials under its belt but that too must be taken with a pinch of salt. These studies were conducted in-house and not by independent third-party companies. The positive customer reviews featured on the official website have the same disadvantage too.
To give you a clearer image of how these three hair supplements stand, here is a quick recap of everything we know.
| Viviscal | Biotin | Folexin | |
| Purpose | To promote thicker, healthier, and stronger-looking hair. | To aid new hair growth. | To support natural hair growth and thick, dense, and strong hair. |
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| Cons |
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| Active Ingredients | Vitamin C, iron, calcium, and Amino Mar™ | Depending on the brand but usually features an appropriate dose of biotin with or without other components | Vitamin A, C, D, E, B1, B6, B9, B12, and B5, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc, Manganese, Potassium, and Proprietary blend including PABA, Horsetail, Fo-Ti, Bamboo, Stinging Nettle, Chinese Peony, Spirulina, Saw Palmetto, Soy Plant Sterols, Alfalfa, and Barley Grass. |
| Audience | Separate products for men and women over the age of 18 | For those who have a deficiency in biotin resulting in hair loss | Men and women over the age of 18 |
| Dosage | 2 pills twice a day | Depends on brand | 2 capsules twice a day |
| Price | $40.00 | Depends on brand | $24.95 |
| Refund Policy | 30-day refund policy | Depends on brand | Returns taken up to 5 months from the date of purchase |
| Where to Buy? | Buy Viciscal from Amazon or other official forums. | Biotin supplements are widely available online and in health stores. | Click here to Buy Folexin from the Official Website. |
Summary & Verdict
Hair loss may be caused by medical problems, environment, stress, or the absence of a balanced diet. The medical issues must be dealt with professionally but the other factors can be remedied by the use of a good hair health supplement.
We compared Viviscal, Biotin, and Folexin to see which would benefit you the best. When looked at closely, Folexin was found to be a stronger product with a wider range of benefits. This product also gives you more value for your dollar and is able to address several issues that can cause issues with hair, follicles, and scalp. We recommend Folexin for your hair growth needs.
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