Pantogar vs Viviscal: Which Is Better?

Last Updated: November 17, 2025

Note: Vita Hair Women specializes in Pantogar Vegan and recommends it as the best choice for women experiencing diffuse hair loss, particularly those following plant-based diets. This article provides objective information about both supplements to help you make an informed decision.

Introduction: Two Leading Hair Growth Supplements

When it comes to treating diffuse hair loss with supplements, two names consistently appear at the top of recommendations from dermatologists and hair specialists: Pantogar and Viviscal. Both products have established reputations, clinical research backing their effectiveness, and loyal followings among women experiencing hair thinning.

But which one is better for your specific situation? The answer isn’t as simple as declaring one superior to the other. Pantogar and Viviscal take fundamentally different approaches to supporting hair growth, contain distinct active ingredients, and work best for different types of hair loss.

Pantogar, developed by German pharmaceutical company Merz Pharmaceuticals, focuses on providing the building blocks of keratin—the structural protein that makes up your hair. Its formula centers around L-cystine and B vitamins to support the formation of hair structure from within.

Viviscal, on the other hand, relies on AminoMar™—a proprietary marine protein complex derived from shark cartilage and oyster extract. This marine-based formula aims to nourish hair follicles and prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle through a different mechanism.

This comprehensive comparison examines both supplements across multiple dimensions: ingredients, mechanism of action, clinical evidence, effectiveness for different hair loss types, price, convenience, and dietary considerations. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which supplement aligns best with your needs, budget, and hair loss condition.

Quick Comparison: Pantogar vs Viviscal at a Glance

Feature	Pantogar Vegan	Viviscal Extra Strength
Manufacturer	Merz Pharmaceuticals (Germany)	Lifes2good Inc. (Ireland/USA)
Key Ingredient	L-Cystine (20mg per capsule)	AminoMar™ Marine Complex
Mechanism	Keratin building blocks + B vitamins	Marine protein complex + follicle nourishment
Daily Dosage	3 capsules (morning, noon, evening)	2 tablets (morning and evening)
Supply Duration	90 capsules = 30 days	60 tablets = 30 days
Price (1 month)	$ 49.99	$40 (official) / $36 (subscription)
Price (3 months)	$ 129.99	$96 (subscription) / ~$120 (retail)
Vegan-Friendly	Yes (Pantogar Vegan)	No (contains shark and mollusk)
Allergen Concerns	Generally none	Fish, seafood, shellfish allergy
Best For	Diffuse hair loss, telogen effluvium, structural damage	Thinning hair, decreased density, shedding
Clinical Evidence	30+ years European use, dermatologist-recommended	Multiple RCTs, 80% increase in hair count (6 months)
Results Timeline	3-6 months minimum	3-6 months minimum
Common Side Effects	Very rare (<1%)	Very rare, generally well-tolerated
Where to Buy	Vita Hair Women (free worldwide shipping)	Official website, Amazon, pharmacies

What is Pantogar?

Pantogar is a pharmaceutical-grade hair growth supplement developed by Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH, a German pharmaceutical company with over a century of expertise in dermatological treatments. Unlike cosmetic hair products, Pantogar is classified as a medical supplement specifically designed to treat diffuse hair loss in women.

The formula centers around a carefully balanced combination of amino acids, B vitamins, and minerals that serve as the building blocks for keratin synthesis. Keratin is the structural protein that makes up approximately 95% of your hair shaft, and adequate supplies of its precursor components are essential for healthy hair growth.

Pantogar’s Core Approach

Pantogar works by addressing hair loss at its metabolic foundation. The supplement provides hair follicles with the specific amino acids, vitamins, and minerals needed to:

Synthesize keratin, the primary structural protein in hair
Support cellular energy metabolism in rapidly dividing hair matrix cells
Maintain the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle
Protect hair follicles from oxidative stress and metabolic disruption

Pantogar Vegan: The Modern Formula

Vita Hair Women exclusively sells Pantogar Vegan, which represents the evolved version of the original Pantogar formula. The Vegan formulation maintains the therapeutic core of L-cystine and B vitamins while adding biotin, folic acid, iron, and zinc—nutrients particularly important for those following plant-based diets.

Each Pantogar Vegan capsule contains:

L-Cystine (20mg): The precursor amino acid for keratin synthesis
Thiamine/B1 (50mg): Supports cellular energy production
Pantothenic Acid/B5 (57mg): Essential for hair follicle metabolism
Biotin/B7 (300μg): Critical for keratin infrastructure
Folic Acid/B9 (100μg): Supports cell division and tissue growth
Iron (4mg): Necessary for oxygen transport to follicles
Zinc (5mg): Supports protein synthesis and tissue repair
Yeast Powder (100mg): Natural source of additional B vitamins

The recommended dosage is three capsules daily—one in the morning, one at midday, and one in the evening—to maintain steady nutrient levels throughout the day. Pantogar requires consistent use for a minimum of 3-6 months to see visible results, as hair growth is a slow biological process.

What is Viviscal?

Viviscal is a clinically researched hair growth supplement developed in the 1990s based on research into Inuit populations who maintained thick, healthy hair despite harsh environmental conditions. This observation led to the development of AminoMar™, a proprietary marine protein complex that forms the foundation of Viviscal’s formulation.

Unlike Pantogar’s pharmaceutical classification in Europe, Viviscal is marketed as a nutraceutical supplement. However, it distinguishes itself through an extensive body of clinical research—more than 12 published studies examining its effects on various types of hair loss in both men and women.

Viviscal’s Core Technology: AminoMar™

The defining feature of Viviscal is AminoMar™, a proprietary marine protein complex derived from sustainably sourced shark cartilage and oyster extract powder. This marine complex contains a blend of proteins, polysaccharides, and minerals that work synergistically to nourish hair follicles.

According to Viviscal’s clinical research, AminoMar™ works by:

Enhancing dermal papilla cell proliferation—the cells that control hair growth
Increasing alkaline phosphatase levels, a marker of anagen (growth) phase activity
Providing amino acids from collagen sources for hair protein synthesis
Nourishing hair follicles with marine-derived nutrients

Viviscal Extra Strength Formula

Viviscal Extra Strength, the most widely available version, contains per two tablets (daily dose):

AminoMar™ Marine Complex: Proprietary blend of shark cartilage and mollusk powder
Biotin: Supports keratin production
Vitamin C: Antioxidant support and collagen synthesis (from Acerola cherry)
Iron (from Ferrous Fumarate): Supports oxygen delivery to follicles
Zinc (from Zinc Oxide): Essential for protein synthesis
Niacin (Vitamin B3): Improves scalp circulation
Horsetail Extract: Natural source of silica for hair strength
Millet Seed Extract: Additional amino acids and minerals

Viviscal Professional: The Stronger Version

Viviscal Professional, available exclusively through medical offices and salons, contains 58% more AminoMar™ (475mg vs ~300mg) and adds additional ingredients:

Apple Extract Powder (Procyanidin B-2): May support the anagen phase
L-Cystine: Keratin building block (also found in Pantogar)
L-Methionine: Another sulfur-containing amino acid for hair structure

The recommended dosage for Viviscal is two tablets daily—one in the morning and one in the evening with meals. Like Pantogar, Viviscal requires 3-6 months of consistent use for optimal results.

Key Ingredients Deep Dive: Head-to-Head Comparison

Understanding the ingredient differences between Pantogar and Viviscal is crucial to understanding how each supplement works and which might be better suited to your needs.

Primary Active Ingredients

Pantogar’s Core: L-Cystine

Pantogar centers its formula around L-cystine, a dimeric form of the amino acid L-cysteine. L-cystine is particularly important for hair because:

It’s one of the primary building blocks of keratin, making up approximately 10-17% of hair’s protein structure
Cystine contains sulfur, which forms disulfide bonds that give hair its strength and structure
These disulfide bonds are responsible for hair’s mechanical properties and resistance to damage
Adequate cystine availability is essential for keratinocytes (hair cells) to produce structurally sound hair shafts

At 20mg per capsule (60mg daily), Pantogar provides a targeted dose of this critical amino acid specifically for hair synthesis.

Viviscal’s Core: AminoMar™ Marine Complex

Viviscal’s approach differs fundamentally by using AminoMar™, a proprietary blend of marine-derived proteins:

Contains collagen-derived amino acids from marine sources, which are more bioavailable than some plant-based sources
Provides a broader spectrum of amino acids beyond just cystine
Contains glycosaminoglycans (complex carbohydrates) that may influence follicle signaling
Marine minerals and trace elements that support various aspects of hair follicle metabolism

The exact composition of AminoMar™ is proprietary, but it’s standardized to ensure consistent levels of active marine proteins in each batch.

B Vitamins: Different Emphasis

Pantogar’s B-Vitamin Focus

Pantogar emphasizes high doses of specific B vitamins critical for hair follicle metabolism:

Thiamine (B1) – 50mg: Supports cellular energy production, particularly important for rapidly dividing hair matrix cells
Pantothenic Acid (B5) – 57mg: Essential cofactor for numerous metabolic pathways in hair follicles
Biotin (B7) – 300μg (Vegan version): Critical for keratin infrastructure and gene expression related to hair growth
Folic Acid (B9) – 100μg (Vegan version): Necessary for cell division and tissue growth

The high doses of B1 and B5 are particularly distinctive to Pantogar’s approach, providing therapeutic rather than just maintenance levels.

Viviscal’s B-Vitamin Approach

Viviscal includes B vitamins but at different levels:

Biotin: Present but exact amount varies by formulation
Niacin (B3): Supports scalp circulation and cellular energy
Less emphasis on high-dose B1 and B5 compared to Pantogar

Minerals: Similar but Different Doses

Both supplements recognize the importance of certain minerals for hair growth:

Mineral	Pantogar Vegan (daily)	Viviscal Extra Strength	Role in Hair Health
Iron	12mg	Present (from Ferrous Fumarate)	Oxygen transport to follicles; deficiency linked to hair loss
Zinc	15mg	Present (from Zinc Oxide)	Protein synthesis, tissue repair, follicle health

Pantogar Vegan’s addition of iron and zinc specifically addresses nutrients commonly deficient in plant-based diets, making it particularly suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Unique Ingredients

Pantogar’s Unique Component: Yeast Powder

Pantogar includes 100mg of yeast powder per capsule (300mg daily), which serves as:

A natural source of additional B-complex vitamins
A provider of trace minerals and amino acids
A source of glutathione and other antioxidants

Viviscal’s Unique Components

Viviscal includes several ingredients not found in Pantogar:

Horsetail Extract: Natural source of silica, which may strengthen hair shaft structure
Millet Seed Extract: Provides additional amino acids and minerals
Vitamin C (from Acerola): Antioxidant support and collagen synthesis cofactor
Apple Extract (Professional version): Contains procyanidin B-2, which may prolong anagen phase

What’s NOT in Each Formula

Pantogar Does NOT Contain:

Marine proteins or fish-derived ingredients (in Vegan version)
Vitamin C
Herbal extracts like horsetail or millet
Any DHT blockers or hormonal ingredients

Viviscal Does NOT Contain:

High-dose thiamine (B1)
High-dose pantothenic acid (B5)
Significant amounts of isolated L-cystine (except Professional version)
Any drugs or pharmaceutical compounds

Ingredient Philosophy: Building Blocks vs. Nourishment

The fundamental difference in approach becomes clear when examining the ingredients:

Pantogar’s Philosophy: Provide the specific building blocks (L-cystine) and metabolic cofactors (B vitamins) that hair follicles need to synthesize keratin and maintain the growth phase. This is a “construction materials” approach.

Viviscal’s Philosophy: Nourish hair follicles with a complex blend of marine proteins and supporting nutrients to optimize overall follicle health and function. This is a “general nourishment” approach.

Neither approach is inherently superior—they simply target hair growth through different mechanisms. The best choice depends on the underlying cause of your hair loss and your individual nutritional status.

Mechanism of Action: How Each Supplement Works

Understanding how Pantogar and Viviscal work at a biological level helps explain why they may be effective for different types of hair loss and individual situations.

Pantogar’s Mechanism: The Building Block Strategy

Pantogar works through a straightforward biochemical pathway focused on providing the raw materials for hair synthesis:

1. Keratin Synthesis Support

L-cystine, the primary active ingredient, is directly incorporated into keratin during hair formation. Hair follicle cells (keratinocytes) take up L-cystine and use it to create the disulfide bonds that give hair its characteristic strength and structure. Without adequate cystine, hair shafts may be thinner, weaker, or structurally compromised.

2. Cellular Energy Production

The high doses of thiamine (B1) and pantothenic acid (B5) support cellular metabolism in hair matrix cells. Hair follicles are among the most metabolically active tissues in the body, with matrix cells dividing rapidly during the anagen (growth) phase. These B vitamins ensure that follicles have the energy needed to sustain this rapid cell division.

3. Gene Expression and Cell Division

Biotin and folic acid (in the Vegan formula) support the expression of genes involved in keratin production and enable the rapid cell division necessary for hair growth. These vitamins act as cofactors for enzymes involved in DNA synthesis and cellular replication.

4. Oxygen and Nutrient Delivery

Iron supports hemoglobin production, ensuring adequate oxygen delivery to metabolically active hair follicles. Zinc supports protein synthesis and DNA replication, both essential for hair growth.

The strategy is direct: supply the specific nutrients that are rate-limiting for hair synthesis, and hair follicles can produce healthier, stronger hair shafts.

Viviscal’s Mechanism: The Follicle Nourishment Approach

Viviscal’s mechanism is more complex and less precisely understood, but research suggests multiple pathways:

1. Dermal Papilla Cell Activation

Clinical studies have shown that AminoMar™ enhances the proliferation of dermal papilla cells—specialized cells at the base of hair follicles that orchestrate the hair growth cycle. In vitro studies demonstrated that AminoMar™ increases alkaline phosphatase levels in these cells, a marker indicating active anagen (growth) phase activity.

2. Anagen Phase Prolongation

By stimulating dermal papilla cells, Viviscal may help prolong the anagen phase of the hair cycle, giving hair more time to grow before entering the resting phase. This could result in longer hair length and increased hair density over time.

3. Broad-Spectrum Amino Acid Supply

The marine collagen in AminoMar™ provides a complete profile of amino acids, not just cystine. This broader nutritional support may benefit hair follicles that are nutritionally compromised in multiple ways, not just cystine-deficient.

4. Glycosaminoglycan Effects

Marine-derived glycosaminoglycans (complex carbohydrates) may influence cell signaling pathways in hair follicles, though the exact mechanisms remain under investigation.

5. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Support

The vitamin C and other antioxidants in Viviscal may help protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, which can disrupt normal hair cycling and contribute to hair loss.

Viviscal’s approach is more holistic—nourishing the entire follicle ecosystem rather than targeting specific biochemical bottlenecks.

Key Mechanistic Differences

Aspect	Pantogar	Viviscal
Primary Target	Keratin synthesis	Dermal papilla cell activation
Mechanism Type	Nutrient supplementation	Follicle stimulation + nourishment
Approach	Targeted (specific deficiencies)	Broad-spectrum (general optimization)
Scientific Clarity	Well-understood biochemical pathways	Emerging understanding of mechanisms
Best for	Nutritional deficiencies affecting hair structure	Follicle dysfunction or suboptimal cycling

Clinical Evidence: What Research Says

Both Pantogar and Viviscal have clinical backing, but the nature and extent of their research differ significantly.

Pantogar’s Clinical Track Record

Pantogar has been used in European clinical practice for over 30 years, particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland where it’s classified as a medical product rather than just a dietary supplement. While it has fewer published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared to Viviscal, it benefits from:

Decades of Clinical Use: Extensive real-world evidence from dermatologists prescribing it for diffuse hair loss
Pharmaceutical-Grade Standards: Manufactured under strict German pharmaceutical regulations
Dermatologist Recommendations: Widely recommended by European dermatologists for telogen effluvium and diffuse hair loss
Mechanism-Based Rationale: Strong biochemical rationale based on keratin synthesis requirements

The clinical approach with Pantogar is typically conservative: dermatologists recommend it for 3-6 months minimum, with the understanding that hair growth is inherently slow. The lack of extensive published RCTs reflects its long-standing use in clinical practice rather than aggressive marketing needs.

Viviscal’s Published Research

Viviscal has invested heavily in clinical research, resulting in more than 12 published studies. Key findings include:

2012 Study (Ablon):

Study design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled
Participants: 30 women with self-perceived thinning hair
Results: Significant increase in terminal hairs at 90 and 180 days compared to placebo
Published in: Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology

2015 Extension Study (Ablon & Dayan):

Study design: Randomized, double-blind, multi-center, placebo-controlled
Participants: Expanded study with women 21-75 years old
Results: 80% increase in terminal hair count at 6 months; significant improvement over placebo
Additional findings: Improved hair diameter, quality of life scores, and self-assessment ratings
Published in: Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology

2015 Study on Shedding (Ablon):

Study design: 3-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
Results: Significant reduction in hair shedding and increase in terminal hairs at 3 months
Published in: Dermatology Research and Practice

Earlier Studies (1990s-2000s):

Studies in men with androgenetic alopecia showing 38% increase in non-vellus hair count
Various observational studies and case reports

Evaluating the Evidence Quality

Both supplements have evidence supporting their use, but with different profiles:

Viviscal’s Strength: Multiple published RCTs with statistical significance, though most studies were conducted by the same research team (Dr. Glynis Ablon). The studies show consistent results across different trials.

Viviscal’s Limitations: Many studies were funded by the manufacturer, sample sizes were relatively small (30-60 participants typically), and independent replication by other research groups is limited.

Pantogar’s Strength: Decades of clinical use by dermatologists, pharmaceutical-grade classification in Europe, and strong mechanistic rationale based on established biochemistry.

Pantogar’s Limitations: Fewer published RCTs in English-language journals, less aggressive clinical research program compared to Viviscal.

A 2022 systematic review published in JAMA Dermatology evaluated nutritional supplements for hair loss and found “high-quality evidence” supporting both Pantogar and Viviscal, along with several other supplements, for treating various types of hair loss. This review placed both products in the same evidence tier, suggesting comparable clinical validity despite different research approaches.

Effectiveness: Which Hair Loss Types Respond Best?

Both supplements work best for specific types of hair loss, and understanding these distinctions is crucial for choosing the right product.

What Pantogar Treats Effectively

BEST FOR:

Diffuse Hair Loss (Telogen Effluvium): When hair loss is triggered by stress, illness, nutritional deficiency, or hormonal changes, Pantogar’s building-block approach addresses the metabolic needs of recovering follicles
Structural Hair Damage: For hair that’s brittle, weak, or damaged from chemical treatments or environmental stress, the high cystine content supports stronger keratin structure
Nutritional Deficiency-Related Hair Loss: When hair loss stems from B-vitamin, iron, or zinc deficiencies (common in restrictive diets), Pantogar directly addresses these gaps
Post-Partum Hair Loss: The temporary hair shedding after pregnancy often responds well to nutritional support

LESS EFFECTIVE FOR:

Androgenetic Alopecia (Female Pattern Hair Loss): While Pantogar may improve hair quality, it doesn’t address the hormonal (DHT) component of pattern baldness
Alopecia Areata: This autoimmune condition requires different treatment approaches
Scarring Alopecias: These conditions destroy hair follicles permanently

What Viviscal Treats Effectively

BEST FOR:

Thinning Hair with Decreased Density: When overall hair volume decreases without dramatic shedding, Viviscal’s follicle-stimulating approach may help
Subclinical Hair Thinning: Early-stage thinning before significant loss occurs
Hair Aging: As hair naturally thins with age, Viviscal’s nourishing approach may help maintain hair quality
Some Cases of Androgenetic Alopecia: While not a primary treatment, some women with mild pattern hair loss report improvements, possibly because Viviscal supports follicles that are miniaturizing but not yet dormant

LESS EFFECTIVE FOR:

Severe Androgenetic Alopecia: Viviscal doesn’t block DHT, the hormone driving pattern baldness
Alopecia Areata: Autoimmune hair loss requires different interventions
Severe Nutritional Deficiencies: If specific deficiencies exist (like severe iron deficiency), targeted supplementation may be more effective than Viviscal’s broad-spectrum approach

Head-to-Head: Which Works Better for What?

Condition	Better Choice	Why
Telogen Effluvium	Pantogar	Directly addresses nutritional needs of recovering follicles
Vegan/Vegetarian Diet-Related Loss	Pantogar Vegan	Specifically formulated with B12, iron, zinc for plant-based diets
Structural Hair Weakness	Pantogar	High cystine content strengthens keratin bonds
Gradual Overall Thinning	Viviscal	Follicle stimulation approach may reverse gradual decline
Early Pattern Hair Loss	Viviscal (slight edge)	May support miniaturizing follicles; neither is a primary treatment
Post-Pregnancy Shedding	Either (slight edge to Pantogar)	Both effective; Pantogar’s targeted nutrients may work faster
Aging-Related Thinning	Viviscal	Broad nutritional support for aging follicles
Stress-Related Shedding	Pantogar	Replaces nutrients depleted by stress

Price & Value Analysis

Cost is a significant consideration since both supplements require months of consistent use to see results.

Pantogar Pricing

Vita Hair Women Pricing:

1 Box (30-day supply): $ 49.99
3 Boxes (3-month supply): $ 129.99 – Best value for minimum treatment course
Free worldwide shipping on all orders
30-day money-back guarantee

Viviscal Pricing

Official Viviscal Website:

1 Box (30-day supply): $40 + $6.95 shipping (one-time purchase)
Monthly Subscription: $36/month (10% off) with free shipping
3-Month Subscription: $96 every 3 months (20% off) with free shipping
6-Month Subscription: $180 every 6 months (25% off) with free shipping + gifts

Retail Pricing (Amazon, CVS, Walmart):

$40-50 per box (30-day supply)
$78-90 for 60-day supply (180 tablets)
Prices vary by retailer and availability

Cost Comparison: 6-Month Treatment

Since both supplements require 3-6 months minimum for results, here’s the realistic cost comparison:

Duration	Pantogar (Vita Hair Women)	Viviscal (Best Price)
3 Months	$ 129.99	$96 (subscription) / ~$120 (retail)
6 Months	2 × 3-box purchase = ~$260	$180 (subscription) / ~$240 (retail)
Cost per Day	~$1.44/day	$1.00-1.33/day (subscription) / $1.33-1.67/day (retail)

Value Considerations Beyond Price

Pantogar’s Value Proposition:

Pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing standards
Free worldwide shipping (significant for international customers)
30-day money-back guarantee
Suitable for vegans (important for this demographic)
No subscription required

Viviscal’s Value Proposition:

More extensive published clinical research
Subscription discounts available (up to 25% off)
Widely available in retail stores
Two tablets daily (vs. three for Pantogar) may be more convenient

Bottom Line on Cost: Viviscal is slightly less expensive, especially with subscriptions, but the difference is modest (~$0.20-0.40 per day). Given the small price difference, your choice should depend more on which formula suits your hair loss type and dietary preferences rather than cost alone.

Dosage & Convenience Comparison

Pantogar Dosage

Daily Dose: 3 capsules
Timing: One capsule morning, one midday, one evening
With Food: Recommended to take with meals
Duration: Minimum 3-6 months for visible results
Long-term Use: Can be continued long-term if needed

Convenience Factors:

✓ Spreads nutrient delivery throughout the day for steady levels
✗ Requires remembering midday dose (can be challenging for busy schedules)
✓ Plant-based capsules are easy to swallow
✓ No fishy taste or aftertaste

Viviscal Dosage

Daily Dose: 2 tablets
Timing: One tablet morning, one evening
With Food: Should be taken with meals and water
Duration: Minimum 3-6 months for visible results
Long-term Use: Can be continued long-term; some reduce to 1 tablet daily for maintenance

Convenience Factors:

✓ Only two doses daily (easier to remember)
✓ Morning and evening timing fits most schedules
✗ Tablets may be slightly harder to swallow than capsules for some people
✗ Some users report mild fishy aftertaste (due to marine ingredients)

Adherence Reality Check

The best supplement is the one you’ll actually take consistently for 3-6 months. Consider your lifestyle:

Busy work schedule with irregular lunch: Viviscal’s 2-dose regimen may be easier
Structured routine with regular meals: Pantogar’s 3-dose schedule works well
Sensitive to tastes/smells: Pantogar has no marine ingredients to cause aftertaste
Prefer fewer pills: Viviscal requires one less daily dose

Dietary Suitability & Allergen Concerns

Dietary restrictions and allergies are critical considerations that may determine which supplement is right for you—or eliminate one option entirely.

Pantogar Vegan

Suitable For:

✓ Vegans (100% plant-based formula)
✓ Vegetarians
✓ People with fish/seafood allergies
✓ People with shellfish allergies
✓ Most religious dietary restrictions (Halal, Kosher-compatible ingredients)

Contains:

Yeast (medicinal yeast powder)
Plant-based capsule shell (cellulose)

Does NOT Contain:

Fish or marine ingredients
Shellfish
Animal products (in Vegan formulation)
Gluten
Common allergens

Viviscal

NOT Suitable For:

✗ Vegans (contains shark cartilage and mollusk powder)
✗ Vegetarians (contains marine animal products)
✗ People with fish allergies
✗ People with seafood allergies
✗ People with shellfish allergies

Contains:

AminoMar™ Marine Complex (shark cartilage and oyster extract)
Fish-derived ingredients

Official Warning:

Viviscal explicitly states: “Not suitable for those with an allergy to seafood (fish and shellfish).” This is a hard contraindication—if you have any fish or shellfish allergy, Viviscal is not an option.

Special Populations

Pregnancy & Nursing:

Both supplements: Consult your doctor before use
Not intended for use by pregnant or nursing women without medical supervision

Children & Adolescents:

Both supplements: Not recommended for anyone under 18 years old

Medication Interactions:

Biotin Warning (both products): High-dose biotin can interfere with certain lab tests, particularly thyroid function tests and troponin levels (heart attack markers). Stop biotin supplements 1 week before blood tests.
Consult your doctor if taking medications, especially hormone-based treatments or blood thinners

Winner for Dietary Restrictions: Pantogar Vegan

If you’re vegan, vegetarian, or have fish/shellfish allergies, Pantogar Vegan is your only option between these two supplements. This isn’t a minor consideration—approximately 6-8% of adults have seafood allergies, and millions follow plant-based diets.

Side Effects Comparison

Both supplements are generally well-tolerated, with very low rates of side effects reported in clinical use and studies.

Pantogar Side Effects

Common Side Effects (Very Rare, <1%):

Mild gastrointestinal discomfort
Nausea (usually if taken without food)
Skin reactions (extremely rare)

What Users Report:

Most users experience no side effects
Taking with food eliminates most GI issues
No hormonal side effects (doesn’t affect menstruation, fertility, or other systems)

Safety Profile:

Pantogar has a 30+ year safety record in European clinical use. The ingredients are well-established nutrients with known safety profiles at the doses used.

Viviscal Side Effects

Common Side Effects (Rare, reported in <1% of clinical trial participants):

Mild gastrointestinal upset
Fishy aftertaste or burps (due to marine ingredients)
Mild skin breakouts (reported anecdotally, not confirmed in studies)
Allergic reactions (in those sensitive to fish/shellfish)

What Users Report:

Generally well-tolerated
Fishy taste is the most common complaint but doesn’t affect everyone
Taking with meals and plenty of water minimizes any issues
Some users report initial shedding (this may be normal hair cycle adjustment)

Safety Profile:

Viviscal’s clinical trials reported no serious adverse events. The supplement has been on the market for 25+ years with a good safety record.

Comparative Safety

Both supplements are considered very safe. The main differences:

Pantogar: Essentially no side effects for most users; concerns about yeast allergy are rare
Viviscal: Generally safe but carries risk of allergic reaction in those with seafood sensitivities; fishy aftertaste bothers some users

Neither supplement contains drugs, hormones, or pharmaceutical compounds, which significantly reduces the risk of serious side effects compared to medical hair loss treatments like finasteride or spironolactone.

Can You Use Both Together?

A question that naturally arises: if both supplements work through different mechanisms, could using them together provide better results?

The Theoretical Case for Combination

Combining Pantogar and Viviscal could theoretically offer complementary benefits:

Pantogar provides: Targeted building blocks (L-cystine) and high-dose B vitamins for keratin synthesis
Viviscal provides: Follicle stimulation through AminoMar™ and broad-spectrum marine nutrients
Together: You’d address both nutrient provision (Pantogar) and follicle activation (Viviscal)

The Practical Considerations

Cost:

Using both would cost approximately $80-90 per month
This is a significant investment for supplementation

Nutrient Overlap and Excess:

Both contain biotin, iron, and zinc—taking both could exceed recommended daily amounts
While water-soluble vitamins (B vitamins) have low toxicity risk, excessive mineral intake (iron, zinc) is not advisable long-term
High biotin doses from both could significantly interfere with lab tests

Pill Burden:

You’d be taking 5 pills daily (3 Pantogar + 2 Viviscal)
This reduces adherence and convenience

Our Recommendation on Combination Use

We generally do NOT recommend using both supplements simultaneously for these reasons:

No Evidence of Synergy: There are no studies showing that combination use is more effective than either alone
Nutrient Duplication: You’d be getting overlapping nutrients without clear added benefit
Cost-Effectiveness: Using one supplement consistently for 6 months and evaluating results is more sensible than doubling cost immediately
Vegan Consideration: If you’re using Pantogar Vegan for dietary reasons, adding Viviscal defeats that purpose

Better Approach:

Choose one supplement based on your hair loss type and dietary needs
Use it consistently for 6 months
If results are insufficient, consider switching to the other or exploring additional treatments
Consult a dermatologist about combination approaches if single supplementation isn’t effective

Which One Should You Choose? Decision Framework

Here’s a practical guide to help you choose between Pantogar and Viviscal based on your specific situation:

Choose Pantogar Vegan If You:

✓ Follow a vegan or vegetarian diet
✓ Have fish, seafood, or shellfish allergies
✓ Have diffuse hair loss or telogen effluvium (post-stress, post-illness, post-partum)
✓ Have structurally weak or damaged hair
✓ Suspect nutritional deficiencies (especially B vitamins, iron, zinc)
✓ Are sensitive to fishy tastes or marine ingredients
✓ Prefer pharmaceutical-grade European manufacturing standards
✓ Want a supplement with a clear, mechanistic rationale (building blocks for keratin)
✓ Don’t mind taking three pills daily
✓ Want free worldwide shipping

Choose Viviscal If You:

✓ Don’t have dietary restrictions regarding animal products
✓ Have no allergies to fish or shellfish
✓ Experience gradual overall thinning rather than sudden shedding
✓ Have early-stage androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss)
✓ Want a supplement with extensive published clinical trial data
✓ Prefer taking only two pills daily (more convenient)
✓ Value subscription options with discounts (up to 25% off)
✓ Want easy retail availability (Amazon, CVS, etc.)
✓ Are comfortable with marine-derived ingredients
✓ Want a follicle-stimulation approach beyond just nutritional supplementation

Consider Other Options If:

You have advanced androgenetic alopecia → Consult a dermatologist about minoxidil, spironolactone, or other medical treatments
You have autoimmune hair loss (alopecia areata) → These supplements won’t help; see a dermatologist
You have scarring alopecia → Supplements cannot regenerate destroyed follicles
You’ve used one supplement for 6+ months without results → Time to try the other or explore medical treatments

Our Verdict: The Bottom Line

After examining ingredients, mechanisms, clinical evidence, pricing, and suitability, here’s our comprehensive assessment:

Both Are Legitimate Options

Both Pantogar and Viviscal are well-formulated supplements with clinical backing for treating specific types of hair loss. Neither is a miracle cure, but both can provide meaningful improvements for the right candidates when used consistently for 3-6 months.

The Choice Depends on Your Situation

For Vegans/Vegetarians or Those with Seafood Allergies: Pantogar Vegan is your only option and fortunately an excellent one.

For Diffuse Hair Loss/Telogen Effluvium: Pantogar has the edge with its targeted nutrient approach specifically addressing the metabolic needs of recovering follicles.

For Gradual Thinning with No Clear Trigger: Viviscal’s follicle-stimulation approach may be more appropriate.

For Pattern Hair Loss (Early Stage): Neither is a primary treatment, but Viviscal has slightly more evidence for this indication. Consider medical treatments like minoxidil as well.

For Budget-Conscious Buyers: Viviscal is slightly cheaper with subscriptions ($1.00/day vs $1.44/day), but the difference is modest enough that it shouldn’t be the deciding factor.

For Convenience: Viviscal’s two-pill regimen beats Pantogar’s three pills, but both require consistent daily use.

Quality and Safety

Both supplements have excellent safety profiles with minimal side effects. Pantogar’s pharmaceutical-grade German manufacturing and Viviscal’s extensive clinical research both inspire confidence in quality and effectiveness.

Realistic Expectations

Whether you choose Pantogar or Viviscal:

Expect to use it for 3-6 months minimum before judging results
Results will be gradual, not dramatic overnight changes
Success rates vary; not everyone will respond equally
Supplements work best for nutritional or metabolic hair loss, not hormonal or autoimmune conditions
Consistency is crucial—irregular use undermines effectiveness

Our Recommendation: Pantogar Vegan

At Vita Hair Women, we recommend Pantogar Vegan as the best choice for most women experiencing diffuse hair loss. After examining both supplements comprehensively, Pantogar Vegan stands out for several compelling reasons:

Dietary Inclusivity: Suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those with fish/shellfish allergies—a significant advantage over Viviscal
Targeted Approach: Provides specific building blocks (L-cystine) and therapeutic doses of B vitamins that directly address keratin synthesis
Pharmaceutical Quality: German pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing standards from Merz Pharmaceuticals
Clear Mechanism: Well-understood biochemical rationale based on established hair biology
No Allergen Concerns: No marine ingredients means no risk of seafood allergies or fishy aftertaste
Comprehensive Formula: The Vegan version specifically addresses nutrients often deficient in plant-based diets (B vitamins, iron, zinc)

While Viviscal has merit and clinical research supporting its use, Pantogar Vegan’s targeted nutritional approach, dietary suitability, and pharmaceutical-grade quality make it our top recommendation.

For those following plant-based diets or with seafood allergies, Pantogar Vegan isn’t just the better choice—it’s the only viable option between these two supplements.

Where to Buy

Pantogar Vegan

Best Place to Buy: Vita Hair Women

✓ Authentic Pantogar Vegan guaranteed
✓ Free worldwide shipping
✓ 30-day money-back guarantee
✓ Competitive pricing: $ 49.99 (1 box) / $ 129.99 (3 boxes)
✓ Direct from authorized distributor

Ready to Start Your Hair Growth Journey?

Get Pantogar Vegan with free worldwide shipping and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Shop Pantogar Vegan Now

References

Viviscal Official Website – Ingredients and Product Information
URL: https://www.viviscal.com/pages/ingredients
Ablon G. A 3-Month, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study Evaluating the Ability of an Extra-Strength Marine Protein Supplement to Promote Hair Growth and Decrease Shedding in Women with Self-Perceived Thinning Hair. Dermatology Research and Practice. 2015.
PubMed: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4389977/
Ablon G, Dayan S. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multi-Center, Extension Trial Evaluating the Efficacy of a New Oral Supplement in Women with Self-Perceived Thinning Hair. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2015 Dec.
PubMed: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4689507/
Almohanna HM, Ahmed AA, Tsatalis JP, Tosti A. The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review. Dermatology and Therapy. 2019 Mar;9(1):51-70.
PubMed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6380979/
Guo EL, Katta R. Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatology Practical & Conceptual. 2017 Jan;7(1):1-10.
PubMed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/
Thompson KG, Kim N. Dietary supplements in dermatology: A review of the evidence for zinc, biotin, vitamin D, nicotinamide, and Viviscal. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2021 Nov;85(5):1272-1278.
Pantogar Official Product Information – Merz Pharmaceuticals GmbH
Manufacturer: Merz Pharmaceuticals, Germany
Trüeb RM. Serum Biotin Levels in Women Complaining of Hair Loss. International Journal of Trichology. 2016 Apr-Jun;8(2):73-77.
PubMed: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4989391/

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking medications. Individual results may vary.