Do you want your hair to grow longer? A quick Google search will likely bring up results for “biotin for hair growth,” as this supplement is regularly recommended, purchased, and praised. A big name in the vitamin world, biotin plays a starring role in almost every hair growth vitamin and formula, as it is said to strengthen hair and reduce hair loss. But does it really work?
If you look at any social media post promoting hair growth supplements, that’s certainly the case. But dig a little deeper into the research (or lack thereof) and you’ll find that many of the claims are likely exaggerated. We spoke to industry experts to shed light on this supplement’s superpowers. Fasten your seatbelts:
Meet Our Experts
What is Biotin?
“Biotin, also known as vitamin H or vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that is found naturally in many foods, including eggs, salmon, sweet potatoes, almonds and milk,” says Annabelle Kingsley, brand president and trichology consultant at Philip Kingsley. Biotin helps metabolize proteins, fats and carbohydrates, converting food into energy. It also benefits hair and scalp health. “Biotin is involved in protein synthesis and the production of keratin (an important structural substance in hair), so this vitamin contributes to healthy nails and hair growth,” explains Purvika Patel, formulation chemist at Dermatology M.
Do I need biotin?
Although biotin is needed to help your body convert food into energy and maintain healthy hair, we only need very small amounts (30-100 micrograms), according to the NHS – and most healthy people can meet this requirement with just a balanced and varied diet.
“True biotin deficiency is very rare,” Kingsley points out, but if your body is teeth A biotin deficiency “can lead to thinning hair and brittle nails,” says Patel, which is where a biotin supplement can help.
Does Biotin Promote Hair Growth?
“It’s highly unlikely that biotin will cure your hair loss problem,” Kingsley says, “unless you actually have a biotin deficiency.” In this case, biotin supplementation can help, but it’s important to first see a professional who can evaluate your biotin levels and any other potential nutritional deficiencies.
If you do If you decide to take biotin as a supplement, the NHS recommends taking no more than 900 micrograms per day. Taking too much biotin is not thought to be harmful, but there is limited data on the actual benefits of biotin on hair growth. “In studies carried out to test the effects of biotin supplements on hair growth, the results have revealed that little to no change was seen in healthy individuals. Only those who are deficient in this vitamin will see improvement from taking a supplement,” says Patel.
