It is widely agreed by doctors and scalp specialists that biotin helps hair grow stronger, quicker, and thicker. The benefit of biotin for hair growth is that it causes stronger and healthier hair follicles to grow in. In turn, stronger hair is less likely to break – ultimately protecting your hair's length.
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, stimulates keratin production in hair and can increase the rate of follicle growth. It is not stored for long in the body - most of yours is from the foods you eat. In order to be effective, it needs to be consumed.
In fact, biotin is primarily used for alopecia — a condition that causes hair loss in all sexes. “Biotin helps maintain hair growth and helps with inflammation,” Dr. Bergfeld says. “The hair follicle, the skin and the nails all benefit.”
After starting a biotin supplement routine, you can expect to start seeing a difference in about three to four months. Results may vary depending on the amount and type of biotin you're taking. You can find biotin at most drug stores and in any vitamin shop.
Typically, it takes a few months before the hair becomes longer and stronger. This varies on a case-by-case basis, so it's hard to give an exact figure. One study found that women saw results after 90 and 180 days.
For hair growth, we recommend opting for a biotin supplement that contains anywhere from 300 mcg to 1,000 mcg. You will begin to see results after 4-8 weeks, or long-term results after a few months.
We'll cut straight to it: On average, hair grows at a rate of about half an inch per month, or six inches per year. Each hair on your head grows from an individual follicle.
In terms of your hair and scalp, taking too much biotin won't result in drastic damage. But while your magnificent mane might not be in danger, biotin could have adverse effects on your skin. “What I see most often is breakouts on the face, chest, and back,” Breana cautions.
Takeaway. Your body makes enough biotin on its own through your dietary intake each day. Therefore, you shouldn't take biotin supplements unless directed by your doctor. There are some rare health conditions that can cause some people to need biotin supplements on a regular basis.
Though its use as a hair and nail growth supplement is prevalent, research demonstrating the efficacy of biotin is limited. In cases of acquired and inherited causes of biotin deficiency as well as pathologies, such as brittle nail syndrome or uncombable hair, biotin supplementation may be of benefit.
Regular intake of excessive quantities of certain nutrients can cause hair loss in some cases due to a temporary condition known as Telogen Effluvium. However, the effects of too much vitamin B7 - also known as biotin toxicity - remain unconfirmed.
No, there is no evidence to suggest taking biotin supplements can lead to weight gain. In fact, biotin is sometimes touted as a weight-loss supplement.
After you stop using biotin, your nails will likely return to their original condition within 6 to 9 months. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. What should I do if I missed a dose of Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails)? Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose.
If you have a condition that's associated with biotin status, such as alopecia or intestinal malabsorption of biotin due to a variety of factors, supplementing with the nutrient may improve hair and beard growth, though it has limited effectiveness in healthy men ( 9 ).
Water is a key ingredient that supports vitamins, which contribute to your hair growth. Believe it or not, but water makes up almost 25% of the weight of a single strand of hair. Drinking at least two liters of water a day will help the strength of your hair, increasing growth.
“Vitamins are essential for healthy hair growth and may help in preventing hair shedding and thinning,” says Michele Green, M.D., a cosmetic dermatologist in New York. “The best vitamins for hair growth include B vitamins, vitamin D, vitamin E, zinc, biotin and iron.
For most women, this occurs sometime between the ages of 44 and 55. When your ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone—two hormones key to menstruating—this is when you go into menopause. Estrogen and progesterone also happen to be linked to your hair's health, including its growth.
If no home remedies work for your hair loss, use a daily biotin supplement for at least 6 months to start seeing results.
Excess in the body is rare, and since biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, it is excreted in the urine when in excess. Signs and symptoms of biotin overdose may include and are not limited to insomnia, excessive thirst, and urination.
Improved Skin and Fingernails
Research also shows that biotin helps improve skin's hydration, smoothness, and appearance. In addition, some studies show that biotin can strengthen fingernails and make them grow faster. Biotin is a versatile addition to your beauty routine.