DOES BIOTIN PREVENT HAIR LOSS?

Using biotin for hair has been common since many years due to its benefits and qualities; it is a type of B vitamin commonly used in cosmetic treatments to treat problems such as dermatitis, or weak nails and hair.

IS BIOTIN GOOD FOR HAIR GROWTH?

Biotin, also known as B7 vitamin (and formerly H vitamin), is a soluble vitamin linked to carbohydrates, fats, amino acids and purines metabolism, and that also favours blood circulation and hair growth; therefore, biotin will not just allow us to have a healthy and well nourished scalp: it will also provide strength and elasticity to our hair, making it shiny, too.

SO, WHERE CAN WE FIND IT?

Basically in foods of animal origin such as meat, fish or egg yolk; but also in vegetable products such as mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, whole grains, seeds, nuts ... If for any reason we cannot intake any of these foods, or we do not eat enough quantity, there is also the option of taking biotin tablets for hair. These biotin supplements for hair are usually sold in capsules and include other additives for hair, such as collagen or hyaluronic acid; however, due to the proliferation of this type of pills and supplements we must warn you about the risks of consuming them without the supervision of a specialist.

IS IT OK TO PUT BIOTIN IN YOUR HAIR ?

In general terms, using biotin for hair is safe in aesthetic treatments if administered in the recommended dose and under medical supervision.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

Nausea (especially during the first stages), stomach problems and diarrhoea, allergic reactions (including swelling of the face and throat, rashes on the body, etc) appearance of acne on the lower part of face and increased risk of abortion in pregnant women. Bear in mind that just as an excess of biotin intake has its side effects, a deficiency of biotin also has consequences for our body - rashes, hallucinations, depression... - and, as scientific studies have shown, it also causes a weakening of hair, affecting hair growth and pigmentation.

Besides, in certain patients it may be advisable - always under medical supervision - to consume optimum dosage of biotin, since it may provide other benefits for them such as:

Condition improvement in people suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS)

Reduction of nerve pain in people with diabetes

Reduction of blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes (if combined with chromium)

Decrease in muscle cramps caused by dialysis

Shortening of altered mental status and motor control problems episodes in patients with basal ganglia dysfunction (if combined with thiamine)