Biotin: The Key to Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails

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Medically reviewed by: Rediclinic Editorial Contributors
Biotin: The Key to Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails

The word “Biotin” comes from the Greek word  meaning “life.” B vitamins are the most essential substance in the human body in total eight vitamin biotin had a special role in it.. Biotin is considered a beauty vitamin because of its capability to improve your health. and specifically biotin, helps to keep your skin, hair, eyes, liver, and nervous system healthy and Biotin is a crucial and trusted nutrient source during pregnancy, as it’s important for embryonic growth.

One nutrient that plays a crucial role in this is biotin. Known as vitamin B7, it supports the health of the skin, hair, and nails by aiding in the production of keratin, a key protein. Which is essential for your hair. This is an essential nutrient that is naturally present in some foods and available as a dietary supplement, so it helps manage blood sugar levels and plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbs, fats, and proteins. It supports health in many ways. But biotin deficiency presents various clinical manifestations such as hair loss, red rash, neurologic symptoms, and susceptibility to infection, etc. This article describes the roles that biotin plays in the body. It also explores food sources of the vitamin and safety considerations.

What is Biotin?

Biotin is actually a B vitamin complex; mainly, there are 8 in number, and B7 is considered biotin. B vitamins are water-soluble; they are mainly helpful in the formation of red blood cells and cell metabolism, and biotin is helpful for the synthesis of fatty acids and in gluconeogenesis, which means the production of glucose occurs in the liver and kidneys.

Biotin is called vitamin H, coenzyme R, Botina, W Factor, etc., so in a simple way, biotin, which helps to use the body to convert the food into energy or fuel, also helps in fatty acid production .metabolism of several amino acids, including leucine It's a micronutrient for nervous system health and for some other important body functions also. Such as metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids and the building blocks of protein. It's a white crystalline needle that cannot be produced by the human body by itself. So it is collected from different dietary supplements or the bacteria present in the large intestine to produce biotin. But some food substances, like raw egg, have a compound called avidin that tightly binds biotin and prevents the absorption from the gastrointestinal tract; also some medication prevents the synthesis of biotin from the human body. So most of the people get biotin from Eating a healthy diet, during that time it will regulate your blood sugar, nails, skin, hair health, as well as be useful for pregnant and healthy babies. Where can you get it? Natural sources are the best option. Some non-vegetarian and some vegetarian foods, like egg yolk, beef, nuts, bananas, mushrooms, etc., will be discussed later.

But if you cook them, it will lose the natural form, and biotin becomes ineffective, so raw and less-cooked food has more active biotin, or try to take them in medicinal forms like powder, tablets, jam-like products, etc. Also, it's found in many cosmetic products for hair and skin also.

The Key to Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails

Biotin is a most crucial micronutrient that the human body can't process on its own; it's an essential nutrient needed to function correctly. So biotin is an important supplement for strengthening hair, nails, and skin issues; also, vitamin B7 helps other activities, including the nervous system, diabetic management, prenatal care, healthy babies, etc. Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, so it can't be stored like fat-soluble vitamins. So the only way to get biotin is through dietary supplements, but it can come in some cases.

People are not aware of that, so in the Indian market, there are lots of products available for biotin supply, including medicinal preparations in the form of tablets and powders that are also in some cosmetic products. According to dermatologists, it's the best option for healthy skin and skin-related issues. Biotin is very helpful in skin cases, including whitening, reducing wrinkles, and treating acne, and it gives a glowing effect. It initiates the production of fatty acids that will nourish the skin and improve the oil glands. When biotin combines with vitamin C, it helps the whitening of skin and reduces wrinkles. If you have any skin rashes, it may be the best option.

For hair, biotin is used as a better companion. Why? Because the deficiency shows noticeable changes in hair, like hair loss, thinning hair, and graying hair. It can be used in a condition called alopecia. But there is limited evidence that biotin supports hair growth in non-deficient cases. But some researchers say that it shows some very visible changes, like scalp coverage, improved hair volume, and reduced hair thinning, after the treatment time.

In some cases, these supplements are useful for treating brittle, rough nails associated with the alopecia condition. While in a normal human being, the growth of fingernails averages about 10th of a millimeter per day, there are a number of factors that affect the nail growth, in that biotin is a basic factor that affects the speed of growth of nails in fingers and toes. So consuming biotin will improve the nail's health.

Benefits of Biotin in Skin, Hair and Nails

2007 A study proves that taking biotin every day reduces the breakage and improves overall nail health. But some other factors are also influences, such as hands, which are the most dominant and used part of your body. Because of that, the growth is faster than the leg; younger age is also a supportive factor for nails; for example, diseases like alopecia and psoriasis are very influential in nail growth. Some people are concerned about the effects of hormones on the growth of nails, especially during pregnancy and any kind of thyroid-related disease. That's why biotin intake is necessary for every stage. Some habits, like biting and clipping, also cause severe nail damage; also, people who have brittle, hard, firm, yellowish discoloration are also advised to use biotin in their daily routine.

Actually, biotin helps fatty acid formation, and this process helps to balance skin health, like nourishment and proper oil gland function. Skin hydration is possible in biotin-containing topical applications. It enhances the skin tone and tries to reduce the presence of whiteheads & blackheads. It shows some significant results in skin lightening also, but some of the case results may vary, so try to accompany it with any other ingredients like vitamin C, antioxidants, or other derivatives. Why? Because it may activate some other function, like detoxifying the body, giving better immunity, and improving the appearance of skin. It is an important factor that hair loss is an

major symptoms of biotin deficiency, but if we improve the intake and absorption, it may help the production of keratin, improve the strength of hair follicles, give a change in the hair thickness, and prevent the hair damage from UV radiation; in the case of the condition called alopecia, the main symptom is the visible baldness, mostly seen in females, and it becomes severe and looks like round patches over the scalp. Also, it affects hairy body parts like eyebrows, hands, etc., so biotin can be considered as a medication for that. Lots of studies show that if people are searching for low-cost, highly available supplements for longer, healthier hair, biotin will be the best option, and you will get various products in the Indian market. 

Incorporative Biotin in your daily routine

These three ways are available.

1. Dietary supplement
2. Biotin supplement or Medicinal form
3. Topical application

    In case of intake of biotin, dietary supplements are the best option because of the plenty of availability and non-side effects. And it's easy to include in your daily routine. A balanced diet is considered the best medicine for preventing disease and boosting your immunity. If you're making them in a better way, it will change the betterment of your health; it can change your skin and overall body function. 

    • Some biotin-rich foods are: Organ meats (liver), egg yolks, salmon, avocado, nuts, seeds, peas, leafy green vegetables, mushrooms, avocado, sweet potato, yeast, legumes Banana, broccoli, oat flakes, wheat germs, whole grains, rice, cheese, curds, cow, milk, apple, tomatoes, lettuce, carrot, seafood, avocados, sunflower seeds, etc.
    • Biotin supplements: There are many medicinal formulas available in the Indian market in the form of tablets, syrup, powders, jam-like substances, gummies, liquids, etc. So the dose may vary from different products. but commonly The recommended dose is approximately 30-100 mg. But it should be loaded with vitamin B12, vitamin C, collagen, antioxidants, vitamin E, etc. It is an alternative medication used for hair diseases like alopecia, psoriasis, etc., biotin as a valuable agent in the biotin deficiency, especially for hair and skin conditions, 
    • Topical application: In general, biotin-containing cosmetic products are more common in Indian health markets; the people are more eager to buy them because of the plenty of options and ease of use. In that case, hair and skin products are used widely for better results. but it's essential for the growth and strength of hair, keratin production, and improving the skin's quality. Applying this product externally will improve the nutrient absorption more quickly. Recently, I found out that some hair growth oil also has bad present biotin content.

    But some factors badly affect the biotin treatment time, like you should avoid excessive alcohol consumption; if you are on any kind of medication, it will slow up the intake of biotin. So make sure before it starts. 

    Side effects of Biotin

    Biotin is an important source that provides energy to your whole body. It's more effective for skin, hair, nails, nervous systems, etc. But it should be avoided if you are taking medication for any serious illness, especially epilepsy, heart disease, etc. Why? Because there is a possibility that it may cause some kind of negative impact to the body, there is also a chance of causing biotin-responsive limb weakness. If you over consume egg whites for a regular base, the symptoms shown may be similar to quadriplegia. Why? Because egg white is a rich source of biotin. But in the case of raw eggs, the content called avidin influences too much biotin absorption in the human body and causes a toxic effect. If you are a chain smoker, it will increase the biotin. Although some rare side effects may occur, like allergies, nausea, cramping, abdominal pain, etc.

    It may present a high level of biotin. Some important blood tests are for thyroid conditions, heart disease, anemia, cancer, variations in vitamin D levels, reproductive hormone tests, immunosuppressive drug tests, and troponin levels. There is a chance that it may lower fasting blood sugar, HbA1c values of type 2 diabetes, etc. So in that case, try to avoid intake of biotin at least 72 hours before any kind of blood test. Some common side effects are diarrhea, respiratory problems, and difficulty in breathing. Swelling on face, lips, tongue, and throat; red rashes around eyes, lips, nose, etc.; depression; loss of energy; hallucination; and numbness and tingling in the hand or feet. Excessive thirst, insomnia, increased urination, conjunctivitis, 

    So before the intake of biotin, always consult your doctor and mention any other medication or any other medical conditions you have. It will reduce the risk of biotin side effects. 

    Biotin in Pregnancy

    It is an important vitamin for pregnant women. It's necessary for body functions. Some researchers say that naturally obtained biotin through diet is not enough for pregnancy time. So it may lead to some serious birth defects; maternal biotin deficiency during pregnancy might be the risk of preterm labor or fetal growth restriction. So most of the doctors recommend a regular healthy diet with additional biotin supplements. It is important that taking folic acid is good for baby health, so the combination will reduce the risk of development of babies.

    In some cases, a mother doesn't provide enough biotin through breast milk will lead to some deficiency in babies, so this Supplemost will provide a healthy life to mothers, babies, and children. B7 plays an important role in converting Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are needed for energy for the body, and they help your body's cell function. Biotin is vital for a baby's embryonic growth and rapid dividing of cells for DNA replication, It plays an important role in the immune system. It helps fight against infections & diseases for a safe body.

    While you're pregnant, your doctor encourages you to eat more biotin-rich food to protect the baby from birth defects. So the recommended dosage for pregnant women is 15-30 micrograms of biotin per day; when breastfeeding, 35 micrograms.

    Biotin is not always found in prenatal vitamins. So be sure to make sure you will get enough vitamin during the pregnancy stage, and before consuming it, get medical advice from your doctor at first.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

    1. Which food has biotin? 

    Incorporating biotin-rich foods into your diet can help improve hair strength, enhance skin radiance, and even promote overall well-being. Foods that contain the most biotin include organ meats, beef liver, eggs, milk, legumes like peas, beans, and lentils, nuts, seeds, pork chops, salmon, fish, meat, seeds, and certain vegetables (such as sweet potatoes). Sweet potatoes contain 2.4 mcg of biotin, mushrooms contain 2.6 mcg of biotin, and almonds typically contain around 0.5 to 0.75 micrograms of biotin. . A 100-gram avocado will contain between 3.2 and 10 mcg of biotin. Bananas also contain biotin; chopped broccoli contains 0.4 mcg of biotin.

    2. Is 10,000 mcg biotin too much?

    10,000 mcg of biotin is generally considered safe. These supplements with 10,000 micrograms of biotin provide 33,333 percent of your body's. While this may seem excessive, there are no reports of toxicity or side effects from this amount of biotin up to 10 mg (10,000 mcg) per day. Too much biotin can weaken the immune system, impact the neurological system, contribute to high blood glucose levels, and cause digestion problems.

    But there's evidence that intake of biotin in a dose of 10,000 micrograms per day could result in improvements of hair within 7 months. Or if you are taking it for energy support and other body functions, biotin may take 30 days for proper results. Optimal dosage is recommended between 5,000-10,000 mcg daily for 3 months. Is also advisable

    3. What are the symptoms of biotin deficiency?

    The biotin deficiency symptoms typically appear gradually, and it includes thinning hair with progression to loss of all hair on the body, necessary for producing keratin, a protein that promotes strong hair and nails. scaly, red rash around body openings (eyes, nose, mouth, and perineum); dry, scaly skin; or cracking in the corners of the mouth, swollen and painful tongue Nails: Brittle nails conjunctivitis; pinkeye or dry eyes Persons with chronic alcoholism and those on long-term anticonvulsants could develop biotin deficiency. loss of appetite, fatigue, neurological symptoms like Seizures. depression hallucinations High levels of acid in the blood and urine, skin infections that help regulate blood sugar and LDL (bad) cholesterol,

    Biotin is available from various food sources and is also synthesized by intestinal bacteria; hence, dietary deficiency is uncommon. Because of impaired intestinal uptake of the vitamin, a doctor can diagnose biotin deficiency by taking a family history and a blood test. 

    4. How much can I take daily for hair growth?

    So we suggest taking 10,000 mcg of biotin daily to support not just your body but your hair growth as well. 10,000 mcg is a safe dose. It encourages faster hair and nail growth; some supplements are available with 12,000 mcg of biotin. But if you have a hair condition called alopecia, your doctor may recommend a higher dose of biotin, up to 3 milligrams (3,000 mcg) per day. is ideal Adults and teenagers—30 to 100 micrograms (mcg) per day. Children at the age of up to 10 take 30 mcg per day. Children up to age 6 take 25 mcg per day. No adverse side effects have been noted in this dosage. Pregnant people should take about 35 mcg of biotin per day.

    5. Is this bad for your kidney? 

    There is no evidence that taking biotin causes kidney stones or leads to chronic kidney disease. However, supplements that contain biotin above recommended amounts may cause false results in some lab tests, including those for thyroid function and for hormone levels. The biotinyl IgG-positive elderly had lower levels of parathyroid hormone and total cholesterol, whereas the uric acid level was higher compared to the biotinyl IgG-negative elderly. Taking biotin supplements does not seem to be harmful to the kidneys or other organs. There is no evidence that taking biotin causes kidney stones or leads to chronic kidney disease. Consult your doctor when you're considering taking biotin or any supplement. 

    Conclusion

    Biotin, a B-complex vitamin found in foods, supplements, supplements that helps to convert food into energy. It also supports various parts of your body. Like the nervous system, liver, eyes, hair, and skin. Many other available natural remedies may support hair, skin, and nail health. However, like biotin, many of these are not scientifically proven to have a positive effect. I The symptoms of a biotin deficiency can be mistaken for many disorders and conditions. It is common for individuals to experience unexpected issues in skin, hair, or nails. In that case, speak with a doctor. In most cases, biotin deficiencies are not the cause of these issues, but they may be a contributing factor. so

    If you feel any of these symptoms, make an appointment to see your doctor. Biotin supplements are effective for hair loss and skin issues. Apart from being an essential nutrient both for your skin and hair, biotin also offers other health benefits. So, go for a reliable biotin supplement and enjoy better hair, skin, and overall good health.

    Reference

    1. Mock DM. Biotin. In: Zempleni JS, Suttie JW, Gregory JF, Stover PJ, editors. Handbook of vitamins. 5th ed. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press; 2013. p. 397–420. [Google Scholar]

    2. Mock DM. Marginal biotin deficiency is common in normal human pregnancy and is highly teratogenic in the mouse. J Nutr 2009;139:154–7. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]

    3. León-Del-Río A. (2019). Biotin in metabolism, gene expression, and human disease. Journal of inherited metabolic disease, 42(4), 647–654. https://doi.org/10.1002/jimd.12073

    Dr. Alakha AS, BAMS

    Dr. Alakha AS, BAMS

    Dr. Alakha graduated, BAMS physician from MGR University P.S. Varier Ayurveda College in Kottakkal

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