Does Biotin Help Hair Growth | Benefits, Side Effects & Dosage

Can biotin supplements help you achieve long, lustrous locks and how long will it take?

Sworn on by many influencers, biotin—popularly recognized as Vitamin B-7 or vitamin H—is supposedly the magic spell you need to get the hair of your dreams.

Well, there are times when you’ll hear people with flawless skin, smooth hair, and shiny nails brag about the benefits of biotin.

And if we talk expressly about the benefits of biotin for hair, well, nowadays it is used in almost every hair product that claims to cure all hair-related issues. 

So, if you’ve been feeling envious of the natural delicate curls of heartthrob Mr. Harry Styles or the breezy waves of Blake Lively lately, biotin might help you get the same hair texture.

Today, we’re here to discuss how does biotin help hair.

How Does Biotin Help Hair: Key Benefits

Biotin does have an essential role to play in maintaining the health of your hair and nails. 

And if the internet is to be believed, it is the number one solution for all your hair issues.

To elaborate, biotin assists in hair growth by supporting metabolic functions. 

It helps and breaks the dietary proteins into several amino acids required for the production of keratin (building blocks of hair follicles made from different amino acids). 

Henceforth, the enhanced production of keratin leads to the production of healthy hair.

Here are the biotin benefits for hair to grow hair that’s stronger and healthier:

#1. Biotin, with the help of its rejuvenating characteristics, assists the body in producing new cells.

#2. By rejuvenating hair follicles and scalp, biotin is also helpful in preventing hair loss.

#3. Biotin also prevents shedding.

#4. It promotes hair regeneration as well.

#5. It prevents hair dryness.

#6. By improving the elasticity of hair, it prevents breakage and splitting of hair strands.

These benefits of biotin for hair are, in fact, backed by clinical studies. And even though the studies are limited, they are promising.

Biotin Benefits for Hair: What Do the Studies Say?

If you’re still looking for solid proof regarding how biotin does help hair, scientific researches and studies do seem to have the answer to your question.

#1. A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss 

Objective: Systematic study of the efficacy of biotin on hair and nail growth.

Method: Human patients with underlying pathology for poor hair and nail growth received biotin supplements. 

Result: After receiving biotin, all cases showed clinical improvement.

• 10 out of 18 cases were patients with inherited enzyme deficiency. And 8 out of these 10 cases reported alopecia, which gradually resolved after receiving biotin supplementation for months.
• 3 cases of uncombable hair syndrome also showed improvement after using biotin for a few months.

Notably, it was found that the recorded improvements on hair quality from biotin supplementation were on those who had an underlying condition causing a deficiency which is rare.

#2. Serum biotin and zinc in male androgenetic alopecia

Objective: To know if there is any value to add zinc and biotin as supplements in MAGA (Male Androgenetic Alopecia) treatment.

Method: Serum biotin and zinc are measured in all participants who included 60 MAGA patients and 60 healthy volunteers.

Result: Serum zinc showed a subnormal value and is recommended in MAGA treatment.

Whereas, biotin may add value to the hair quality and texture (if added to a treatment).

Henceforth, there’s not enough convincing scientific proof that more biotin is equal to really long hair or less hair fall.

However, considering the fact that it is vital in protein synthesis, especially keratin production, adding a healthy range of biotin intake will do no harm and also give you the best-looking hair. 

How Much Biotin Should You Take for Hair Growth: Dosage

There are no recommended dietary doses of how much biotin per day should you take. 

However, FNB (Food And Nutrition Board) has determined the average intake for biotin.

Moreover, the human body naturally produces biotin in the intestine.

And, although it’s popularly believed that it prevents hair loss, it is only one of the 100 solutions and must be included in supplements. 

Moreover, biotin is present in many foods and you can get ample amounts of biotin from natural body production and diet.

There’s no skepticism that biotin is the ultimate supplement that works on numerous hair issues. 

However, there are possible side effects of biotin intake. And if you are a “glass is half empty” kind of a person, the word “possible” might cling to your mind.

What are the Side Effects of Biotin?

The reputation of biotin because of its contribution to healthy hair has made it a common supplement for hair growth. 

Adding to this, its recommendation by some of the popular celebrities and influencers has led to its consumption by a vast number of people even without any medical prescription or professional consultation. 

But it is to be noted that the human body naturally produces enough biotin through a daily diet.

And if you are taking a biotin supplement without any consultation, the biotin tablets side effects could be hazardous.

Some of the major side effects of biotin because of overdose and toxicity are:

#1. Incorrect results in certain diagnostics and lab tests such as blood tests.

#2. Upset stomach

#3. Acne flare-up

#4. Skin rashes

#5. A decline in insulin release from the pancreas

#6. A high blood glucose level

#7. Deficiency of vitamin C

Hence, it is recommended to inform the doctor about your biotin supplementation prior to going for any lab test.

Now, what if you take the right quantity of biotin?

How Much Faster Does Biotin Make Your Hair Grow?

Let’s find out…

How long does it take to see results with biotin for hair loss?

The timeline of biotin for hair growth results depends on the initial cause of hair loss as well as the level of deficiency.

However, after starting a new regime, it takes several months to witness the potential effects.

While some are lucky enough to see the results in 2 weeks, for others, it might require some patience for up to 2-4 months. 

Notably, people dealing with hair loss because of biotin deficiency are more likely to see faster results from biotin supplementation.

And to know how much biotin for hair growth is required, you must know whether you are actually deficient in biotin or not.

Notably, biotin deficiency is rare. Thus, the research in terms of deficiency symptoms is limited.

However, some of the symptoms of biotin deficiency observed so far include:

#1. Constant hair loss

#2. Rash around nose and mouth

#3. Confusion and memory issues

#4. Nausea

#5. Muscle pain and cramping

#6. Abdominal cramping

Adding to this, because of the body’s natural ability to produce biotin, malnutrition or anything that hinders the gastrointestinal functioning of the body gives rise to biotin deficiency.

Pregnancy and genetic conditions can also result in biotin deficiency.

It is to be noted that in most cases biotin deficiency may not be the primary reason behind hair loss and, therefore, a person must consult a doctor before adding a supplement to their regular diet.

Bottom Line

Now, you know how does biotin help hair growth.

Thus, if you are dealing with hair issues like excessive hair loss, alopecia, uncombable hair, then biotin might be of some help. 

However, relying only on biotin supplements might not work. 

Therefore, after analyzing numerous biotin reviews, it is best to make a balance between the natural intake of biotin via foods like nuts, pork, and biotin pills.

Even though biotin tablets side effects are zero to few, it is advisable for the individuals experiencing unusual hair fall to consult their doctor before taking an additional supplement.

“Good hair is defined by its health and not texture.”

And regardless of many dubious products, biotin still stands to offer some hair growth benefits when used the right way. 

And with that being said, let’s have a look at the most frequently asked questions related to biotin and hair health.

FAQs

Get the answer to some of the most popular queries regarding biotin for hair.

#1. Is it better to take biotin on an empty stomach?

It is best to take biotin pills on an empty stomach 1 hour before the meals and 2 hours after the meals with a full glass of water. Or you can take it as per your doctor’s prescription.

#2. Can biotin reverse grey hair?

One of the benefits of biotin for hair is that it can actually reverse the premature graying of hair. 

As per research, a biotin-rich diet can be helpful in reversing the discoloration of hair.

#3. Does biotin really help regrow hair?

Biotin stimulates keratin production in hair and is even added in some shampoos. It may assist in hair re-growth if you are experiencing hair loss.

However, there’s no proper evidence that it helps to regrow hair.

#4. When should you take biotin: morning or night?

Morning time is best to take your nutrient supplement because the process of digestion slows down during sleep.

However, it’d be better to consult your doctor to know the exact reason for hair loss for more accurate treatment. 

#5. Does biotin mess with hormones?

One of the primary side effects of biotin is that it can interfere with hormone tests such as Parathyroid hormone and thyroid-stimulating hormone.

#6. Is biotin bad for your liver?

While the normal recommended dosage of biotin has many health benefits, too much biotin can mess up insulin release and may interfere with the functioning of your liver.

#7. Should I take biotin or collagen?

Both collagen and biotin can strengthen your hair, nails, and skin. But when deciding between biotin and collagen, you must keep in mind that you can get enough biotin through a balanced diet but to get the full benefits of collagen, you need to have a collagen supplement. 

So, the decision is all yours. 

#8. Will biotin keep you awake at night?

Contrary to the query, intake of biotin can actually reduce sleep and anxiety problems.