What Is Biotin and What Does Biotin Do for Hair?

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a water-soluble B-vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, nails, and especially hair. It has become increasingly popular as a supplement for those looking to improve hair strength, prevent hair loss, or accelerate growth. In this article, we’ll cover everything individuals using biotin for hair need to know — from how it works to what results you can expect.

Biotin is a vitamin that helps the body convert food into energy and supports the health of your hair, skin, and nails. It is naturally found in foods like eggs, nuts, seeds, and certain vegetables. Because it’s water-soluble, your body doesn’t store it — which means you need to get it from your diet or supplements regularly.

1. Promotes Hair Growth: Biotin plays a major role in the production of keratin, the protein that makes up your hair. Supplementing with biotin may improve hair growth in people with a biotin deficiency or weakened hair structure. 
2. Strengthens Hair Strands: People using biotin often report thicker and stronger hair over time. This vitamin helps reinforce the hair shaft, making it more resilient to breakage and split ends. 
3. Reduces Hair Thinning and Shedding: If your hair is thinning due to nutritional issues, biotin may help reduce the shedding and promote regrowth, especially when combined with a balanced diet. 
4. Improves Scalp Health: A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair. Biotin supports skin function, which can help reduce flakiness and dryness on the scalp.

• Those With Hair Thinning or Breakage: Individuals experiencing brittle, thinning hair may benefit from biotin. 
• People With Nutritional Deficiencies: If your hair loss is related to a lack of essential vitamins, especially B-complex vitamins, biotin can help. 
• Postpartum Women: Many women experience hair loss after pregnancy. Biotin supplements are often used to help restore hair health. 
• People Who Style Hair Frequently: Heat and chemical treatments can damage the hair. Biotin helps to fortify strands from within.
  

Yes! Biotin is naturally found in:

• Egg yolks 
• Almonds and peanuts 
• Sweet potatoes 
• Spinach and broccoli 
• Bananas 
• Whole grains 

Including these foods in your diet can help boost your biotin intake naturally.

Biotin is generally considered safe, even in higher doses, because it is water-soluble. However, excessive intake may cause:

• Acne breakouts 
• Skin rashes 
• Digestive discomfort 
• Interference with lab test results (especially for heart and thyroid tests) 

Always inform your healthcare provider if you’re taking biotin, especially before undergoing blood tests.

• Combine with other hair-healthy nutrients like zinc, collagen, and vitamin D. 
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in proteins and healthy fats. 
• Avoid stress and sleep deprivation, both of which can contribute to hair loss. 
• Be consistent — Biotin requires time to deliver noticeable changes

Yes, biotin supplements can be safely used alongside:

• Topical treatments like minoxidil
• Hair oils and serums
• Laser therapy
• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) treatments
• Hair transplants

In fact, many hair clinics recommend biotin as part of a comprehensive aftercare plan following hair restoration treatments.