What is biotin?
Biotin, also called “vitamin B8” or formerly “vitamin H”, plays several roles in the body. It is notably involved in the metabolism of lipids, proteins, and amino acids.
It also plays a role in blood sugar regulation, hence its relevance in diabetes management. Finally, it participates in cell renewal and in the synthesis of vitamin B9 (folic acid) and vitamin B12.
Produced naturally by the body, it is made by bacteria of the intestinal microbiota.
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It can be provided through the diet and by consuming biotin-rich foods: legumes, nuts and seeds, egg yolk, sweet potato…
It is also available as a dietary supplement to correct a deficiency or to improve the beauty and health of hair.
Indeed, it helps maintain normal hair. It is particularly recommended to slow hair loss and stimulate hair growth.
It also helps develop a stronger and shinier head of hair.
Its benefits for hair
It stimulates hair growth
Biotin is particularly interesting in cases of alopecia. Indeed, it appears capable of slowing hair loss while stimulating regrowth.
As shown by this review, it has been the subject of numerous studies on the topic. In all people with a hair problem, such as uncombable hair syndrome, biotin supplementation has been beneficial.
Vitamin B8 accelerates the renewal of cells and hair follicles, giving rise to a new hair.
It promotes blood circulation in the scalp, thereby providing the nutrients necessary for hair growth.
Finally, it supports lipid (fatty acid) metabolism and the biosynthesis of amino acids and vitamins necessary for hair health, such as vitamin B9.
It strengthens the hair shaft
In addition to boosting growth, it makes hair stronger and more resilient. That’s why a biotin deficiency often results in brittle hair and the appearance of split ends.
Vitamin B8 improves the structure of an essential protein: keratin. The latter is one of the main components of the hair fiber. It gives structure and strength to each hair. In addition, it protects and helps maintain hydration and elasticity.
Biotin and keratin are therefore often combined in dietary supplements for hair. They also strengthen all other appendages such as eyelashes and nails.
It adds shine
Biotin is a valuable ally for dull hair and hair lacking vitality. Indeed, it improves the appearance of the hair by adding shine.
By improving the nutrition of the scalp and hair follicles, it also increases hair density of the hair. The hair gains thickness and volume.
How to use biotin for hair?
As a dietary supplement
There are many dietary supplements for hair health today. They come in the form of softgels, tablets, capsules, or even gummies.
Choose a supplement with an adequate amount of vitamin B8. It can be combined with minerals, trace elements (selenium, zinc…), sulfur-containing amino acids or with other active ingredients such as brewer’s yeast, horsetail or nettle.
The biotin/millet combination, for example, is very interesting. Indeed, millet seeds contain miliacin, a natural compound that promotes hair growth as shown by this study.
Previously offered in synthetic form, biotin can now be plant-derived. It is then extracted from leaves or basil seeds (Ocimum basilicum).
For external use
Biotin is included in the formulation of numerous products and hair care treatments. Thus, it is found in serums, shampoos, lotions and hair masks to be applied to the hair.
