SHOULD I TAKE BIOTIN FOR HAIR GROWTH?

SHOULD I TAKE BIOTIN FOR HAIR GROWTH?

You may take a biotin supplement if you choose. The vitamin, Biotin, can be found in many beauty products because it is associated with improving hair, skin and nails. Although biotin is not necessarily used to stimulate new hair growth, it can be used to renew the existing follicles and roots creating stronger, fuller hair. Therefore, it is not uncommon for your Dermatologist to recommend taking a biotin supplement.

Biotin, is one of the 8 (eight) B complex group of vitamins. B complex vitamins help with metabolic changes in the cells. Biotin is present in all living cells and necessary for cell growth. It is an essential micronutrient necessary to metabolize carbohydrates, fats and amino acids. Biotin can be found in a variety of foods such as brewer’s yeast, egg yolks, whole grains, milk, swiss chard, rice and liver. Nuts and mushrooms contain smaller amounts. Biotin is one of the few vitamins that can be produced in the body. It can be supplied by the gut microbes and is synthesized by intestinal bacteria.

Biotin deficiency is rare! According to the National Institute on Health (NIH), deficiency can be genetic or caused by rapid weight loss, malnutrition and long-term tube feeding. Biotin deficiency can cause diffuse hair loss, conjunctivitis, dermatitis and neurological symptoms such as depression and hallucinations.