Does biotin grow hair?
Generally speaking, yes it does. Among many other vitamins, the B7 vitamin (Biotin) is also a crucial ingredient for the natural growth of healthier hair. It does so by boosting keratin production, which makes the hair stronger. Experts at the Cleveland Clinic believe that biotin improves the body’s keratin infrastructure, reduces inflammation, and improves hair growth.
Is biotin deficiency real?
Biotin deficiency can lead to hair thinning. Having said that, it is extremely rare for anyone on an average diet to have this deficiency. Biotin is naturally present in our regular diets. Also, a standalone biotin deficiency cannot be the primary reason for your hair loss.
This means, that before considering prescribed oral supplements or any treatment that promotes hair growth, you need to consult a doctor to identify the root cause of your hair fall problem.
Here are some of the sources to get this vitamin into your system:
1. Foods high in biotin for hair growth
This B-complex vitamin is water-soluble and is present in a lot of common foods that we regularly eat. The dietary sources of biotin are as follows:
- Egg yolk
- Vegetables – Broccoli, Sweet Potato, Tomato, Lettuce, Cauliflower, Spinach, and Carrot
- Meat – Chicken, Pork, Beef, and specific organs such as the liver and kidney
- Fish – Tuna, Salmon and Sardines
- Fruits – Banana & Avocado
- Nuts and seeds – Almond, Peanuts, Walnuts and Sunflower seeds (raw or toasted).
- Milk and dairy products like yogurt and cheese
- Legumes – Soybeans, Lentils and Beans
- Mushrooms
- Whole grains
The amount of this essential micronutrient differs from one food to another. It is best to pick the items having the highest concentration of biotin. So, be sure to check their nutritional information if possible.
2. Biotin shampoo for hair growth
Industry leaders in hair care are nowadays incorporating Biotin as an active ingredient in their shampoos since it is claimed to add volume and a natural luster to the hair. Customers with frizzy hair are loving biotin-based shampoos.
3. Biotin oil for hair
Biotin-based hair oils are recommended for those with dry scalps. A dry scalp often leads to dandruff and hair breakage. Though there is not enough scientific evidence to back it up, apparently biotin-based hair oils encourage hair cuticles to retain their moisture, thereby rendering them stronger. Biotin hair oil also makes the hair shinier and smoother.
The scientific proof depends on various factors like the number of trials conducted so far, availability of subjects, etc. Lack of scientific evidence can mean the studies conducted so far are insufficient to claim a product’s efficacy. However, it does not label a product as moot. Though Science is yet to validate biotin as an effective solution for hair loss, going by the customer reviews and enthusiasm surrounding it, I like to keep it as one of my recommendations for treating hair loss.
4. Biotin Supplements
Is Biotin an alternative treatment for hair loss?
To answer shortly, no, it may not be a permanent solution. To date, there haven’t been any clinical studies that conclude these supplements benefit people other than those with a clinical biotin deficiency. The cause of hair loss is multifactorial & this vitamin can only strengthen your strands. You can definitely add Biotin products to the items that make up your hair care routine.
However, If you’re experiencing hair loss due to a hormonal or genetic predisposition like androgenic alopecia, Biotin is less likely to prevent it. In this case, you can also try laser hair treatment for growth apart from prescribed pills like finasteride and minoxidil. Low-level Laser (Light) Therapy (LLLT) is a clinically recommended solution for pattern hair loss. It works by activating the dormant hair follicles to produce new hair. Though LLLT sounds like something for which you have to visit the doctor’s clinic, the therapy comes in the form of over-the-counter devices like helmets and caps. One of the many benefits of LLLT is that you can treat yourself in the comfort of your home.
Bottom Line
Does Biotin regrow hair? Biotin can be a complementary treatment for maintaining your hair health. While the vitamin improves overall hair quality, it cannot be considered an outright hair growth solution.
