Biotin is one of those supposedly-amazing supplements that promises to plump your skin and grow your hair.
There is no doubt this water soluble vitamin is important—a deficiency can result in skin issues, hair thinning and more…
But what are the beauty benefits of taking biotin supplements?
Read on to find out more about how biotin works, the best way to take biotin, recommended supplements, and more!
What is Biotin?
Also known as vitamin H, biotin helps your body in converting food into energy. The B vitamins, particularly biotin, keep your nervous system, liver, eyes, hair, and skin healthy.
The Benefits of Biotin for Your Skin
Biotin deficiency can lead to scaly, red skin rashes. Some studies (here’s one) suggest that a deficiency can cause seborrheic dermatitis (also called cradle cap).
Biotin can also help protect your skin against problems like acne and fungal infection. It keeps the skin moisturized so is great for dry skin. And it reduces the risk of cracking (get those painful cracks in the corner of your mouth? Try taking a biotin supplement).
While there is a need for more research to prove and determine the benefits of biotin, many have reported enhanced hair, skin and nail growth with supplements.
How Does Biotin Work?
A bit of boring technical science: Biotin is a crucial enzyme component in your body that breaks down substances like carbohydrates, fats and more.
Other than that, let’s just get on with it huh?!
How Long Do Biotin Supplements take to Work?
*First – make sure you consult your doctor about taking supplements.
While there is still limited research, studies have shown it takes around 90 days for results to show. Results including enhanced shine and growth of your hair.
You may notice results in as little as 30days however, and these improve with continued intake. Biotin seems to be a worthy addition to your anti aging skin care regime.
Possible Side Effects
Since it is a water soluble vitamin, excess biotin will flush out from your body which makes overdose unlikely. However, if you notice an unexpected or unusual skin rash, consult your doctor as this can be one of the signs of biotin overdose.
The Best Way to Take Biotin
The deficiency of biotin is rare so there isn’t a recommended daily requirement by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration…!
But this doesn’t mean that increasing your intake through supplements isn’t helpful:
- Most people taking biotin supplements start with 5000mcg daily
- There are so many brands on the market, and most contain other B vitamins, zinc, and sometimes collagen and hyaluronic acid. So it can work as a “multi” beauty vitamin (so be careful about taking it with other supplements)
- Our favorite: Nature’s Bounty Extra Strength Hair Skin and Nails. This brand also has Argan Oil, and beautiful pink capsules, which just make you feel beautiful when taking them!
Biotin can be a great way to enhance your skin, especially if it’s dry and lacking a bit of its usual luster. Since supplements usually come with some of its vitamin friends (like other B’s) it can be a great daily addition to your health and wellness! (Other bonus – hard nails and shiny hair)
