The role of Biotin (B7) and Hair Loss.
Many people concerned with hair loss have heard of supplement or vitamin called biotin, and often ask if it is beneficial to hair loss and growing thicker hair.
Here is a brief synopsis of biotin as it pertains to hair.
The supplement biotin is actually vitamin B7, which is a water-soluble vitamin. The vitamin is referred to as the hair vitamin and is sometimes claimed to be useful for stimulating hair growth or for treating hair loss. However, there is little scientific evidence to support such claims.
Biotin and Hair:
A biotin deficiency can cause hair loss (known medically as alopecia) and that treating a deficiency can help restore normal hair growth. However, biotin deficiencies are quite rare. The body needs only a tiny amount, and many foods contain it. Also, the intestinal flora (the microorganisms that live in the digestive tract) produce biotin that the body can use, and the vitamin is “recycled” in the body.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that biotin can stimulate hair growth or treat hair loss in people with normal levels.Is My Hair Loss Caused by a Biotin Deficiency?
If you have a deficiency, biotin could help to stop hair loss and stimulate hair growth.
- Red, scaly facial rash
- Depression
- Lethargy
- Hallucinations
- Unusual sensations (such as pricking or burning) of the hands or feet.
Most people may be able to meet their biotin requirement through food. However, higher intakes may be recommended in certain situations, such as:
- Biotinidase deficiency (a genetic disorder)
- Chronic use of certain seizure medications or antibiotics (see Biotin Drug Interactions)
- Consumption of large quantities of raw egg whites, which contain a substance that causes biotin depletion
- Kidney dialysis or IV feedings (known as total parenteral nutrition or TPN) that do not contain biotin.
Study shows selenium and selenoproteins play beneficial role in the health of hair and keratinocytes.