Rethinking biotin therapy for hair, nail, and skin disorders
June 2018
in “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology”
TLDR Biotin supplements are not proven to improve hair or nails and may interfere with medical tests.
The document discusses the role of biotin (vitamin B7 or H) in human metabolism and its importance in preventing neuromuscular dysfunction, alopecia, and dermatitis, as observed in biotin-deficient rats. Biotin deficiency in humans is rare but can result in similar symptoms. While biotin supplementation can be crucial for treating inherited metabolic disorders like holocarboxylase synthetase and biotinidase deficiencies, and high doses (300 mg/day) have shown benefits in reversing disabilities related to multiple sclerosis, there is no established daily allowance for biotin. The Institute of Medicine recommends 30 μg/day for adults, and typical Western diets provide an estimated 35-70 μg/day. The document highlights concerns about the widespread promotion and use of biotin for hair and nail improvement despite insufficient evidence to support its routine use and notes the FDA's warnings about the prevalence of biotin supplementation, which may not always be disclosed to physicians.
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Cited in this study
research The Infatuation With Biotin Supplementation: Is There Truth Behind Its Rising Popularity? A Comparative Analysis of Clinical Efficacy versus Social Popularity.
Biotin supplements for hair improvement are popular without scientific proof of effectiveness.
research A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss
Biotin supplements may improve hair and nail growth in people with certain deficiencies or conditions, but there's not enough evidence to recommend it for healthy individuals.
research Use of Vitamins and Minerals in the Treatment of Hair Loss: A Cross-Sectional Survey among Dermatologists in Saudi Arabia
Many dermatologists in Saudi Arabia recommend vitamins and minerals for hair loss, often based on personal experience rather than strong evidence.