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Biotin for hair growth

Approved by our Clinical team | Sep 14, 2020

What is biotin?

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Biotin (vitamin B7) is a water-soluble vitamin found in a variety of foods or made naturally by the bacteria in our bowel. As it’s water-soluble the body doesn’t store this vitamin, and any excess is passed from your body through your urine. Biotin’s main function is to help break down the proteins, fats and carbohydrates from the foods we eat and convert this into energy. Biotin also plays an important role in gene regulation, cell signalling and mucus production.

Biotin can be found in a number of natural food sources, including:

Salmon
Cooked eggs
Beef liver
Seeds and nuts
Pork
Sweet potato

If you want to find tasty ways to add biotin-rich foods into your daily meals, head over to Biotin.com to explore their delicious recipes containing rich sources of biotin.

How biotin can improve hair growth

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Our hair and nails are made from protein know as keratin which we can get from the foods we eat. Biotin's involvement in protein synthesis and keratin (the key structural material of hair) production allows this vitamin to contribute to healthy nail and hair growth. Whilst biotin deficiency is rare, symptoms do include thinning hair and brittle nails.

However, according to studies carried out to test the effect of biotin supplements on hair growth, results appear to show that little change occurs in healthy individuals. Only those who are low in this vitamin will find any improvements from taking supplements.

Several factors can make you more susceptible to biotin deficiency. According to the National Institute of Health, the following groups are at a higher risk:

Individuals with chronic health conditions
Those living with alcoholism (find out more about alcohol misuse and ways to get help)
Pregnant or breastfeeding women

These groups are at higher risk because they are less able to absorb vitamins and minerals from their diet.

If you’re experiencing thinning hair and want to find out more about hair loss products and treatments take a look at our hair loss collection to explore our full range including medicated Regaine (clinically proven to slow the progression of hair loss), as well as serums and shampoos.

Biotin for beard growth

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As biotin is known to contribute to the production of keratin, it’s often advertised as a supplement that may contribute to a thicker beard. Some case studies do exist that appear to indicate that biotin may help support hair growth, however, evidence of noticeable change tends to only be seen in individuals who are deficient in this vitamin.

If you’re looking for a fuller and thicker looking beard, why not try Just for Men colour in brush, it can help to cover sparse patches and deepen the colour of facial hair.

What might be causing my hair loss?

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Hair loss is extremely common and is often not something that should be a cause for concern. According to the NHS, there can be temporary causes for hair loss.

These include:

Emotional stress
Illness
Cancer treatment
Iron deficiency
Weight loss

Other causes of hair loss may be down to genetics and can be more permanent. If you’re worried about hair loss your GP will be able to help with advice and support. Alternatively, you can visit our hair loss clinic over at Online Doctor to have a free online consultation with an experienced clinician.

We know hair loss can be upsetting for some people, that’s why it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional if your hair loss is causing you concern as they can refer you appropriately or help you to manage your hair loss. Support groups are also available for those wishing to speak to someone.

Biotin supplements for hair loss

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Biotin supplements are available for those who would like to support their body in every way they can alongside a varied diet and healthy lifestyle. When taken daily alongside a regular meal, biotin supplements may help limit hair loss and weakened nails in those who are deficient in the vitamin.

Other hair loss treatments

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If you’re experiencing hair loss we encourage you to explore our full hair loss range at LloydsPharmacy to discover the best product for you. Our selection of products includes:

Natural Nourkin supplements for both men and women
Chewable hair vitamins from Hairburst
Biotin gummies such as Pink beautiful biotin
Biotin tablets including Nutri Within

We also have help and advice online to help you find the best treatment. It’s important you discuss these options with your GP to make sure they are the appropriate choice for you.