Hair loss can be a symptom of a biotin deficiency, so taking biotin supplements may help relieve this problem. Biotin is a B vitamin found in a variety of foods, including eggs, bananas, and salmon. This vitamin strengthens cells and aids the metabolism. Healthy cells and a properly functioning metabolism contribute to hair growth and restoration. Consequently, biotin is viewed as a possible hair loss remedy.
Although biotin occurs naturally in foods, people suffering from a deficiency usually have a genetic issue that prevents them from fully absorbing this nutrient. A diet high in raw eggs can also contributes to a deficiency because there is a protein found in the eggs that inhibits the dispersal of biotin. People whose bodies aren't absorbing enough of this vitamin may need to take a supplement. Since the body does not absorb biotin well when it is applied to the skin, biotin hair loss supplements are typically available as tablets or capsules for oral consumption. If the biotin deficiency is so extreme that it is causing hair loss at a rapid rate, a medical professional may inject biotin directly into the bloodstream.
Using biotin for hair loss is typically affordable and is all natural. While some dermatologists believe 1 to 2 milligrams of biotin is the minimum requirement for healthy hair, the recommended daily intake for healthy people is 30 to 100 micrograms. People suffering from hair loss due to an insufficiency of biotin usually require 3 to 5 mg daily. When the vitamin is consumed, it enters the bloodstream for the body to use. The extra biotin allows the body to overcome any issues related to absorption and provides cells with more nourishment.
Medical professionals and scientists studying biotin have not identified any major side effects. It should be noted, however, that hair loss may also be a sign of a condition that is more serious than biotin deficiency, and only a medical professional can determine if a person is not getting enough of this vitamin. There is no laboratory tests for diagnosing a biotin deficiency. If one is suspected, a healthcare professional will usually view hair loss in conjunction with other symptoms associated with the condition before making a diagnosis. Taking biotin usually only reduces hair loss and has not been proven to be a cure for it.