Biotin is an awesome B complex vitamin that has proven to be a facilitator of your metabolism. As far as its beauty benefits, it has also gotten much attention for its claims to help grow healthier and stronger hair and nails. Dr. Richard Scher, dermatologist and nail disorder expert says that it isn’t totally clear what role biotin plays. However, he believes taking the vitamin does improve the keratin infrastructure.
Dr. Susan Stuart, Board Certified Dermatologist, argues that, “Biotin deficiency is rare and low levels may result in brittle nails and hair loss. However, hair loss and brittle nails may have multiple causes and taking biotin supplements may actually halt this process and even help to reverse it.” Like with anything, everyone’s body will react differently to a supplement. Here are some proven pros and cons of biotin that I can attest to.
Pros:
1. On it’s own, biotin is responsible for the production of fatty acids, metabolizing fats and amino acids, and cellular growth. Essentially, biotin helps us to digest, grow and heal.
2. Average hair growth is stated to be about 1/2-1 inch per month (depending on the person), and with additional biotin intake your hair is said to grow faster, fuller and healthier. I can attest to this. My hair grows 1/2 inch per month. When I was heavy into my relaxed to natural transition I took biotin daily and saw remarkable hair growth. I went from growing 6 inches of hair per year to 12 inches.Cons:
1. There are side effects just like with any supplement. Many people who take biotin notice that they have an increased amount of acne. I am also one who can attest to this. What I found out is that you really have to manage the dosage of biotin you are taking. As I began to increase the dosage levels, I noticed that my breakouts happened more often.
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2. Continuous intake of biotin supplements can create an allergy within some people. This can come in many forms such as an itchy rash, nausea, inflammation of the chest and/or swelling of the face.
3. Biotin is a supplement that isn’t recommended to be taken when on certain medications, particularly anti-seizure or cholesterol control medications, as studies show biotin impacts its effectiveness.
Biotin is a great supplement if used right and when enough research is done. Just like with anything else, it can’t be a replacement for overall good health practices. And when taken in moderation, great beauty benefits can gained.
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