Biotin, also known as B7, is a powerful vitamin of the B complex family. Studies have been done on the benefits of biotin for controlling blood sugar, lowering LDL (also known as the bad cholesterol) and the effects of biotin on thyroid hormones. Most commonly though, biotin is known for its positive effects on hair growth, strengthening nails and clearing the skin.
The media often claims that supplementing with biotin is beneficial for hair growth, and science fully agrees. In fact, some people refer to biotin as Vitamin H for hair. One strong study conducted by The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology showed that biotin drastically improved hair growth in women who had experienced hair loss compared to those who took a placebo. Supplementing with biotin also made their hair significantly shinier.
The reason why biotin seems to have a positive effect on hair growth and shine is because it improves the body’s Keratin supply. Keratin is a protein that works with the cells at the top layer of the skin and one of its roles is to give strength to Epithelial cells (outer layer of skin) that are associated with hair, skin and nails.
One of the reasons that biotin is helpful for skin health is because of the role that biotin plays in increasing keratin production. One of keratin’s main roles is creating an immunological, protective barrier for internal organs which takes place in the epidermal layer. Keratin holds even more importance since it helps the epidermis become resistant to physical stress that human tissue encounters. This means that keratin promotes epidermal layers that are strong and moisturized to resist harm. During the state of biotin deficiency, the amount of keratin found in the body may decrease, and the skin may develop painful blisters, as well as some other unpleasant side effects.
Biotin deficiencies are linked to many skin issues, but not all of those issues may be linked to biotin’s relationship to keratin. One of the main signs of a biotin deficiency is painful, red, scaly skin. Studies show the painful rashes and scaly skin that result from a deficiency in biotin may be linked to biotin’s role in fat metabolism. All in all, biotin is essential for creating skin that is strong and moisturized and should be a supplement to consider if you are looking to improve the quality of your skin.