We weigh in on supplements for hair growth that don't contain biotin, and why you would want to avoid it.
You may have seen hair growth supplements containing biotin as an active ingredient. This is because biotin is a B vitamin that supports healthy hair, skin, and nails.
However, not all hair growth supplements contain biotin as an active ingredient. That’s because there are different types of biotin, and some don’t directly support hair growth. Instead, they support general health and wellness.
So, if you see a hair supplement that contains biotin as an active ingredient but not necessarily to support hair growth...what exactly does it do? Keep reading for details about this and other common questions about biotin for hair growth.
What is biotin?
Biotin is a B vitamin that’s part of the B complex. In the body, biotin helps turn carbohydrates into energy, supports healthy nerve function, and promotes average growth. Biotin is naturally present in some foods, like eggs, almonds, cauliflower, peanuts, and bananas.
However, many people need to take an additional biotin supplement as part of biotherapy for health conditions. Biotin deficiency is rare, but it can happen in people allergic to eggs, peanuts, and almonds.
Biotin deficiency is also more common in people who have diabetes or take certain medications, like antibiotics. Biotin deficiency can cause brittle nails, dry skin, and hair loss. Supplementing with biotin can help promote healthy hair growth, nails, and skin.
Why do hair growth supplements contain biotin?
Most hair growth supplements containing biotin as an active ingredient contain other ingredients, such as vitamins C, E, and folic acid. These vitamins promote hair growth by supporting blood flow to the scalp. This is important because hair growth happens on the scalp.
Biotin, which naturally supports blood flow, helps to promote this process. So, even though biotin doesn’t directly promote hair growth, it supports the process. If a supplement contains biotin as an active ingredient, it’s likely meant to support hair health overall.
How does biotin benefit hair growth?
As we’ve discussed, biotin doesn’t directly promote hair growth. However, it does support the process by stimulating blood flow to the scalp. For hair to grow, your scalp must have a certain blood flow level to help each hair follicle growth.
You might notice slower hair growth if you have low blood flow to the scalp. Vitamin supplements like biotin that support blood flow to the scalp can help promote hair growth.
Are there any side effects of taking biotin for hair growth?
Although biotin is generally safe, supplements containing high doses can cause side effects like nausea, cramps, or ringing in the ears. As with all accessories, you are speaking to a doctor before taking biotin is essential. They can help you decide how much biotin is right for you.
Generally, biotin is recommended at a daily dose of around 100-300 micrograms. You should also know that not all biotin supplements are created equal.
Some biotin supplements contain a type of biotin that is biologically inactive, meaning it doesn’t help your body at all. It’s essential to purchase a supplement to support hair growth, not general health and wellness.
B vitamins for hair growth
We know that biotin doesn’t directly support hair growth. However, it does support the process by promoting blood flow to the scalp. As we’ve discussed, vitamin B complex is essential for health in general.
Therefore, if you take a B vitamins supplement, you may be benefiting your hair indirectly. Of course, you can’t take just one B vitamin since they work together.
However, most B vitamins have been shown to benefit hair health. Vitamin B6, for example, helps to produce sebum, which keeps your scalp healthy. Biotin may be the most common B vitamin in hair growth supplements, but there are others, too.
Final Words
We’ve discussed why biotin doesn’t directly support hair growth and its benefits in other areas. You should know that not all biotin supplements are created equal.
Some biotin supplements contain a type of biotin that is biologically inactive, meaning it doesn’t help your body at all. Make sure to purchase a supplement to support hair growth, not general health and wellness. If you’re looking to support hair growth, a B vitamins supplement is a good option too.