Nowadays, hair fall, thinning and gradual stoppage of growth has become a common problem. The effect of changing lifestyle, stress, bad eating habits and increasing pollution is directly visible on our hair. In such a situation, people are looking for quick and effective solutions, and meanwhile the name of Biotin has become popular very fast. From social media to health experts, everywhere biotin is being described as an essential nutrient for hair growth. But the question is, is biotin really as effective in increasing hair growth as it is said to be? Or has it become just a trend? Does everyone need biotin, and is it safe to take it without a doctor’s advice?
If you are also taking biotin or are planning to take it, then this article is for you. Here we will tell you important things related to biotin. How does it work, for whom is it beneficial, and can it have any side effects? So that you can take the right and wise decision for your hair care.
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What is biotin and why is it important?
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7. Helps in many important functions in the body. Especially for the health of hair, skin and nails. It is believed that due to its deficiency, hair becomes weak and starts breaking and their growth is also affected. This is why many people nowadays start taking biotin supplements, in the hope that it will make their hair longer, thicker and stronger.
Does biotin really increase hair growth?
According to Healthline, Biotin is an essential vitamin that helps the body convert food into energy and make keratin (the main protein of hair, skin and nails). Its deficiency is very rare, but if it occurs then symptoms like hair fall, thinning and weakening of nails can be seen. Does biotin increase hair growth? The answer is no…! Yes but hair health can improve.
What does the research say?
According to research, biotin can help to some extent in preventing hair fall, but this benefit is mostly available only to those people who are deficient in biotin. Research has found that the problem of hair fall is more common in people who have less biotin in their body. In such cases, taking biotin supplement may bring some improvement. But if a person does not have biotin deficiency, then there is no definite evidence that taking biotin alone will stop hair fall. There can be many other reasons for hair fall, such as hormonal problems (thyroid), nutritional deficiency (iron, zinc, protein), rapid weight loss or genetic reasons (female pattern baldness).
Disadvantages of taking too much biotin
Biotin supplements are generally considered safe because it is a water-soluble vitamin, so it does not accumulate much in the body. But taking excessive amounts (overdose) may cause some problems, such as insomnia, excessive thirst and frequent urination. Additionally, some medications (such as epilepsy medications) can reduce biotin levels in the body. In such a situation, it is better to take supplements only after consulting a doctor or dietician.
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