Biotin and Hair loss: How Are They Connected?
Hair loss has very few implications on your health, however it can prove detrimental to your confidence level. Most people would resort to extreme lengths to hide partial baldness, for instance men who shave off their heads and women who are forever seen with their scarves on their head. There are several products that come with the claims of stopping hair fall. One ingredient that has garnered a lot of attention in the hair care industry is biotin.
It is not unusual to see biotin being used in practically every second hair care product. It is often touted as the miracle ingredient for hair and skin rejuvenation. However, buyers often wonder if any of these claims actually hold merit and if biotin can truly provide the results that the products makers advertise. So, lets talk about what is this substance and how does it work
What is Biotin?
Biotin is a type of vitamin B that is essential for the formation of glucose and fatty acids. It is a naturally found substance and there are many food items that are rich sources of biotin like egg yolks, sardines, brewer's yeast, mushrooms, legumes, salmon, cauliflower, and bananas. Apart from this biotin is also naturally produced in the digestive system through the help of bowel flora.
Does Biotin really work?
Although very few studies have been conducted that prove the efficacy of biotin in preventing hair loss, acne, brittle nail, eczema etc; there is ample of evidence to prove that a deficiency of biotin does indeed cause hair loss.
How does Biotin work?
Your hair is nothing but a protein fiber; however, the protein cells do not have a nucleus, meaning they are not alive. This simply means that protein is essential for hair growth and to prevent hair loss. Since you need biotin for protein production, any deficiency may create low levels of protein leading to hair loss.
How can you use Biotin?
Biotin is included in most hair care products available in the market today such as shampoos, hair gels, conditioners, and hair creams. Biotin is more potent than some of the other natural products available for hair loss because it is easily absorbed by the skin. It helps to strengthen hair, preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth.
Alternatively, if you were to consult a hair care expert, he/she may even recommend biotin dietary supplements. These supplements not only help to prevent hair loss but also give you a radiant and firm skin. These biotin supplements are water soluble and you need to take about 2-3 mg each day to keep the proper levels of biotin in your body. Like with all other health supplement it is essential to consult with your physician before taking biotin supplements as well. You can find these supplements easily at most health supply stores and they are available in various dosages; it's essential to use the appropriate dosage to get conspicuous results.
People who suffer from diabetes usually have low levels of biotin. Also certain types of medications may hamper the production of biotin in the body. However, naturally occurring biotin deficiencies are rare. Signs of biotin deficiency include nausea, fatigue, depression, hair loss, anemia and muscles pains.
If you do suffer from such a condition, supplements may prove more useful in controlling hair loss as opposed to oral application through hair care products.
