Biotin, a B-vitamin, is commonly marketed for hair and nail health. Evidence supports its efficacy primarily in individuals with biotin deficiency or certain hair disorders, such as brittle nail syndrome or uncombable hair. Studies in healthy individuals generally show minimal or no benefit. Some clinical trials with intramuscular biotin combined with dexpanthenol reported improvements in diffuse hair loss, but results vary by brand and study design. Overall, biotin supplementation appears safe but its routine use for hair growth in healthy populations lacks strong evidence.
Publications:
- Efficacy of Intramuscular Injections of Biotin and Dexpanthenol in the Treatment of Diffuse Hair Loss: A Randomized, Double-Blind Controlled Study Comparing Two Brands; Samadi A, Ketabi Y, Firooz R, et al.; Dermatologic Therapy, Vol. 35(9), e15695, 2022
- Low Serum Biotinidase Activity in Children with Valproic Acid Monotherapy; Schulpis KH, Karikas GA, Tjamouranis J, et al.; Epilepsia, Vol. 42(10), 1359–62, 2001
- A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss; Patel DP, Swink SM, Castelo-Soccio L; Skin Appendage Disorders, Vol. 3(3), 166–169, 2017
- Biotin for Hair Loss: Teasing Out the Evidence; Yelich A, Jenkins H, Holt S, et al.; The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Vol. 17(8), 56–61, 2024
- Efficacy of 5% Topical Minoxidil Versus 5 mg Oral Biotin Versus Topical Minoxidil and Oral Biotin on Hair Growth in Men: Randomized, Crossover, Clinical Trial; Valentim FO, Miola AC, Miot HA, et al.
