Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for supporting several biological processes in the body. Biotin is sometimes called “vitamin H” because of its association with strong, healthy hair growth. What are biotin’s health benefits, and what is a biotin spray used for? We’ll cover everything you need to know below.
Biotin Sources
Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, which means our bodies do not store it. So, how do we get biotin? Biotin comes from three primary sources:- Produced by bacteria in the small intestine
- In small amounts in certain foods
- In vitamins or supplements
Importance of Biotin
Biotin is one of eight B-complex vitamins. Our bodies need biotin to fuel healthy metabolism, turning carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy. Biotin helps your body to manage gene activity and to regulate cell signals. As with all B-complex vitamins, biotin supports skin, hair, eye, and liver health, and it also plays a role in nervous system function and overall health. Of all the B-complex vitamins, biotin is most associated with skin and hair health.Biotin Deficiencies
Biotin deficiencies can be either genetic or acquired. Specific risk factors, including long-term antibiotic use, seizure medications, alcoholism, and pregnancy, can cause an acquired biotin deficiency. Bariatric surgery, restrictive diets, anorexia, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, and Celiac disease can also increase your risk of biotin deficiency. While uncommon, a biotin deficiency often causes symptoms visible in skin and hair health. Because biotin is so essential for strong hair growth, a biotin deficiency can cause hair thinning or hair loss. Typical symptoms of biotin deficiency (genetic or acquired) include:- Scaly, flaky, itchy patches of skin on the scalp
- Thinning hair
- Skin rashes
- Dry, brittle hair or breakage
- Cracked skin around the mouth
- Alopecia (hair loss)