When I first started my hair journey 5 years ago I heard a lot about Biotin for hair and nail growth, especially in the hair forums and discussion boards. At the time I did not find it necessary to add a supplement for hair growth to my diet, as I make sure I get all of my needed vitamins from the foods I eat daily. I also had a very solid and consistent regimen at the time that contributed to my hair’s growth.
Thickness, or rather a lack of, has been my pain point lately with my hair. I suspect it has to do with length, as I’m right at waist length and noticed that the longer my hair grows the thinner it gets. So I will be going for a cut soon to see if that will help my hair gain more volume, since it’s been pretty blah and boring these past few months in the style department. In the meantime, I’ll share with you my experience with Biotin and why I most likely won’t be using it again.
What is Biotin?
Biotin is part of the B-Vitamin complex family, where as a whole they all play a role in the body’s metabolic system and energy levels. Biotin (Vitamin H or B7), helps the body’s metabolism by regulating carbohydrates, fats and proteins and convert it into energy. This is beneficial for those having troubles with weight loss or deal with fatigue regularly.
Why did I choose to use Biotin?
In addition to helping with the body’s metabolism, Biotin also helps boost hair and nail growth by producing keratin. Keratin is an important protein to combat brittle nails and hair as it is the main component of which our hair and nails are made up of. Biotin also helps revive your hair follicles for hair growth.
My Review
Where to buy?
At any local Natural Health store for about $9.00. I prefer brands that are organic and gluten free so this is why I use this one, but you can find Biotin at any drugstore as well.
Dosage
I began taking Biotin in January and stopped early April. I would consistently take Biotin every weekday at work as I would keep it right in front of me to make sure I remember. On the weekends I let my body rest making sure I drink lots of water.
Skin
I’ve been on my hair journey for over 5 years and despite hearing about Biotin being so great for hair growth, the reviews and side effects would always keep me from trying Biotin. One side effect of Biotin for some people can be breakouts. This is due to the molecules in Biotin are too big to be excreted through the skin. So it’s recommended you drink a lot of water during intake of biotin.
I don’t have a problem with water intake, but despite that I noticed some changes to my skin. I did not get get any cystic or acne breakouts but I did notice the texture of my skin change. It was a lot rougher and needed to exfoliate more often. I also noticed I had these very small tiny bumps under my skin which made the texture change even more noticeable.
Nails
My nails have always been strong so I did not expect to see a change. Nonetheless I did, which was interesting. Typically my nails would bend and able to withstand most bumps and what not. While taking Biotin however, my nails would actually break. So I found them to bit a lot stronger in that sense as they were harder than usual, so a great nail hardener supplement I’d say.
Hair
As far as my hair, not much feedback honestly. I have been slacking with my hair these past 2 years after reaching my goal. I deep condition about every 2 weeks and barely have been protective styling or sealing. I did notice a lot less shedding so that was a plus but not what I was looking for in the thickness department.
Final Thoughts
To top it off I won’t try biotin as a supplement because I feel like my skin reacted a little. I have normal skin and know when my skin changes and noticed it while taking this supplement. Instead, I will add more biotin rich foods like cauliflower, almonds, onions, carrots, tomatoes and a lot more.
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