Biotin for Hair Growth? Derms Weigh In - What Do You Think?
Just read this article and was a bit surprised. They say biotin supplements might not actually help hair growth unless you're deficient. I've been taking them for months hoping for thicker locks. What's the consensus here? Anyone seen real results or is it all hype?
As a med student, I've learned that biotin deficiency is pretty rare because it's in lots of foods. And the studies on biotin for hair growth are super limited and often biased. If you're not deficient, the extra biotin just pees out. But I've seen some patients with brittle nails benefit, so YMMV. Also, check your thyroid and iron levels if you're shedding a lot.
I'm with Daphne on this. I used to take biotin gummies and my hair didn't change, but I noticed my nails got super hard - like I could file them and they'd go everywhere. But then I read that biotin can interfere with lab tests, so careful if you're getting bloodwork. Also, my doc said that high doses might cause acne in some people - that happened to my sister.
Honestly, biotin is just one piece of the puzzle. For hair growth, you need a good protein intake, proper blood flow, and a healthy scalp. I'm into biohacking, so I track my nutrient levels. I tested my biotin and it was fine, so I skip the supplements and focus on collagen peptides and red light therapy for my hair. Also, stress management is key, cortisol kills hair.
I've been vegan for 5 years and my hair is fine. I get biotin from nutritional yeast and lots of veggies. Agree that most people don't need supplements. Plus, many gummies contain gelatin, not vegan. So if you're vegan, check the label. I think a balanced diet is better than popping pills. But each to their own.