Commonly known as the “beauty” vitamin, biotin, or vitamin B7, is a water-soluble member of the B-complex vitamins. Aside from its purported benefits for skin and hair, it also plays an important role in energy metabolism, helping our bodies convert the food we consume into energy. Some people may benefit from taking a biotin supplement or a multivitamin with biotin. A few signs of a biotin deficiency include rash, brittle nails, and thinning hair. (1)
Biotin supplements vary widely, often including vitamins like vitamin C or even proteins like collagen, so our team searched the market to find the top contenders so you can make an informed choice before checkout. We selected these six biotin supplements due to their clean ingredients, rigorous testing, and overall value.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best biotin supplement
- Best for hair growth: Nutricost Biotin for Women
- Best organic: Ora Organic Beyoutiful
- Best vegan: Future Kind Vegan Collagen Booster
- Best for nail growth: Olly Undeniable Beauty
- Best with collagen: Naked Nutrition Ella Vanilla Beauty Protein Powder
- Best for women: Pure Encapsulations Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra
Compare biotin supplements
Nutricost Biotin for Women | Ora Organic Beyoutiful | Future Kind Vegan Collagen Booster | Olly Undeniable Beauty | Naked Nutrition Ella Vanilla Beauty Protein Powder | Pure Encapsulations Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra | |
Rating | ||||||
Firmness | $0.12 | $1.60 | $1.00 | $0.47 | $2.00 | $1.61 |
Material | Capsule | Capsule | Capsule | Gummy | Powder | Capsule |
Cooling | 10,000 mcg | 60 mcg | 2.500 mcg | 2,500 mcg | 30 mcg | 6,000 mcg |
Best biotin for hair growth: Nutricost Biotin for Women with Folate and Marine Collagen
Key product features
What you should know
Featuring ingredients like folate and marine collagen, Nutricost Biotin for Women with Folate and Marine Collagen provides the most bang for your buck when looking to improve hair health through biotin supplementation.
- This supplement packs the highest dose of biotin, at 10,000 micrograms (mcg) per capsule, compared to all the others we examined.
- At $0.12 a serving, this is the most inexpensive option on our list.
- This unique formula contains folate and marine collagen, both of which are nutrients involved in skin and hair health. Thus, it may be a good choice for anyone seeking improvements in those areas.
Why we like Nutricost Biotin for Women as best for hair growth
Nutricost’s high-dose biotin supplement is expertly crafted to support the health of your hair, skin, and nails. It outperforms competitors by delivering a high potency dose of 10,000 mcg of biotin. Additionally, it includes 333 mcg of folate and 100 mg of marine collagen, further enriching its formula to provide comprehensive benefits. While this product is marketed towards women, the ingredients and doses will also benefit men looking to support their hair growth.
This unique blend may help those with weakened hair growth and dermatological issues. Research indicates that people with biotin deficiencies usually experience improvements in their skin, hair, and nails once they begin supplementing and restore their biotin levels to normal. Those with inherited deficiencies often need high doses, starting at 10,000 mcg daily, to see improvements in hair and nail growth. Therefore, this high-dose biotin supplement might be particularly effective for individuals looking to improve the health of their hair, skin, and nails.
Biotin is considered safe at high doses, as no upper intake level has been established due to its low toxicity. However, there’s no evidence supporting its use in healthy individuals who are not deficient. (2,3) It’s important to keep in mind that it will take a couple months of biotin supplementation to start showing improvements.
Folate also helps maintain healthy cells. Deficiency can lead to hair, skin, and nail changes. Folate is especially important for women who are trying to conceive, as deficiency can lead to neural tube defects. (4)
Additionally, the 100 mg of marine collagen may have anti-aging effects by improving skin elasticity, moisture and structure. Keep in mind, this product is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans since its collagen comes from animal sources. (5)
Nutricost Biotin for Women is third-party tested by ISO Labs and made in a facility that meets FDA standards and is Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certified, so you can trust that you are getting exactly what’s on the label.
This biotin supplement is also only $0.12 a serving, making it the most affordable option on our list.
To learn more, visit our complete guide on the best vitamins for hair growth or the best hair growth products.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers love this biotin supplement, giving it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 230 reviews. They say it works wonders for healthy hair, skin, and nails and appreciate the fair price.
Another Amazon customer, Lotus, states, “Had massive hair loss after getting sick in 2021. I have always had long hair so the amount of hair loss was a shock. I always had thin fine hair so it was especially traumatic when it fell out. I started taking this in early 2022 and have taken it religiously up to now. My hair has grown back almost to full length, and it is thicker than it has ever been in my life. It is also growing ridiculously fast. My eyebrows have also grown in thick as well. My nails no longer split. If you give up 3 months in, you won’t see much benefit. Hair takes time to grow. And each hair is on its own growth cycle. You must give it at least 6 months before you will see a noticeable change.”
However, some reviewers claimed it made them feel sick due to the high dose.
“These are way too strong and I got very sick so wasted the money on these,” says Amazon customer, Dee65.
Specs
Form | Capsule |
Dose | 10,000 mcg |
Key ingredients | Biotin, folate, marine collagen |
Serving size | 1 daily |
Quantity | 120 capsules |
Price per serving | $0.12 |
Third-party testing | ISO Labs |
Best organic biotin supplement: Ora Organic Beyoutiful
Key product features
What you should know
Ora Organic’s Beyoutiful is a rock solid choice for an organic biotin supplement, and contains niacin plus a proprietary “Beauty Blend” for even more antioxidants, helping to promote radiant skin.
- Ora Organic’s Beyoutiful contains just 60 mcg of biotin but is combined with another B vitamin (niacin or B3) plus their own Beauty Blend, which includes probiotics and seaweed for the most radiant skin.
- This product is one of the more expensive products in our line up at $1.60 per serving.
- Ora Organic aims to be a trusted name in the supplement space by using clean ingredients in clinically studied doses that meet both U.S. and European safety standards, all while providing excellent customer service.
Why we like Ora Organic Beyoutiful as best organic
Ora Organic Beyoutiful stands out as a top choice for those seeking an organic biotin option due to its commitment to using only the highest quality, certified organic ingredients. This attention to organic sourcing ensures that the product is free from pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic additives, which is crucial for consumers prioritizing natural and environmentally friendly products.
Ora Organic Beyoutiful’s formula combines an organic biotin supplement with added B-complex vitamins, a proprietary “Beauty Blend,” and probiotics. While the biotin dose is on the lower side at 60 mcg, it also contains 3 mg of vitamin B3 (niacin), along with 410 milligrams of their Beauty Blend, a combination of seaweed extract, antioxidants, and probiotics—all of which may play a role in healthier skin, hair, and nails.
The inclusion of niacin may be a bonus for anyone looking to enhance their skin health. Early research shows that niacin may help reduce skin aging and pigmentation. (12) The use of astaxanthin and fucoidan, two types of seaweed, may aid in improving skin moisture, hyperpigmentation, and elasticity, as well as improve hair health. As an added benefit, they are eco-friendly and sustainable products to incorporate into your beauty routine. (13)
Lastly, we appreciate the addition of 1 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of probiotics. Probiotics are “good” bacteria that help maintain the appropriate balance of bacteria within our gut, which is responsible for approximately 80% of our immune system. (14) The strain Ora Organic uses, Bacillus subtilis, may support skin and hair cells. (15,16)
Ora Organic products are high quality, third-party tested by ISO Labs, and meet U.S. and European safety standards. Additionally, a Certificate of Analysis (COA) can be found for each product in their lineup, so you can see exactly what’s inside.
This is one of our most expensive options, at $1.60 per serving, so it may not work for everyone’s budget.
What customers are saying
With an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars across more than 200 reviews, most Amazon customers are satisfied with their purchase, noting improvements in their skin and nails.
“I’ve been taking this product for 4 months. I want to reverse the signs of sun damage and I notice a difference in the texture of my skin. I love what I see and love the all natural ingredients! 👍😍I will continue to take this product,” says Shelg, a verified Amazon customer.
However, some reviewers mentioned the smell and taste was a little off-putting, but not enough to stop them from taking the supplement.
Paola Zablah writes, “The product is truly amazing. In a little over two weeks my hair loss has diminished so much! I used to lose at least 40-50 individual hair strands when I washed and styled my hair. Today it was maybe only 12-15. The only bad thing is that the capsules have a bad scent and taste. I just cover my nose and swallow! I think dealing with the smell and taste is peanuts compared to the benefits I see. I totally recommend this product!”
Specs
Form | Capsule |
Dose | 60 mcg |
Key ingredients | Biotin, niacin, beauty blend |
Serving size | 2 daily |
Quantity | 60 capsules |
Price per serving | $1.60 |
Third-party testing | ISO Labs |
Best vegan biotin supplement: Future Kind Vegan Collagen Booster
Key product features
What you should know
Future Kind’s vegan collagen booster uses all vegan ingredients to provide an environmentally friendly and cruelty-free product that may promote healthier skin, hair, and nails.
- This vegan collagen booster uses 2,500 mcg of biotin along with other vitamins and minerals for a total of 16 collagen-boosting nutrients that support healthy hair, skin, and nails.
- Future Kind’s price is mid-range at $1.00 per serving, and each purchase helps them achieve their sustainability mission of creating plant-based, environmentally conscious supplements that leave a carbon-neutral footprint.
- Their unique formula is third-party tested in a GMP facility and is free from major allergens, making it a great product for vegans or anyone looking for an eco-friendly supplement.
Why we like Future Kind Vegan Collagen Booster as best vegan
Future Kind Vegan Collagen Booster stands out as the best option for vegans primarily due to its 16-ingredient formula that caters specifically to the needs of those following a plant-based diet. Unlike traditional collagen supplements, which are derived from animal sources, this product uses 100% vegan ingredients to support the body’s natural collagen production. The company also offers many eco-friendly initiatives, including sustainable packaging, carbon-neutral shipping, and donations to animal sanctuaries.
This product contains 8,333% of the daily value for biotin, plus a unique blend of various collagen-boosting vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. You’ll find 2,500 mcg of biotin, along with vitamins A, C, E, folate, pantothenic acid, three amino acids, and various plant extracts, many of which have been well-studied.
For one, vitamin A has been shown to aid in collagen production. (17) Vitamin C has been shown to reduce wrinkles by preventing collagen loss due to sun exposure and natural aging of the skin. (18) Lastly, vitamin E is an important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that helps maintain skin health. Levels decline as we age, so getting a little boost from a supplement may help improve your skin. (19)
Future Kind has also incorporated amla, an Ayurvedic super berry. Amla, a fruit native to India and Southeast Asia, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to address a variety of ailments. Research highlights that the powerful phytonutrients found in amla are promising in reducing signs and symptoms of skin aging, though further research is needed. (20,21)
Future Kind stands out in the vegan supplement space by creating cruelty-free, trusted products. They are third-party tested by Dyad and made in an FDA-regulated facility. At a reasonable price point of $1.00 per serving, it may be worth a try if you’re looking for a vegan biotin supplement.
What customers are saying
This product has an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with over 260 reviews. Customers notably state this is the most effective collagen supplement they have tried.
Another Amazon customer, Abbie, agrees: “After having my son I lost a lot of hair and fragile nails. It is so hard to find a TRUE VEGAN supplement that actually works, BUT HERE IT IS LADYS!!!! My hair, skin, and nails are BACK! I have been taking these for two weeks and it worked!!!! Performance is excellent, no taste unless you let it sit in your mouth or bust it then it tastes like powder green tea almost.”
However, some reviewers mentioned that they thought the capsules were too large, and a few mentioned that the bottles were one capsule short.
“I just finished my first bottle and my last dose in the bottle, only had 1 capsule left. So I thought ok missing 1 capsule maybe it was a mistake or accident. Just opened my second bottle and I just counted the capsules…and guess what…only 59 capsules!!! Made my husband and adult son verify the amount and we all counted 59!!! I thought this was a 60 count 2 a day dose vegan collagen!!! Feels very deceiving!!!” says verified customer SSP.
Specs
Form | Capsule |
Dose | 2,500 mcg |
Key ingredients | Biotin, additional vitamins, minerals, amino acids, plant extracts |
Serving size | 2 daily |
Quantity | 60 capsules |
Price per serving | $1.00 |
Third-party testing | Dyab Labs |
Best biotin for nail growth: Olly Undeniable Beauty
Key product features
What you should know
Olly’s biotin gummy combines vitamins C, E, and keratin for a more powerful combination of beauty benefits.
- Olly’s gummy has a moderate amount of biotin, 2,500 mcg per serving, along with 15 mg of vitamin C, 7.5 mg of vitamin E, and 50 mg of keratin.
- This product is fairly priced at $0.47 per serving.
- Olly is a Certified B Corporation, meaning they adhere to high standards for ethical business practices.
Why we like Olly Undeniable Beauty as best for nail growth
For those focused on improving the strength of their nails, consider Olly’s ruby red grapefruit-flavored biotin gummies. Combining 2,500 mcg of biotin with 15 mg of vitamin C, 7.5 milligrams of vitamin E, and keratin may help create an antioxidant powerhouse that strengthens hair, skin, and nails. However, these benefits might be limited for those who are deficient in biotin and taking higher doses closer to 10,000 mcg daily.
Keratin is a protein that naturally occurs in our bodies, predominantly in our hair, skin, and nails. The nail plate consists of soft and hard keratins, which provide structure and strength to the nails. (22) Symptoms of low keratin levels include brittle nails and hair breakage. If you can’t get enough keratin through your diet or have a condition affecting keratin production, you might benefit from a biotin supplement with this added nutrient. (23) You should speak with your healthcare provider if you suspect you may be deficient in keratin.
We like that Olly holds a B Corp certification, meaning it meets high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency in employee benefits, charitable giving, and ethical supply chain practices. This product is also third-party tested by NSF for quality.
Keep in mind, this product contains gelatin, so it’s not suitable for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. It also has 2 grams of added sugars, which may or may not be ideal for everyone..
If you’re looking for a biotin supplement with added vitamins plus keratin to support healthier nails from a company that uses ethical business practices, we think you should give Olly’s Undeniable Beauty a try.
What customers are saying
With almost 4,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, most Amazon customers are satisfied with their purchase of Olly Undeniable Beauty thanks to the benefits they are seeing.
Another verified Amazon customer, Xtyxo, also loves the product, writing, “I have tried thousands of biotin supplements, vitamins, serums, etc but Ollie made a noticeable difference within 2 weeks. My nails grew back fast, healthier and stronger, hair growth started happening way quicker than expected and it’s soft and shiny which is a bonus, and my skin has more of a glow and I don’t have to apply lotion as I don’t get ashy as easily as I have before taking these. Total beauty lifesaver!”
Some customers are dissatisfied with the way the item is shipped, which causes gummies to melt, and are unsure whether the product works.
Verified Amazon reviewer Bek notes, “I have taken these for about 4 months – I see no difference in my hair or nails. I decided to try them for 6 months to be able to see if things changed. I have always ordered in the plastic jar but this last month I ordered in the package – when it arrived the ice bag they had put in was as hot as if boiling water had been put in it. The bag with the gummies equally hot and all gummies stuck together. I don’t know how long it was in transit but this was an utter fail for packaging. Order in plastic jar – bag is also child proof and difficult to open every day.”
Specs
Form | Gummy |
Dose | 2,500 mcg |
Key ingredients | Biotin, vitamins C, E and keratin |
Serving size | 2 daily |
Quantity | 60 gummies |
Price per serving | $0.47 |
Third-party testing | NSF |
Best biotin and collagen supplement: Naked Nutrition Ella Vanilla Beauty Protein Powder
Key product features
What you should know
Naked Nutrition’s Ella Beauty Protein Powder is an excellent choice for those seeking extra protein with their biotin and collagen supplement.
- Naked Nutrition’s Ella Beauty Protein Powder is packed with 30 mcg of biotin, collagen from grass-fed cows, zinc, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid to help enhance the health of your hair, skin, and nails.
- This comprehensive shake offers 20 grams of protein and is free from added sugars, artificial colors, or sweeteners, making it a healthier choice.
- This product is one of the most expensive in the line-up at $2.00, but it also serves as a healthy snack.
- Naked Nutrition’s Ella is a scientist-formulated protein powder that’s free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors, making it the perfect option for people who want even more nutritional value from their biotin supplement.
Why we like Naked Nutrition Ella Vanilla Beauty Protein Powder as best with collagen
If you’re not a fan of taking vitamins, Naked Nutrition’s biotin and collagen powder lets you skip the pill. The Ella Beauty Protein Powder contains 30 mcg of biotin, collagen peptides from grass-fed cows, a small amount of electrolytes, seed proteins, and MCT powder. Besides getting 20 grams of protein total, you’ll also get 100% of the daily value for vitamin C (90 mg) and 50% of the daily value for zinc (6 mg) to help support your body’s natural collagen and keratin production.
Collagen, the most abundant protein in our bodies, is vital in maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. The collagen peptides from grass-fed cows are broken down, so it’s easier to absorb. Ella Beauty Protein Powder also contains amino acids like glycine and proline, vital for collagen synthesis. (24) This is helpful since collagen synthesis slows as we age, making supplementation a good idea. Collagen also plays an important role in joint health. (25)
Naked Nutrition also adds 100 mg of hyaluronic acid, a well-studied product in the skincare space because of its hydrating and anti-aging properties. Research supports the use of hyaluronic acid as an effective ingredient for supoprting the quality of skin and its elasticity. (26)
The protein in this product is derived from a unique blend of collagen and seed proteins. The addition of chia and pumpkin seeds adds additional plant protein, two grams of fiber, and antioxidants. (27) Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) powder provides a source of energy from fat that may support modest weight loss and exercise endurance. (28,29)
The powder can be mixed into any cold beverage for a tasty and nutritious snack that provides 110-120 calories and 20 grams of protein when mixed with water or another zero-calorie beverage.
Naked Nutrition is a trusted brand, and its products are made in a GMP facility and Informed Choice certified, meaning they undergo regular testing to ensure they are safe and free from any banned or potentially harmful substances.
Although Ella Beauty Protein Powder is a bit pricier than some at $2.00 per serving, we like the fact that it can also be counted as a nutritious snack or post-workout protein shake, so you get more for your money.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers typically enjoy Naked Nutrition’s Ella Beauty Protein powder, as evidenced by its 4.4-star rating from 97 reviews.
Verified purchaser Erika likes this product, writing, “I truly love the clean simple ingredients in this brand. I appreciate that I am taking just one product that has so many benefits all packed in. The flavor for once I can say is really good. I don’t add this in anything as it tastes great as a rich chocolate flavor should be no weird chalky aftertaste.”
But some reviewers find the taste unpleasant or too sweet.
“Unfortunately I have no idea if this product does anything because it tastes awful. It has that artificial taste like sweet n low or Splenda. I tried to put it in my coffee like with the other collagen powders, but nothing masks the taste,” wrote verified purchaser Brandi.
Specs
Form | Powder |
Dose | 30 mcg |
Key ingredients | Biotin, collage, vitamins, minerals |
Serving size | 2 scoops daily |
Quantity | 20 servings (40 scoops) |
Price per serving | $2.00 |
Third-party testing | Informed Choice |
Best biotin supplement for women: Pure Encapsulations Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra
Key product features
What you should know
Pure Encapsulations Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra supplement uses high-quality ingredients to deliver a powerful combination of vitamins, minerals, collagen, and antioxidants that support hair, skin and nail health.
- Pure Encapsulations Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra contains 6,000 mcg of biotin, along with numerous vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, folate, B10, and zinc. Collagen and silica support the body’s collagen production, and antioxidants like CoQ10 are added.
- At $1.61 per serving, this product is one of the most expensive options on our list.
- If you’re looking for a hair, skin, and nail supplement that uses high quality ingredient standards and promises to be free from any unnecessary ingredients, then this might be the perfect product for you.
Why we like Pure Encapsulations Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra for Women as best for women
Pure Encapsulations’ Hair/Skin/Nails Ultra includes a high dose of biotin and essential nutrients designed to slow the aging process. It contains 6,000 mcg of biotin, plus a robust blend of vitamins and minerals that support the health of hair, skin, and nails. These include 250 mg of vitamin C, 30 mg of zinc, 667 mcg of folate, 500 mg of collagen, and 30 mg of silica, making it an excellent choice for anyone, particularly women, looking to enhance their natural beauty and wellness.
This unique blend also includes 150 mg of vitamin B10, also known as para-aminobenzoic acid, which is needed to produce folate and is a common ingredient in skincare as it may benefit both skin and hair health. (30) Vitamin B10 is found in foods such as eggs, milk, and meat.
Additionally, the formula includes 60 mg of the antioxidant CoQ10. Our bodies naturally produce CoQ10, but its production diminishes with age. Research has demonstrated that regular CoQ10 intake may help promote healthy aging by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while enhancing skin smoothness. (31) It may also play a role in hair health by stimulating hair keratins. (32)
Grapeseed oil also makes the ingredient list, which may also play a role in hair health, especially in the glossiness of hair, although more studies are needed to determine if oral use would have the same effect. (33)
In its mission, Pure Encapsulations creates products that contain pure, high-quality ingredients backed by science and free of unnecessary additives and most common allergens. Each ingredient undergoes rigorous testing, checking for purity, potency, heavy metals, and any potential contaminants. They are NSF and GMP certified, and exceed U.S. supplement manufacturing standards, leading to brand trust.
What customers are saying
Amazon customers agree that this is a solid choice, with over 1,000 4.5-star reviews. Customers like the quality, ingredients, and effectiveness of this product.
Verified customer Trisha says, “My nails are strong for the first time in years – hair seems healthy and skin looks great. On my second bottle.”
Some users mention they weren’t able to notice a difference after using the supplement, and others note the size of the pill is difficult to swallow.
Amazon customer Rivlyb was not a fan, saying, “These pills are hard to swallow and the cost of a one month supply is not worth it. I could not even focus on the benefits (if there were any) because I dreaded having to take these pills everyday.”
Specs
Form | Capsule |
Dose | 6,000 mcg |
Key ingredients | Biotin, vitamin C, niacin, folate, zinc, copper, manganese, collagen, silica, CoQ10, grape seed |
Serving size | 2 daily |
Quantity | 60 capsules |
Price per serving | $1.61 |
Third-party testing | NSF |
How we test biotin supplements
We aim to provide you with a list of high quality products to help you meet your individual health goals. We are committed to researching each product extensively and include medical reviews by our leading industry experts who are looking for efficacy, safety, price and more, ensuring confidence in unbiased reviews.
You can read our full supplement testing methodology here.
Efficacy—40%
Efficacy means the effectiveness of the product in achieving its claims and the evidence that supports those claims. Each supplement can help consumers achieve specific health benefits. We examine whether a supplement delivers on its promised benefits.
Here’s what we look for:
- Clinical evidence
- Calories per serving
- Dose
- Mixability
Safety and side effects—35%
When choosing a supplement, you have to assess health risks, adverse effects, and safety profiles. We ensure the safety of these products through first-hand testing. To do this, we evaluate:
- Reported side effects
- Current research
- Third-party testing
- Manufacturer accreditation
- Artificial sweeteners
- Added ingredients like caffeine
Value—20%
We know that value doesn’t just mean price—it also includes the quality you get for the price. Our team factors in a cost analysis to determine the true worth of a supplement in relation to its price. We then identify products that offer a solid return on investment:
Our factors in this rating include:
- Price per serving
- Quality standards
- Heavy metal testing
Customer experience—5%
A customer’s experience with a company directly impacts satisfaction, loyalty, and the likelihood of repeat purchases. That’s why our team includes it in our testing process.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Ease of purchase
- Shipping and returns
- Customer support
- Subscription service
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Multiple forms
How to choose the best biotin supplement
When shopping for biotin supplements, it’s best to consider which products will meet your individual health needs. You should look for products made with high-quality ingredients from trusted brands that perform testing to ensure their products are pure and safe. Additionally, it is important for anyone with food preferences, sensitivities or allergies to look for products that are free from allergens, unnecessary fillers or binders, and artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners.
Many biotin supplements have added vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, which may or may not work well for you. As always, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that adding a supplement is the right choice, as it may interfere with certain health conditions and medications.
Benefits of biotin
Biotin offers a multitude of benefits and is often celebrated as a powerhouse vitamin for its vital roles in health and beauty.
Supports energy metabolism
Biotin plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by converting the foods we eat into usable energy. This process is essential for breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, ensuring that our bodies efficiently utilize these nutrients for optimal functioning. Therefore, biotin is vital in maintaining our overall health, supporting everything from our energy levels to our cellular processes. By aiding in these metabolic activities, biotin helps keep our bodies running smoothly and efficiently. (1)
Supports healthy hair growth
Biotin may help support hair growth, especially for those who are deficient. Biotin boosts keratin production, which is the main structural component of hair. Biotin can also improve brittle hair and reduce hair breakage and hair loss. (3)
May support nail health
Biotin’s role in increasing keratin production also benefits nail health. Biotin helps increase the thickness of the nail plate, leading to a stronger foundation for your nails. In vitro studies show that 2,500 mcg of biotin stimulates cell differentiation and helps maintain epidermal cell growth, which may help nail growth rate. (34)
Improves skin health
Biotin is involved in taking the food that you eat and breaking it down into useful nutrients such as fatty acids, which play a role in skin health and appearance. (35) Without adequate levels of biotin, skin problems may arise including dry, scaly skin and a rash around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Once supplemented over a few months, these signs typically disappear and skin appearance improves. However, more studies are needed to determine if biotin supplementation may improve the skin of non-deficient, healthy individuals too.
FAQs
Who should take a biotin supplement?
Anyone with a biotin deficiency should talk to their healthcare provider about starting a biotin supplement. Those most at risk include individuals with biotinidase deficiency, malnutrition, alcohol dependence, or those who are pregnant and lactating. People who are on long-term anticonvulsants are often prescribed biotin because the medication may lower biotin status. People who consume raw eggs may also be at increased risk of biotin deficiency because the protein in egg whites inhibits biotin absorption. (3,36) There is little evidence to support the use of biotin supplements in healthy populations because most people are able to meet their needs through diet alone.
What is the best form of biotin to take?
The best form of biotin to take is based on personal preference and needs. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Capsules and tablets may work for some, while others may prefer a chewy gummy or powder.
What is the downside of taking biotin?
Biotin in high doses is safe for most people, but certain populations should be aware of other risks. Taking high doses of biotin may interfere with certain lab tests, causing falsely elevated or lowered levels. Biotin supplements may also interfere with medications and other supplements you may be taking. Lastly, people with diabetes should proceed with caution as biotin supplements may interfere with blood glucose levels. (37)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN
Victoria Burgess earned her Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and holds her NSCA CSCS and Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). She is an adjunct professor in the Human Performance and Nutrition department at Concordia University Chicago & Parker University, where she teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral-level courses.
Robert Wildman, Ph.D., RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN
Dr. Robert Wildman (“Dr. Rob”) is a globally renowned exercise, fitness, and nutrition expert who speaks around the world on exercise and sport nutrition, and continues to work with professional and elite athletes to achieve their highest level of performance as well as health and fitness. Rob received his Ph.D. from The Ohio State University, earned his MS from Florida State University, and earned his BS from the University of Pittsburgh. He is also a registered and licensed dietitian.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica is a contributing editor and writer for Fortune Recommends who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, where she covered pro cycling news, wrote how-to guides, and tested all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing or riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Katie Drakeford, MA, RD, CSP, LD, CLC
Fortune Recommends Nutrition Writer
About Author
Katie Drakeford, MA, RD, CSP, LD, CLC, is a board-certified pediatric dietitian and certified lactation counselor. Katie has been a registered dietitian for more than 12 years, providing nutrition therapy to all ages across the lifespan, but found her passion in pediatrics. She has specialized in pediatric nutrition for the past 7 years.
Additionally, Katie earned her certified lactation counselor (CLC) certification. She enjoys working with parents, helping them meet their breastfeeding goals and ultimately leading to improved infant nutrition.