Biotin, vitamin B and hair loss explained

Copyright (c) 2010 Peter Jamison

Hair loss usually has few serious implications for your health although it can be detrimental to your level of self confidence. Some people will resort to extreme measures to hide their baldness, for instance men who totally shave their heads and women who are forever wearing scarves or hats. There are numerous hair loss products with a variety of ingredients that come with the claim of preventing the loss of hair. One natural ingredient in particular that has attracted a lot of attention in the treatment of loss of hair is biotin.

It is typical to see biotin being used in practically all natural hair loss products and is often touted as a miracle ingredient for hair and skin rejuvenation. However, buyers often wonder if any of these claims actually hold true and if these "miracle" ingredients can truly achieve the results that the products makers claim. So, let's examine what it is and how it works.

Biotin is a type of vitamin B that is essential for the formation of glucose and fatty acids. Vitamin B is a naturally found substance and there are many foods that are rich source like egg yolks, sardines, brewer's yeast, mushrooms, legumes, salmon, cauliflower, and bananas. Apart from this Vitamin B is also naturally produced in the digestive system.

Although few studies have been conducted that prove the effectiveness of biotin in preventing hair loss, acne, brittle nail, eczema etc; there is ample of evidence to prove that a deficiency of Vitamin B does indeed cause the loss of hair.

Your hair is nothing but a protein fiber; however, the protein cells do not have a nucleus, meaning they are not alive. This simply means that protein is essential for hair growth and to prevent the loss of hair. Since you need biotin for protein production, any deficiency may create low levels of protein leading to hair loss.

Biotin is included in most hair care products available on the market today such as shampoos, hair gels, conditioners, and hair creams. Vitamin B is more potent than some of the other natural products available for hair loss because it is easily absorbed by the skin. By strengthening your hair, it not only helps prevent the loss of hair it also fosters the growth of your hair.

Alternatively, if you were to consult a hair care expert, they may even recommend biotin dietary supplements. These supplements not only help to prevent the loss of hair but also give you a radiant and firm skin. These vitamin B supplements are water soluble and you need to take about 2-3 mg each day to maintain the required level of biotin in your body.

Like with all health supplements it is essential to consult your physician before taking biotin supplements, particularly excessive amounts. You can find these supplements easily at most health supply stores and they are available in various dosages; for optimal results it is important to use the right dosage, apart from the health risks form over use.

Diabetic suffers typically can have low levels of biotin. The use of some forms of medication could also limit its production by the body. Naturally occurring deficiencies are however rare. Signs of deficiency include nausea, fatigue, depression, hair loss, anaemia and muscles pains.

If you do suffer from such a condition, supplements may prove more useful in controlling the loss of hair as opposed to merely oral application through hair loss products.