Biotin

Biotin is a member of the B vitamin family even though it can be produced by bacteria in the gut. It functions in the manufacture and utilization of fats and amino acids. A biotin deficiency in adults is characterized by dry, scaly skin; nausea; anorexia; and seborrhea. In infants under six months of age, the symptoms are seborrheic dermatitis (cradle cap), persistent diaper rash, and alopecia (hair loss).

Building strong nails and healthy hair

Biotin is a popular recommendation to increase the strength of nails and promote healthy hair. Early research on biotin in this application came from the veterinary literature, where it was shown to increase the strength and hardness of hooves in pigs and horses. Human studies have shown that biotin supplementation (2.5 mg per day) can produce a 25 percent increase in the thickness of the nail plate in patients diagnosed with brittle nails of unknown cause, and up to 91 percent of patients taking this dosage will experience definite improvement. The beneficial effects of biotin on the health of hair possibly reflect an ability to improve the metabolism of scalp oils, similar to its effects in seborrheic dermatitis.

Diabetes

Biotin supplementation has been shown to enhance insulin sensitivity and improve the utilization of blood sugar. This improvement is thought to be the result of an increase in the activity of the enzyme glucokinase, which is involved in the utilization of blood sugar by the liver. In one study, 8 mg of biotin twice daily resulted in significant lowering of fasting blood sugar levels and improvements in blood glucose control in type 1 diabetics. In a study of type 2 diabetics, similar effects were noted with 9 mg of biotin per day. High-dose biotin has also been reported to be very helpful in the treatment of severe diabetic nerve disease (diabetic neuropathy).

Seborrheic dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common condition that may be associated with excessive oiliness (seborrhea) and dandruff. The scales of seborrhea may be yellowish and either dry or greasy. The scaly bumps may coalesce to form large plaques or patches. Seborrheic dermatitis usually occurs either in infancy (usually between two and twelve weeks of age) or in the middle-aged or elderly and has a prognosis of lifelong recurrence.

In infancy, seborrheic dermatitis is known as cradle cap. Several case histories have demonstrated successful treatment of cradle cap with biotin by either giving the mother the biotin if the baby is being breast-fed or giving it directly to the infant. Cases of persistent diaper rash have also responded as well.

In adults with seborrheic dermatitis, treatment with biotin alone is usually of no value; it probably requires all of the necessary B vitamins.

Available Forms

Biotin is available commercially either as isolated biotin or as biocytin, a biotin complex made form brewer’s yeast and composed of 65.6 percent biotin.

Cautions and Warnings

Individuals with diabetes should use caution when using high dosages (e.g., greater than 4 mg), as it may produce reductions in blood sugar levels requiring changes in the dosage of insulin or other medications.

Possible Side Effects

Biotin is extremely safe, and no side effects have ever been reported with biotin supplementation.