Biotin

Category: Vitamin, Hair-structure support
Used in: Haircare, scalp serums, supplements

INCI

Biotin

Typical Usage Levels

• 0.01% – 0.1% in topical hair and scalp formulations

Used at low levels as a structural support nutrient, not as a follicular growth stimulant.

What This Ingredient Does

Biotin is a water-soluble B-vitamin involved in fatty acid metabolism and keratin production, the primary protein that forms the hair shaft.

Its role in hair health is structural rather than stimulatory. Adequate biotin supports stronger, more resilient hair fibers and helps reduce brittleness and breakage, particularly in individuals with deficiency or increased nutritional demand.

While biotin deficiency is associated with hair thinning and fragility, biotin does not stimulate new follicle growth or reverse hormonal or genetic hair loss. In topical formulations, it functions as a supportive ingredient that strengthens existing hair and complements follicle-targeting actives in long-term hair care routines.

Benefits

• Supports keratin synthesis and hair shaft strength
• Helps reduce hair breakage and brittleness
• Supports overall follicle and scalp health
• Complements hair growth and anti-hair fall actives
• Useful for nutritionally stressed or weakened hair

Who It’s Suitable For

• Individuals with weak, brittle, or breakage-prone hair
• Hair thinning linked to nutritional insufficiency
• Post-stress, postpartum, or recovery-phase hair shedding
• Those using hair growth serums as part of a long-term routine

In topical formulations, it is frequently combined with peptides, amino acids, caffeine, niacinamide, Redensyl®, AnaGain®, and botanical scalp-supporting actives.

Note by Dr. Su (M.D. Dermatologist)

Biotin supports hair strength and structural integrity, especially when hair is fragile or nutritionally stressed. It works best as part of a comprehensive hair routine that includes follicle-supporting actives and consistent scalp care.

References

1. Patel DP, Swink SM, Castelo-Soccio L.
   A review of the use of biotin for hair loss.
   Skin Appendage Disorders, 2017; 3(3): 166–169.
2. Zempleni J, Hassan YI, Wijeratne SSK.
   Biotin and biotinidase deficiency.
   Expert Review of Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2008; 3(6): 715–724.
3. Mock DM.
   Biotin deficiency: clinical and genetic considerations.
   Journal of Nutrition, 2009; 139(5): 1036–1040.
4. Trüeb RM.
   The impact of nutrition on hair growth and loss.
   Dermatologic Clinics, 2013; 31(1): 167–172.