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BIOTIN FOR HAIR LOSS: DOES IT WORK?

Biotin not only plays a crucial role in the health of hair but also positively influences its structure and shine. Insufficient biotin levels can lead to hair loss and compromise overall hair health. Supplementing with biotin not only helps prevent hair loss but also promotes robust growth, making the hair strong and vibrant. In this article, we will delve deeper into the comprehensive effects of biotin, from providing essential nutrients to the hair to how it influences elasticity and the luster of the hair. Keep reading!

WHAT IS BIOTIN?

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is an essential nutrient that plays a role in many important functions in the body. It’s a water-soluble vitamin, meaning it dissolves in water and is not stored in the body, so you need to get it from your diet or supplements on a regular basis.. Obtaining biotin from the foods you consume is recommended. Biotin plays key roles in converting food into energy, regulating cell signals, and managing gene activity. This essential nutrient is found in various everyday foods and is primarily stored in the liver.

BIOTIN BENEFITS FOR HAIR

Despite the limited evidence supporting the exclusive use of biotin for stimulating hair growth, there is somewhat stronger evidence regarding its role in preventing hair loss. Biotin supplementation may indeed be effective in averting hair loss and promoting hair growth, particularly in individuals with a biotin deficiency. Hair loss can be attributed to a variety of factors, including androgenetic alopecia (female pattern baldness), rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies (such as iron, zinc, or protein), and endocrine disorders like thyroid dysfunction.

The decision to supplement with biotin without identifying the underlying root cause may impede or delay the initiation of appropriate treatment, especially when a biotin deficiency is not the primary issue. Even in cases where biotin deficiency is present, the supplementation of biotin may not guarantee the prevention of hair loss. Understanding the multifaceted nature of hair loss and its prevention is crucial. While biotin plays a role, it is just one piece of the puzzle. Thorough examination and consideration of various contributing factors, including hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies, are essential for devising a comprehensive and effective treatment plan. 

A Pilot Study of Oral Biotin for the Prevention of Hair Loss in Patients Receiving Taxane-Based Chemotherapy” (2016) by Palmieri et al. “Biotin for Scalp Hair Loss Induced by Chemotherapy in Patients with Breast Cancer: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial” Biotin supplementation might decrease hair loss in some patients receiving chemotherapy, particularly those with pre-existing biotin deficiency.

FOOD SOURCES OF BIOTIN

Biotin can be obtained from various food sources, and here are some examples along with their biotin content in micrograms:

  • Egg yolk
  • Pork liver
  • Oat flakes
  • Wheat germ and whole grains
  • Nuts and legumes
  • White mushrooms
  • Rice
  • Spinach and cauliflower
  • Cheese, curds, and cow’s milk
  • Pork, beef, and chicken
  • Salmon
  • Apples, bananas, and tomatoes
  • Carrots, lettuce, and potatoes

These foods provide a range of biotin levels, contributing to meeting the daily recommended intake. Including a variety of these sources in your diet can help ensure an adequate supply of biotin for overall health.

BIOTIN SUPPLEMENTS

Biotin supplements are readily accessible in a wide range of retail outlets, including drug stores, pharmacies, and supermarkets. Additionally, you have the option to make purchases both in physical stores and online. These supplements come in various oral forms, such as liquid, tablets, gummies, and capsules, providing flexibility in choosing the most convenient option for you. When taken orally, the body exhibits a high absorption rate for biotin, even at elevated doses, ensuring that the nutrient is efficiently assimilated. This makes biotin supplementation a convenient and effective way to meet your dietary needs.

HOW MUCH BIOTIN SHOULD I TAKE FOR HAIR LOSS?

The appropriate dosage of biotin for hair loss can vary depending on several factors, including:

Underlying cause of hair loss: If your hair loss is due to biotin deficiency, a smaller dose (around 30-100 micrograms per day) might be sufficient.

For other causes, higher doses (5-10 mg per day) have been studied, but more research is needed.

Prevention in individuals without deficiency: 30-100 micrograms per day.

Treatment for established biotin deficiency: 5-10 mg per day.

Chemotherapy-induced hair loss: 5-10 mg per day has been studied.

Uncombable hair syndrome: Higher doses (up to 100 mg per day) have been used in some cases.

Remember to consult your doctor first. They can assess your hair loss cause (hormonal changes, medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies) and determine if biotin could be helpful.

A study published in 2016 demonstrated that supplementing with 5 mg of biotin daily for 6 months significantly reduced hair loss in individuals experiencing hereditary hair loss. Another study, published in 2020, revealed that supplementing with 2.5 mg of biotin daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced hair loss in individuals undergoing chemotherapy-induced hair loss.

SIDE EFFECTS

While biotin is generally considered safe for most people when taken in appropriate doses, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:

Skin Issues

Elevated doses of biotin may contribute to skin problems, including the onset or worsening of acne, and the occurrence of seborrheic dermatitis—characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin. This is particularly notable at higher biotin doses.

Digestive Issues

Some individuals may experience digestive disturbances, such as diarrhea, nausea, gas, or bloating, as a result of biotin supplementation.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, allergic reactions to biotin supplements can manifest in individuals with sensitivity. Vigilance is crucial in detecting any signs of an allergic response.

Kidney Problems

 Reports suggest a potential link between high-dose biotin intake and kidney issues, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Monitoring kidney health becomes imperative, particularly when considering elevated biotin doses.

HOW LONG DOES BIOTIN TAKE TO WORK?

The time it takes for biotin to show noticeable effects can vary among individuals. Biotin is often promoted for its potential benefits in supporting healthy hair, skin, and nails. However, individual responses to biotin supplementation can be influenced by factors such as genetics, overall health, and the specific reason for taking biotin.

Some people may start to observe changes, such as improved nail strength or hair texture, within a few weeks of consistent biotin supplementation. However, for others, it might take several months before significant results become apparent.

It’s essential to be patient and consistent with biotin supplementation. Results may not be immediate, and the effectiveness of biotin can vary from person to person. If you have specific health concerns or are considering taking biotin for a particular reason, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and duration based on your individual needs and health status.

SYMPTOMS OF BIOTIN DEFICIENCY

Biotin deficiency can manifest in various symptoms, indicating the importance of recognizing these signs for timely intervention. Common symptoms of biotin deficiency include:

  • Hair Thinning and Loss: Biotin deficiency may contribute to hair thinning and noticeable hair loss.
  • Brittle Nails: The lack of biotin can lead to brittle and weak nails.
  • Red, Scaly Rash: A characteristic red and scaly rash, typically appearing around the eyes, nose, and mouth, may be indicative of biotin deficiency.
  • Facial Fat Distribution: Unusual facial fat distribution could be observed in individuals deficient in biotin.
  • Skin Infections: Biotin deficiency may make the skin more susceptible to infections.
  • Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, known as conjunctivitis, can be a symptom of biotin deficiency.
  • Neurological Issues: In adults, biotin deficiency may manifest as depression, extreme tiredness, and hallucinations.
  • Decreased Muscle Tone and Developmental Delay: Infants with biotin deficiency may exhibit decreased muscle tone, sluggishness, and developmental delays.
  • Seizures: Biotin deficiency can potentially contribute to the occurrence of seizures.

CONCLUSION

If you are considering supplementing with biotin for hair loss treatment, it is essential to consult with a doctor beforehand. They can help you determine whether biotin is suitable for you and recommend the appropriate dosage. We hope that our article provides you with the most useful information.

FAQs

  1. Who should not take biotin?

Individuals who are allergic to biotin or any of its ingredients should not take biotin supplements. Additionally, it’s advisable for people with certain medical conditions, such as those with a history of kidney stones, to consult with a healthcare professional before taking biotin supplements

  1. Is it OK to take biotin everyday?

Yes, when taken by mouth: Biotin is likely safe for most people when taken in doses up to 300 mg daily for up to 6 months. But it is more commonly used in lower doses of 2.5 mg daily. When applied to the skin: Biotin is likely safe for most people when applied in cosmetic products that contain up to 0.6% biotin.

  1. Does biotin have health risks?

No, biotin is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate doses. However, excessive intake may lead to potential side effects, and it can interfere with certain lab tests. It’s important to follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.

  1. What happens when you stop taking biotin?

When you stop taking biotin, your body will no longer receive the supplemental biotin dosage. As a water-soluble vitamin, any excess biotin is typically excreted in urine. Biotin deficiency is rare because it’s found in various foods, and the body produces some biotin through gut bacteria. 

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE: HOW TO MAKE HERBAL LIQUID SOAP FROM SCRATCH

Making liquid soap from scratch once seemed daunting to me, but after trying it, I discovered it’s much simpler than it looks!

If you’ve already mastered cold process or hot process soap making, then crafting liquid soap is a natural next step.

This guide was originally part of my newest print book, The Big Book of Homemade Products for Your Skin, Health & Home. Unfortunately, due to space constraints, it didn’t make the final cut—so I’m sharing the tips and recipes here with you instead. Enjoy!

Liquid Soapmaking Tips

Before you dive into making liquid soap, here are a few key points to keep in mind.

YOU’LL NEED A DIFFERENT TYPE OF LYE:

One major difference between liquid soap and bar soap lies in the type of lye used.

Bar soap hardens thanks to sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which acts as the agent that turns oils into solid soap.

Liquid soap, on the other hand, is made by combining oils with potassium hydroxide (KOH). This type of lye is readily available from Etsy or online soap-making suppliers.

Keep in mind that potassium hydroxide purity levels can vary. My recipes are based on 90% purity, a common standard. If your bottle lists a different purity level, you can adjust your recipe using the Soapee calculator. Simply select Liquid Soap – using KOH and input the lye purity number in the first box.

CROCKPOT SIZE FOR LIQUID SOAP:

For this recipe size, I use a 4-quart crock pot (slow cooker), which I picked up at a local big-box store. Make sure to avoid slow cookers with non-stick or Teflon-coated interiors, as these materials can react negatively with lye.

SUPERFAT IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT THAN BAR SOAP:

Liquid soap differs slightly from bar soap in that it requires a lower superfat—typically no higher than 3%. A higher superfat may cause the soap to develop an oily layer.

YOU’LL NEED TO USE MORE WATER IN YOUR RECIPE:

When making liquid soap, the water amount is higher than in bar soap recipes. You’ll need roughly three times the weight of potassium hydroxide in water.

IT’S A GOOD IDEA TO DILUTE SOAP PASTE ONLY WITH WATER AND/OR GLYCERIN:

To ensure your liquid soap has the longest shelf life, dilute the finished soap paste with water or a combination of water and glycerin.

Avoid diluting with herbal teas or milk, as these can cause the soap to spoil more quickly—unless they were cooked into the recipe, like in the Calendula & Coconut Liquid Soap below.

OILS ACT DIFFERENTLY IN LIQUID SOAP THAN BAR SOAP:

When creating your own liquid soap recipes, remember that the choice of oils affects the soap’s consistency.

Using more olive oil results in a thicker soap, while more coconut oil creates a thinner soap.

For a deeper dive into how different oils impact liquid soap, check out this informative post on the Soapmaking Forum.

YOU HAVE LOTS OF HERBAL OPTIONS:

“There are many herbs you can experiment with beyond the ones listed in the recipes below. You can easily substitute them or omit them entirely, using plain oils and water in place of infused oils and herbal teas.

I’m currently working on a resource to provide more detailed options, but in the meantime, here are a few herbs and flowers you might consider exploring:

  • Chamomile
  • Plantain
  • Calendula
  • Dandelion
  • Sunflower
  • Violet leaf”

MY WAY IS NOT THE ONLY WAY:

First and foremost, it’s important to note that this is how I make liquid soap—it’s just one of many methods, not necessarily the best or only method.

There are many fantastic resources available for learning how to make liquid soap. Here are a few to get you started:

  • Soapmaking Forum (I frequently recommend this site; it’s an invaluable resource for soapmakers.) – Liquid Soap & Cream Soap Forum
  • Ultimate HP Soap – 30-Minute Liquid Soap
  • Wholesale Supplies Plus – Learn to Make: Liquid Soap From Scratch
  • Modern Soapmaking – Easy & Quick Tips for Making Liquid Soap Successfully

A quick search for ‘liquid soap’ on any search engine will lead you to even more helpful information!

Liquid Soap Making Overview

Step 1:
Weigh the oils for your recipe and place them into a slow cooker. Turn the heat to high. If you’re using milk powder, briefly blend it into the combined oils using an immersion blender.

Step 2:
Place the distilled water or cooled herbal tea in a stainless steel or heatproof plastic container. While wearing gloves and goggles, weigh out the potassium hydroxide and carefully sprinkle it into the water. Stir well. It’s normal for the lye solution to make a crackling noise when it’s first mixed.

Step 3:
Turn the slow cooker’s heat to low, then pour in the lye solution. Hand stir the mixture for about 5 minutes to ensure it’s fully incorporated. After that, begin blending with your immersion blender. Blend for 1 minute, then allow the blender to rest for a few minutes before blending again for another minute. Avoid running the motor continuously to prevent burning it out. It may take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes to reach trace.

Step 4:
Keep the heat on low, cover the slow cooker with its lid, and check the mixture every 20 to 30 minutes. Stir with a heatproof spoon or spatula. The soap will start to darken and develop gel-like spots, with other areas separating into clear or cloudy liquid. This is completely normal—just stir everything back together, replace the lid, and continue cooking.

Step 5:
After 1 to 2 hours, the soap batter should become thicker and more concentrated. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the soap is glossy and resembles Vaseline, as shown in the photo. The total cook time for liquid soap may vary between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the temperature settings of your slow cooker.

Step 6 (Optional):
To check if the soap is fully saponified, you can perform an old-fashioned zap test to ensure there’s no residual lye.

To do this, scoop out 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of soap paste and allow it to cool to a safe, comfortable temperature. Mix the cooled paste with 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of distilled water. Dip your fingertip into the diluted paste and taste it with just the tip of your tongue (don’t swallow the soap!). If it gives your tongue a zapping or electric feeling, the soap needs more cooking. If it just tastes like soap without any zappy sensation, the soap is ready. Be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly with cold water afterward.

If you’d prefer not to taste the soap but are still unsure, you can turn off the slow cooker, keep the soap covered, and let it sit for 6 hours or overnight to finish the saponification process on its own before proceeding with the next steps of the recipe.

Step 7:
Store the soap paste in covered jars if you want to dilute small amounts at a time. This method extends the shelf life of the undiluted soap paste, which can last for several years. If you choose to dilute the entire batch at once, the shelf life will be shorter. The pH of finished diluted soap typically ranges from 9 to 10.5, and because of its natural alkalinity, it generally doesn’t require a preservative for home use—provided it’s diluted with only distilled water or vegetable glycerine. However, those who sell liquid soap or prefer extra protection often add a preservative like Liquid Germall Plus. I personally don’t add preservatives to my soap, but it’s your choice.

Step 8:
To determine the starting dilution amount, weigh the fully cooked soap paste and multiply the weight by 0.2 (20%) to find how much glycerine you need. Then, multiply the weight by 0.8 (80%) to figure out how much distilled water is required.

For example, if your soap batch weighs 30 ounces (850 g), you would need 6 oz (170 g) glycerine and 24 oz (680 g) distilled water.
If you prefer to dilute a smaller amount, such as 4 ounces of paste, you’d need 0.8 oz (23 g) glycerine and 3.2 oz (91 g) distilled water.

If you don’t have glycerine or choose not to use it, simply substitute more distilled water in its place.

Step 9:
Combine the glycerine and distilled water in a deep stainless steel saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the soap paste to the boiling mixture, stirring gently to ensure the paste is covered by the liquid. Then, cover the pan and turn off the heat, leaving it on the still-hot burner. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally and mashing with a fork, spatula, or potato masher to break up any lumps.

Repeat the boiling and cooling process 1 to 2 more times, allowing the soap paste to dissolve completely. Don’t rush this step or stir too vigorously, as the process takes time. Leave the mixture at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, stirring occasionally, until the paste is fully dissolved.

Step 10:
To add fragrance, gently warm the soap one last time, but do not allow it to simmer or boil. Once the soap is warmed (around 100°F), stir in the essential oil. To calculate the right amount, use 1% of the total diluted soap weight. For example, if you have 8 ounces (237 ml) of diluted soap, you would use 0.08 ounces or about 2.4 ml of essential oil, which is approximately ½ teaspoon. You can also use EO Calc for more precise measurements.

Some essential oils, such as lavender, blend well into liquid soap, while others may cause cloudiness or separation. If this is the case, you might want to use a solubilizer to keep the essential oils mixed evenly. A future article will go into more detail on adding essential oils to liquid soap.

Step 11:
Pour the diluted soap into jars using a fine mesh strainer to catch any undissolved lumps. Let the soap sit undisturbed for several days so it can settle and clear. While the soap can technically be used immediately, giving it time to rest will improve its clarity.

Liquid Soap Recipes

Here are two recipes to kick off your liquid soapmaking journey. You can also check out the Dandelion & Honey Liquid Soap recipe already published on my site. Use the Soapee Calculator, the tips shared earlier in this article, and your creativity to experiment and create your own unique liquid soap recipes!

CALENDULA & COCONUT LIQUID SOAP

This soap captures the essence of sunshine in a jar, thanks to the bright yellow color from calendula flower-infused coconut oil. For added nourishment and appeal, I included a small amount of coconut milk powder in the oils, but you can also use cow or goat milk powder, or skip it altogether. Just keep in mind that milk powders should be used in small amounts for liquid soap to avoid scorching during the long cook time.

It’s important not to dilute soap paste with fresh milk, as it can spoil easily. For more on how to make calendula-infused oil, check out my article on Calendula Oil & Salve.

Yield: 60 ounces (1.7 kg) of diluted soap

Ingredients:

  • 13.75 oz (390 g) distilled water
  • 4.63 oz (131 g) potassium hydroxide (3% superfat)
  • 8 oz (227 g) calendula-infused coconut oil (40%)
  • 3 oz (85 g) castor oil (15%)
  • 9 oz (255 g) high oleic sunflower oil (45%)
  • 1/2 tsp coconut milk powder
  • Up to 6 oz (170 g) vegetable glycerine, for dilution (or more distilled water)
  • Up to 24 oz (680 g) distilled water, for dilution
  • Equal amounts of orange and grapefruit essential oils (see step 10 in the Liquid Soap Making Overview for how to calculate essential oil amounts)

Directions:

  1. In a stainless steel or heatproof plastic container, place the distilled water. Wearing gloves and goggles, weigh out the potassium hydroxide and carefully add it to the water. Stir well and set the lye solution aside.
  2. Weigh the coconut, castor, and sunflower oils into a slow cooker. Blend in the coconut milk powder using an immersion blender. Turn the heat to low, then pour in the lye solution. Alternate between blending with the immersion blender and stirring by hand until trace is reached.
  3. Keep the heat on low, cover the slow cooker with the lid, and check every 30 minutes. Stir with a heatproof spoon or spatula. Continue cooking for approximately 2 to 3 hours.
  4. Store the paste in covered jars. Follow the dilution and scenting guidelines in the full Liquid Soap Making Overview.

HEMP & PLANTAIN LIQUID SOAP

This soap combines plantain-infused coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, and nourishing hemp oil for a truly unique blend. It’s lightly scented with lavender essential oil, though you can skip the scent for a more natural version.

Note: I used rich, unrefined hemp seed oil from Mountain Rose Herbs to give the soap a subtle green hue. However, hemp seed oil has a shorter shelf life, so it’s best to use this soap within 4 to 6 months. Over time, the green hue may fade to a brownish color, though the soap remains effective and fragrant. I’ve had a jar of this recipe for over a year, and it’s still good, but the color has changed.

Yield: 60 ounces (1.7 kg) diluted soap

Ingredients:

  • 13.75 oz (390 g) distilled water
  • 4.63 oz (131 g) potassium hydroxide (2% superfat)
  • 7 oz (198 g) plantain-infused coconut oil (35%)
  • 2 oz (57 g) castor oil (10%)
  • 6 oz (170 g) extra virgin olive oil (30%)
  • 4 oz (113 g) high oleic sunflower oil (20%)
  • 1 oz (28 g) unrefined hemp or avocado oil (5%)
  • Up to 6 oz (170 g) vegetable glycerine, for dilution (or more distilled water)
  • Up to 24 oz (680 g) distilled water, for dilution
  • Lavender essential oil (see step 10 in the Liquid Soap Making Overview for how to calculate essential oil amounts)

Directions:

  1. Place the distilled water in a stainless steel or heatproof plastic container. Wearing gloves and goggles, carefully weigh out the potassium hydroxide and sprinkle it into the water. Stir well, and set the lye solution aside.
  2. Weigh the coconut, castor, olive, sunflower, and hemp oils into a slow cooker. Turn the heat to low, then pour in the lye solution. Alternate between using an immersion blender and stirring by hand until trace is reached.
  3. Keep the heat on low, cover the slow cooker with the lid, and check every 30 minutes. Stir with a heatproof spoon or spatula. Continue cooking for approximately 2 to 3 hours.
  4. Store the soap paste in covered jars. Follow the dilution and scenting guidelines in the full Liquid Soap Making Overview.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, making your own liquid soap allows for creative freedom in selecting nourishing oils, natural ingredients, and essential oils to customize the formula to your needs. With the right ingredients, like plantain-infused coconut oil, hemp oil, or calendula, and careful attention to the cooking and dilution process, you can create a luxurious, natural soap that’s both effective and gentle on the skin.

By following the detailed steps provided in the soapmaking process—from creating the lye solution to diluting the soap paste—you’ll be able to craft a product that suits your preferences. Whether you want a soothing lavender scent, a bright, sunny color from calendula, or a gentle, unscented bar, homemade liquid soap offers a unique, customizable experience. Remember that patience is key, and each batch will have its own characteristics, including color changes over time depending on the oils used.

So, whether you’re making soap for personal use or as a creative gift, the process is both rewarding and satisfying. Happy soapmaking!