Is Biotin the secret to your best hair?

Let’s talk about something that’s close to my heart - hair.  I have not been blessed with thick luscious locks, instead I was given fluffy, floofy, fine hair. From taming frizz to fighting hair fall, it’s a never-ending saga. Enter biotin, the magical ingredient that promises to transform our tresses. But is it really the Holy Grail of hair care, or just another fleeting trend?

What is Biotin?

Also known as Vitamin B7, biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that’s part of the B complex vitamins. It plays a key role in converting food into energy and is vital for the health of your hair, skin, and nails. Imagine it as the backstage crew in a theater production – you don’t see them, but without them, the show can’t go on.

The Benefits

So, why all the buzz? According to celebrity hairstylist Sam McKnight, “Biotin is essential for keratin production, which is the protein that makes up your hair. Without enough biotin, your hair can become brittle and more prone to breakage.” And who wants that?

1. Promotes Hair Growth: Biotin is known to strengthen hair follicles, promoting growth. If you’re dreaming of Rapunzel-like locks, this might just be your fairy godmother.
2. Reduces Hair Fall: By improving keratin infrastructure, biotin can help reduce hair fall. So, no more dramatic hair-in-the-shower-drain moments!
3. Improves Hair Thickness: Regular intake of biotin can make your hair feel thicker and fuller. Time to say goodbye to flat, lifeless hair.

How to Use

Biotin can be found in various forms – supplements, shampoos, conditioners, and even hair sprays. Philip Kingsley, a renowned trichologist, suggests, “While taking supplements can help, combining them with a biotin-rich diet and biotin-infused hair products can amplify the benefits.”

Here’s how you can incorporate biotin into your hair care routine:

• Supplements: Supplements are an easy way to ensure you’re getting enough of this vitamin. Just pop a pill daily, and you’re good to go.
• B vitamin-Rich Foods: Include foods like eggs, nuts, seeds, salmon, and avocados in your diet. They’re not just delicious but packed with hair loving B7. Check out our recipe for Spicy avocado & salmon toast (with an egg on top) for a perfect hair healthy breakfast. 
• Hair Products: Look for shampoos and conditioners that list biotin as an ingredient. They can give your hair an extra boost of this magical vitamin.

The Downside

Now, before you start emptying the shelves of products, let’s talk about the potential downsides. 

1. Breakouts: Some people may experience acne breakouts when taking high doses of biotin. Not exactly the glow-up we’re aiming for.
2. Interference with Lab Tests: Biotin can interfere with certain lab tests, particularly those for thyroid function. Always let your doctor know if you’re taking supplements.
3. Not a Miracle Worker: Biotin can help improve hair health, but it’s not a cure-all. Factors like genetics, diet, and overall health play a significant role in hair growth and quality.

The Best Products in Australia (in our opinion)

Alright, Aussie friends, here are some top-rated biotin products you can find in the land down under:

1. BondiBoost Procapil Hair Tonic: Known for its high-quality formulation, this product combines biotin with procapil, a patented ingredient that promotes hair growth and reduces hair loss. It's well-reviewed for its effectiveness and ease of use.

    

   Evolis Professional Promote Activator: This spray combines biotin with other hair-boosting ingredients like keratin and natural extracts. It's praised for its ability to strengthen hair and reduce shedding.

    

    

   Viviscal Gorgeous Growth Densifying Elixir: This product is formulated with biotin, keratin, and zinc to support healthy hair growth and improve hair density. Users appreciate its lightweight formula and pleasant fragrance.

   

   Nioxin Scalp & Hair Treatment System 3: Part of the well-known Nioxin hair care range, this treatment contains biotin and is designed to improve the health of the scalp and promote fuller-looking hair.

   

   OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Amplifying Lotion: Although not strictly a spray, this leave-in treatment is popular for its blend of biotin, collagen, and wheat protein. It's known for giving hair a thicker and more voluminous appearance.
   

    

It’s not a miracle worker, but when used correctly, it can make a noticeable difference. As Sam McKnight aptly puts it, “Good hair doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by appointment – and sometimes, with a little help from biotin.”

Photo: Alexander Krivitskiy