Buzz
Biotin has been a popular beauty ingredient for years, particularly when touted as a solution for enhancing hair health. Often described as a miracle supplement, it's claimed to boost hair's shine and volume, strengthen hair follicles, and reduce hair loss. While it's typically consumed as an oral supplement, biotin is also a key component in many well-known biotin shampoos. Wondering if these shampoos actually live up to their promises, we reached out to dermatologists for insight.
What Exactly Is Biotin?
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is a popular over-the-counter supplement. It plays an essential role in several metabolic functions within the body, particularly by stimulating keratin production, which is vital for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails.
A significant portion of our biotin intake comes from the foods we eat, as it is naturally found in various foods such as eggs, fish, bananas, avocados, broccoli, and legumes.
Biotin as a Supplement Option
Biotin is available as a standalone pill or as part of a daily multivitamin. Prenatal vitamins, which contain high amounts of biotin, are often taken by non-pregnant individuals as a supplement for an added boost, as biotin is crucial for fetal development.
Some healthcare professionals suggest that biotin is only effective when taken orally, though scientific evidence is still lacking to confirm this claim.
"[Regarding hair], keratin is the primary structural protein, and biotin plays a key role in its production," explains Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York. "While biotin deficiency is rare, if you do experience a true deficiency, oral biotin supplementation can help improve hair health."
"However, there is no evidence to support the idea that biotin supplements or topical biotin can improve hair quality, growth, or appearance in individuals with normal biotin levels," Dr. Murphy-Rose adds.
Biotin Shampoo Overview
While biotin supplements are ingested, biotin shampoos are applied directly to the hair and scalp. Many drugstore shampoos now feature biotin as a key ingredient. Based on current research, the effectiveness of biotin shampoo remains inconclusive.
"Topical application of biotin shows some promise in strengthening hair and reducing split ends and breakage," explains Hadley King, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Briogeo’s biotin and copper peptide shampoo is a good option for damaged hair, while Ouai offers a biotin-enriched conditioner for fine hair. "However, these products are formulated for thin, fine hair, so they may help create fuller-looking hair with or without biotin."
There is still limited research suggesting that biotin shampoos, or any other form of topical biotin, can improve hair’s quality, growth, or overall appearance.
It's important to remember that these shampoos are only briefly left on the scalp before being rinsed off, so the skin likely won't have enough time to fully absorb the ingredients and stimulate follicles. That said, they can still help make your hair feel thicker and healthier—just don't expect drastic results.
Are There Better Alternatives for Hair Growth?
The truth is, there’s no solid scientific evidence supporting the use of biotin shampoo for stimulating hair growth or improving strength in individuals with healthy hair.
Until further research provides clarity, you may find it more effective to turn to volumizing products that temporarily create the appearance of fuller hair. Additionally, consider using oral or topical treatments with a stronger scientific foundation for long-term results. Some of these options include:
Topical Minoxidil
Minoxidil, the active ingredient in Rogaine, is one of the most clinically supported over-the-counter hair regrowth treatments. According to Dr. King, it’s the most reliable option available. "Minoxidil works by acting as a potassium channel opener, causing hyperpolarization of cell membranes," she explains. "This process helps widen blood vessels and opens potassium channels, which in turn allows more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to reach the hair follicles."
Hormonal Treatments
Female pattern hair thinning, also known as "androgenetic alopecia," happens when hair follicles become overly sensitive to hormones. While this condition is often inherited genetically, a doctor’s prescription may help manage or reverse it. Dr. King explains, "Hormonal prescription medications, such as certain oral contraceptives and spironolactone, can be highly effective in thickening scalp hair."
Natural Supplements
Temporary hair loss (telogen effluvium) can sometimes be triggered by factors such as poor diet, stress, or illness.
Although it’s always best to consult with your doctor to create a personalized treatment plan, adopting a holistic approach can also be beneficial. This involves finding ways to relax, eating nutritious foods, and taking supplements that support overall well-being.
"Nutrafol and Viviscal are two hair supplements that have shown statistically significant results in clinical studies," explains Dr. King. "Nutrafol includes ingredients with anti-inflammatory, stress-adaptogenic, antioxidant, and dihydrotestosterone-blocking properties. The goal is for this combination to target different causes of hair loss."
Key Takeaways
Using biotin shampoo won’t cause harm—especially if your hair-thickening shampoo also helps preserve your hair color, such as R+Co Dallas's formula. However, it shouldn’t be the centerpiece of your hair care routine. Focus instead on creating the appearance of fuller hair with volumizing products and using proven ingredients that encourage growth and strength.
If you're worried about persistent hair thinning or loss, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor. Together, you can create a strategy to address the issue, which is more common than many realize.
