Kara NasvigExperts weigh in on what to consider before adding one to your routine.
By Kristine Thomason | 28 January 2025
From luxurious hair oils to scalp health spas, healthy hair and nails are at the center of today’s beauty trends. Among the most talked-about solutions? Biotin supplements—believed to promote stronger hair, skin, and nails. But do they really work?
Does Biotin Actually Improve Hair and Nail Growth?
According to Dr. Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, biotin is essential for hair and nail health. A biotin deficiency can lead to hair thinning and brittle nails, but here’s the catch:
True biotin deficiency is rare
There is no strong scientific evidence that biotin supplements improve hair growth in individuals who already have normal biotin levels
However, if you’re pregnant or have a known deficiency, a biotin supplement may help. Before adding one to your routine, consult your doctor to determine if you actually need it.
The 8 Best Biotin Supplements to Try
If you’re looking for a high-quality and expert-approved biotin supplement, here are the best options to consider.
- Pure Encapsulations Biotin Complex Hair & Skin
Why We Love It:
Third-party tested for purity
Features magnesium biotinate, a fast-absorbing form of biotin
Key Ingredients: Biotin (from magnesium biotinate)
Biotin Per Serving: 10,000 mcg
Type: Capsule
Serving Size: 1 capsule
Servings Per Bottle: 60
- Designs for Health Whole Beauty Collagen
Why We Love It:
Combines biotin with collagen peptides for skin, hair, and nails
Dissolves in water—great for those who dislike pills
Key Ingredients: Biotin (magnesium biotinate), collagen peptides
Biotin Per Serving: 10,000 mcg
Type: Powder
Serving Size: 1 scoop
Servings Per Container: 30
- Nutrafol Women’s Hair Growth Supplement
Why We Love It:
Formulated specifically for hair thinning
Includes biotin, saw palmetto, and marine collagen
Key Ingredients: Biotin, collagen peptides, saw palmetto
Biotin Per Serving: 3,000 mcg
Type: Capsule
Serving Size: 4 capsules
Servings Per Bottle: 30
- Olly Undeniable Beauty Gummies
Why We Love It:
Tasty gummy format with a blend of nutrients
Contains biotin, keratin, and vitamin C for extra benefits
Key Ingredients: Biotin, keratin, vitamin C
Biotin Per Serving: 2,500 mcg
Type: Gummy
Serving Size: 2 gummies
Servings Per Bottle: 60
- Sports Research Biotin with Coconut Oil
Why We Love It:
Infused with organic coconut oil for better absorption
Non-GMO and gluten-free
Key Ingredients: Biotin, coconut oil
Biotin Per Serving: 10,000 mcg
Type: Softgel
Serving Size: 1 softgel
Servings Per Bottle: 120
- Nature’s Bounty Biotin Softgels
Why We Love It:
Affordable and widely available
Supports healthy hair, skin, and metabolism
Key Ingredients: Biotin
Biotin Per Serving: 10,000 mcg
Type: Softgel
Serving Size: 1 softgel
Servings Per Bottle: 120
- SugarBearHair Vegan Gummies
Why We Love It:
Celebrity-favorite gummy supplement
Includes biotin, folic acid, and vitamin D
Key Ingredients: Biotin, folic acid, vitamin D
Biotin Per Serving: 5,000 mcg
Type: Gummy
Serving Size: 2 gummies
Servings Per Bottle: 60
- Viviscal Hair Growth Supplements
Why We Love It:
Contains biotin, zinc, and marine protein complex
Specifically designed for thicker and healthier hair
Key Ingredients: Biotin, zinc, marine protein complex
Biotin Per Serving: 2,000 mcg
Type: Tablet
Serving Size: 2 tablets
Servings Per Bottle: 60
Final Thoughts: Should You Take Biotin?
If you suspect biotin deficiency or want stronger hair and nails, a high-quality biotin supplement may help. However:
Check with a doctor before starting any supplement
Look for third-party tested brands for safety and purity
Consider supplements with added ingredients like collagen, zinc, and keratin for extra benefits
Would you try a biotin supplement? Let us know your thoughts!
