Biotin is a B vitamin that is necessary for the production of energy in the body. The Mayo Clinic explains that it converts carbs and amino acids into energy and helps with the production of fatty acids and glucose. A biotin deficiency is rare, because it is available in most foods, and the daily requirement is small. Occasionally, deficiencies do occur, and knowing the symptoms can help you and your health care provider determine whether you have a biotin deficiency.
Hair and Skin
A report on biotin from North Carolina State University lists several side effects of biotin deficiency, most of which affect the skin, nails and hair. With a deficiency you will see evidence of dry skin, dermatitis and rashes on many different areas of the body, including the genitals. You may also notice fungal infections, which can affect both the skin and the nails, along with brittle nails and hair and hair loss.
Facial
There are certain side effects from a biotin deficiency that some researchers refer to as "biotin-deficient facies," according to the Linus Pauling Institute. This facial side effect appears as an odd distribution of subcutaneous fat in the face. Other side effects seen on the face are a rash or rashes that appear around the eyes and the edges of the mouth and nose. The above-mentioned report from NC State University explains that the hair, skin and facial side effects of a biotin deficiency can appear as early as 3 to 5 weeks.
Neurological
One to 2 weeks after the above side effects appear, neurological symptoms of a biotin deficiency can manifest themselves. A paper from the Journal of Nutrition states that these symptoms are depression and possible hallucinations in adults, and infants can show signs of developmental delay and a hypnotic state. The LPI reports that lethargy often accompanies depression with a biotin deficiency.
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