Chronic acne can affect much more than a person's appearance. It can cause anxiety and depression, and lead to withdrawal from social situations due to embarrassment. The good news is that most people find relief with simple remedies and over-the-counter treatments. Biotin is one possible solution for acne. Talk to your doctor to determine if it's the right one for you.
About Biotin
Biotin is a vitamin that exists in numerous foods. It's also an an over-the-counter supplement, which is used to treat deficiencies. Since biotin deficiencies are difficult to diagnose with laboratory tests, physicians often use symptoms to determine whether deficiencies exists. Symptoms include hair thinning, scaly rashes on the face, tingling in the arms and legs, hallucinations, depression and exhaustion. In addition, cigarette smoking may cause a mild biotin deficiency.
Efficacy
Little scientific evidence supports the use of biotin for the treatment of acne or any health condition. However, it may have some cosmetic value. Preliminary evidence indicates that biotin supplements may improve the condition of weak or brittle fingernails and toenails as well as thin hair, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Side Effects and Cautions
Biotin is generally safe for most people who use the supplement as directed. It's not associated with any drug interactions. However, you should always check with a doctor to be sure it's safe to use with any medications or herbs that you're using.
Types of Supplements
Biotin is found in a variety of foods, including cooked eggs, sardines, soybeans and other legumes as well as whole grains, cauliflower, mushrooms and bananas. In supplement form, biotin is available as a single supplement and as an ingredient in multivitamins and B-vitamin complex supplements. Talk to your doctor or healthcare adviser about safety and dosages before using biotin to treat acne.
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