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Hair thinning can be a very stressful thing. Many people who go through hair thinning spend hours scouring the internet to find available treatments for this problem. They come across many options such as hair care products, home remedies, professional procedures, and, the most common one, supplements.
Supplements have become quite a well-known item in the hair care industry, and biotin and collagen are two top choices of supplements that many experts recommend.
But then the question arises, which of the two is better?
The answer to this is simpler than you’d think. While both biotin and collagen are great for hair thinning, collagen might be the better choice as it helps in maintaining overall hair health and development. Biotin becomes helpful for hair loss when you know your hair thinning is due to biotin deficiency.
Continue reading to learn more about this very interesting topic.
Biotin Versus Collagen for Hair Thinning
| Aspect | Biotin | Collagen |
|---|---|---|
| Primary role | Strengthens hair, reduces hair breakage | Strengthens the hair follicles and increases hair thickness |
| Source type | Vitamin B7 | Protein |
| Suitability | Hair thinning from biotin deficiency | Hair thinning from various hair concerns |
| Side effects | Sleeplessness, excessive urination | Allergic response |
Both biotin and collagen are famous supplements for people who are trying to make their hair grow thicker and better.
However, biotin supplements work best only when the reason for hair thinning is biotin deficiency. They might not work as well for other reasons that cause hair thinning.
This is where collagen supplements come into play as they support hair growth and combat hair thinning that happens as a result of a variety of reasons.
Many experts support the use of biotin supplementation to reduce hair loss in people suffering from biotin deficiency because one of the main signs of biotin deficiency is hair loss. (1)
In a study, females diagnosed with biotin deficiency experienced a decrease in hair loss after taking 1,000 micrograms of biotin every day for 3 months. (2)
But if you’re certain biotin deficiency is not your reason for hair thinning, then you may want to go for collagen supplementation.
A study showed that daily use of a nutraceutical containing collagen led to significant improvements in hair growth, volume, and thickness. This supplementation also increased the hair growth rate in the participants. (3)
This is why researchers have deemed collagen supplementation both safe and efficacious in improving hair condition in women experiencing self-perceived thinning hair. (3)
Another study also gave a verdict in favor of collagen as it found that collagen peptides (CPs) can intensify hair regrowth and the growth of human dermal papilla cells. (4)
Know About Biotin
Learn more about biotin and its role in hair thinning, potential side effects, and recommended dosage.
Role in hair thinning
Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin and is a widely used ingredient in hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners. It is a famous supplement that people often use to manage their hair troubles. It is known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H.
The research on the exact effect and mechanism of action of biotin for promoting hair health is quite limited. Many experts support the use of biotin for brittle hair, uncombable hair, or hair loss from biotin deficiency. (2)(5) However, for other hair pathologies, biotin is not the supplement of choice. (6)
The supplementation of biotin is mainly recommended for biotin deficiency, and the US FDA advises against using biotin as an everyday supplement with the exception of pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. (5)
Adverse effects of biotin
Biotin is a very safe supplement and does not cause overdose or serious side effects. This vitamin is nontoxic to the body, and any excess intake of it is simply excreted by the body.
However, in some uncommon cases, biotin toxicity can occur, and its signs can include: (5)
- Sleeplessness
- Increased urination
- Excess thirstiness
Also, if you have diabetes, you should only take biotin after talking to a professional because excess biotin interferes with the body’s glucose control. (5)
Recommended dose
The recommended dose for those who suffer from biotin deficiency is 5-35 micrograms. The exact dose that is right for you will depend on your health status and can only be advised by a healthcare professional. (5)
Know About Collagen
Learn more about collagen and its role in hair thinning, potential side effects, and recommended dosage.
Role in hair thinning
Collagen is the most widely found protein in the body and is very important for maintaining the structural integrity of the muscles, skin, and bones. (7)(8) This is because collagen fibers make body tissues strong and protect them from damage.
Based on this property of collagen, it is suggested to play a role in ensuring the health of hair too, making it pretty famous in the hair care world. (9)(10)
Collagen is thought to help with hair thinning as it is good for improving hair density and thickness. Many older people are advised to take collagen supplements because with age, the levels of collagen decrease in the body, resulting in age-related hair loss. (11)
Not only the elderly, but youngsters and others can also benefit from collagen supplements if they suffer from hair loss or thinning. (3)(12)
Adverse effects of collagen
Since collagen is naturally found in the body, not many side effects can be associated with collagen supplementation. However, in some rare cases, collagen obtained from fish extracts may cause allergic reactions. (13)(14)
Recommended dose
Experts advise the use of 2.5-10 grams of collagen to be safe and effective for hair thinning.
Can Collagen and Biotin Supplements Be Taken Together?
Yes, according to many dermatologists and experts, taking both collagen and biotin supplements is safe. However, to make sure you take the right doses of both, talk with your doctor first.
Most-Asked Questions
Can biotin cause weight gain?
There’s no scientific evidence that says that biotin causes weight gain.
Can I find vegan collagen?
Scientists have been able to make vegan collagen from yeast and some bacteria.
What are some good food sources of biotin?
Food sources of biotin include nuts and seeds, apples, broccoli, and potatoes.
Final Word
In the fight against hair thinning, the choice between biotin and collagen supplements may appear to be very hard.
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is essential for people with biotin deficiency-related hair thinning, while collagen supplements are beneficial for various hair concerns.
When choosing between biotin and collagen for hair thinning, consider the root cause of your hair concerns.
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