Scientific name: Biotin
Classification: Vitamin
Stimulant, sebum-regulating, anti-fall.
Tales from Nature
Biotin, also called Vitamin H or Vitamin B7, is a nutrient needed by the body in small amounts, an essential micronutrient, belonging to the group of B vitamins.
It is essential for metabolizing fats, proteins, and carbohydrates and helps the body turn food into energy. It is found within foods of animal origin-such as veal, pork, lamb, chicken, cheese, eggs, and fish-or plant origin-such as cauliflower, mushrooms, carrots, spinach, and beans.
Hair Benefits
Biotin counteracts hair loss, in individuals who are deficient in it, making them full-bodied and structured. It stimulates follicles and actively contributes to melanocyte functions. In fact, Biotin deficiency can cause thinning and weakening of the hair, which can appear weak and dull.
1. Enzyme cofactor in keratin synthesis
From a biochemical point of view, biotin acts as an essential cofactor for carboxylases, key enzymes in protein synthesis processes.
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Mechanism: In a context of hormonal weakening, where the Anagen (growth) phase is shortened and protein synthesis is slowed, biotin supports the biosynthesis of keratin (the primary structural protein of hair).
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Result in the shaft: Consistent topical application via serum promotes cell cohesion of the hair cortex, improving the structural integrity of the shaft and reducing its porosity.
2. Improved mechanical properties (Tensile Strength).
Hair under hormonal stress tends to miniaturize, losing diameter and elasticity.
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Elasticizing action: Biotin contributes to the metabolism of essential fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining elasticity of the cortex and flexibility of the cuticle.
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Reduction of "breakage": In leave-in formulations (serums), biotin increases tensile strength, dramatically reducing mechanical breakage during combing, a critical problem in hair thinned by androgenetic or thyroid causes.
3. Sebaceous regulation and lipid metabolism.
Hormonal imbalances (particularly androgen excess) often cause disruption of the hydrolipid film and sebaceous hypersecretion, which can suffocate the follicle.
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Normalizing action: Biotin intervenes in lipid metabolism, helping to regulate lipogenesis. Use in a shampoo helps maintain scalp homeostasis, preventing inflammatory states (such as seborrheic dermatitis) that would exacerbate hair loss.
4. Energy support to the follicle (ATP).
The hair follicle is one of the highest energy-consuming organs.
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Krebs cycle: Biotin is involved in the carboxylation reactions that fuel the Krebs cycle (cellular energy production). A targeted topical supply via serum can support energy metabolism of bulb matrix cells, which is essential when activity follicular is depressed by hormonal factors.
