Biotin, also known as Vitamin B7, has gained immense popularity as a supplement, particularly for its potential to support hair, skin, and nail health. In the UK, biotin vitamin supplements have become a common part of many beauty and wellness routines. However, while biotin is considered safe for most people, excessive intake can cause side effects that are often overlooked.
This article explores the possible side effects of biotin, how to minimise risks, and who should be cautious when using biotin supplements.
What Is Biotin and Why Is It Popular?
Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin (Vitamin B7) that is important in converting food into energy. It also maintains the health of hair, skin, and nails, which is why it is often included in beauty supplements. Common biotin-rich foods are:
While biotin deficiency is rare, many people turn to biotin tablets, capsules, or other supplements to promote faster hair growth or improve their skin’s appearance. However, taking high doses of biotin without medical supervision can lead to unwanted side effects.
Key Takeaways
• Biotin can cause side effects like acne, digestive issues, and lab test interference when taken in excess.
• Less common side effects include hormone imbalances and unintended hair growth.
• People at higher risk include pregnant women, those with kidney disease, and individuals on certain medications.
• Stick to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional to minimise side effects.
Common Side Effects of Biotin
While biotin is generally safe when consumed in moderate amounts, excessive intake, particularly through supplements, can lead to various side effects. Below are some of the most commonly reported issues:
1. Acne or Skin Rashes
One of the most frequently noted side effects of biotin is the development of acne or skin rashes. Biotin can cause the skin’s natural oil production to increase, leading to clogged pores and breakouts, especially around the chin and jawline.[2] These skin issues tend to subside once biotin intake is reduced.
2. Digestive Issues
Excessive biotin intake may cause mild to moderate digestive discomfort. Some people report:[9]
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhoea
This side effect is more likely when taking large doses of biotin capsules or tablets without food.
3. Kidney Concerns
High doses of biotin can potentially place a strain on the kidneys, particularly in people with pre-existing kidney conditions. There is limited evidence on biotin’s direct impact on kidney health, but individuals with kidney disease should be cautious about long-term, high-dose supplementation.[3]
4. Interference with Lab Tests
One lesser-known effect of biotin is its ability to interfere with certain lab tests. High levels of biotin in the blood can skew results, particularly tests that measure thyroid function, troponin levels (which are used to detect heart attacks), and other hormone-related tests.[4] This interference may lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment, making it important for anyone undergoing lab tests to inform their healthcare provider about their biotin intake.
5. Allergic Reactions
Although rare, some individuals may have allergic reactions to biotin supplements. Symptoms can include:[5]
• Skin rashes
• Itching
• Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
If you suspect an allergic reaction, it’s essential to stop taking biotin and seek immediate medical attention.
6. Unexplained Weight Changes
Biotin is sometimes associated with unintended weight gain or loss, though this side effect is less commonly reported. This could be due to biotin’s effect on metabolism and how the body processes carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.[5]
Side Effect | Description |
Acne or Skin Rashes | Increased oil production, clogged pores |
Digestive Issues | Nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhoea |
Kidney Concerns | Potential strain on kidney function |
Interference with Lab Tests | Disruption of thyroid, hormone, and heart tests |
Allergic Reactions | Skin rashes, itching, swelling |
Unexplained Weight Changes | Weight gain or loss |
Less Known Biotin Side Effects: What You Might Not Expect
While common side effects like acne and digestive issues are well-documented, some less-known biotin side effects may come as a surprise.
1. Impact on Hormone Levels
Some studies suggest that high doses of biotin could potentially impact hormone levels, particularly thyroid-related ones. Biotin can interfere with lab test results that measure hormone function, which may lead to incorrect diagnoses.[4]
2. Long-Term Health Risks
Though biotin is water-soluble and excess amounts are typically excreted through urine, long-term use of high-dose biotin supplements could potentially lead to imbalances in other nutrients. For example, biotin can affect the absorption of other B vitamins, leading to deficiencies over time.[7]
Who Is Most at Risk for Biotin Side Effects?
While biotin is generally safe, certain groups of people may be more susceptible to side effects, especially when taking high doses.
1. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women
Although biotin is important during pregnancy, as it supports foetal development, taking excessive biotin supplements can be risky. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using biotin supplements to avoid potential harm to themselves or their babies.[8]
2. People with Kidney or Liver Disease
Since high doses of biotin may place additional strain on the kidneys, individuals with kidney or liver disease should avoid taking excessive amounts of biotin without medical supervision.[9]
3. Those on Medication
Certain medications, particularly anti-seizure drugs or treatments for conditions like epilepsy, may interact with biotin. These medications can affect how the body processes biotin, increasing the risk of side effects. Similarly, biotin can interfere with certain laboratory tests used to monitor medication effectiveness.[4]
How to Minimise Biotin Side Effects
To reduce the risk of side effects from biotin supplements, it’s important to follow safe practices and consult a healthcare professional when needed. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. Proper Dosage Guidelines
While there is no established upper limit for biotin, taking 0.9mg or less of biotin per day from supplements is generally considered safe and unlikely to cause any harm.[1] Stick to the recommended daily dosage unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
2. Timing and Method of Consumption
Taking biotin with food can help reduce digestive side effects such as nausea and stomach cramps. It is also important to drink plenty of water to support kidney function, especially when taking high doses.
3. Consulting a Healthcare Professional
If you are considering long-term biotin supplementation, particularly in high doses, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. This is especially important if you have pre-existing conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medication.
Conclusion
Biotin, while beneficial for hair, skin, and nail health, can cause side effects when taken in excessive amounts. Common issues include acne, digestive discomfort, and interference with lab tests. Less common but still significant side effects include hormone disruption, unintended hair growth, and long-term imbalances in other nutrients. Certain groups, such as pregnant women, people with kidney disease, and those on medication, are more susceptible to these side effects.
To avoid potential risks, it’s essential to follow recommended dosages, take biotin with food, and consult a healthcare professional when necessary. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of biotin without the unwanted side effects. You can find the best biotin supplements from various trusted brands at Nature’s Fix, ensuring you choose quality products to support your health.
FAQs
1. Can biotin cause acne?
Yes, high doses of biotin can increase oil production, leading to acne or skin rashes.[2]
2. Are there long-term side effects of biotin?
Long-term use of high-dose biotin supplements may interfere with nutrient absorption and cause imbalances in other B vitamins.[7]
3. Can biotin interfere with lab tests?
Yes, high levels of biotin can disrupt lab tests, especially those measuring thyroid function or hormone levels.[4]
4. Is biotin safe during pregnancy?
Biotin is important during pregnancy, but excessive amounts should be avoided. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking biotin supplements while pregnant.[8]
5. What dosage of biotin is recommended?
Taking up to 0.9mg or less of biotin daily from supplements is generally considered safe and unlikely to cause any adverse effects. Still, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking high doses.[1]
6. Can biotin cause weight changes?
Some people may experience unintended weight gain or loss when taking biotin, although this side effect is less common.[5]
7. Can biotin improve beard growth in men?
While biotin for men is often marketed to promote hair growth, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness specifically for beard growth. However, biotin may contribute to overall hair health, which could indirectly benefit beard growth.[10]
References
1 – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-b/
2 – https://www.healthline.com/health/biotin-side-effects#taking-too-much-biotin
3 – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29133077/
4 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5951654/
5 – https://vibrantvitalityclinic.com/blog/does-biotin-cause-weight-gain/
6 – https://www.drugs.com/mtm/biotin.html
7 – https://synapse.patsnap.com/article/what-are-the-side-effects-of-biotin
8 – https://www.healthline.com/health/the-benefits-of-biotin/
9 – https://johnfrankmd.com/side-effects-of-biotin/
10 – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/biotin-for-beard#effects-on-facial-hair-growth
