The Best Biotin Supplements for Hair, Skin, and Nails
Biotin is one of the most sought-after beauty-boosting vitamins. As the benefits of this vitamin have become more widely known, people have started to reach for biotin supplements to speed up hair growth, support skin health and even to stop frustrating nail breakage once and for all.
If you’re considering adding biotin to your wellness routine, we’re breaking down the absolute best biotin supplements for hair, skin and nails that are currently available on the market. Below, we’re recommending simple, high-quality supplements that only feature biotin as the active ingredient, as well as expertly formulated blends that partner this B vitamin with other key nutrients and ingredients.
What is Biotin?
First things first: what exactly is biotin? Biotin (also referred to as vitamin B7 or vitamin H) is a water-soluble B vitamin, which means the body does not store it. It is found naturally in foods like eggs, fish, organ meats, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, legumes, nuts and seeds.
Like all B vitamins, the body uses biotin to convert food into energy. Biotin is a necessary nutrient for metabolizing fats, carbohydrates and amino acids.
How Does Biotin Support the Hair, Skin and Nails?
A biotin deficiency can lead to brittle nails and thinning hair, and may also lead to rashes and dry, scaly skin. However, remember that it’s fairly rare to actually be deficient in biotin, since we tend to get enough biotin in their diet. Despite not having an actual deficiency, many people choose to add a biotin supplement to their wellness routine to enhance their skin, nails and/or hair.
Biotin may help strengthen weak nails, helping to make them firmer, harder and less prone to breakage. It can also speed up nail growth. As far as the complexion goes, studies have shown that biotin can help boost the skin’s hydration levels. It may also improve smoothness.
For the hair, biotin encourages the production of keratin, which can speed up growth and improve strength. Biotin can also add shine to the hair and help prevent dandruff and itchiness in the scalp.
How Often Should You Take a Biotin Supplement?
For the best results, you’ll want to continue taking your biotin supplement on a regular basis. It will generally take at least a few months to notice visible results, so a bit of patience is required.
The exact frequency will depend on the specific supplement you’ve chosen, so you should refer to the product label for the most accurate instructions. It’s also always smart to consult with a medical professional to determine the best dosage and frequency for your specific health needs.
How Do You Choose a Biotin Supplement?
There are a few factors to consider when looking for a biotin supplement. First and foremost, you’re going to want to keep your budget in mind. In order to achieve and maintain stronger nails, fuller hair and healthier skin, you’ll want to continue taking your biotin supplement in the long term. With this in mind, you’ll want to pick a product you’ll be able and willing to repurchase in the future to maintain your results.
Additionally, it’s important to consider whether you want a supplement that only contains biotin, or a formula that partners biotin with other key nutrients and beneficial ingredients that can further enhance your nails, skin and hair. There are a range of highly effective ingredients that can play a role in improving all three, and that work well alongside biotin. This includes B vitamins, vitamins A, C, D and E, zinc, collagen, amino acids, iodine, saw palmetto (particularly for those targeting hair loss) and folic acid. You’ll find both simple biotin supplements and blends that include high concentrations of biotin recommended below.
Lastly, you need to consider if there are any ingredients you’d like to avoid. For example, many supplements are made with gelatin capsules, and some made for skin, hair and nail health also contain collagen. If you don’t consume animal-derived products, you’ll need to keep an eye out for those ingredients. You should also decide whether you’d prefer a formula that contains more naturally-derived ingredients, as well as if you’d like to avoid fillers, preservatives or artificial dyes.
The Best Biotin Supplements for Hair, Skin and Nails
Now that we’ve covered the basics, here is our comprehensive guide to the best biotin supplements for hair, skin and nails.
1. Blu Atlas Hair & Skin Gummies
The Blu Atlas Hair & Skin Gummies have a delicious mango flavor that actually makes taking supplements enjoyable – but that’s not the only reason they are our top pick! These gummies feature a potent and super beneficial concentration of biotin (with 5000 mcg per serving) and a variety of other highly effective ingredients that provide the body with the building blocks it needs for stronger hair and nails and more radiant, healthy skin.
These gummies were thoughtfully formulated to address the many contributing factors of thinning hair. Saw palmetto inhibits dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that plays a role in hair loss. Iodine also supports hair follicle health to encourage continued growth.
In addition to these ingredients, the formula features a blend of other ingredients that work in tandem to support the hair, skin and nails. This includes B6, B12 and folic acid, which work alongside the biotin to improve follicle health and nail strength. Zinc supports the body in keratin production to increase hair and nail growth and resiliency and to also prevent hair loss. At the same time, vitamin C fights damaging free radicals while stimulating collagen production, a protein needed for healthy nails and hair and firm, youthful skin. Additional vitamins include retinol (vitamin A), vitamin D3 and vitamin E.
The quality of the Blu Atlas Hair & Skin Gummies is what also made this option stand out among the rest. This formula features premium ingredients, and doesn’t contain unnecessary fillers. 98% of the ingredients are derived from fruits, plants, minerals and other natural sources. The gummies are also vegan-friendly (which often isn’t the case with gummy supplements) and cruelty-free, meaning you can support your skin, hair and nails without guilt.
2. Nature’s Bounty Extra Strength Hair, Skin & Nails Softgels
This budget-friendly supplement from Nature’s Bounty balances 5000 mcg of biotin with a wide range of additional key nutrients and ingredients that enhance the look and feel of your nails, skin and hair. It’s also packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients that counteract the negative effects of free radicals on the body.
These softgels contain the necessary daily value of vitamin A, which helps with cell growth. This in turn supports nail and hair strength and overall health. The skin also uses vitamin A to produce sebum, which supports both the complexion and the hair. Another unique ingredient added to the formula is hydrolyzed collagen, which can help build strong and healthy nails and hair and support a more youthful complexion.
This supplement also contains fatty acid-rich argan oil, as well as hyaluronic acid, a humectant that attracts and locks in water to help keep the skin looking plump and feeling hydrated. Selenium minimizes hair loss and improves skin firmness, while zinc boosts keratin production and counteracts hair thinning. A range of additional vitamins and minerals – including B vitamins, vitamin D, iron and antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E – further enhance the power of this formula.
It should be noted that these aren’t an appropriate choice for anyone on a vegetarian or vegan diet. The formula features collagen, and the outer capsule contains gelatin.
3. Pure Encapsulations Hair, Skin, and Nails Ultra
While this Pure Encapsulations supplement is definitely on the pricier end of the spectrum, we can’t deny the superior quality and effectiveness of the expertly formulated solution. The Hair, Skin, and Nails Ultra supplement was made to boost hydration and elasticity in the skin, improve hair health, and strengthen the nails. The formula is gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and hypoallergenic and comes in a vegetarian-friendly capsule.
In addition to the 6000 mcg concentration of biotin, one of the star ingredients in the Pure Encapsulations supplement is the patented BioCell Collagen. This ingredient was created to improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness for a more youthful appearance, and can even help soften the appearance of wrinkles and minimize blemishes. BioCell Collagen contains hyaluronic acid, which improves the skin’s hydration levels for a softer, healthier, and more comfortable complexion.
Another key ingredient in this formula is coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which provides antioxidant support to defend against free radicals. Vitamin C further enhances the formula’s antioxidant power, boosting collagen production for improved skin structure and stronger hair and nails. The polyphenols found in grape seed extract also help to protect collagen and elastin in the skin and body.
In addition to these highlighted ingredients, this supplement contains more of our favorite nutrients for supporting the skin, hair and nails. This includes copper, zinc, silica and manganese, which all play a role in keratin and collagen synthesis. Niacinamide improves the skin’s immune function, while folate further boosts general skin, nail and hair health.
4. MindBodyGreen Beauty & Gut Collagen+
If you like the idea of drinking your way to stronger and healthier nails, hair and skin, check out the Beauty & Gut Collagen+ dietary supplement powder from MindBodyGreen. This product was designed to be stirred into beverages (such as coffee and smoothies), and dissolves in both hot and cold liquid. It can even be added to baked goods, making it super easy to add beauty-boosting nutrients and ingredients to your wellness routine. The powder comes in two flavor options: unflavored and chocolate.
While this powder doesn’t have quite as much biotin as other options on the list, it does contain 500 mcg, which is still an effective amount for anyone looking to achieve the beauty benefits of this vitamin. The other star ingredient of this powder is grass-fed collagen from pasture-raised cows, which is packed with amino acids that support not only the hair, skin and nails, but also the muscles, joints and bones.
This formula also features hyaluronic acid, which improves the skin’s moisture retention and softens the appearance of fine lines, as well as vitamins C and E, which both play a key role in providing antioxidant protection. As previously mentioned, vitamin C is also vital for collagen production. Some final ingredients worth highlighting are L-glutamine, turmeric and sulforaphane glucosinolate (SGS). L-glutamine is an amino acid that supports gut wellness and provides the building blocks for collagen, and turmeric and SGS further aid in improving gut health while providing additional antioxidant support.
Unlike many other similar products on the market, the Beauty & Gut Collagen+ is free of sugar and artificial sweeteners. It’s also GMO-free, dairy-free, gluten-free and soy-free, and doesn’t contain binders, gums, preservatives or carrageenan. It should be noted that it isn’t a suitable option for anyone on a vegan or vegetarian diet, since it contains collagen.
5. Jarrow Formulas Biotin
We’ve recommended quite a few supplements that partner biotin with additional supporting ingredients, but if you’re looking to keep things simple, you should try this biotin supplement from Jarrow Formulas. Each capsule contains 5000 mcg of d-biotin, which is naturally occurring biotin. This amounts to more than 16,000% of your daily value of biotin, meaning it offers a powerful punch. We also love that you only need one capsule daily for a full serving.
This formula is free of GMOs, gluten, egg, dairy, soybeans peanuts and tree nuts. It also uses a veggie capsule, which makes it a suitable option for anyone following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
6. Bronson Biotin Gummies
If you’re drawn towards gummy vitamins, another one of the best biotin supplements for hair, skin and nails are these gummies from Bronson, which come in a delicious berry flavor.
Similar to the Jarrow Formulas supplement, the Bronson Biotin Gummies put biotin front and center, making it a suitable option for anyone who is only looking to add biotin to their routine. Each serving (which amounts to two gummies) contains 5000 mcg of biotin.
The formula is made without GMOs, gluten, gelatin, soy or artificial ingredients, and is also suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Each batch is tested in-house in the company’s FDA/GMP-certified facility, ensuring all products meet high quality standards.
7. Vital Proteins Hair Boost
While Hair Boost by Vital Proteins is specifically made to support healthier and stronger hair, it also contains many of the essential ingredients that boost nail strength and skin health. These capsules contain 150 mcg of biotin. While this is a lower amount than some others on this list, it still amounts to 500% of your daily value of biotin, making it a suitable solution for adding this vitamin to your routine. These plant-based capsules are appropriate for vegans and vegetarians and are made without gluten or dairy.
Organic ashwagandha root extract is one of the more unique ingredients in this blend. This adaptogenic herb supports mental clarity and alertness and helps lower stress levels, which can negatively impact hair, skin and nails. Another power player in the formula is a blend of four amino acids (l-cystine, l-arginine, l-lysine and l-methionine) which help with keratin production to improve hair and nail growth and strength. At the same time, saw palmetto fights hair loss by blocking the effects of DHT.
The power of the formula doesn’t stop there. Hyaluronic acid locks in water to improve the skin’s moisture retention abilities while plumping and softening the appearance of fine lines, while organic bamboo-derived silica strengthens the skin and nails and promotes a more youthful complexion. Anti-inflammatory methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) also supports the skin. Each capsule also contains even more of the most beneficial nutrients for the hair, skin and nails, including folate, zinc, selenium and vitamins A, B6, B12, C and E.
8. OLLY Undeniable Beauty Gummies
OLLY offers a range of highly effective, well-formulated gummy vitamins that are super wallet-friendly, but one of our favorite products the company offers is the Undeniable Beauty Gummies, which comes in a grapefruit flavor. These gummies were specifically made to give your hair and nails the strengthening support that they need, and to boost your complexion’s radiance.
One serving (which is made up of two gummies) contains 2500 mcg of biotin, which makes up over 8000% of your daily value. Each gummy also contains keratin to encourage stronger hair and nails and vitamin E to provide antioxidant support. The formula features vitamin C, which works alongside vitamin E to fight against damaging free radicals. It also stimulates collagen production for firmer skin and more resilient nails and hair.
The OLLY Undeniable Beauty Gummies are gluten-free, and don’t contain any artificial flavors or colors. Instead, they get their dark pink hue from sweet potato, radish, cherry, apple, blueberry and carrot juices. Keep in mind that these gummies contain gelatin, which means they aren’t suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
9. Sugarbear Hair Vitamin Gummies
Another gummy vitamin we highly recommend is the Hair Vitamin Gummies from Sugarbear. In a consumer study, 97% of respondents claimed they noticed positive changes in the look and feel of their hair, meaning you can feel confident the formula will work for you. While these are targeted towards hair health, they also contain a range of ingredients that also support the skin and nails.
Each serving (which amounts to two gummies) of these Sugarbear vitamins contains an impressive 5000 mcg of biotin. The gummies also feature a potent concentration of vitamin A, a vitamin that is essential for cell growth. In addition to improving nail and hair strength, vitamin A helps with sebum production to support skin health. Another key nutrient is zinc, a mineral that is added to assist with keratin production, improve follicle health and fight against hair loss.
Folate and vitamins B6 and B12 improve the health and strength of both the nails and hair follicles. Pantothenic acid nourishes the hair follicles to encourage the growth of strong hair, and also works to prevent hair loss, while vitamin C defends against free radicals while stimulating collagen production. Additional ingredients include iodine, calcium and vitamins D and E.
These gummies are suitable for those on vegan and vegetarian diets, as they are made with organic tapioca, rather than gelatin. They are also naturally flavored with real fruit.
10. Garden of Life Mykind Organic Plant Collagen Builder
This Mykind Organic Plant Collagen Builder from Garden of Life is one of our top picks for anyone looking for a high-quality vegan-friendly biotin supplement. This non-GMO verified and NSF certified gluten-free formula features more than 30 whole foods that are certified USDA organic. These ingredients work together to produce and maintain healthy levels of collagen, keratin and elastin, ultimately supporting the hair, skin and nails so that they look and feel their absolute best.
This Garden of Life supplement contains 2500 mcg of whole food biotin, which is derived from organic sesbania, a plant that is in the pea family. In addition to sesbania, the organic food blend contains a range of powerful nutrient-dense foods, including amla berry, apple, guava, holy basil, lemon, broccoli, carrot, blackberry, cherry, ginger, kale and cucumber.
The food blend contains potent concentrations of vitamin E to offer antioxidant support, as well as chromium, which strengthens hair and prevents thinning. A variety of B vitamins found in this food blend further strengthen and enhance the nails and hair, while silica derived from organic bamboo encourages keratin and collagen synthesis. Additional beneficial nutrients found in this blend include vitamins A and C, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, selenium, zinc and manganese.
In addition to the organic food blend, the Mykind Organic Plant Collagen Builder features an organic beauty blend. This includes powerful fruits, herbs and other plant-based ingredients that are packed with antioxidants that defend against damage from free radicals. The blend features pomegranate, turmeric and both green and rooibos tea.
11. Hum Nutrition Hair Sweet Hair
Hum Nutrition has a range of well-formulated supplements that target a range of issues, but for those who want to improve hair health, one of our favorite products is Hair Sweet Hair. These berry-flavored gummies are made to promote growth and increase hair strength while also nourishing the follicles to improve general hair and scalp health. Of course, many ingredients in this formula are also excellent for strengthening the nails and complexion.
A serving is made up of two gummies, and contains 5000 mcg of biotin for hair, nail and skin support. Zinc improves the overall health of hair follicles to help prevent hair thinning, and also boosts keratin production. Folic acid also encourages healthy hair growth, while fo-ti (an herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine) further helps with growth while boosting the hair’s natural color. Vitamin B12 nourishes hair follicles and improves nail health, while PABA joins the fo-ti in maintaining natural hair color.
These Hum Nutrition gummies were formulated by RD nutritionists, and are triple tested by a third party to ensure high quality and purity. They are also vegan and vegetarian-friendly, and are free of a range of potential allergens, including fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, gluten, soy and wheat. Additionally, the Hair Sweet Hair gummies don’t contain artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and are dyed and flavored using the power of natural fruits and vegetables.
12. Carlyle Biotin Liquid Gel Drops
Last but not least, we recommend a slightly different biotin supplementation. The Carlyle Biotin Liquid Gel Drops are made to be taken sublingually (under the tongue). One dropper full of the liquid contains an impressive 10,000 mcg of biotin, which is a whopping 33,333% of your daily value. This makes it a suitable option for a super potent formula. Biotin is the only active ingredient in these drops, so this is an ideal pick for the person who isn’t looking to add any additional nutrients beyond this vitamin to their health routine.
Since these liquid gel drops are taken under the tongue, they quickly absorb into the body to immediately get to work. For the best possible results, the solution must be held under the tongue for at least 30 seconds to fully allow the vitamin to absorb.
This solution comes in a berry flavor, making it easy and enjoyable to take these drops daily. This flavor is created using only natural ingredients, and the formula is completely free of artificial sweeteners.
The Carlyle Biotin Liquid Gel Drops are suitable for anyone following a vegetarian or vegan diet, and do not contain alcohol, gluten, wheat, yeast, milk, lactose or GMOs. The formula is made using ethically-sourced ingredients, and is produced following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). It is also lab tested in the USA. Note that this formula contains argan oil, which means it isn’t suitable for those allergic to tree nuts.