Hair and Skin are two important components of our beauty. These two things not only make us look good, but also play a psychological role in making in feel good about us and confident to rule the world!
There are many supplements floating around with vitamins and minerals loaded and making us more and more confused. Well, in this article – I am going to touch upon the basics of two important ingredients for any hair and skin supplements: Biotin and Collagen.
WHAT IS BIOTIN?
Biotin [bahy-uh-tin] is a member of the B vitamin family (B7). Biotin functions as a coenzyme, helping to metabolize fats, carbohydrates, and amino acids. Biotin provides dietary support for healthy skin, nails, and hair.
Human hair is made up of a protein called keratin. As biotin helps in the synthesis of proteins, its decreased levels can result in decreased protein synthesis, which would prevent the creation of keratin and hence hair loss. But biotin abundance results in decreased hair shedding as the keratin in the hair holds hair in the follicle leading to increased hair growth and healthier, stronger hair. Intake of a Biotin supplement also improves the strength and elasticity of the cortex (the thickest layer of the hair shaft).
Biotin is an essential coenzyme for breaking down protein as well as building it back up again. When the body builds protein back up from amino acids taken from food, it helps form structures in numerous areas of the body including hair, skin, and nails. Without adequate biotin in the body, protein cannot be built at the rate necessary to replace weak hair, brittle nails or flaky skin.
WHAT IS COLLAGEN?
Collagen [kohl-uh-juhn] is the major protein found in skin, hair, nails and in the connective tissue between muscle, bones, and joints. It is the most abundant protein in mammals, making up over 25-35% of whole-body protein content. The body produces collagen from amino acids and supporting nutrients like copper and vitamin C.
Collagen takes part in vital functions of nearly all systems, organs and tissues. Our bodies need collagen to maintain healthy structures of hair, skin, and nails, to cushion joints and discs in the spine, and to properly connect bone and muscle. As the body ages, collagen declines, and the body’s ability to rebuild it declines. This deterioration can cause changes in the body like skin dryness and wrinkles, dull hair and nails and conditions related to joint and back discomfort.
