Ingredient dictionary

Biotin

Also listed as: Vitamin H, Vitamin B7

Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin, also called vitamin B7 (it dissolves in water). In hair and skin care, it is used as a vitamin that supports conditioning. It is on the label of 11 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Biotin does

Provides a vitamin for hair and skin care
Supports a softer, conditioned feel
Blends easily into water-based formulas

Biotin is a small, water-soluble vitamin from the B family. Your body uses it in enzymes that help process fats, sugars and proteins. Most biotin used in cosmetics is made in a lab, through chemical synthesis or fermentation. In a formula, it adds a supportive vitamin note to hair and skin care.

Formulators include it as a vitamin for hair and skin care, and it dissolves easily in water, so it blends into shampoos and conditioners without fuss. Its effect in products is modest, and research on topical use is limited. Think of it as a supporting ingredient rather than a fix.

Good for

Suits shoppers who want a vitamin-based shampoo or conditioner and realistic, gentle expectations.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is biotin good for hair?

Biotin is often included in hair products for its vitamin role and conditioning feel. Research on topical biotin is limited, so results vary. A gentle routine and realistic expectations are a good start.

Is biotin the same as vitamin B7?

Yes. Biotin is the same ingredient as vitamin B7, and it is also listed as vitamin H. The names are interchangeable on labels. Check the ingredient list for biotin or one of these names if you want to find it.