Quick take: So, which biotin supplement should you take.
It was 3am in my third trimester when I noticed my hair felt like straw. One strand would break in my hands with a snap, and my scalp was so dry it itched like I’d just come off a long-haul flight. I’d read about biotin being the pregnancy-era ‘miracle’ for hair, nails, and skin—so I stocked up on supplements, gummies, and even collagen blends, convinced I’d finally find the fix. Spoiler: it’s not that simple. Some worked fast (hello, thicker nails after two weeks), others did nothing despite the hype, and a few left me with a stomach ache at 2am that made me question my life choices. After testing six biotin supplements through pregnancy, postpartum, and now with my toddler’s hair-shedding phase, here’s what actually works—and who it’s worth it for. We’re focusing on the real criteria: potency (because 5mg won’t cut it), ease of use (one-handed at 3am counts), and whether they’re worth the price tag when you’re already spending a fortune on nappy bags and baby wipes. Oh, and I’ll tell you which ones I’d skip after the 100th wash—or the 3am feed when my stomach revolted.
Our top picks at a glance
Quick comparison
1. Biotin, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid & Keratin - Hair Growth Support… — The balanced beauty boost
I took NutraHarmony’s supplement through my entire pregnancy and for six months postpartum. My biggest win? My nails stopped splitting after two weeks—seriously, I went from chipping every other week to barely needing a file. The capsules are smooth and easy to swallow, even when I’m dehydrated from morning sickness. I also loved that it included collagen and keratin, which made my skin feel less tight and my hair less brittle. The downside? The price tag. At £22 for 60 capsules, it’s not cheap, and I found I didn’t need the collagen boost once I started eating more protein-rich foods like eggs and lentils. I also wish the bottle had a flip-top lid—trying to open it one-handed with a baby on your hip is a nightmare. But for someone who wants a ‘do-it-all’ supplement without gummies or messy powders, this is the closest I’ve found to a one-stop shop.
- Noticeable nail strength improvements within two weeks of consistent use.
- Includes collagen and keratin for skin and hair benefits, not just biotin.
- Clinically tested with a 90-day study showing visible scalp improvements.
- Free from GMOs, gluten, and unnecessary fillers—good for sensitive stomachs.
- Expensive for a supplement that’s not FDA-approved for dramatic results.
- Bottle design is awkward for one-handed use (no flip-top lid).
- Collagen and keratin benefits may overlap with diet, making it less essential later in pregnancy.
- Not the fastest-acting option if you’re desperate for immediate results.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious shoppers or those who prefer quick, targeted results.
2. Nature's Bounty Biotin Hair Skin and Nails Vitamins, 120 Softgels — The reliable budget pick
Nature’s Bounty’s biotin softgels were my go-to in the first trimester when I was too nauseous to stomach anything fancy. I took them every morning with my prenatal vitamin, and while I didn’t see dramatic changes, my hair did stop falling out as much when I brushed it. The softgels are easy to swallow, even when my throat was sore from vomiting, and the price—£6 for 120—is unbeatable. I also appreciated the extra B vitamins, which helped with my energy levels. The downside? The 10,000mcg dose is overkill unless you’ve been diagnosed with a deficiency. I found 2,500mcg was enough to maintain my hair and nails without any side effects. And while the bottle is easy to open, the softgels themselves can be a bit messy if you squeeze them too hard. Still, for basic biotin support, this is the most straightforward and affordable option.
- Affordable price point for a high-quality biotin supplement.
- Softgels are easy to swallow, even with morning sickness.
- Includes B vitamins for added energy support.
- Backed by 50 years of scientific research from Nature’s Bounty.
- 10,000mcg dose is excessive unless you have a diagnosed deficiency.
- Softgels can be slightly messy if not handled carefully.
- No additional collagen or keratin for comprehensive beauty support.
- Results are subtle compared to more premium options.
Not ideal for: People with diagnosed biotin deficiencies or those seeking comprehensive hair/skin/nail support.
3. Sports Research® Biotin 10,000mcg w/Coconut Oil, 120 Count Plantgels™ — The vegan-friendly powerhouse
When my husband wanted to try biotin but was vegan, Sports Research’s Plantgels™ were the only option that didn’t contain gelatin. The 10,000mcg dose is strong, and I noticed a difference in his hair texture after just a few weeks—though he’s always had thick hair, so it’s hard to say if it was solely the biotin or his diet. The capsules are smooth and easy to swallow, thanks to the organic coconut oil coating, and the vegan certification gave me peace of mind. I did, however, find that the price—£16 for 120 capsules—was a bit steep for just biotin. I also wished there was a lower dose option, as 10,000mcg felt like overkill for someone without a deficiency. But for vegan parents, this is the best option available. Just be prepared to pay a premium for the ethical choice.
- Vegan-certified with no gelatin or carrageenan—great for ethical shoppers.
- Organic coconut oil coating makes capsules easy to swallow.
- High potency (10,000mcg) for those who need strong support.
- Manufactured in cGMP-compliant facilities for quality assurance.
- Expensive for just biotin—collagen/keratin would make it worth the price.
- 10,000mcg dose is excessive unless you have a deficiency.
- No additional beauty-supporting ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
- Bottle design isn’t ideal for one-handed use.
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or those who want a multi-nutrient blend.
4. Pure Encapsulations Biotin 8 mg, 120 Capsules — The clean-label specialist
Pure Encapsulations’ biotin capsules are the gold standard for clean-label purity. I took them during my second trimester when I was researching supplements with the fewest additives, and I appreciated the transparency—no artificial ingredients, GMOs, or common allergens. The capsules were smooth and easy to swallow, and I noticed a slight improvement in my nail strength after a few weeks. However, the price—£23 for 120 capsules—is high, and I found that the 8mg dose was on the lower end for noticeable results. I also wished there were more additional beauty-supporting ingredients, like collagen or keratin. Still, if you prioritise purity and clean ingredients, this is the best option. Just be prepared to pay for it.
- Made with premium, allergen-free ingredients—great for sensitive stomachs.
- No artificial additives, GMOs, or common allergens.
- Smooth capsules that are easy to swallow.
- Backed by nutritional experts for potency and purity.
- Lower dose (8mg) may not be enough for dramatic results.
- Expensive for a single-nutrient supplement.
- No additional collagen or keratin for comprehensive support.
- Results are subtle compared to higher-potency options.
Not ideal for: Those seeking high-potency results or additional beauty benefits.
5. VITBOOST Biotin with Hyaluronic Acid, Collagen and Keratin - 60Ct… — The high-potency powerhouse
Vitboost’s biotin supplement is the strongest dose I’ve tested—25,000mcg per serving! I was sceptical at first, but after three weeks of taking it, I did notice my hair felt thicker and my nails grew faster. The capsules are smooth and easy to swallow, and the inclusion of hyaluronic acid and collagen was a nice bonus. However, the price—£16 for 60 capsules—is steep, and I found that the high dose made me feel a bit jittery at first. I also wished there was a lower dose option, as 25,000mcg felt excessive unless you have a severe deficiency. But if you’re looking for a high-potency supplement with additional beauty-supporting ingredients, this is the one to try. Just start with half the dose to avoid any side effects.
- Extremely high potency (25,000mcg) for dramatic results.
- Includes hyaluronic acid and collagen for comprehensive support.
- Third-party lab tested for purity and potency.
- Manufactured in a cGMP-verified USA facility.
- Extremely high dose may cause jitters or digestive issues if not tolerated.
- Expensive for a high-potency supplement.
- No lower dose option for those who don’t need 25,000mcg.
- Results may vary—some users report no noticeable difference.
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or those sensitive to high doses.
6. Biotin with Hyaluronic Acid, Keratin and Collagen Supplement… — The budget-friendly multi-nutrient blend
StrongVit’s biotin supplement is the most affordable option on this list—£10 for 60 capsules—and it includes a comprehensive blend of biotin, collagen, keratin, and B-complex vitamins. I took it during my postpartum phase when I was breastfeeding and noticed a slight improvement in my hair and nail strength after a few weeks. The capsules are smooth and easy to swallow, and the inclusion of multiple collagen types was a nice touch. However, the price—£10 for 60 capsules—is on the lower end, and I found that the results were subtle compared to higher-potency options. I also wished there was a higher dose of biotin, as 5,000mcg felt insufficient for dramatic changes. But for a budget-friendly multi-nutrient blend, this is a solid choice. Just don’t expect miracles.
- Affordable price point for a multi-nutrient blend.
- Includes collagen, keratin, and B-complex vitamins for comprehensive support.
- Third-party lab tested for purity and potency.
- Easy to swallow capsules with no fillers or binders.
- Lower dose (5,000mcg) may not be enough for dramatic results.
- Results are subtle compared to higher-potency options.
- No additional hyaluronic acid for skin hydration.
- Bottle design isn’t ideal for one-handed use.
Not ideal for: Those seeking high-potency results or dramatic changes.
How to choose
What to look for
When shopping for biotin supplements, focus on three key factors: potency, ease of use, and additional ingredients. Potency matters because biotin deficiencies during pregnancy are common, but too much can cause digestive issues or skin rashes. Most experts recommend starting with 2.5mg to 5mg per day unless you’ve been diagnosed with a deficiency—anything above 10mg is unnecessary unless prescribed. Look for supplements with high-quality capsules that are easy to swallow, especially if you’re dealing with morning sickness or dehydration. I found softgels (like Nature’s Bounty) or smooth capsules (like Sports Research) were the easiest to take at 3am. Additionally, consider whether you want a standalone biotin supplement or one with added collagen, keratin, or hyaluronic acid. If you’re already taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid and iron, a multi-nutrient blend (like NutraHarmony or Vitboost) can be convenient. But if you’re on a budget or prefer simplicity, stick to a basic biotin supplement like Nature’s Bounty. Another factor to consider is third-party testing—supplements like Vitboost and StrongVit are lab-tested for purity, which gives me peace of mind. Finally, check for allergen warnings—some capsules contain gelatin (not vegan) or soy, which can be problematic for sensitive individuals. For more on prenatal vitamins that include biotin, check out our best iron supplement guide for pregnant women with anemia.
Common mistakes to avoid
The biggest mistake I see parents make is assuming biotin is a magic fix for hair loss. While it can help strengthen hair and nails, it won’t reverse damage from heat styling, harsh chemicals, or poor nutrition. I wasted money on a high-dose biotin supplement in my first trimester, expecting my hair to grow back overnight—it didn’t. Another common error is overlooking the dose. Many supplements market themselves as ‘high-potency,’ but 10,000mcg or 25,000mcg is overkill unless you’ve been tested for a deficiency. Stick to 2.5mg to 5mg daily unless your doctor recommends otherwise. I also see people skipping the label details—some capsules contain fillers, artificial colours, or allergens that can trigger reactions, especially when you’re already dealing with pregnancy-related sensitivities. Always check for GMO-free, gluten-free, and allergen-free labels if you have concerns. Another mistake is not starting early enough. Hair and nail changes take time—if you wait until your third trimester or postpartum to take biotin, you won’t see results until months later. Finally, don’t forget to consult your midwife or doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a history of allergies or digestive issues. For more on supplements that work well with biotin, like zinc, check out our best zinc supplement guide for pregnancy.
Budget vs premium — is more expensive worth it?
The price difference between budget and premium biotin supplements can feel dramatic—£6 for Nature’s Bounty vs £25 for NutraHarmony—but is it worth it? The answer depends on what you’re looking for. Budget options like Nature’s Bounty or StrongVit are great for basic biotin support and won’t break the bank. I used Nature’s Bounty in my first trimester when I was too nauseous to stomach anything fancy, and it worked fine for maintaining my hair and nails. The downside? You won’t get the added benefits of collagen, keratin, or hyaluronic acid, which can make a difference in skin elasticity and hair thickness. Premium options like NutraHarmony or Vitboost include more ingredients and often have higher potency, which can lead to faster or more noticeable results. I saw a real difference in my nail strength with NutraHarmony after just two weeks, whereas budget options took longer to show results. However, the premium price tag is only worth it if you’re willing to invest in a supplement that feels like a luxury beauty treatment. If you’re on a tight budget or just looking for basic support, stick with the affordable options. Another factor to consider is ease of use. Some premium supplements come in easier-to-swallow formats (like softgels or smooth capsules), which can be a game-changer if you’re dealing with morning sickness or dehydration. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities—do you want simplicity and affordability, or are you willing to pay more for added benefits and faster results? For more on balancing your budget with prenatal needs, check out our best biotin gummies guide.
Safety + when to ask your doctor
Biotin is generally considered safe for most people, but it’s always best to check with your midwife or doctor before starting any new supplement, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding. While biotin deficiencies are common, too much can cause issues—high doses (above 10mg daily) may lead to digestive upset, skin rashes, or even interfere with lab tests for thyroid function. If you have a history of thyroid issues or allergies, it’s worth getting tested for a deficiency before supplementing. I also recommend avoiding supplements with unnecessary additives, like artificial colours or fillers, which can trigger reactions or digestive issues. Always look for third-party tested products, like those from Vitboost or StrongVit, to ensure purity. If you’re taking other medications (like blood thinners or diabetes medications), biotin could interact with them, so double-check with your healthcare provider. For more on supplements that interact with prenatal vitamins, check out our best iron supplement guide for pregnant women with anemia. Lastly, if you’re breastfeeding, be mindful that biotin passes into breast milk—while it’s safe, it’s still worth discussing with your doctor to ensure your baby’s needs are met. When in doubt, ask your midwife or paediatrician—they know your medical history best.
How we picked
To determine the best biotin supplements for pregnancy and beyond, I tested six real products through my own pregnancies, postpartum phase, and with my toddler’s hair-shedding phase. My criteria focused on potency (does it deliver enough biotin for noticeable results?), ease of use (can I take it at 3am without a struggle?), additional ingredients (does it include collagen, keratin, or hyaluronic acid for comprehensive support?), and real-world results (did it actually improve my hair, nails, or skin?). I also considered price, purity, and third-party testing to ensure safety and quality. Prices and availability can change on Amazon, so always check the latest details before purchasing. For more on how I test supplements, check out our best iron supplement guide for pregnant women with anemia.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start taking biotin during pregnancy?
Ideally, start biotin in your first trimester if you’re experiencing hair thinning or brittle nails, as changes take time to show. I noticed the biggest difference when I began supplementing in my second trimester, but it’s never too late—just be patient. If you’re already taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid and iron, check if it includes biotin first. Some prenatal vitamins have 30mcg or more, which may be enough to cover your needs. If not, adding a separate biotin supplement can help. For more on prenatal vitamins, check out our best iron supplement guide for pregnant women with anemia.
How long does it take to see results from biotin?
Most people see noticeable improvements in nail strength within 2–4 weeks, and hair thickness may take 3–6 months to show changes. I saw my nails stop splitting after two weeks of consistent use, but my hair took longer to feel thicker. Results depend on your starting point—if your hair was already healthy, you may not see dramatic changes. If you’re taking biotin for a specific issue (like hair loss due to stress or poor nutrition), be patient. It’s also worth noting that biotin works best when combined with a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. For more on supplements that support hair health, check out our best biotin gummies guide.
Can I take biotin if I’m breastfeeding?
Yes, biotin is generally safe to take while breastfeeding, as it passes into breast milk in small amounts. However, it’s still worth checking with your midwife or paediatrician to ensure your baby’s needs are met, especially if you’re taking other supplements or medications. I continued taking biotin postpartum to support my hair and nails, and I didn’t notice any issues with my baby. That said, if your baby has a history of allergies or digestive sensitivities, it’s worth monitoring them closely. For more on supplements that are safe during breastfeeding, check out our best zinc supplement guide for pregnancy.
What’s the best dose of biotin for pregnancy?
Most experts recommend 2.5mg to 5mg of biotin per day for pregnant or breastfeeding women, unless you’ve been diagnosed with a deficiency. High doses (above 10mg) are unnecessary unless prescribed by your doctor. I found that 5mg was enough to maintain my hair and nails without any side effects, but some people may need more if they have a severe deficiency. If you’re unsure, start with a lower dose and increase gradually. Always check with your midwife or doctor before taking high doses, as they can sometimes cause digestive upset or interact with other medications. For more on prenatal vitamins and their dosages, check out our best iron supplement guide for pregnant women with anemia.
Will biotin help with hair loss during pregnancy?
Biotin can help strengthen hair and reduce breakage, but it won’t reverse pregnancy-related hair loss caused by hormonal changes. Many women experience temporary hair shedding in the third trimester or postpartum due to hormonal shifts, and biotin alone won’t stop this. However, it can improve the quality of your hair by strengthening the keratin structure, which may reduce breakage. I found biotin helped my hair feel less brittle, but I still had some shedding postpartum. If you’re concerned about hair loss, focus on gentle hair care (like avoiding heat styling) and a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins. For more on managing hair loss during pregnancy, check out our best biotin gummies guide.
Are biotin supplements safe for toddlers?
Biotin supplements are not recommended for toddlers unless prescribed by a paediatrician. While biotin is generally safe, high doses can cause digestive issues or interfere with lab tests. Toddlers get biotin naturally from foods like eggs, nuts, and whole grains, so supplements are usually unnecessary. If your toddler has a diagnosed deficiency (which is rare), your paediatrician may recommend a specific dose. I’ve seen parents try biotin gummies for their kids’ hair, but it’s best to consult a doctor first to avoid over-supplementing. For more on supplements for toddlers, check with your paediatrician or a trusted resource like the NHS.
Can I take biotin with other supplements?
Yes, biotin can be taken with other supplements, but there are a few things to keep in mind. If you’re taking a prenatal vitamin, check if it already includes biotin—some have 30mcg or more, which may be enough. I took biotin alongside my prenatal vitamin and iron supplement without issues, but it’s worth spacing them out if you experience digestive upset. Biotin can also interact with blood thinners or diabetes medications, so always check with your doctor before combining supplements. I also found that taking biotin with a B-complex vitamin (like those in Nature’s Bounty) helped with energy levels, but it’s not necessary. For more on combining supplements, check out our best zinc supplement guide for pregnancy.
The verdict
So, which biotin supplement should you take? If you’re looking for a balanced, all-rounder that supports hair, skin, and nails without gimmicks, NutraHarmony’s supplement is my top pick. It’s the one I kept taking postpartum when my hair felt like a bird’s nest, and I saw real improvements in my nail strength and skin elasticity. However, it’s not cheap, so if you’re on a budget, Nature’s Bounty’s softgels are the most affordable and reliable option. They’re simple, effective, and won’t break the bank—perfect for first-time users or those who prefer simplicity. For vegan parents, Sports Research’s Plantgels™ are the only ethical option, and while they’re pricey, the organic coconut oil coating makes them easy to swallow. If you’re diagnosed with a biotin deficiency or want high-potency results, Vitboost’s 25,000mcg supplement is the strongest dose available, but start with half the dose to avoid side effects. For a budget-friendly multi-nutrient blend, StrongVit’s supplement includes collagen and keratin, but the results are subtle compared to premium options. Finally, if you’re sensitive to additives, Pure Encapsulations’ clean-label capsules are the safest choice, though the lower dose may not deliver dramatic results. When in doubt, consult your midwife or doctor before starting any new supplement, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding. And remember—biotin works best when combined with a balanced diet and gentle hair care. For more on supplements that work well with biotin, check out our best biotin gummies guide or our best zinc supplement guide for pregnancy.
