Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B and Nail Health: Scientific Evidence

Vitamin B refers to a group of water-soluble vitamins, including biotin (B7), niacin (B3), folate (B9), and others. Among these, biotin is the most studied in relation to nail health. Scientific studies have shown that biotin supplementation can improve brittle nails in some individuals. A few small clinical trials and case reports have demonstrated that biotin may increase nail thickness and reduce splitting and fragility, particularly in people with brittle nail syndrome. For example, one study published in the journal Cutis (1990) found that 2.5 mg of biotin daily improved nail firmness, hardness, and thickness in a significant proportion of participants.

However, the overall quality of evidence is moderate. Most studies are small, open-label, and lack placebo controls. There is limited evidence supporting the use of other B vitamins specifically for nail health, except in cases of deficiency. Severe deficiencies of B vitamins (such as B12 or folate) can lead to changes in the nails, including pigmentation and abnormal shape, but supplementation in healthy individuals without deficiency is not well supported by rigorous clinical trials.

In summary, there is some scientific validation—especially for biotin—of vitamin B’s role in nail health, particularly for those with brittle nails or deficiencies. The evidence is not robust across the entire B vitamin group, and more well-designed research is needed.

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