The Hidden Truth About Biotin and Acne: What You Need to Know

If you’re struggling with breakouts and taking biotin or “hair, skin & nails” supplements, your skincare routine might not be the only problem—your supplements might be. While these vitamins promise glowing skin and strong nails, they can actually trigger acne in people with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Here's why.

💊 What Is Biotin and Why Is It in These Supplements?

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is often marketed to promote stronger nails, shinier hair, and healthier skin. It’s found in many over-the-counter “beauty” supplements—especially those labeled for hair, skin & nails.

It sounds great in theory, but here’s the truth: biotin can do more harm than good for acne-prone skin. This is especially true if you already struggle with breakouts or sensitivity.

🚫 Biotin and Pore Clogging: What’s the Link?

Biotin increases keratin production. At first, this seems beneficial—after all, keratin is what makes up your hair and nails. However, the issue arises for those with acne-prone skin, who often deal with excess skin cell buildup (also known as keratinization).

Adding more keratin into the mix can actually make it worse by:

• Increasing keratin buildup in pores, which leads to clogged pores.

• Preventing proper skin cell shedding.

• Creating the perfect environment for breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads.

  
  

This is a classic case of internal pore clogging—your pores become blocked from the inside out.

⚠️ Not Just Biotin: Other Hidden Acne Triggers in Supplements

Many “beauty” supplements contain ingredients that may not be ideal for your skin, including:

• B12 (which can also trigger acne in some individuals)

• Iodine (commonly found in multivitamins and known to cause breakouts)

• Coconut oil or whey (sometimes included in powdered supplements)

  
  

These can all contribute to pore clogging, especially if you’re already prone to congestion or breakouts.

🧴 What Should You Do Instead?

If you’re serious about clearing your skin, it’s best to stop any hair/skin/nails supplements for at least 4–6 weeks and monitor your skin’s response. Focus instead on:

• ✅ A balanced diet

• ✅ A consistent, acne-safe skincare routine

• ✅ Supplements that are truly acne-safe (no biotin, iodine, or other triggers)

  
  

Need help checking if your current supplements or products are breaking you out? Use our free Pore-Clogging Ingredient Checker to copy and paste ingredient lists and identify potential culprits.

✅ Clear Complexion Skincare = Acne-Safe, Supplement-Smart

At Clear Complexion Skincare, we understand the science behind pore clogging. That’s why every product we create is free of pore-clogging ingredients, non-comedogenic, and truly acne-safe.

We go beyond skincare by educating you on hidden acne triggers—including common supplements and lifestyle factors. If you're ready to stop guessing and start clearing your skin, our team of acne experts is here to help.

🔍 Not Sure What’s Causing Your Breakouts?

Take the first step by filling out our Acne Boot Camp Questionnaire. You’ll receive a custom routine created by a licensed acne expert who knows how to address internal and external pore-clogging issues.

Enhancing Your Diet for Better Skin

To really boost your results, consider improving your diet. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E can be beneficial for your skin. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, can also aid in reducing inflammation.

Stress and Its Impact on Skin Health

Don’t underestimate the role of stress in skin health. High stress levels can lead to hormonal changes that trigger breakouts. Consider stress-relief techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Keeping your stress in check can significantly benefit your skin.

Final Thoughts

Biotin may help your hair grow, but it could also be clogging your pores and triggering breakouts. If you’re prone to acne, skipping “hair, skin & nails” supplements might be the missing piece in your clear skin puzzle.

✨ Take control of your skincare from the inside out—with expert guidance, acne-safe products, and education that empowers you to make the best choices for your skin.