Zinc or Biotin Deficiency Quiz
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Redness of the skin
Sores or ulcers of the skin
Loss of hair
There are blisters
Red spots on skin
Skin erosion
Thinning hair
Not seeing your symptoms? No worries!
What is Zinc or Biotin Deficiency?
This happens when the body doesn't have enough zinc or biotin, which is a vitamin. Either deficiency can cause skin irritation, hair loss, and fungal infections on skin lesions. Causes may include malnutrition, issues with nutrient absorption in the gut, a short gut, certain long-term conditions, and some medications.
Typical Symptoms of Zinc or Biotin Deficiency
- Hair loss
- A lump or bump in the mouth
- Dry and flaky skin
- Areas of irritated or peeling skin
- Tongue pain
- Change in nail color
- Bumpy rash that appeared, then rapidly spread to the rest of the body
- Changes in taste
Diagnostic Questions for Zinc or Biotin Deficiency
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this disease:
- Are you experiencing increased hair loss?
- Have you noticed a lump or bump in your mouth?
- Do you have dry and flaky skin?
- Do you have areas of irritated or peeling skin?
- Is your tongue hurting?
Treatment of Zinc or Biotin Deficiency
Treatment depends on the root cause of the deficiency. Dietary changes or supplements may be enough for some people, while treating underlying conditions might allow the body to correct the deficiency on its own for others.
Reviewed By:
Unnati Patel, MD, MSc (Family Medicine)
Dr.Patel serves as Center Medical Director and a Primary Care Physician at Oak Street Health in Arizona. She graduated from the Zhejiang University School of Medicine prior to working in clinical research focused on preventive medicine at the University of Illinois and the University of Nevada. Dr. Patel earned her MSc in Global Health from Georgetown University, during which she worked with the WHO in Sierra Leone and Save the Children in Washington, D.C. She went on to complete her Family Medicine residency in Chicago at Norwegian American Hospital before completing a fellowship in Leadership in Value-based Care in conjunction with the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, where she earned her MBA. Dr. Patel’s interests include health tech and teaching medical students and she currently serves as Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Arizona School of Medicine.
Yoshinori Abe, MD (Internal Medicine)
Dr. Abe graduated from The University of Tokyo School of Medicine in 2015. He completed his residency at the Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Longevity Medical Center. He co-founded Ubie, Inc. in May 2017, where he currently serves as CEO & product owner at Ubie. Since December 2019, he has been a member of the Special Committee for Activation of Research in Emergency AI of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine. | | Dr. Abe has been elected in the 2020 Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Healthcare & Science category.
Content updated on Feb 13, 2025
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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People with similar symptoms also use Ubie's symptom checker to find possible causes
- White or yellow sores on lips
- Increase in dandruff
- Bald spots
- Rash in mouth
- Patchy hair loss
- Pain on the tongue
- Receding hairline
- Skin peeling
- Small rash in the mouth
- Before the hair loss, the scalp was itchy
- No new hair growth
- Pits on the fingertips
- Canker sores
- Scalp itch or discomfort, followed by hair falling out
- Dry flaky skin
See full list
Symptoms Related to Zinc or Biotin Deficiency
Diseases Related to Zinc or Biotin Deficiency
FAQs
Q.
Always Sick? Why Your Body Is Failing + Medically Approved Zinc Steps
A.
Feeling constantly sick, fatigued, or slow to heal often points to zinc deficiency, which weakens immune defenses and affects skin, gut lining, and hormones, with higher risk in people who are plant-based, have digestive disorders, drink excess alcohol, or are older adults. Medically approved steps include speaking with a clinician about testing, prioritizing zinc-rich foods like oysters and meat or soaked legumes, and using supplements at typical daily intakes of 8–11 mg, with short-term 15–30 mg only under supervision and never exceeding 40 mg, alongside sleep, stress control, and hydration. There are several factors to consider, including red flags that need urgent care, so see the complete guidance below.
References:
* Prasad AS. Zinc in human health: effect of zinc on immune cells. Mol Med. 2008 May-Jun;14(5-6):353-7. doi: 10.2119/2008-00034.Prasad. PMID: 18385810; PMCID: PMC2277319.
* Wessels I, Maywald M, Rink L. The Role of Zinc in Immune Cell Function and Immunity. Nutrients. 2017 Nov 10;9(11):1218. doi: 10.3390/nu9111218. PMID: 29125556; PMCID: PMC5713303.
* Hojyo S, Fukada T. Zinc and its role in immunity and inflammation. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2022 Mar 22;73:126980. doi: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.126980. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 35345999.
* Arentz G, et al. Zinc supplementation for the treatment of coronavirus disease 2019: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2021 Apr 23;106(5):e2069-e2082. doi: 10.1210/clinem/dgab143. PMID: 33748981; PMCID: PMC8063065.
* Calder PC, et al. Nutritional modulation of immune function: analysis of evidence-based literature. J Am Diet Assoc. 2009 Jun;109(6):1063-71. doi: 10.1016/j.jada.2009.03.003. PMID: 19463259.
Q.
Still Sick? Why Your Zinc Supplement Fails and Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Zinc often fails because the issue is not a true deficiency, the dose is off, or absorption is impaired; symptoms may also come from other deficiencies like iron or B12, thyroid disease, allergies, or chronic infections. More zinc will not supercharge immunity and long-term high doses can cause copper deficiency. Evidence-based next steps are to get targeted labs, review your diet and gut health, optimize sleep and stress, and avoid chronic doses over 40 mg; see the complete guidance below for crucial details that can change which steps you take.
References:
* Wessels I, Rink L. The Role of Zinc in Antiviral Immunity. Viruses. 2020 Nov 2;12(11):1300. doi: 10.3390/v12111300. PMID: 33148118; PMCID: PMC7693963.
* Kambe T, Fukada T, Tsuji T. Zinc homeostasis in human health and disease: new insights into the role of zinc transporters. J Nutr Biochem. 2015 Mar;26(3):271-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2014.11.006. Epub 2014 Nov 21. PMID: 25492167.
* Gombart AF, Pierre A, Maggini S. Dietary Micronutrients in the Function of the Immune System. Nutrients. 2020 Jan 29;12(1):236. doi: 10.3390/nu12010236. PMID: 32019126; PMCID: PMC7019735.
* Schuhmacher C, Spoo L, Wesch C, Köhler H, Böning J. Adverse effects of zinc supplementation: a review of the literature. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2019 Jun;53:149-158. doi: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2019.03.003. Epub 2019 Mar 18. PMID: 30999961.
* Read SA, Obeid S, Ahlenstiel C, Ahlenstiel G. Zinc and Its Role in Immunity and Inflammation. Adv Nutr. 2019 Jul 1;10(4):696-711. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmz013. PMID: 31039019; PMCID: PMC6628855.
Q.
Nitrogen Test Results: What Women 30-45 Must Know & Do Next
A.
BUN nitrogen test results in women 30 to 45 often reflect hydration status, protein intake, recent exercise, and medication use, with highs commonly from dehydration, high protein, or NSAIDs, and lows from low protein, overhydration, pregnancy, or liver issues. Your provider may pair BUN with creatinine, eGFR, urinalysis, electrolytes, and sometimes liver tests to see if a change is temporary or points to kidney or metabolic concerns. Next steps usually include hydrating, reviewing meds and supplements, checking your protein target, and considering repeat labs, but seek medical care promptly if results are significantly abnormal, persist, or you have red flag symptoms or conditions; there are several factors to consider, and key details that could change your plan are explained below.
References:
* Devine A, Gabel K, Leidy HJ. Protein intake in women: a review of the literature on requirements and benefits. J Nutr Sci. 2022 Mar 25;11:e24. doi: 10.1017/jns.2022.21. PMID: 35432840; PMCID: PMC9000100.
* Reijven PL, Hulsewé KW, Soeters PB. Assessment of nitrogen balance: a review of its current use and limitations. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2018 Jan;21(1):50-54. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000424. PMID: 29099395.
* Ojo A, Li S, McClure E, Jha V, Jaacks L, Peden-Adams M, Saran R, Stack AG, Tarver-Carr ME, Vassalotti JA, Young BA, Yee J. Kidney function in healthy women and women with mild-to-moderate chronic kidney disease: results from the Chronic Kidney Disease in Women Study (CKD-WINS). BMC Nephrol. 2017 Jan 31;18(1):31. doi: 10.1186/s12882-017-0447-1. PMID: 28143431; PMCID: PMC5282766.
* Chen H, Guo S, Wu Q, Zeng X. Dietary protein intake and chronic kidney disease progression: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMC Nephrol. 2023 Apr 15;24(1):119. doi: 10.1186/s12882-023-03152-7. PMID: 37059902; PMCID: PMC10103175.
* Varghese C, Singh A. Nutritional management of metabolic disorders in women. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2020 Jul;23(4):254-259. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000662. PMID: 32412999.
Q.
Selenium Uses for Women 30-45: Vital Benefits & Next Steps
A.
There are several factors to consider. For women 30 to 45, selenium supports thyroid and immune function, fertility, heart and brain health, and hair, skin, and nails, but it is not a treatment and too much can be harmful. Aim for about 55 mcg daily from foods like one to two Brazil nuts, fish, eggs, poultry, and whole grains while avoiding more than 400 mcg from all sources, and seek testing or medical guidance if you have thyroid concerns, are trying to conceive, or plan to supplement. See below for crucial dosing nuances, safety risks, key food choices, interactions with iodine, zinc, iron, and biotin, and recommended next steps.
References:
* Meamar R, Azimi M, Faraji R, Kargar-Jahromi H. The effects of selenium on reproductive function, fetal development, and pregnancy complications: A systematic review. J Reprod Immunol. 2021 May;145:103309. doi: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103309. Epub 2021 Apr 6. PMID: 33887550.
* Ferrari SM, Fallahi P, Antonelli A, Benvenga S. Selenium and thyroid disorders. Minerva Endocrinol. 2018 Sep;43(3):362-371. doi: 10.23736/S0391-1977.18.02890-4. Epub 2018 Apr 10. PMID: 29637798.
* Shibata K, Ishigaki Y, Kurita H, Kobayashi K, Sakamaki R, Matsuyama H, Sako A, Sasaki A, Takahashi H, Yokota M, Koseki M, Tanaka H, Ishii S, Ishii T, Fujimoto Y, Fujinaga M, Shimizu T, Takase K, Takai M, Nakayama S, Okamura Y, Ota H, Suzuki N, Yamashita S, Yoshioka M, Akamatsu T, Kikuchi H, Narisawa T. Sex differences in selenium and immune functions: a review. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2018;64(1):1-8. doi: 10.3177/jnsv.64.1. PMID: 29503378.
* Solati Z, Kord Varkaneh H, Gaeini H, Zarei M, Bahrami A, Akbari E, Mousavi SM. The effects of selenium supplementation on mental health in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. J Affect Disord. 2021 May 1;286:23-31. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.02.046. Epub 2021 Mar 4. PMID: 33677353.
* Shreenath AP, Dooley J, Dao M. Selenium Deficiency. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. PMID: 32491565.
Q.
7 Warning Signs of Zinc Deficiency in Women Over 65
A.
The seven warning signs are frequent infections, slow wound healing or fragile skin, changes in taste or low appetite, hair thinning, difficulty seeing in low light, mood or concentration changes, and digestive issues or unexplained weight loss. Risk rises after 65 because absorption drops, diets narrow, and some medications interfere, so there are several factors to consider. See below for guidance on when to see a doctor, how diet and supplements fit in, and how overlapping deficiencies can change the right next steps.
References:
* Haase H, Rink L. Zinc deficiency in the elderly: causes, consequences, and diagnosis. Age and Ageing. 2017 Jan;46(1):15-18. doi: 10.1093/ageing/afw180. Epub 2016 Nov 17. PMID: 27856488.
* Wessells KR, Singh GM, Aaron GJ, Hyder A. Zinc deficiency: A common and unrecognised risk factor for impaired health in older adults. Curr Nutr Rep. 2019 Jun;8(2):162-171. doi: 10.1007/s13668-019-0268-z. PMID: 31087192.
* Wessels I, Maywald M, Rink L. Zinc as a Gatekeeper of Immune Function. Nutrients. 2020 Dec 23;13(1):32. doi: 10.3390/nu13010032. PMID: 33374495; PMCID: PMC7828695.
* Maares M, Haase H. Zinc supplementation improves the nutritional status and immunity in the elderly: A meta-analysis. Clin Nutr. 2019 Dec;38(6):2618-2627. doi: 10.1016/j.clnu.2018.12.016. Epub 2018 Dec 20. PMID: 30626573.
* Calzada B, Barabash V, García A, Carballo M. Micronutrient Deficiencies in Older Adults: A Scoping Review. Nutrients. 2021 Sep 24;13(10):3330. doi: 10.3390/nu13103330. PMID: 34684534; PMCID: PMC8539223.
Q.
Zinc Benefits for Seniors: Protecting Immune Function
A.
Zinc helps seniors maintain stronger immune defenses by supporting T cells, moderating inflammation, preserving skin and airway barriers, and aiding recovery; because absorption and intake often decline with age, low zinc can mean more infections, slower wound healing, and changes in taste and appetite. Aim to get zinc from foods like seafood, meat, beans, nuts, and fortified grains, and use supplements carefully at about 8 to 11 mg per day unless your clinician advises otherwise, since higher doses and some medications can cause problems; there are several factors to consider, and important safety details and when to seek medical care are outlined below.
References:
* Rink L, Kirschning CJ. Zinc and immune function: the current status. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2021 May;65:126744. doi: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126744. Epub 2021 Mar 1. PMID: 33714859.
* Bonaventura P, van de Plassche L, Masi A, Amati F. Trace elements, vitamin D and the immune system: therapeutic implications for the elderly. Geroscience. 2020 Dec;42(6):1591-1608. doi: 10.1007/s11357-020-00275-z. Epub 2020 Oct 13. PMID: 33048123.
* Gammoh N, Rink L. Zinc deficiency and immune dysfunction in the elderly: A systematic review. Exp Gerontol. 2017 Jul;93:84-93. doi: 10.1016/j.exger.2017.04.004. Epub 2017 Apr 7. PMID: 28390886.
* Prasad AS. Zinc Supplementation Improves the Immune Response in Aged Individuals. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2017 Jul;42:156-161. doi: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2017.03.003. Epub 2017 Mar 9. PMID: 28416041.
* Wessels I, Maywald M, Rink L. Zinc in immunity, infection and inflammation. Nutrients. 2017 Jun 24;9(6):625. doi: 10.3390/nu9060625. PMID: 28640169.
Q.
Zinc for Women: Essential Support for Skin and Immunity
A.
Zinc supports clear skin, wound healing, and resilient immunity in women, with needs that change across life stages. Most women need about 8 mg daily, rising to roughly 11 mg in pregnancy and 12 mg while breastfeeding. There are several factors to consider, including the best food sources, when supplements are appropriate, deficiency warning signs, medication interactions, and safe upper limits that could affect your next steps. See below to understand more.
References:
* Crupi, R., Cuzzocrea, S., & Di Paola, R. (2020). The Role of Micronutrients in the Immune System: Focus on Zinc. *International Journal of Molecular Sciences*, *21*(9), 3241.
* Agheli, M., Rezaei, A., Beheshtian, M., Vafaei, Z., Faghfoori, Z., & Mofrad, M. R. K. (2023). Zinc in dermatological diseases. *Frontiers in Pharmacology*, *14*, 1113543.
* Maxfield, L., & Crane, J. S. (2023). Zinc in Skin and Body Health. *StatPearls*.
* Zoroddu, M. A., Aaseth, J., Crisponi, G., Grillo, G., Medici, S., Peana, M., & Nurchi, V. M. (2019). The multifaceted role of zinc in antioxidant systems. *Antioxidants*, *8*(12), 652.
* Maywald, M., Wessels, I., & Rink, L. (2020). Zinc deficiency: a critical challenge to human health. *International Journal of Molecular Sciences*, *21*(9), 3042.
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Lagier P, Bimar P, Sériat-Gautier S, Dejode JM, Brun T, Bimar J. Carence en zinc et en biotine au cours d'une alimentation parentérale prolongée chez le nourrisson [Zinc and biotin deficiency during prolonged parenteral nutrition in the infant]. Presse Med. 1987 Oct 31;16(36):1795-7. French. PMID: 2962105.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2962105/Ogawa Y, Kinoshita M, Sato T, Shimada S, Kawamura T. Biotin Is Required for the Zinc Homeostasis in the Skin. Nutrients. 2019 Apr 24;11(4):919. doi: 10.3390/nu11040919. PMID: 31022908; PMCID: PMC6520690.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31022908/Godswill, A. G., Somtochukwu, I. V., Ikechukwu, A. O., ... (2020). Health benefits of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and their associated deficiency diseases: A systematic review. International Journal of ….
https://www.iprjb.org/journals/index.php/ijf/article/view/1024