Biotin is part of the B vitamin family. Nicotinic acid is also known as the B vitamin niacin. A deficiency of the B vitamin biotin causes hair loss around the eyes and face. Levels of serum glucose may rise, and B vitamin thiamine may fall. The most effective method of preventing AKS is to avoid B vitamin/thiamine deficiency. Biotin, a B vitamin, is found in foods such as liver, egg yolks, and milk. Biotin (B7) is another B vitamin that, when deficient, leads to alopecia.