We observed five notable cases of acneiform eruptions linked to vitamin B12 in women aged 21 to 62. These eruptions manifested between one week and five months after starting vitamin B12 therapy.
The primary symptoms consisted of papules and pustules appearing mainly on the face. In three of the patients, these skin issues also extended to areas like the neck, shoulders, chest, and upper back, but interestingly, there were no signs of comedones or cysts.
Out of the five women, two had particularly high levels of vitamin B12 in their blood. A closer look at one patient's skin under a microscope revealed eosinophilic folliculitis, a type of inflammation in hair follicles. Fortunately, all patients experienced spontaneous and complete recovery within three to six weeks after stopping vitamin B12 treatment.
Overall, while vitamin B12 did not provide a benefit for acne treatment, it highlighted an unusual side effect of acne-like symptoms in these cases.
We observed a fascinating case involving a 47-year-old man who developed a skin condition after starting vitamin B12 treatment for pernicious anemia. Just six weeks into his weekly injections of hydroxocobalamin, he experienced a sudden and widespread outbreak of inflammatory acne-like bumps on his face and trunk. This skin eruption was not only extensive but also caused significant itching and included comedones, commonly known as blackheads, particularly on his chest.
Upon closer examination, the medical team diagnosed him with a vitamin B12-induced acneiform eruption, which is different from typical acne vulgaris. This distinction came from several unique factors, including the patient's age, the sudden onset of the condition, and the presence of pruritus (itching) alongside a uniform type of lesions across non-seborrheic areas.
After normalizing his vitamin B12 levels, the hydroxocobalamin injections were stopped, and lymecycline—a type of antibiotic—was introduced. Remarkably, this led to a complete resolution of his skin lesions within three months. This case highlights how vitamin B12 can have an unusual, but significant impact on skin health, demonstrating that its effects are not just limited to its role in blood health but can extend into dermatological issues as well.
Read More
4
Vitamin B12 affects acne mechanisms
Vitamin B12 modulates the transcriptome of the skin microbiota in acne pathogenesis.
We explored how vitamin B12 influences the skin microbiota and its potential connection to acne development. By analyzing the skin microbiota of acne patients and healthy individuals, we found that there are significant differences in the transcriptional profiles of these groups. Specifically, we noticed that the pathway responsible for vitamin B12 biosynthesis in a skin bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes was less active in those with acne.
To dive deeper, we conducted an experiment with healthy subjects who were given vitamin B12 supplements. Our findings showed that this supplementation suppressed the expression of vitamin B12 production genes in P. acnes and altered the overall activity of the skin microbiota. Interestingly, one participant developed acne just a week after starting the supplements, shedding light on a possible mechanism behind the observed connections.
Additionally, we identified that vitamin B12 supplemented P. acnes cultures led to an increased production of porphyrins, compounds known to trigger inflammation associated with acne. This suggests a novel pathway through which vitamin B12 may influence acne development, aligning with clinical observations that some individuals experience breakouts following vitamin B12 supplementation.
Overall, our study emphasizes the complex interplay between vitamin B12 and the skin microbiota, hinting at its pivotal role in acne pathogenesis.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
0
Mood improvement
Amazing for mood and energy, but watch the acne! This sublingual B12 has significantly impacted my mood swings, energy, and concentration quite quickly. I'm pleased to have tried this for my anaemia related to subclinical hypothyroidism. However, I may need to reduce the dosage due to hairline and back acne, which can occur with excessive B12.
Read More
0
Caused acne
The supplement is good but may not suit everyone as it provoked acne for me. The tablets dissolve slowly, beginning absorption in the mouth. It’s essential for those over 40 to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, particularly for vegans since B12 is mainly found in animal products. However, B12 led to my acne, so I'm seeking alternatives.
Read More
0
Intense acne
I was advised to take this product by my naturopath as I'm low in B12, but I would caution those prone to acne. It caused intense cystic acne for me, a condition I had never really dealt with before.
We observed a fascinating case involving a 47-year-old man who developed a skin condition after starting vitamin B12 treatment for pernicious anemia. Just six weeks into his weekly injections of hydroxocobalamin, he experienced a sudden and widespread outbreak of inflammatory acne-like bumps on his face and trunk. This skin eruption was not only extensive but also caused significant itching and included comedones, commonly known as blackheads, particularly on his chest.
Upon closer examination, the medical team diagnosed him with a vitamin B12-induced acneiform eruption, which is different from typical acne vulgaris. This distinction came from several unique factors, including the patient's age, the sudden onset of the condition, and the presence of pruritus (itching) alongside a uniform type of lesions across non-seborrheic areas.
After normalizing his vitamin B12 levels, the hydroxocobalamin injections were stopped, and lymecycline—a type of antibiotic—was introduced. Remarkably, this led to a complete resolution of his skin lesions within three months. This case highlights how vitamin B12 can have an unusual, but significant impact on skin health, demonstrating that its effects are not just limited to its role in blood health but can extend into dermatological issues as well.
Read More
9.5
Vitamin B12 causes acne-like eruptions
Acneiform eruptions caused by vitamin B12: A report of five cases and review of the literature.
We observed five notable cases of acneiform eruptions linked to vitamin B12 in women aged 21 to 62. These eruptions manifested between one week and five months after starting vitamin B12 therapy.
The primary symptoms consisted of papules and pustules appearing mainly on the face. In three of the patients, these skin issues also extended to areas like the neck, shoulders, chest, and upper back, but interestingly, there were no signs of comedones or cysts.
Out of the five women, two had particularly high levels of vitamin B12 in their blood. A closer look at one patient's skin under a microscope revealed eosinophilic folliculitis, a type of inflammation in hair follicles. Fortunately, all patients experienced spontaneous and complete recovery within three to six weeks after stopping vitamin B12 treatment.
Overall, while vitamin B12 did not provide a benefit for acne treatment, it highlighted an unusual side effect of acne-like symptoms in these cases.
Read More
9
Vitamin B12's unclear acne efficacy
Successful re-introduction of vitamin B12 after using isotretinoin to treat severe acne medicamentosa.
We explored the impact of reintroducing vitamin B12 in individuals who had undergone treatment with isotretinoin for severe acne, known as acne medicamentosa. This study aimed to examine whether vitamin B12 could help improve acne conditions after completing isotretinoin therapy.
Although we discussed the effects of vitamin B12, the study’s structure didn’t isolate it from other treatments, which might make it hard to gauge vitamin B12's full effectiveness on its own.
We observed that while vitamin B12 had some interaction in the treatment process, the overall conclusion about its significant benefits for acne remains unclear due to the lack of controlled conditions in the study design.
Therefore, while reintroducing vitamin B12 after isotretinoin treatment shows some potential, it does not provide strong enough evidence to confirm a notable impact on acne improvement alone.
Read More
7
Vitamin B12's effect on acne explored
Strain-Level Differences in Porphyrin Production and Regulation in Propionibacterium acnes Elucidate Disease Associations.
We explored the relationship between vitamin B12 and acne by examining how this vitamin influences porphyrin production in different strains of Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium that resides on our skin. Previous studies hinted that vitamin B12 could trigger higher porphyrin levels, leading to acne development.
Our findings confirmed that acne-associated strains of P. acnes produced significantly more porphyrins, especially when given vitamin B12. In contrast, strains linked to healthy skin showed much lower porphyrin levels and did not respond to vitamin B12 at all. This stark difference sheds light on how specific strains can either contribute to acne or support skin health.
Additionally, we identified a repressor gene in health-associated strains that seemed to limit porphyrin production, further indicating that not all P. acnes strains are created equal. While our study provides valuable insights into the potential role of vitamin B12 in acne's development, it also highlights the complex interplay of genetics in skin health.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial, as it paves the way for potential treatments that could harness the benefits of health-associated P. acnes strains while managing acne development.
Read More
5
Vitamin B12 deficiency linked to acne
The Relationship Between Nutritional Anemia and Acne: A Case-Control Study.
We delved into the relationship between nutritional anemia, specifically vitamin B12 deficiency, and acne among young individuals in the Qassim Region of Saudi Arabia. Utilizing a case-control study design, we compared a group of people with acne to a control group of similar age and demographics. Our research involved Electronic Health Records from a local outpatient department, which allowed us to analyze a broad set of data.
Throughout our investigation, we found that those suffering from acne had a noticeably higher rate of vitamin B12 deficiency—38.6% in the acne group compared to the control group. However, while we saw this correlation, we did not establish a significant relationship between overall vitamin B12 levels and various blood parameters related to anemia. This means that although vitamin B12 deficiency was more prevalent in those with acne, it doesn’t necessarily imply that treating acne specifically with vitamin B12 will yield positive results.
Ultimately, our findings open the door for further investigation into how nutritional factors, particularly vitamin B12, might influence acne severity or development. We believe additional studies are necessary to confirm the possible connections we've observed and to explore potential treatment pathways.
Amazing for mood and energy, but watch the acne! This sublingual B12 has significantly impacted my mood swings, energy, and concentration quite quickly. I'm pleased to have tried this for my anaemia related to subclinical hypothyroidism. However, I may need to reduce the dosage due to hairline and back acne, which can occur with excessive B12.
Read More
0
Caused acne
The supplement is good but may not suit everyone as it provoked acne for me. The tablets dissolve slowly, beginning absorption in the mouth. It’s essential for those over 40 to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, particularly for vegans since B12 is mainly found in animal products. However, B12 led to my acne, so I'm seeking alternatives.
Read More
0
Intense acne
I was advised to take this product by my naturopath as I'm low in B12, but I would caution those prone to acne. It caused intense cystic acne for me, a condition I had never really dealt with before.
Read More
2
Severe breakouts experienced
8 people found this helpful
I experienced skin breakouts after taking this. Having previously taken B vitamins, I knew the nausea and aftertaste could be an issue, particularly since I’m pescatarian. I tried this lozenge chewable at my husband’s suggestion; it tasted good with no aftertaste. However, after a few weeks, I developed severe breakouts on my face, something I hadn’t encountered in years. Since I hadn’t changed my diet, I discovered that B12 can cause acne. My skin became sensitive and blemished, forcing me to stop taking it.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages, though it's especially prevalent among teenagers and young adults. It occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and cysts. The main factors contributing to acne include excess oil production, hormonal changes, and the presence of bacteria on the skin. Acne can manifest in various forms, from mild cases with just a few breakouts to more severe forms that can cause significant inflammation and scarring.
Treatment for acne varies depending on its severity and can range from over-the-counter topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to prescription medications including retinoids and antibiotics. Lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a balanced diet and proper skin hygiene, may also contribute to managing and reducing breakouts. Despite being a common skin issue, the psychological impact of acne should not be underestimated, as it can affect self-esteem and overall quality of life.
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several vital functions in the human body. It is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Naturally occurring in animal products, the vitamin can be found in high concentrations in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, making it particularly important for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as plant-based sources of B12 are limited and often require supplementation.
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious health issues, including anemia, fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage. Due to its significance, it's crucial for individuals, particularly those at risk of deficiency, to ensure adequate intake through diet or supplementation. For most adults, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is around 2.4 micrograms, though pregnant or breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. If you're considering B12 supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific needs and health status.
While individual results may vary, many people taking vitamin B12 for acne report seeing some improvement within 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use. However, it's important to note that B12 is not a universal solution; its efficacy can depend on various factors, including the underlying cause of acne, individual skin type, and overall diet. For those with a deficiency in B12, improvements may be more noticeable as it can help support skin health and potentially reduce breakouts.
It's always a good idea to monitor your skin's response and consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide tailored advice, recommend the best form and dosage of B12, and ensure that you're not overlooking other underlying issues that may be contributing to acne. Additionally, maintaining a comprehensive skincare regimen and healthy lifestyle can enhance the results of B12 supplementation.
Recent studies indicate that vitamin B12's role in acne is complex and multi-faceted, revealing both potential associations and side effects. For instance, a case-control study highlighted a significant link between vitamin B12 deficiency and acne, suggesting that while acne sufferers had a higher deficiency rate (38.6%), this does not confirm that vitamin B12 supplementation would effectively treat acne [1]. This may point towards a need for more research to explore nutritional influences on acne severity rather than suggesting vitamin B12 as a reliable treatment.
Conversely, some studies documented cases where vitamin B12 treatment led to acne-like eruptions, emphasizing that while it can have dermatological impacts, it does not necessarily support acne treatment [2][3]. Additionally, certain investigations indicated that high levels of vitamin B12 could potentially increase porphyrin production in acne-associated skin bacteria, potentially exacerbating acne conditions [5][6]. In summary, current scientific research does not robustly support the use of vitamin B12 as a viable supplement for treating acne, and potential users should proceed with caution and consult healthcare professionals before starting any supplementation.
Users have reported notable improvements in mood, energy levels, and concentration after using this sublingual B12 supplement. For instance, one user mentioned a "significant impact" on their mood swings and energy, crediting the supplement with helping to address anemia related to subclinical hypothyroidism Read Review. Another user emphasized the importance of B12, particularly for vegans and older adults, highlighting its potential in preventing conditions like Alzheimer’s, which adds to its perceived value in dietary supplementation Read Review.
However, individual results can vary, and several users have experienced unwanted side effects, particularly related to acne. One reviewer noted a troubling case of cystic acne that arose after starting the supplement, something they hadn't faced before Read Review. This leads to a recommendation for individuals prone to acne to be cautious when considering this supplement, as it may not suit everyone. While many find it beneficial, it’s crucial to weigh both the positives and the possible drawbacks when making a decision.
Users have reported mixed experiences when it comes to combining this sublingual B12 supplement with other supplements for managing acne. Several individuals noted that while the B12 was effective in boosting mood and energy, it also triggered acne-related side effects in some users. For instance, one reviewer shared that they experienced increased hairline and back acne, prompting them to consider reducing their dosage Read Review. Another user remarked that they faced significant cystic acne after starting the supplement, which they hadn't dealt with previously Read Review.
Moreover, users have expressed concerns about how B12 may not be compatible with everyone, especially individuals prone to acne. One person specifically mentioned that the addition of B12 led to acne flare-ups, causing them to seek alternative supplementation options Read Review. Consequently, for those considering this supplement as part of an acne regimen, caution is advised, and it may be beneficial to monitor how the body responds when combining it with other acne treatments.
Based on user reviews, it appears that the right dose of B12 for treating acne may vary significantly among individuals. Some users have reported positive effects on mood and energy levels when using B12, but also cautioned about its potential to exacerbate acne. One user noted that while the sublingual B12 improved her mood swings and energy quickly, she experienced hairline and back acne, suggesting the need to reduce her dosage to manage this side effect Read Review.
Similarly, another reviewer mentioned that while the supplement is beneficial, it led to acne for them, prompting a search for alternatives Read Review. A third user reported intense cystic acne after being advised to take the supplement, highlighting a caution for those who are prone to acne Read Review. Therefore, users seeking to incorporate B12 for its benefits should consider individual responses and possibly adjust the dosage or explore different forms to mitigate acne flare-ups.
0
Mood improvement
Amazing for mood and energy, but watch the acne! This sublingual B12 has significantly impacted my mood swings, energy, and concentration quite quickly. I'm pleased to have tried this for my anaemia related to subclinical hypothyroidism. However, I may need to reduce the dosage due to hairline and back acne, which can occur with excessive B12.
0
Caused acne
The supplement is good but may not suit everyone as it provoked acne for me. The tablets dissolve slowly, beginning absorption in the mouth. It’s essential for those over 40 to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, particularly for vegans since B12 is mainly found in animal products. However, B12 led to my acne, so I'm seeking alternatives.
0
Intense acne
I was advised to take this product by my naturopath as I'm low in B12, but I would caution those prone to acne. It caused intense cystic acne for me, a condition I had never really dealt with before.
5
Vitamin B12 deficiency linked to acne
The Relationship Between Nutritional Anemia and Acne: A Case-Control Study.
We delved into the relationship between nutritional anemia, specifically vitamin B12 deficiency, and acne among young individuals in the Qassim Region of Saudi Arabia. Utilizing a case-control study design, we compared a group of people with acne to a control group of similar age and demographics. Our research involved Electronic Health Records from a local outpatient department, which allowed us to analyze a broad set of data.
Throughout our investigation, we found that those suffering from acne had a noticeably higher rate of vitamin B12 deficiency—38.6% in the acne group compared to the control group. However, while we saw this correlation, we did not establish a significant relationship between overall vitamin B12 levels and various blood parameters related to anemia. This means that although vitamin B12 deficiency was more prevalent in those with acne, it doesn’t necessarily imply that treating acne specifically with vitamin B12 will yield positive results.
Ultimately, our findings open the door for further investigation into how nutritional factors, particularly vitamin B12, might influence acne severity or development. We believe additional studies are necessary to confirm the possible connections we've observed and to explore potential treatment pathways.
We observed a fascinating case involving a 47-year-old man who developed a skin condition after starting vitamin B12 treatment for pernicious anemia. Just six weeks into his weekly injections of hydroxocobalamin, he experienced a sudden and widespread outbreak of inflammatory acne-like bumps on his face and trunk. This skin eruption was not only extensive but also caused significant itching and included comedones, commonly known as blackheads, particularly on his chest.
Upon closer examination, the medical team diagnosed him with a vitamin B12-induced acneiform eruption, which is different from typical acne vulgaris. This distinction came from several unique factors, including the patient's age, the sudden onset of the condition, and the presence of pruritus (itching) alongside a uniform type of lesions across non-seborrheic areas.
After normalizing his vitamin B12 levels, the hydroxocobalamin injections were stopped, and lymecycline—a type of antibiotic—was introduced. Remarkably, this led to a complete resolution of his skin lesions within three months. This case highlights how vitamin B12 can have an unusual, but significant impact on skin health, demonstrating that its effects are not just limited to its role in blood health but can extend into dermatological issues as well.
9.5
Vitamin B12 causes acne-like eruptions
Acneiform eruptions caused by vitamin B12: A report of five cases and review of the literature.
We observed five notable cases of acneiform eruptions linked to vitamin B12 in women aged 21 to 62. These eruptions manifested between one week and five months after starting vitamin B12 therapy.
The primary symptoms consisted of papules and pustules appearing mainly on the face. In three of the patients, these skin issues also extended to areas like the neck, shoulders, chest, and upper back, but interestingly, there were no signs of comedones or cysts.
Out of the five women, two had particularly high levels of vitamin B12 in their blood. A closer look at one patient's skin under a microscope revealed eosinophilic folliculitis, a type of inflammation in hair follicles. Fortunately, all patients experienced spontaneous and complete recovery within three to six weeks after stopping vitamin B12 treatment.
Overall, while vitamin B12 did not provide a benefit for acne treatment, it highlighted an unusual side effect of acne-like symptoms in these cases.
7
Vitamin B12's effect on acne explored
Strain-Level Differences in Porphyrin Production and Regulation in Propionibacterium acnes Elucidate Disease Associations.
We explored the relationship between vitamin B12 and acne by examining how this vitamin influences porphyrin production in different strains of Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium that resides on our skin. Previous studies hinted that vitamin B12 could trigger higher porphyrin levels, leading to acne development.
Our findings confirmed that acne-associated strains of P. acnes produced significantly more porphyrins, especially when given vitamin B12. In contrast, strains linked to healthy skin showed much lower porphyrin levels and did not respond to vitamin B12 at all. This stark difference sheds light on how specific strains can either contribute to acne or support skin health.
Additionally, we identified a repressor gene in health-associated strains that seemed to limit porphyrin production, further indicating that not all P. acnes strains are created equal. While our study provides valuable insights into the potential role of vitamin B12 in acne's development, it also highlights the complex interplay of genetics in skin health.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial, as it paves the way for potential treatments that could harness the benefits of health-associated P. acnes strains while managing acne development.
4
Vitamin B12 affects acne mechanisms
Vitamin B12 modulates the transcriptome of the skin microbiota in acne pathogenesis.
We explored how vitamin B12 influences the skin microbiota and its potential connection to acne development. By analyzing the skin microbiota of acne patients and healthy individuals, we found that there are significant differences in the transcriptional profiles of these groups. Specifically, we noticed that the pathway responsible for vitamin B12 biosynthesis in a skin bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes was less active in those with acne.
To dive deeper, we conducted an experiment with healthy subjects who were given vitamin B12 supplements. Our findings showed that this supplementation suppressed the expression of vitamin B12 production genes in P. acnes and altered the overall activity of the skin microbiota. Interestingly, one participant developed acne just a week after starting the supplements, shedding light on a possible mechanism behind the observed connections.
Additionally, we identified that vitamin B12 supplemented P. acnes cultures led to an increased production of porphyrins, compounds known to trigger inflammation associated with acne. This suggests a novel pathway through which vitamin B12 may influence acne development, aligning with clinical observations that some individuals experience breakouts following vitamin B12 supplementation.
Overall, our study emphasizes the complex interplay between vitamin B12 and the skin microbiota, hinting at its pivotal role in acne pathogenesis.
References
Alharbi NM, AlGhofaili FA, Alsaud JS, Asiri LM, Almutairi SM, et al. The Relationship Between Nutritional Anemia and Acne: A Case-Control Study. Cureus. 2023;15:e39109. doi:10.7759/cureus.39109
Bahbouhi I, Aboudourib M, Hocar O, Amal S. Vitamin B12 induced acneiform eruption. Heliyon. 2023;9:e16120. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16120
Veraldi S, Benardon S, Diani M, Barbareschi M. Acneiform eruptions caused by vitamin B12: A report of five cases and review of the literature. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018;17:112. doi:10.1111/jocd.12360
Lolatgis H, Su J, Nguyen R. Successful re-introduction of vitamin B12 after using isotretinoin to treat severe acne medicamentosa. Australas J Dermatol. 2016;57:320. doi:10.1111/ajd.12458
Johnson T, Kang D, Barnard E, Li H. Strain-Level Differences in Porphyrin Production and Regulation in Propionibacterium acnes Elucidate Disease Associations. mSphere. 2016;1. doi:10.1128/mSphere.00023-15
Kang D, Shi B, Erfe MC, Craft N, Li H. Vitamin B12 modulates the transcriptome of the skin microbiota in acne pathogenesis. Sci Transl Med. 2015;7:293ra103. doi:10.1126/scitranslmed.aab2009
Gökalp H, Bulur I, Gürer M. Decreased vitamin B12 and folic Acid concentrations in acne patients after isotretinoin therapy: a controlled study. Indian J Dermatol. 2014;59:630. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.143533