Last update
4/13/2026
Reviewed By
Infographics
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 14 Researches
7.1
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.5
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Tablet
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate)
1.5 mg
88%
Folate (400 mcg as (6S)-5-MTHF [from (6S)-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate Glucosamine Salt])
680 mcg DFE‡
170%
Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin)
1,000 mcg
41,667%
Top Medical Research Studies
9.5
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.
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
9.5
Vitamin B12 influences acne development
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.
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
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.
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
9
Effective treatment
I was prescribed this by an endocrinologist for my skin problems, and I noticed that my acne disappeared after a month of use. The results are outstanding, and I also enjoy the flavour.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 14 Researches
7.1
- All Researches
9.5
Vitamin B12 influences acne development
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.
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
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.
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
We aimed to evaluate how a panthenol-enriched mask, specifically La Roche-Posay Mask Pro, performs in improving skin barriers for different types, such as dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne-prone skin.
Over 177 participants used the mask under guidance, and we measured factors like hydration, sebum content, and redness at multiple intervals.
The results showed significant improvements across all skin types, particularly for oily acne skin, which saw reductions in sebum and redness. Importantly, there were no adverse effects reported, indicating that this mask can be a trusty companion for those with various skin concerns.
Over 177 participants used the mask under guidance, and we measured factors like hydration, sebum content, and redness at multiple intervals.
The results showed significant improvements across all skin types, particularly for oily acne skin, which saw reductions in sebum and redness. Importantly, there were no adverse effects reported, indicating that this mask can be a trusty companion for those with various skin concerns.
Read More
9
We evaluated the effectiveness of Tracnil™, a treatment combining myo-inositol, folic acid, and vitamin D3, specifically addressing acne in women with normal hormone levels who exhibit signs of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Conducting a single-arm study with 33 participants, we monitored acne symptoms, hirsutism, and menstrual irregularities over the course of eight weeks, along with hormone level assessments and safety evaluations.
Our findings suggested that Tracnil™ significantly reduced both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions. Additionally, it appeared to improve symptoms of hirsutism and help regulate menstrual cycles. While the exact mechanisms remain somewhat unclear, we believe that folic acid, in conjunction with the other components, plays a role in enhancing acne treatment responses, possibly by influencing receptor sensitivities to hormones.
Notably, throughout the study period, participants experienced minimal adverse reactions, and no severe side effects were identified. Even among those with normal hormonal levels, the combination therapy with myo-inositol and vitamin D3 underlined the potential benefits of Tracnil™ in managing dermatological signs associated with PCOS.
This research highlights the practicality of incorporating Tracnil™ into dermatological practice as a first-line approach for acne related to PCOS, broadening treatment options even in the absence of significant hormonal abnormalities.
Our findings suggested that Tracnil™ significantly reduced both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions. Additionally, it appeared to improve symptoms of hirsutism and help regulate menstrual cycles. While the exact mechanisms remain somewhat unclear, we believe that folic acid, in conjunction with the other components, plays a role in enhancing acne treatment responses, possibly by influencing receptor sensitivities to hormones.
Notably, throughout the study period, participants experienced minimal adverse reactions, and no severe side effects were identified. Even among those with normal hormonal levels, the combination therapy with myo-inositol and vitamin D3 underlined the potential benefits of Tracnil™ in managing dermatological signs associated with PCOS.
This research highlights the practicality of incorporating Tracnil™ into dermatological practice as a first-line approach for acne related to PCOS, broadening treatment options even in the absence of significant hormonal abnormalities.
Read More
9
We've discovered that folate supplementation may play a role in managing musculoskeletal pain associated with isotretinoin, a medication commonly used for acne treatment. In our investigation involving six patients suffering from nodulocystic acne, we closely observed their experiences after starting isotretinoin. Each patient reported developing pain in their muscles and joints, a side effect that can significantly affect quality of life.
The patients were treated with daily doses of folic acid and vitamin B12, leading to successful pain relief. This suggests that these supplements could be beneficial in alleviating discomfort without halting the use of isotretinoin itself. It’s important to note that while our findings are promising, extensive trials with larger sample sizes are still necessary to confirm these results.
As we move forward, we encourage our peers to consider offering B12 and folate to patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain from isotretinoin. This could help maintain treatment effectiveness while addressing uncomfortable side effects. Our study sheds light on an important aspect of acne treatment and patient care, urging further investigation into the benefits of these vitamins for overall treatment satisfaction.
The patients were treated with daily doses of folic acid and vitamin B12, leading to successful pain relief. This suggests that these supplements could be beneficial in alleviating discomfort without halting the use of isotretinoin itself. It’s important to note that while our findings are promising, extensive trials with larger sample sizes are still necessary to confirm these results.
As we move forward, we encourage our peers to consider offering B12 and folate to patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain from isotretinoin. This could help maintain treatment effectiveness while addressing uncomfortable side effects. Our study sheds light on an important aspect of acne treatment and patient care, urging further investigation into the benefits of these vitamins for overall treatment satisfaction.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 1 Review
8.5
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Effective treatment
I was prescribed this by an endocrinologist for my skin problems, and I noticed that my acne disappeared after a month of use. The results are outstanding, and I also enjoy the flavour.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Effective treatment
I was prescribed this by an endocrinologist for my skin problems, and I noticed that my acne disappeared after a month of use. The results are outstanding, and I also enjoy the flavour.
9
We evaluated the effectiveness of Tracnil™, a treatment combining myo-inositol, folic acid, and vitamin D3, specifically addressing acne in women with normal hormone levels who exhibit signs of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Conducting a single-arm study with 33 participants, we monitored acne symptoms, hirsutism, and menstrual irregularities over the course of eight weeks, along with hormone level assessments and safety evaluations.
Our findings suggested that Tracnil™ significantly reduced both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions. Additionally, it appeared to improve symptoms of hirsutism and help regulate menstrual cycles. While the exact mechanisms remain somewhat unclear, we believe that folic acid, in conjunction with the other components, plays a role in enhancing acne treatment responses, possibly by influencing receptor sensitivities to hormones.
Notably, throughout the study period, participants experienced minimal adverse reactions, and no severe side effects were identified. Even among those with normal hormonal levels, the combination therapy with myo-inositol and vitamin D3 underlined the potential benefits of Tracnil™ in managing dermatological signs associated with PCOS.
This research highlights the practicality of incorporating Tracnil™ into dermatological practice as a first-line approach for acne related to PCOS, broadening treatment options even in the absence of significant hormonal abnormalities.
Our findings suggested that Tracnil™ significantly reduced both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions. Additionally, it appeared to improve symptoms of hirsutism and help regulate menstrual cycles. While the exact mechanisms remain somewhat unclear, we believe that folic acid, in conjunction with the other components, plays a role in enhancing acne treatment responses, possibly by influencing receptor sensitivities to hormones.
Notably, throughout the study period, participants experienced minimal adverse reactions, and no severe side effects were identified. Even among those with normal hormonal levels, the combination therapy with myo-inositol and vitamin D3 underlined the potential benefits of Tracnil™ in managing dermatological signs associated with PCOS.
This research highlights the practicality of incorporating Tracnil™ into dermatological practice as a first-line approach for acne related to PCOS, broadening treatment options even in the absence of significant hormonal abnormalities.
9
We aimed to evaluate how a panthenol-enriched mask, specifically La Roche-Posay Mask Pro, performs in improving skin barriers for different types, such as dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne-prone skin.
Over 177 participants used the mask under guidance, and we measured factors like hydration, sebum content, and redness at multiple intervals.
The results showed significant improvements across all skin types, particularly for oily acne skin, which saw reductions in sebum and redness. Importantly, there were no adverse effects reported, indicating that this mask can be a trusty companion for those with various skin concerns.
Over 177 participants used the mask under guidance, and we measured factors like hydration, sebum content, and redness at multiple intervals.
The results showed significant improvements across all skin types, particularly for oily acne skin, which saw reductions in sebum and redness. Importantly, there were no adverse effects reported, indicating that this mask can be a trusty companion for those with various skin concerns.
5
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.
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.
9.5
Vitamin B12 influences acne development
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.
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.
References
- Zhang X, Tao H, Deng Y, He X, Zhang Z, et al. Efficacy and safety of a panthenol-enriched mask for individuals with distinct impaired skin barrier subtypes. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024;23:2109. 10.1111/jocd.16231
- Al-Sharnoby HA, Al-Bakary RH, Nassar SO, Mesbah RAM. The Efficacy of Intense Pulsed Light Versus Topical Nicotinamide 4% in Treatment of Acne Vulgaris. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2025;41:e70025. 10.1111/phpp.70025
- Fujishiro M, Yahagi S, Takemi S, Nakahara M, Sakai T, et al. Pyridoxine stimulates filaggrin production in human epidermal keratinocytes. Mol Biol Rep. 2021;48:5513. 10.1007/s11033-021-06563-y
- Ahmed SH, El-Kelish AA, Hafeez NA, El-Bakry ST. Influential Factors of Depression in Patients with Moderate and Severe Acne. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020;13:13. PubMed
- Ramanan EA, Ravi S, Anbu KRR, Michael M. Efficacy and Safety of Tracnil™ Administration in Patients with Dermatological Manifestations of PCOS: An Open-Label Single-Arm Study. Dermatol Res Pract. 2020;2020:7019126. 10.1155/2020/7019126
- Feily A. Successful Treatment of Isotretinoin Induced Musculoskeletal Pain by Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2019;7:3726. 10.3889/oamjms.2019.799
- Ghiasi M, Mortazavi H, Jafari M. Efficacy of Folic Acid and Vitamin B Replacement Therapies in the Reduction of Adverse Effects of Isotretinoin: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Skinmed. 2018;16:239. PubMed
- 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. 10.7759/cureus.39109
- Bahbouhi I, Aboudourib M, Hocar O, Amal S. Vitamin B12 induced acneiform eruption. Heliyon. 2023;9:e16120. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 10.4103/0019-5154.143533
