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
10
Instant acne relief
Wow, my acne disappeared after just one use! TikTok made me buy it, and the quality is incredible. I rate it a 10/10!
Read More
9
Effective acne treatment
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is essential for the nervous system and red blood cell formation. It benefits the skin by restoring damaged cells, improving elasticity, and reducing ageing signs. It effectively eliminates redness and dryness, helping to combat acne and pigmentation, resulting in clearer and more radiant skin.
Read More
7.5
Skin clarity improvement
I used to feel exhausted and struggled to sleep, but now I have more energy and sleep better. My skin is clearer and brighter, with noticeably less acne. While I'm uncertain if the B-12 is responsible, I'm delighted with these results. I take a small, flavourless lozenge every morning, and it appears to be a quality product.
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
Tracnil™ improves acne in PCOS
Efficacy and Safety of Tracnil™ Administration in Patients with Dermatological Manifestations of PCOS: An Open-Label Single-Arm Study.
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.
Read More
9
Folate helps with isotretinoin pain
Successful Treatment of Isotretinoin Induced Musculoskeletal Pain by Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid.
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.
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.
Wow, my acne disappeared after just one use! TikTok made me buy it, and the quality is incredible. I rate it a 10/10!
Read More
9
Effective acne treatment
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is essential for the nervous system and red blood cell formation. It benefits the skin by restoring damaged cells, improving elasticity, and reducing ageing signs. It effectively eliminates redness and dryness, helping to combat acne and pigmentation, resulting in clearer and more radiant skin.
Read More
7.5
Skin clarity improvement
I used to feel exhausted and struggled to sleep, but now I have more energy and sleep better. My skin is clearer and brighter, with noticeably less acne. While I'm uncertain if the B-12 is responsible, I'm delighted with these results. I take a small, flavourless lozenge every morning, and it appears to be a quality product.
Read More
7.5
Hormonal acne control
Its taste is delightful and the quality is excellent. One pack lasts two months. I briefly stopped using it to prevent worsening my acne due to hormonal imbalance, but I’ll repurchase it as it’s been fantastic.
Read More
1
Quality product, acne issues
The quality is good, and the quantity is great, but unfortunately, I experienced a lot of acne.
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.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from this supplement varies significantly among individuals. Some users report dramatic improvements in their acne as quickly as after just one use, calling the results immediate and praising the product's quality Read Review. Others have noted a gradual improvement over time, with clearer and brighter skin noticeable after consistent use, although it's unclear if the supplement was solely responsible for their results Read Review.
In more detailed experiences, one user mentioned they stopped using the product momentarily due to hormonal issues affecting their acne but intended to repurchase it because they had found it beneficial overall Read Review. In contrast, some users did not see any improvement and even experienced an increase in acne, showing that results can vary widely Read Review. Thus, while some report quick results, a timeframe of a few weeks to months seems reasonable for others. Always consider personal skin sensitivity and underlying conditions when using any new supplement for acne.
Current scientific research regarding the efficacy of supplements for treating acne reveals mixed results, particularly concerning vitamins like folate and B12. A study on Tracnil™, which includes myo-inositol, folic acid, and vitamin D3, demonstrated notable reductions in acne for women with polycystic ovary syndrome, suggesting that folic acid might positively influence acne outcomes when combined with other components [2]. However, other studies explore the role of vitamin B12 without establishing its direct benefits for acne. For instance, while a significant correlation between vitamin B12 deficiency and acne was noted, there’s insufficient evidence to claim that vitamin B12 supplements directly improve acne conditions [5]. This indicates the complexity and need for further research into the mechanisms at play.
Additionally, some reports highlight the paradoxical effects of vitamin B12, wherein supplementation has been linked to acne flare-ups under certain circumstances [6][10]. This underscores the intricate relationship between nutritional factors and acne management, suggesting careful consideration and possibly professional guidance when integrating supplements into acne treatment regimens. Overall, while some supplements might show hopeful signs, more extensive trials are essential to firmly establish their role in acne management.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their acne symptoms, with experiences varying widely. Some users experienced rapid transformations, claiming their acne vanished after just one use of the product, which they credited for its incredible quality Read Review. Other users noted a gradual enhancement in their skin condition, recognizing clearer and brighter skin over time, although they remained uncertain about the product's exclusive role in these benefits Read Review.
Additionally, some customers found that while they initially faced hormonal challenges that impacted their skin, they planned to repurchase the product due to its prior positive effects Read Review. However, not all experiences were positive, with some users reporting an increase in acne despite the product’s good quality Read Review. This highlights the variability in individual responses to the product, emphasizing that while many have seen improvements, each person's experience may differ.
Users have shared various experiences regarding the combination of this supplement with other supplements or skincare routines for managing acne. Some individuals have reported notable improvements, with one user claiming their acne disappeared after just one use of the product, suggesting a potential synergy with their existing skincare regimen Read Review. Others noted clearer and brighter skin after incorporating this supplement into their routine, though they expressed uncertainty about whether it was the sole contributor to their results Read Review.
On the other hand, not all experiences were positive; one user indicated a significant increase in their acne despite the product's quality, implying that the combination of supplements may not work uniformly for everyone Read Review. Additionally, another user mentioned having to temporarily stop using the product due to a hormonal imbalance affecting their skin, highlighting that individual responses to the supplement may vary widely based on personal skin conditions and other factors Read Review. Overall, while many users have found success in pairing this supplement with their skincare regimen, results can depend heavily on individual circumstances.
Users have reported varied experiences with Vitamin B12 for treating acne. Some users have noted significant improvements in their skin's clarity and brightness after using B12 supplements. For instance, one individual highlighted that their acne disappeared after just a single use, attributing their transformation to the product Read Review. Additionally, another user mentioned that their skin became clearer and brighter while taking a small, flavourless lozenge every morning, although they were unsure if B12 was the sole reason for the improvement Read Review.
However, not all reports were positive; one user found that their acne worsened after starting the supplement, indicating that B12 might not be effective for everyone Read Review. Ultimately, while many users have experienced clearer skin and reduced acne with Vitamin B12, it appears that the right dosage may vary from person to person, suggesting that individuals should approach its use with caution and consider their unique skin needs.
10
Instant acne relief
Wow, my acne disappeared after just one use! TikTok made me buy it, and the quality is incredible. I rate it a 10/10!
7.5
Skin clarity improvement
I used to feel exhausted and struggled to sleep, but now I have more energy and sleep better. My skin is clearer and brighter, with noticeably less acne. While I'm uncertain if the B-12 is responsible, I'm delighted with these results. I take a small, flavourless lozenge every morning, and it appears to be a quality product.
7.5
Hormonal acne control
Its taste is delightful and the quality is excellent. One pack lasts two months. I briefly stopped using it to prevent worsening my acne due to hormonal imbalance, but I’ll repurchase it as it’s been fantastic.
1
Quality product, acne issues
The quality is good, and the quantity is great, but unfortunately, I experienced a lot of acne.
9
Tracnil™ improves acne in PCOS
Efficacy and Safety of Tracnil™ Administration in Patients with Dermatological Manifestations of PCOS: An Open-Label Single-Arm Study.
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.
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.
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
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.
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. doi: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. doi: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.
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