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
9
No acne post-meal
1 people found this helpful
With this B12, I have experienced no acne after eating, unlike another brand which caused acne. The taste is also very pleasant!
Read More
0
Worsened acne
1 people found this helpful
Caused acne so early on and now I'm worried about how long I will have to endure this acne.
Read More
9
Improved skin appearance
How could this happen? The more I eat, the better my skin appears and the acne disappears. It’s remarkable how such a simple change can have a powerful effect.
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.
With this B12, I have experienced no acne after eating, unlike another brand which caused acne. The taste is also very pleasant!
Read More
0
Worsened acne
1 people found this helpful
Caused acne so early on and now I'm worried about how long I will have to endure this acne.
Read More
9
Improved skin appearance
How could this happen? The more I eat, the better my skin appears and the acne disappears. It’s remarkable how such a simple change can have a powerful effect.
Read More
7.5
Significant mood improvement
Everything is fine with this vitamin B12 for me. I have suffered from a severe lack of it my entire life. This particular brand has contributed significantly to improving my acne, skin redness, and energy levels. My mood has changed from touchy to confident.
Read More
0
Acne worsened
1 people found this helpful
As an adult, this worked for my stiff shoulders and hearing issues but made my child’s acne worse. It seems to stimulate skin microbes that lead to inflammation. I reconsider the supplements, as after a month and a half, multiple pimples emerged in the same location, prompting me to research potential causes.
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 in relation to acne can vary significantly. Some users have reported noticing improvements relatively quickly, within just a few weeks. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that their skin appeared to improve the more they consumed the supplement, indicating positive changes happening in a short timeframe Read Review. Conversely, another user experienced a worsening of acne after a month and a half, which suggests that individual reactions to the supplement can differ greatly Read Review.
Overall, many users highlight that while some see improvements quickly, others might have a more complex experience where it takes longer to notice positive effects or, in certain cases, could even lead to temporary flare-ups before improvement is seen. Given this wide range of experiences, it may be advisable to monitor your skin's response over at least a month or two before making any determinations about the supplement's effectiveness for your acne.
Scientific research regarding the use of vitamin B12 for treating acne presents a mixed picture. A study highlighted a significant association between vitamin B12 deficiency and acne among young individuals, noting a higher prevalence of the deficiency in those affected by acne. However, it failed to establish a direct relationship suggesting that vitamin B12 supplementation could beneficially treat acne symptoms [1]. On the contrary, some patients actually developed acneiform eruptions after receiving vitamin B12 treatments, indicating that rather than helping, it could exacerbate skin issues in certain cases [2][3].
Moreover, exploring the effects of vitamin B12 on acne patients post-isotretinoin treatment revealed some uncertain benefits, underscoring the complexity of its role in skin health [4]. Further investigations show that vitamin B12 may influence the skin microbiota and enhance the production of porphyrins associated with inflammatory acne [5][6]. Overall, while there are indications that vitamin B12 interacts with skin health, current evidence does not robustly support its use as a definitive treatment for acne, nor does it clarify its nuanced relationship with the condition.
Based on user reviews, a variety of improvements in symptoms have been reported by individuals taking this vitamin B12 supplement. Many users highlight a significant reduction in acne, with one user noting they experienced no breakouts after eating when using this brand, contrasting with negative experiences from another product that caused acne outbreaks Read Review. Another reviewer marvels at how their skin appeared to improve the more they consumed the supplement, emphasizing a remarkable turnaround in their acne situation Read Review.
In addition to acne benefits, several users also report positive changes in overall skin health. One reviewer shared that their skin redness decreased and their energy levels improved, leading to a boost in mood and confidence Read Review. While many noted noticeable improvements, it's important to consider that some have experienced adverse effects, including worsened acne. For instance, a user mentioned that their child's acne intensified after starting the supplement, indicating variability in how different individuals may react Read Review. Thus, while individual results can be promising, they can differ significantly from user to user.
Users report mixed experiences when combining this B12 supplement with other supplements for managing acne. Some individuals have found great success, noting significant improvements in their skin condition. For instance, one user stated that this particular brand of B12 resulted in no acne outbreaks after consumption, contrasting it with a previous brand that exacerbated their skin issues Read Review. Another reviewer echoed similar sentiments, highlighting that the more they consumed the supplement, the clearer their skin became Read Review. Additionally, another user mentioned experiencing an overall boost in mood and energy levels while also reporting improvements in their acne Read Review.
Conversely, some users encountered adverse reactions, specifically an intensification of acne. One reviewer expressed concern that after starting the supplement, their child faced severe acne outbreaks, suggesting a possible stimulation of skin microbes linked to inflammation Read Review. This variability indicates that while some users may enjoy the combined benefits for skin health from B12 supplements, others may experience detrimental effects, urging potential users to monitor their skin's response closely.Read Review
According to user reviews, experiences with the appropriate dose of B12 for treating acne vary widely. Some users report a significant improvement in their acne after taking B12 supplements. For instance, one user notes that as they consumed more B12, their skin appeared healthier and the acne diminished, stating, "It’s remarkable how such a simple change can have a powerful effect" Read Review. Similarly, another user mentions that their long-term struggle with B12 deficiency improved not just their energy levels but also their acne and skin redness Read Review.
However, not all feedback is positive; certain users have reported adverse effects where B12 seemed to exacerbate their acne issues. For example, one user indicated a worsening of their child's acne after starting B12, leading them to reconsider their supplement choices Read Review. This mixed feedback suggests that while B12 can potentially improve skin condition for some users, others may experience negative effects, indicating that individual reactions to the vitamin vary significantly. Overall, users seem to find value in selecting higher-quality B12 supplements that may better suit their needs.Read Review
9
Improved skin appearance
How could this happen? The more I eat, the better my skin appears and the acne disappears. It’s remarkable how such a simple change can have a powerful effect.
0
Acne worsened
1 people found this helpful
As an adult, this worked for my stiff shoulders and hearing issues but made my child’s acne worse. It seems to stimulate skin microbes that lead to inflammation. I reconsider the supplements, as after a month and a half, multiple pimples emerged in the same location, prompting me to research potential causes.
9
No acne post-meal
1 people found this helpful
With this B12, I have experienced no acne after eating, unlike another brand which caused acne. The taste is also very pleasant!
7.5
Significant mood improvement
Everything is fine with this vitamin B12 for me. I have suffered from a severe lack of it my entire life. This particular brand has contributed significantly to improving my acne, skin redness, and energy levels. My mood has changed from touchy to confident.
2
Energy levels improved
I notice a difference with these tabs. If I forget to take them, I feel less energetic. I previously used a different brand which caused my acne to flare up. However, these dissolve easily under my tongue and seem to work better.
7.5
Reduced acne
As a vegan, I needed to consider B12 supplements. After trying this based on reviews and finishing a box, I feel a noticeable change. My muscle and joint pain has vanished, and my skin has improved with less acne.
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.
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.
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