Also known as cobalamin, Vitamin B12 is one of the molecules that the body cannot do without, hence the importance of having a sufficient intake. It is also found in various cosmetic treatments, where it provides several benefits to the skin and hair. Whether applied topically or taken orally, how can Vitamin B12 be best utilised? Here, we provide some insights.
How is Vitamin B12 utilised?
Published on June 26, 2024, by Pauline, Chemical Engineer — 5 min of reading
Themes:
Topical application of Vitamin B12.
Synthesised solely by certain bacteria and archaea, the vitamin B12 is particularly known for its crucial role in the production of red blood cells. It is also involved in DNA synthesis and the energy metabolism of cells, as well as in maintaining the nervous system. In addition to fulfilling these biological functions, the vitamin B12 is incorporated into cosmetic treatments because it provides several benefits to the skin and hair when used in topical application.
Did you know? Vitamin B12 slightly colours the cosmetics it is incorporated into, giving them a red/pink hue.
Generally used at concentrations ranging between 0.1 and 1%, vitamin B12 is a very well-tolerated active ingredient. It is particularly favoured by weakened skin, due to its soothing and antioxidant properties. Indeed, vitamin B12 can inhibit the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines, compounds found in excess in irritated skin areas. Its anti-radical effects come from its ability to neutralise free radicals, harmful reactive species for the skin and its constituents, especially generated after exposure to UV rays, pollution or tobacco. Finally, it is interesting to note that vitamin B12 has shown in clinical trials that it can help alleviate the symptoms of inflammatory dermatoses such as eczema and psoriasis.
Key Takeaway : Non-photosensitising and non-irritating, the vitamin B12 can be used morning and evening without a maximum duration to adhere to. It is particularly beneficial for sensitised skin.
Vitamin B12 Supplementation: A Cosmetic Interest?
Anaemia, whether pernicious or not, increased risk of thrombosis, cardiovascular risk, heart attack... A deficiency in vitamin B12 is not harmless and can have serious health consequences. This can also manifest itself at the skin level through pigmentation disorders, most often through hyperpigmentation, although it can also manifest as vitiligo, and by a weakening of the nail structures, or even a change in their colour. It is suspected by the scientific community that vitamin B12 can interact with melanogenesis, the melanin synthesis pathway. Indeed, it seems that this molecule influences the levels of glutathione, a compound regulating the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, responsible for the conversion of tyrosine into melanin.
In order to prevent the risks mentioned above, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (Anses) recommends consuming at least 4 µg of vitamin B12 per day, a dose slightly increasing for pregnant women. Vitamin B12 can be naturally found in various animal products, such as scallops, tuna or sheep's liver. It is more challenging for vegetarians to have a sufficient daily intake of vitamin B12, hence the interest for these individuals to supplement under medical advice. However, it is strongly advised against starting a vitamin B12 regimen without discussing it with your doctor. Apart from deficiency cases, there is no scientific evidence that it could be beneficial to the skin, on the contrary. Some studies suggest that high dosages or prolonged intake of vitamin B12 could constitute risk factors for acne. Discontinuation of supplementation usually allows for a spontaneous and complete remission within a few weeks.
Key Takeaway : Vitamin B12 is an essential molecule for the body and skin. However, it is not recommended to supplement with Vitamin B12 if there is no risk of deficiency and without discussing it with your doctor, as an overdose can have undesirable effects.
Sources
SAMMAN S. & al. Vitamin B12 in Health and Disease. Nutrients (2010).
DAVLUY S. & al. A Review of Vitamin B12 in Dermatology. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2015).
BARBARESCHI M. & al. Acneiform eruptions caused by vitamin B12: A report of five cases and review of the literature. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018).
VAN DEN HEUVEL E. & al. Vitamin B12 in Relation to Oxidative Stress: A Systematic Review. Nutrients (2019).
SHEKARCHI B. & al. Vitamin B12-loaded polycaprolactone/gelatin nanofibrous scaffold as potential wound care material. Biomedical Engineering Letters (2020).
