What should we know about Vitamin B12?

In addition to its biological functions, the vitamin B12 is beneficial for the skin and hair. It is therefore found in various cosmetic products under its INCI name "Cyanocobalamin".

• Vitamin B12 is a good anti-inflammatory.

  Found in both cosmetic products and soothing dermatological ointments, vitamin B12 is primarily known for its calming action. Several studies conducted with patients suffering from eczema or psoriasis have indeed demonstrated its effectiveness. Vitamin B12 works by inhibiting the release of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines, molecules involved in painful responses. It also limits the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO), a vasodilator.

• Vitamin B12 possesses antioxidant properties.

  Thanks to the numerous double bonds present in its chemical structure, Vitamin B12 can stabilise free radicals by donating an electron to them. In doing so, it combats the harmful effects of oxidative stress and protects cellular organelles and DNA. Oxidative stress is indeed the cause of premature skin ageing and can also cause pigmentation disorders. Vitamin B12 thus has photoprotective potential and can help prevent skin sagging and wrinkles.

• Vitamin B12 could potentially aid in wound healing.

  Some studies in vitro suggest that the use of vitamin B12 could be beneficial in the process of skin regeneration. By stimulating the proliferation of fibroblasts, this molecule could enhance the production of collagen and elastin, proteins essential for tissue healing. Vitamin B12 could also promote angiogenesis, which corresponds to the formation of new blood vessels. It would be interesting if studies in vivo could confirm these results and the healing potential of vitamin B12.

• Vitamin B12 could help to limit hair loss.

  The vitamin B12 could also be beneficial for hair and scalp, potentially helping to reduce hair loss. This natural phenomenon, while common, can be distressing, especially for those seeking to grow long hair. Studies on human follicles have shown that vitamin B12 could stimulate the signalling pathway of ß-catenin, a molecule that facilitates the transition between the hair loss phase and the growth phase. However, these initial findings still need to be confirmed through clinical trials before we can definitively say that the vitamin B12 has an effect on hair loss.

Sometimes used on skin prone to atopic or psoriatic tendencies and suitable for pregnant women, the vitamin B12 is a safe and gentle active ingredient for the skin. However, as always in cosmetics, there is no such thing as zero risk and a few marginal and benign cases of skin irritation following the use of vitamin B12 have been reported. These reactions can be explained by the sensitivity to cobalt that some people have. Indeed, cobalt can be allergenic and its contact can cause redness and itching. Therefore, if you have an allergy to cobalt, it is preferable to avoid cosmetics containing vitamin B12.

Good Practice : Before using a new product, we advise you to test it in the crook of your elbow or on your wrist.

Note : Only the precautions related to the topical use of vitamin B12 are mentioned here, not its oral intake.

The soothing and restorative properties of Vitamin B12 can be found in our after-sun serum. Designed for skin weakened by exposure to UV rays, this treatment combats dehydration and helps to replenish the hydrolipidic film. It contains 97% naturally derived ingredients and has a thermoregulatory texture that provides an immediate soothing effect on the skin. In addition to Vitamin B12, this serum contains panthenol, which is calming and hydrating, and carob pulp extract, rich in inositol, which promotes the development of a more intense and long-lasting tan.