Can vitamins cause acne?

Vitamins are organic compounds that are necessary to help your body function and develop as it should. Your body naturally produces some vitamins, while many different foods contain them. Most vitamins are also available as OTC supplements.

While some vitamins are important to support healthy skin, others may contribute to the development of acne in some people. These may even be within multivitamins, so it can be difficult to know what’s causing your acne.

It’s important to note that individual responses to vitamins can vary, and what causes acne for some will have no effect on others. Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a new supplement to your diet.

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Vitamin B12 and acne

Vitamin B12 is a kind of B vitamin, also known as cobalamin, that’s important for your well-being. It can help keep your nerves and blood cells healthy and help create DNA in your cells.

It’s naturally found in animal food sources like fish, poultry, meat, eggs, and milk. It doesn’t naturally occur in plant sources, but some plant-based foods are fortified with vitamin B12, meaning it is added to them.

Most people in the United States get enough vitamin B12 just from dietary sources. However, some vegetarians or vegans may not get enough from their diets. Some people also are unable to absorb vitamin B12 properly and may benefit from vitamin B12 supplements.

Vitamin B12 supplements are generally safe and effective, but they may have some side effects, and some research suggests they may worsen or even cause acne.

Specifically, according to a 2020 research review, high doses or long-term use of vitamin B12 supplements may worsen the appearance of acne and may be associated with the onset of new acne-like lesions on the skin. According to some research included in the review, the acne resolved 3 weeks after stopping the supplement.

The exact reason why vitamin B12 causes acne is unknown. However, it may be because increased levels of B12 on your face affect the bacteria on the surface of your skin, leading to increased inflammation and breakouts.

Multivitamins and acne

True to their name, multivitamins contain various vitamins and minerals essential for your health. They can help address nutrient gaps, and you can buy them OTC. However, every multivitamin brand is different, and each type may contain different nutrients.

Multivitamins can generally support your overall health and nutrition, and they can be a suitable option if you have a limited diet — such as if you’re vegan — or have a reduced appetite. For the most part, multivitamins are very safe and effective, but you might find they also affect your acne.

Many multivitamins on the market contain vitamin B12. As vitamin B12 can cause or worsen acne, multivitamins containing this nutrient may also have this effect.

What’s more, multivitamins don’t only contain vitamins — they often contain minerals and other nutrients. Some multivitamins also contain iodine, which 2020 research suggests can contribute to acne eruptions.

When to speak with a doctor

If you have started taking a new supplement and notice unusual changes to your skin, consider speaking with a doctor. They will be able to advise you on the next steps.

If you believe your acne is due to B12 supplements, you may want to try to get more vitamin B12 from your diet rather than through supplements. You can also check the ingredients of your multivitamin and try to find one that doesn’t contain vitamin B12.

Always speak with a doctor before introducing a new vitamin or supplement into your diet.

Can any vitamins help with acne?

In the same way that some vitamins may contribute to acne development, many vitamins may help support your skin health. One in particular is vitamin A.

Vitamin A is found in orange and yellow fruits and vegetables and leafy greens. It’s also available in supplement form. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help promote skin health and prevent acne.

What’s more, some vitamin A compounds known as retinoids are important in treating acne. These usually come in a topical form that you apply directly to the face. Examples include retinol, isotretinoin, and retinoic acid. Some of these are only available on prescription.

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Summary

Vitamins are essential nutrients that can help support your body’s processes and functioning. They’re usually very safe and effective but may have some side effects. Some vitamins may contribute to the onset or worsening of acne.

For example, vitamin B12 may cause or worsen acne, particularly if you take supplements for a long time or in high doses. Multivitamins containing B12 may also contribute to this, as can multivitamins containing iodine.

However, vitamin A can have the opposite effect and is known to be beneficial for skin health.

Make sure you always consult with a doctor before starting any new supplements. If you notice new or worsened acne, reach out to a healthcare professional.

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