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Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Cyanocobalamin

Water-soluble B12 vitamin used topically for inflammation; oral high-dose forms may worsen acne

What it does

Cyanocobalamin is the synthetic, stable form of vitamin B12. Topically, it has documented anti-inflammatory effects and has been studied for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis management. In cosmetic serums and creams, it appears primarily as an anti-inflammatory and skin-conditioning agent. Important nuance: systemic supplementation with B12 (oral or injectable) at high doses has been associated with acne exacerbation in some individuals — this is a supplement concern, not a topical cosmetic concern at standard concentrations.

The evidence, graded

expert consensusVitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is used topically in dermatology for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Systemic B12 supplementation has been associated with acne exacerbation in susceptible individuals, though this does not apply to typical topical cosmetic concentrations.Elgharably 2023 · Dermatology Reports ↗

Graded per the methodology: strong · moderate · emerging · expert consensus. A weak source on a strong claim gets the weaker label.

Also known as

vitamin b12, cobalamin, cyanocobalamin

Pairs worth knowing

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) · works together ↗Hyaluronic Acid · works together ↗Centella Asiatica (Cica) · works together ↗

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