The hyperpigmentation related to vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in darker-skinned patients. Few other cases of skin hyperpigmentation due to vitamin B12 deficiency have been reported in the literature. The mechanism of hyperpigmentation is due to increased melanin synthesis rather than a defect in melanin.
Protein-energy malnutrition, zinc deficiency, and pellagra can also cause hyperpigmentation [8]. In one study, Baker SJ et al. observed that 21 patients who presented with other primary findings of vitamin B12 deficiency also had hyperpigmentation [9].
Several vitamins have long been recognized as being useful for treating hyperpigmentation in daily life and are present in many cosmetics. These include vitamin E, also called tocopherol, and vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid. These two vitamins are powerful antioxidant molecules.
Hyperpigmentation is an early and reversible sign of vitamin B 12 deficiency, which must be promptly recognised and corrected. The cause of B12 deficiency must be identified and additionally treated.
Hyperpigmentation or abnormal darkening of the skin is found in patients with primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease). In Addison's disease, the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones (including cortisol).
They concluded that a decreased estrogen-to-progesterone ratio on Days 20 to 28 results in the weakening of the skin barrier and consequent sensitization of the skin to the UV light, increasing the risk for hyperpigmentation in the future.
Dull skin: A lack of vitamin D can make your complexion appear duller and slightly grey in colour, leading to exacerbating any existing pigmentation and dark circles and preventing their healing. This is because Vitamin D is needed by skin cells to regenerate properly.
Skin lesions associated with vitamin B12 deficiency are skin hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair changes. Cutaneous lesions that do not respond to conventional therapy can be an indication of vitamin B12 deficiency.
age pigment or lipofuscin, was proposed to be such a material. It is a brown pigment that generally increases with age, and its formation is increased by consumption of unsaturated fats, by vitamin E deficiency, by stress, and by exposure to excess estrogen."
Vitamin C can help reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone, with noticeable results in as little as 3-4 weeks.
Vitamin C is great for all skin types, especially people who experience hyperpigmentation. Because it is unstable, it is typically paired with vitamin E when creating topical skincare formulations. This combination of vitamin C and vitamin E limits chronic UV damage.
Ingredients such as soy, niacinamide (vitamin B3), and various botanical extracts have shown promise in reducing melanin production with fewer side effects compared to synthetic compounds. These natural alternatives are gaining popularity among consumers who prefer more holistic approaches to skincare.
Doctors worldwide have conducted studies proving that a vitamin B12 deficiency may cause melasma on the face. Meat, fish, and eggs are rich in Vitamin B12. Therefore, it can be missing from your diet if you are vegan or vegetarian. Tip: Consuming vitamin-rich foods can reverse melasma.
A number of factors can trigger an increase in melanin production, but the main ones are sun exposure, hormonal influences, age and skin injuries or inflammation. Sun exposure is the number one cause of hyperpigmentation as it's sunlight that triggers the production of melanin in the first place.
The allergy can be triggered by taking vitamin B12 supplements because B12 contains cobalt atoms. Cobalt allergies most often develop in people exposed to it in eye makeup, tattoos, or industrial products, causing an itchy, red, scaly rash.
Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin. Vitamin B12 also promotes collagen formation while supporting the growth of new skin cells.
Vitamin C reduces the appearance of age spots, dark spots, freckles, blotchy spots, sun damage, acne scars, redness.
Hyperpigmentation is the main presenting feature of Vitamin B12 deficiency. Hyperpigmentation is usually seen over the acral sites, especially dorsum of hands and feet, palms, soles, nails and oral cavity. It has been noted in previous studies that 1 in 5 people with Vitamin B12 deficiency have hyperpigmentation.
If you have light skin and spend a lot of time in the sun, you're more likely to develop age spots areas of increased pigmentation. Age spots are very common in adults older than 50, but younger people can get them if they spend time in the sun. Age spots can look like cancerous growths.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause unnatural skin darkening and even hyperpigmentation. “B12 encourages cells to reproduce, evening skin tone, and brightening dull and dark spots. It also helps reduce inflammation and acne,” added Dr Anup.
Background — Melasma is a chronic acquired localized hypermelanosis, causing aesthetic problem for women and impairing their quality of life. Evidence has suggested that hyperpigmentation can occur as a result of iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency.
As a result of the deficiency, your skin will start to feel noticeably coarse and dry while also exhibiting symptoms of eczema or dermatitis. Your skin could also be prone to a number of dark spots as a result of increased pigmentation.