What deficiency causes hyperpigmentation?

Author: Mrs. Alda Cremin  |  Last update: Saturday, October 4, 2025

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.

What deficiencies cause hyperpigmentation?

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].

What vitamins reduce hyperpigmentation?

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.

Can B12 reverse hyperpigmentation?

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.

Which hormone deficiency causes hyperpigmentation?

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).

The #1 Deficiency behind Aging Spots

Can low estrogen cause hyperpigmentation?

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.

Can lack of vitamin D cause hyperpigmentation?

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.

What are the facial signs of B12 deficiency?

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.

What mineral deficiency causes age spots?

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."

How long does it take for hyperpigmentation to go away with vitamin C?

Vitamin C can help reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone, with noticeable results in as little as 3-4 weeks.

Is vitamin E or C better for hyperpigmentation?

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.

What blocks melanin production?

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.

Which deficiency causes melasma on the face?

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.

Why am I suddenly getting hyperpigmentation?

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.

What does a B12 rash look like?

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.

Which supplement is best for hyperpigmentation?

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.

What vitamin removes age spots?

Vitamin C reduces the appearance of age spots, dark spots, freckles, blotchy spots, sun damage, acne scars, redness.

Can B12 deficiency cause hyperpigmentation?

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.

Why am I getting so many age spots all of a sudden?

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.

Which vitamin deficiency causes dark skin?

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.

What are the symptoms of low zinc?

What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency?
  • hair loss.
  • skin and hair changes.
  • eye problems.
  • more infections than usual.
  • wounds that take a long time to heal.
  • loss of taste and smell.
  • diarrhoea.

Does lack of iron cause hyperpigmentation?

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.

What are 5 signs of vitamin D deficiency to not ignore?

Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency may include:
  • Fatigue.
  • Not sleeping well.
  • Bone pain or achiness.
  • Depression or feelings of sadness.
  • Hair loss.
  • Muscle weakness.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Getting sick more easily.

Can calcium deficiency cause hyperpigmentation?

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.

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