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.
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.
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.
The deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause specific skin manifestations, such as hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair and nail changes [1].
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.
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.
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.
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).
IPL laser: Also known as a photofacial, IPL uses light energy to break down the melanin responsible for pigmentation. Cryotherapy: Dark spots are frozen by applying liquid nitrogen to the area, which eventually destroys the accumulated pigment cells.
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.
Topical vitamin C is a science-backed, dermatologist-favorite ingredient that may help slow early skin aging, prevent sun damage, and improve the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and acne.
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.
Melasma may also be caused by nutritional deficiencies like those of iron or vitamin B12. Melasma causes dark patches on the skin, and the condition worsens due to sun exposure.
The expert added: “Your body can crave foods that are high in iron such as marmite, twiglets, milk, salmon, egg yolks, tuna, chicken and other meats. “These are all good sources of vitamin B12, so if your body is craving them, listen to it.”
You can become deficient in vitamin D for different reasons: You don't get enough vitamin D in your diet. You don't absorb enough vitamin D from food (a malabsorption problem) You don't get enough exposure to sunlight.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A Rare Cause of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness.
Nutritional deficiencies include iron, folate and vitamin B12 deficiency. B12 deficiency will also make the tongue sore and beefy-red in color. Glossitis, by causing swelling of the tongue, may also cause the tongue to appear smooth. Among women, low-estrogen states may cause a “menopausal glossitis”.