Vitamin B12

Best

Antioxidant

Vitamin B12 at a glance

  • Antioxidant with benefits for skin barrier
  • Can help relieve signs of sensitivity
  • Stable form used in skin care: cyanocobalamin
  • Naturally occurring forms: adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin

Vitamin B12 description

Vitamin B12 is an antioxidant renowned in skin care for its ability to address compromised skin barrier and help relieve signs of sensitivity. While naturally occurring forms of vitamin B12 exist (adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin), cyanocobalamin is the synthetic derivative commonly utilized in over-the-counter skin care products due to its superior stability and cost effectiveness. See cyanocobalamin for a deeper dive into the research behind this skin care ingredient.

Vitamin B12 references

  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, March 2024, pages 34–41
  • International Wound Journal, February 2023, pages 516-528
  • American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, February 2015, pages 27-33
  • British Journal of Dermatology, May 2004, pages 977-983

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.