Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B, particularly vitamin B3 (niacinamide), has some scientific basis for its use in supporting or treating acne. Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, sebum-reducing, and barrier-strengthening properties. Several small-scale clinical trials and studies have suggested that topical niacinamide (typically in concentrations of 2-5%) can reduce inflammation, decrease sebum production, and improve skin texture in people with mild to moderate acne. For example, a 2006 randomized controlled trial published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that a 4% niacinamide gel was comparable in efficacy to 1% clindamycin gel in treating acne vulgaris.

Other B vitamins, such as vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), have been less extensively studied but have some preliminary evidence suggesting a potential role in reducing acne severity, possibly by influencing lipid metabolism. However, the evidence base is limited and sometimes conflicting, especially for oral supplementation.

Overall, while niacinamide as a topical agent has a moderate level of scientific support for inclusion in acne treatment regimens, the general use of "vitamin B" for acne is less well-established. Oral B vitamin supplementation is not widely recommended for acne, except in cases of deficiency. Thus, the evidence rating is moderate (2/5), reflecting promising but still limited and specific scientific validation.

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