Synopsis

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

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) has been investigated for its potential role in supporting or treating acne, but the scientific evidence is limited and preliminary. Some small studies and pilot trials, such as a 2014 randomized controlled trial published in "Dermatology and Therapy," have reported that high doses of pantothenic acid may result in a reduction in acne lesion counts compared to placebo. The hypothesized mechanism involves pantothenic acid’s role in fatty acid metabolism and the possibility that it may help regulate sebum production, which is implicated in acne development.

However, these studies have significant limitations, including small sample sizes, short durations, lack of replication, and potential conflicts of interest. Larger, well-designed, and independently funded clinical trials are lacking. There is no robust consensus or guideline from major dermatological associations supporting its routine use for acne treatment.

Historically, vitamin B5 has not been a traditional remedy for acne, and its use in this context is relatively recent, emerging primarily from modern nutritional and supplement marketing. As such, the overall strength of evidence supporting vitamin B5 supplementation for acne is low (rated 2/5), and more research is needed before it can be recommended as an effective treatment.

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