Evidence supporting the use of: Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
For the health condition: Seborrhea

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Synopsis

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

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) has a scientific basis for its use in the support and treatment of seborrhea, but the evidence is limited and primarily historical or based on small studies and case reports. Riboflavin deficiency is known to cause a syndrome called ariboflavinosis, which features symptoms such as dermatitis (especially around the nose and mouth), glossitis, and cheilosis. The dermatitis seen in ariboflavinosis can resemble seborrheic dermatitis, leading to the rationale for riboflavin supplementation in such cases.

Clinical reports from the mid-20th century document improvement of seborrheic dermatitis-like symptoms in patients with riboflavin deficiency after riboflavin supplementation. However, large-scale, modern, placebo-controlled trials specifically investigating riboflavin supplementation for seborrhea in those without clear deficiency are lacking. Current clinical guidelines do not routinely recommend riboflavin for seborrheic dermatitis unless a deficiency is documented or strongly suspected. Thus, while there is a pathophysiological link between riboflavin deficiency and seborrheic dermatitis, the evidence supporting routine riboflavin use for seborrhea is moderate for deficiency states and weak otherwise.

In conclusion, riboflavin is justified for use in seborrhea when deficiency is present, supported by scientific case reports and small studies. Outside of deficiency, evidence is insufficient. Supplementation should be targeted to those with risk factors for or evidence of riboflavin deficiency rather than for all cases of seborrhea.

More about riboflavin (vitamin B2)
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