Cyanocobalamin

Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 (aka cobalamin), an important water-soluble vitamin that the body needs but cannot produce. Within the body, vitamin B12 is involved in red blood cell production, brain and nerve health and DNA synthesis.

Naturally found in liver, oily fish, eggs and dairy products, this vitamin is also and most often used in oral supplements to treat vitamin deficiencies. Some foods, such as breads and cereals, are fortified with this essential nutrient.

Vitamin B12 levels are linked to skin, hair, and nail health; indeed, people who have B12 deficiencies — or sometimes excess levels of this vitamin — can experience health complications, including acne.

For skin, both oral and topical cyanocobalamin have been used to help prevent or reduce the occurrence of dermatological conditions such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, because of this vitamin’s ability to counter factors within skin that cause signs of irritation, especially for people with dry, itchy, or scaly skin.

Studies from a major supplier of this ingredient in cosmetics plus additional independent research have shined a light on vitamin B12’s helpful role in defending skin from external stressors (including UV light) and supporting the skin’s microbiome. However, more research needs to be completed and this ingredient is not an approved UV active.

Commercial vitamin B12 is mainly produced through bacterial fermentation. Use levels of cyanocobalamin in cosmetics typically range from 0.5–5%.