Hello everyone, and welcome back to The Selfish Column. Thank you for reading and engaging with the last article on Vitamin A. I truly appreciate the support and meant the world to me.
This week, we’re moving into Vitamin B and everything it offers to our skin.
Vitamin B doesn’t come alone it comes as a crew, you know like a posse. There are eight B vitamins, and they’re all water soluble meaning they pass through cell walls easier than others. Because of that, they play a huge role in keeping our metabolic processes running smoothly.
Research published by Bhanothu et al. (2021) in the ScienceDirect Journal explains that the Vitamin B complex acts as enzyme helpers, allowing the body to turn the food we eat into energy. These vitamins also support skin, hair, and nail health.
So buckle up, this one is a bit of longer read. Below is a simple breakdown of what each one does, especially when it comes to skin health.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vitamin B1 helps renew cells, which supports skin healing and repair. It can help reduce inflammation, improve skin tone, and slow visible signs of aging. One standout benefit? It works alongside the body’s collagen producing processes, helping skin look smoother and more radiant.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Riboflavin helps fuel the metabolism and acts as both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It supports healthy skin turnover by encouraging new skin cells to grow while helping old, dead cells shed properly, keeping skin smooth instead of dull or rough.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin / Niacinamide)
Niacinamide is a skincare favourite and for a good reason. It supports DNA repair, especially after sun exposure, and helps the skin defend itself against UV damage. With anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it’s great for managing acne, evening skin tone, minimizing pores, and reducing dark spots.
One of my go to Lancôme serums has niacinamide, it was the only serum I reached for during my first month of postpartum, helping my skin recover through all the hormonal changes.
Lancôme: Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Vitamin B5 is all about hydration and barrier support. It helps the skin retain moisture, making it ideal for dry, sensitive, or irritated skin. If your skin feels tight or flaky, product with Pantothenic Acid (B5) might be your friend.
The Ordinary serum shown below is perfect and has vitamin B5.
The Ordinary: Soothing & Barrier Support Serum for Sensitive Skin Hydration
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vitamin B6 is especially helpful for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and rosacea. For oily skin types (like myself), it can help regulate oil production. It also supports collagen production, which is why it often shows up in anti-aging formulas.
Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Biotin is best known for supporting hair and nail strength, thanks to its role in keratin production. It also helps with skin hydration, supports a healthy complexion, and can be beneficial for dry skin and dermatitis.
Vitamin B9 (Folate / Folic Acid)
While often associated with pregnancy, folic acid plays a role in skin pigmentation and overall skin health especially if there’s a deficiency. It also helps maintain moisture in the skin barrier, supporting hydration and reducing dryness.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 helps improve blood oxygenation, which can support brighter, more even looking skin and help with hyperpigmentation. Like other B vitamins, it also supports collagen production, helping skin stay firm and plump.
While each B vitamin has its own unique role, they’re meant to work together. From a skincare perspective, the Vitamin B family really shines when it comes to collagen support, barrier health, hydration, and acne management, especially for mature skin.
I hope you enjoyed the breakdown and found it helpful. Leave a comment below with thoughts or suggestions.
As always, thank you for making it this far.
Until next time, Selfish Reader
To learn more about my sources, I have shared the links below for your review.
What Is Biotin: Neutrogena Skincare Ingredient Glossary
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Essential for Hormone Production
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