Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B5
For the health condition: Acne

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, has been investigated for its potential role in acne treatment, with some scientific evidence supporting its use, although the overall evidence remains limited and preliminary. The rationale stems from its role in lipid metabolism and the synthesis of coenzyme A, which is involved in fatty acid metabolism and possibly in reducing sebum production—a key factor in acne pathogenesis. A few small-scale clinical studies have reported that high doses of vitamin B5 supplementation may reduce acne lesions. For example, a 2014 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (Dermatology and Therapy, 2014) observed a significant reduction in total facial acne lesions among participants who took pantothenic acid supplements compared to placebo. Earlier pilot studies also suggested potential benefits, but these were often limited by small sample sizes and lack of rigorous design.

Despite these findings, the evidence is not robust. Systematic reviews and dermatological guidelines do not currently recommend vitamin B5 as a standard treatment for acne due to insufficient high-quality, large-scale clinical trials. Side effects are generally mild but high-dose supplementation should still be approached cautiously. In summary, while there is some scientific validation for the use of vitamin B5 in acne, the level of evidence is low to moderate and more research is needed before it can be widely recommended.

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