The regulatory effects of vitamins in skincare and skin diseases

Many skin disorders, such as acne, atopic dermatitis (eczema), and psoriasis, are linked to flaws in the skin’s natural barrier and an immune system that is either too weak or overreacts with chronic inflammation. The skin’s natural microflora may also be out of balance. In this context, various vitamins play important roles in supporting skin health due to their regenerative, immune-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antioxidant properties that help protect the skin against damage. In a new review article published in The Microbe, the authors explore how different vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B12, C, D, and E) contribute to skin health, immune function, and the management of skin conditions.

The skin serves as a physical barrier that protects the internal organs from external threats, including microorganisms, chemicals, physical injuries, and UV radiation. As the body’s largest organ, the skin is made up of three main layers:

• Epidermis
The outermost layer, about one millimeter thick, consists of a protective stratum corneum and skin cells (keratinocytes). Various white blood cells act as the immune system’s front line. Melanocytes produce melanin, which provides pigmentation and protection from the sun. The skin’s vast microflora must also be in balance (homeostasis) to support hydration, pH levels, and protection.

• Dermis
The middle (and thickest) layer gives the skin strength and elasticity. It contains collagen, connective tissue, blood vessels, white blood cells, nerve endings, hair follicles, and sweat and sebaceous glands.

• Subcutis (hypodermis)
The innermost layer, primarily made up of adipose tissue (fat cells). It functions as insulation and cushioning.

The skin also plays a vital role in regulating body temperature, excreting waste products, maintaining fluid balance, and synthesizing vitamin D. Moreover, the skin communicates with the nervous system, immune system, hormonal system, and other organs and tissues. This means that factors such as mental stress, liver strain (e.g., from alcohol or medication), and poor digestion can also negatively affect skin health.
The condition of the skin has a major impact on overall health and appearance. It is therefore essential for the skin to receive adequate nutrients and fluids to support tissue regeneration and cellular function. Otherwise, there is an increased risk of poor wound healing and skin conditions such as acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis.
The skin’s immune system must also be able to respond to local infections and other damage through rapid and effective inflammatory responses. If the immune system is dysfunctional and communication between different white blood cells is impaired, there is a risk of chronic inflammation, which is a hallmark of several skin diseases.
It is also problematic if the body suffers from oxidative stress, where there is an imbalance between free radicals and protective antioxidants. Oxidative stress allows free radicals to damage healthy tissue, including the skin.
The aim of the new review article was to examine the many ways in which vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B12, C, D, and E influence skin health, immune regulation, inflammation control, antioxidant defenses, and the skin’s microflora. The authors searched relevant databases using specific keywords and summarized their findings as follows:

Vitamin A
Mechanism: Regulates keratinocytes, white blood cells, and inflammation
Associated skin conditions: Psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, acne

Vitamin B1
Mechanism: Suppresses oxidative activity of microglial cells in the brain
Associated skin conditions: Neurodegenerative disorders

Vitamin B2
Mechanism: Inhibits inflammation via various mechanisms involving innate and adaptive immunity
Associated skin conditions: Inflammation and bleeding

Vitamin B3
Mechanism: Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Photosensitivity
Associated skin conditions: Acne, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis

Vitamin B12
Mechanism: Inhibits inflammatory marker TNF-alpha
Associated skin conditions: Vitiligo, eczema, bleeding

Vitamin C
Mechanism: Supports collagen synthesis, immune function, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant roles
Associated skin conditions: Wound healing, skin infections

Vitamin D
Mechanism: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Promotes keratinocyte differentiation
Associated skin conditions: Acne, atopic dermatitis

Vitamin E
Mechanism: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial
Associated skin conditions: Acne, atopic dermatitis

The review article also refers to several studies in which vitamin supplements were administered to individuals with different skin conditions. However, the results varied considerably. Possible reasons include the absence of actual deficiencies, insufficient doses in cases of deficiency, or failure to address underlying causes such as stress, alcohol misuse, or food sensitivities and irritants.

More information about nutrients and skin conditions

In the following article, you can read more about how different vitamins, as well as selenium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, affect the skin’s structure and biological functions. You will also find information about their food sources, recommended intake (RI), and the dosages used in various studies.

»Skin disorders and premature wrinkles are often caused by a lack of nutrients« 

References:

Agatha Ngukuran Jikah et al. The regulatory effects of Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B12, C, D and E on skin health, immunity and diseases. The Microbe June 2025

Qiong Chen et al. Vitamin D and wound healing. Assessing skin barrier function and implications for chloasma treatment. International Wound Journal. 2024

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