Riboflavin
Vitamin B2, a yellow-orange pigment. Functions dually in formulas – as a claimed antioxidant and as a natural colorant: tints cream with a characteristic yellow hue. Topical evidence on skin is weak, in formulas more often plays a decorative role.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Safe. Few clinical confirmations of topical antioxidant activity on skin; main role in formula is colorant and marketing.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment.
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2, Lactoflavin) is a yellow-orange B-vitamin. Biologically functions as the FAD and FMN coenzymes in redox reactions. In cosmetics it is added with a dual purpose: as a claimed antioxidant and as a natural colorant – it tints cream a characteristic yellow. Where applied. Serums and creams marketed as 'B-vitamins', brightening products, anti-pollution formulas (0.01-0.5%). Appears in decorative cosmetics as a natural pigment. In Spanish brands more often as part of a 'vitamin' complex in Sesderma C-Vit, Babé. Evidence base. Topical riboflavin in cosmetics is a marketing claim. No clinical RCTs prove an anti-aging or brightening effect. Systemically, riboflavin deficiency causes angular stomatitis and cheilitis, but the treatment is oral, not cosmetic. Photosensitization. Riboflavin generates singlet oxygen under UV light – a property at odds with the 'antioxidant' positioning. For that reason high concentrations are avoided in daytime formulas. Safety. EU CosIng permits use. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Tinting of fabric and skin at high concentrations is possible. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A natural vitamin; no restrictions topically.
Frequently asked questions
Is Riboflavin safe during pregnancy?
Riboflavin is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Riboflavin for?
Riboflavin suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Riboflavin and what does it do in cosmetics?
Vitamin B2, a yellow-orange pigment.
What's the INCI name for Riboflavin?
The INCI name is Riboflavin. It may also appear as: Vitamin B2, Lactoflavin.
See Riboflavin in a product composition right on the store page
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