Vitamin patches are trending; what are they and how do they work?

Vitamins pass through the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum) and diffuse into the bloodstream via capillaries. Unlike oral supplements, which must pass through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and liver (first-pass metabolism), patches aim to deliver nutrients directly, potentially improving bioavailability.

Advantages over oral supplements

Dr Hiremath lists the following benefits:

Convenience: No need to swallow pills or manage dosing schedules.

For Individuals with Digestive Issues: Suitable for people with malabsorption conditions like Crohn’s disease or gastric bypass patients.

Steady Release: Offers a controlled release of nutrients over hours, reducing spikes and drops in nutrient levels.

“However, skin absorption is highly selective and limited. The skin is a natural barrier, and not all vitamins can penetrate effectively, which makes this method less universally reliable,” he stresses. 

The effectiveness of transdermal delivery depends on the molecular size, solubility, and stability of the vitamin or nutrient. (Source: Freepik)

Specific vitamins or nutrients that are more effectively absorbed through the skin compared to others

The effectiveness of transdermal delivery depends on the molecular size, solubility, and stability of the vitamin or nutrient. “Vitamins like Vitamin D are highly effective for transdermal absorption due to their natural synthesis in the skin via sunlight. Vitamin B12, with smaller molecules like cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin, can penetrate the skin, especially with permeation enhancers. Magnesium is commonly included in transdermal therapies, though evidence for its absorption is limited.” 

However, fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, and K have larger molecular structures, and water-soluble vitamins like Vitamin C, which is highly polar, are poorly absorbed through the skin.

Potential risks or side effects of using vitamin patches and precautions to take

Dr Hiremath highlights the following risks:

1. Skin Irritation or Allergic Reactions: The adhesive or added chemicals (e.g., permeation enhancers) in patches may cause rashes or irritation.
2. Variable Absorption: Factors such as skin type, hydration, and patch location can lead to inconsistent nutrient delivery.
3. Overdosing: Misuse or combining patches with other supplements can lead to excessive nutrient intake, which may be harmful — especially for fat-soluble vitamins like A or D.

“Before using vitamin patches, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider, particularly if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Conduct a skin patch test to check for allergies and ensure the product is safe. Additionally, avoid combining patches with high-dose oral supplements unless advised by a professional to prevent any potential interactions,” he recommends.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.