Vitamin K (menadione sodium bisulfite) is a water-soluble synthetic vitamin K derivative used topically, often marketed to reduce the appearance of bruising, dark under-eye circles, and visible capillaries. Clinical evidence for cosmetic benefit is limited and mixed.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Contact dermatitis (irritant or allergic) | Uncommon | Menadione derivatives are recognized contact sensitizers; localized redness, itching, or rash may occur. |
Eczematous or erythematous skin reaction | Rare | Localized inflammatory response reported with repeated topical exposure. |
Hypersensitivity/allergic reaction | Rare | Sensitization potential noted for menadione compounds in occupational and clinical settings. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.