Menadione (vitamin K3) is a synthetic, fat-soluble form of vitamin K studied topically for reducing periorbital dark circles, bruising, and post-procedure purpura. It is used as a treatment active rather than a formulation base.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Sensitization with redness, itching, and eczematous reaction at application site. |
| Skin irritation (stinging, erythema) | Common | Mild transient irritation, particularly on sensitive periorbital skin. |
| Contact urticaria | Rare | Localized hives shortly after application in sensitized individuals. |
| Hyperpigmentation or post-inflammatory pigment changes | Rare | Possible following irritant or allergic reactions. |
| Systemic hemolytic/oxidative toxicity | Very rare | Documented mainly with high-dose systemic exposure (notably in neonates); not expected from normal topical cosmetic use. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.