PABA
Also called: Para-aminobenzoic acid, vitamin Bx
A compound gut bacteria use to make folate. It's sometimes called a B vitamin, but people don't need it in the diet, and evidence for supplements is thin.
Medical Disclaimer
Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.
Studied for
- Skin pigment concerns like vitiligo (old, limited evidence)
- Premature graying (little evidence)
- Fibrous skin conditions (prescription form, with your doctor)
Found naturally in
- Gut bacteria make it
- Liver and kidney
- Brewer's yeast
- Whole grains
- Eggs
Label red flags
- High-dose products taken without supervision
- Promises that it reverses gray hair
Check with a provider
- Taking sulfa antibiotics (such as sulfamethoxazole). PABA can make them less effective.
- Liver disease. High amounts have caused liver injury.
- Taking methotrexate
- Allergy to PABA, including from older sunscreens
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Usually found in B-complex formulas, hair and skin formulas. Browse the Lesher Wellness store
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.