Vitamin B2 Riboflavin, like other members of the vitamin B complex, Riboflavin helps reduce energy from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Riboflavin also promotes healthy skin, hair, nails, and mucous membranes; aids the production of red blood cells, corticosteroids, and thyroid hormones; and is required for the proper function of the nerves, eyes, and adrenal glands. It is often used to treat acne, anemia, cataracts, and depression. Studies show that Riboflavin can defuse the toxicity of alcohol and tobacco in the body and help prevent or lower a person's chance of coming down with cancer of the esophagus.