Everything to Know About Niacinamide

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. Although additional studies are needed, using niacinamide may help lessen inflammation, enhance skin elasticity, and offer other skin benefits.

Preventing a B3 deficiency is important because it can cause problems affecting the skin, kidneys, and brain. There’s more to know about niacinamide, particularly regarding general skin health.

Continue reading to discover potential niacinamide benefits, what to look for in formulations, and more.

What benefits does niacinamide provide?

In general, niacinamide can support the formation of skin proteins and help retain moisture to reduce damage.

Further research is required to clarify these potential benefits in greater depth.

Skin elasticity

Niacinamide helps support the spacing between keratin molecules. Keratin is a structural protein that helps keep skin firm and healthy.

This action may contribute to improved skin elasticity.

Skin barrier

Some studies indicate that niacinamide might help reinforce the skin’s ceramide (lipid) barrier. A stronger barrier can help retain moisture.

Reduces inflammation

Niacinamide can reduce inflammation, which may lessen redness or uneven color. This effect could be useful for inflammatory skin disorders such as:

• psoriasis
• atopic dermatitis
• contact dermatitis

Regulates oil

Niacinamide may help control the amount of oil produced by sebaceous glands. This could be beneficial for people with oily skin, though further study is warranted.

Rebuilds skin cells

Niacinamide may assist in repairing healthy skin cells damaged by ultraviolet radiation.

Nonetheless, it remains important to protect your skin outdoors by using sunscreen and covering exposed areas when possible.

Skin appearance

Niacinamide has shown promise in treating hyperpigmentation and pigmentation disorders. It may also help diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

Protects against oxidative stress

Niacinamide supports skin cell formation while shielding them from environmental stresses like UV light, pollution, and toxins.

Treats acne

Niacinamide shows potential for helping manage acne, but more research is needed to fully understand this role. Other acne treatments might be more appropriate depending on the situation.

»Learn more:How to Get Rid of Acne

Are topical products preferable to food and supplements?

Consuming a balanced diet is the best way to obtain micronutrients such as vitamin B3. Supplements should only be taken under medical guidance.

For overall skin wellbeing, you may gain some benefits of niacinamide from dietary sources.

Foods that contain vitamin B3 include the following:

• fish
• meat
• eggs
• wheat flour

However, dietary intake alone cannot guarantee that these nutrients are addressing specific skin concerns. Using niacinamide topically is the only way to ensure it targets particular skin issues.

Consult a physician before adding niacinamide products to your skincare regimen.

»Learn more:How to Get Rid of Acne

Which type of niacinamide product is best?

Many topical niacinamide items are sold as serums. Serums are concentrated treatments designed to address targeted skin concerns in addition to cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.

Some cleansers and moisturizers also include niacinamide.

Always read product labels carefully and follow the usage instructions.

Niacinamide concentrations vary, but most products contain 5% or less. Some evidence suggests that 5% niacinamide can be effective for improving fine lines and wrinkles.

If your skin is sensitive, consider starting with a lower percentage.

Niacinamide on ingredient lists may appear as “niacin” or “nicotinamide.”

Are there any side effects from niacinamide?

Topical niacinamide is generally considered safe for use.

People with existing allergies may be at higher risk for an allergic response because niacinamide can trigger the release of histamine.

To perform a patch test before regular use:

1. Apply a dime-sized amount to the inner forearm.
2. Wait 48 to 96 hours.
3. If you notice redness, itching, swelling, or discoloration, wash the area and stop using the product.
4. If no reaction occurs, it should be safe to apply to other areas.

What outcomes can you expect?

As with any new skincare ingredient, noticeable results are unlikely to appear immediately.

Most studies examined niacinamide use over roughly 4 to 12 weeks, but there isn’t a fixed timeline.

If you don’t observe improvement after a few months, consider seeing a dermatologist. They can review your routine and recommend products, dietary adjustments, or other interventions to improve skin health.

Is niacinamide the same as niacin?

Although their names are similar, niacinamide is not identical to niacin. Niacinamide is the water-soluble variant of niacin (vitamin B3).

The bottom line

Topical niacinamide may positively influence overall skin health. It can reduce inflammation and hyperpigmentation, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and offer additional benefits.

While more research is warranted, niacinamide might help conditions such as dermatitis, psoriasis, and acne.

Don’t take niacinamide supplements unless advised by a physician or other healthcare provider. Talk with your doctor to learn more about the potential benefits of niacinamide.