A nicotinic acid ester. It widens vessels and boosts blood flow to skin, and may cause redness and warmth.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A vasodilating component. Some people may react.
Hexyl Nicotinate is the hexyl ester of nicotinic acid (vitamin B3). It is added to cosmetics for its vasodilator effect: it penetrates the skin and widens the surface capillaries, raising local blood flow. You see it in massage creams, warming products and formulas that aim for a sense of activation. As a care active it offers little. It does not repair or hydrate; it works mainly as a sensory agent and microcirculation booster. Its main effect, the brief redness and warmth, is exactly what many skin types want to avoid in a daily facial product. For topical use the amount reaching circulation is minimal, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without a specific concern. Irritation potential is low, but allergy risk is medium. The most common response is not an allergy but the expected one: flush, tingling or short-lived stinging from the vasodilation. People with sensitive skin, rosacea or a tendency to flush are better off skipping it, since it amplifies the very reaction those skin types try to keep in check.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
ModeratePregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Hexyl Nicotinate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Hexyl Nicotinate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A nicotinic acid ester.
The INCI name is Hexyl Nicotinate. It may also appear as: Гексил никотинат.
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