Niacinamide
Vitamin B3 form with a wide action spectrum: brightens pigmentation, strengthens the barrier, minimizes pores, and reduces sebum production.
Evidence by route
Topical application
RCTs confirm efficacy for acne, melasma, and enlarged pores. A 2021 meta-analysis showed comparable efficacy to clindamycin for mild-to-moderate acne. Depigmenting effect occurs via inhibition of melanosome transfer to keratinocytes.
- Walocko FM et al. Dermatol Ther. 2017;30(5):. PMID 28220628
- Levin J et al. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2011;4(12):19-31. PMID 20725560
How to read tiers A–F
- AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints
Tolerability and safety
- Working concentrations
- 2–10%
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Normal, Dry
Combinations with other ingredients
Works well with
Zinc PCA
Combination reduces sebum production and inflammation. Niacinamide regulates the barrier, zinc binds excess sebum.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid works on comedones, niacinamide on inflammation and barrier. Pair performs well in acne.
Centella Asiatica
Both molecules reduce redness and support the barrier. A base pair for sensitive skin.
Tranexamic Acid
Synergy for melasma: tranexamic acid suppresses tyrosinase, niacinamide blocks melanosome transfer to keratinocytes.
Hyaluronic Acid
Safe pair for most routines. Niacinamide strengthens the barrier, hyaluronic acid retains water in the stratum corneum.
Azelaic Acid
Both molecules work against post-acne pigmentation and inflammation. Gentle tolerability even on reactive skin.
L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
The old incompatibility myth is debunked. In modern formulas these ingredients work together, enhancing brightening and antioxidant effects.
Retinol
Niacinamide reduces retinol's irritation potential by strengthening the barrier without sacrificing efficacy.
About this ingredient
Niacinamide (nicotinamide, vitamin B3) is the amide of nicotinic acid. In the skin it converts into NAD+ and NADP+ – coenzymes for key cellular processes: DNA repair, ATP synthesis, and 200+ enzymes. Where applied. Serums, creams, toners (2–10%). The most common universal anti-aging/brightening ingredient of the 2020s. Brands include The Ordinary Niacinamide 10%, La Roche-Posay Niacinamide 10, Eucerin, Paula's Choice, Skin Inc. In Spain – CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol, La Roche-Posay Pure Niacinamide 10. Evidence base. Bissett (Dermatol Surg, 2005) in 50 women showed texture, tone, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkle improvement over 12 weeks with 5% niacinamide. Suppresses melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes (by 35–68%), more effective in melasma and post-acne pigmentation. Reduces sebum in acne (Draelos 2006). Safety. CIR/SCCS confirm safety at concentrations up to 10%. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Irritation possible in 5–10% of patients at 10%+, resolves in 1–2 weeks. Does not photosensitize. Vitamin C controversy. The old "don't mix niacinamide with L-ascorbic acid" claim has been refuted – a myth from extreme-pH lab conditions (Yamamoto 1991). In modern buffered-pH formulations (4.5–6) the combination is safe and synergistic. The Ordinary, Paula's Choice have publicly confirmed compatibility. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. First-line agent for gestational melasma and post-acne pigmentation, alongside azelaic acid and SPF. Particularly suitable for. Rosacea, acne, hyperpigmentation, sensitive skin, photoaging. Suitable for starting anti-aging care in young patients and those who cannot tolerate retinoids.
Frequently asked questions
Is Niacinamide safe during pregnancy?
Niacinamide is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Niacinamide for?
Niacinamide suits: oily, combination, sensitive, normal, dry.
What is Niacinamide and what does it do in cosmetics?
Vitamin B3 form with a wide action spectrum: brightens pigmentation, strengthens the barrier, minimizes pores, and reduces sebum production.
What's the INCI name for Niacinamide?
The INCI name is Niacinamide. It may also appear as: Nicotinamide, Vitamin B3, Vitamin PP.
What concentration of Niacinamide is effective?
2–10%
See Niacinamide in a product composition right on the store page
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.
Similar in action
Explore by category
Brightening, Barrier repair, Acne, Post-retinoid recovery, Fungal acne safe, Compromised barrier rebuild, Rosacea-friendly, Perioral dermatitis safe, Post-sunburn repair
Ingredients in the same category
Nonapeptide-1, Oligopeptide-68, Palmitoyl Grapevine Shoot Extract, Papain, Sodium Ascorbate, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Cystoseira Tamariscifolia Extract, Hydroquinone
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