What Is Niacinamide? Benefits for Skin and Scientific Information

What Is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide is the cosmetic form of nicotinamide, also known as vitamin B3. This water-soluble vitamin is one of the most researched and most reliable active ingredients in skincare. It is a precursor to the NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) coenzyme, which plays a role in cellular energy production. Thanks to this property, it supports the renewal and repair of skin cells.

Niacinamide used in cosmetic products is one of the most popular actives due to its stable structure, versatile effects, and suitability for different skin types.

Key Scientific Information

Chemical structure: The amide form of nicotinic acid.

Solubility: Water-soluble; can be easily used in serum and cream formulations.

Mechanism of action: Strengthens the skin barrier, inhibits melanin transfer, balances sebum production, and supports cell renewal.

Concentration: Typically used in cosmetic products at concentrations between 2–10%.

Benefits for Skin

Strengthens the Skin Barrier

Niacinamide helps repair the skin’s natural barrier by increasing ceramide production. This helps prevent moisture loss and protects the skin against external aggressors.

Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles

By supporting NAD+ production, it enhances cellular energy metabolism. This helps maintain skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Provides an Anti-Spot Effect

By reducing the transfer of melanin pigment to skin cells, it helps fade the appearance of hyperpigmentation and sun spots.

Balances Sebum

In oily and acne-prone skin, it helps regulate sebum production, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

It helps reduce redness, irritation, and acne-related inflammation. Therefore, it is also suitable for rosacea and sensitive skin.

Reduces the Appearance of Pores

With regular use, by strengthening the skin barrier and balancing sebum, it helps pores appear smaller.

Scientific References

• Bissett, D. L. et al. (2005). Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 27(3), 155–161.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18492135/PubMed

• Hakozaki, T. et al. (2002). The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer. British Journal of Dermatology, 147(1), 20–31.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/

• Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotineamide in dermatology. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/