Nicotinamide (Niacinamide): A Multifunctional Vitamin B3 Derivative for Skin Health and Medicine

Technical Introduction

Nicotinamide, also known as Niacinamide, is a water-soluble form of Vitamin B3 (Niacin). It is an essential nutrient required for cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and energy production. In the cosmetic and dermatological industries, it is valued for its broad skin benefits, ranging from barrier repair to anti-aging and pigmentation control.

• Chemical Name: Nicotinamide (Niacinamide)

• Molecular Formula: C₆H₆N₂O

• Molecular Weight: 122.12 g/mol

• CAS Number: 98-92-0

• Appearance: White crystalline powder

• Odor: Odorless

• Solubility: Freely soluble in water, ethanol, glycerol

• Stability: Stable in heat and light; compatible with many cosmetic formulations

Applications

1. Cosmetics & Skincare

• Anti-aging creams & serums → Improves elasticity, reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

• Brightening products → Inhibits melanosome transfer, helping reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots.

• Moisturizers & barrier creams → Enhances ceramide synthesis, strengthening the skin barrier.

• Acne treatments → Regulates sebum production and reduces inflammation.

• Sensitive skin formulations → Reduces redness, irritation, and blotchiness.

2. Pharmaceuticals & Medicine

• Used as a vitamin supplement for preventing and treating Pellagra (Vitamin B3 deficiency).

• Investigated for anti-inflammatory effects in skin diseases like acne vulgaris and rosacea.

• Plays a role in cancer prevention research due to its DNA-repair properties.

3. Nutraceuticals & Functional Foods

• Sometimes incorporated into dietary supplements for energy metabolism and skin health.

✅ Advantages

• Multi-benefit ingredient → Anti-aging, brightening, hydrating, anti-acne.

• Well-tolerated → Suitable for sensitive skin, fewer irritation risks than retinoids or acids.

• Stable & compatible → Works well in creams, gels, serums, and toners.

• Water-soluble → Easy to formulate into a wide range of products.

• Proven efficacy → Backed by extensive clinical studies in dermatology.

⚙️ Technical Specifications (Typical Cosmetic-Grade Nicotinamide)

⚠️ Safety & Regulations

• Topical Use: Generally safe up to 2–10% concentration in cosmetics.

• Oral Use: Considered safe as a dietary supplement (typical doses: 14–35 mg/day).

• High Doses: Excessive oral intake (>500 mg/day) may cause flushing, nausea, or liver toxicity.

• Regulatory Approvals:

  • Approved globally as a cosmetic ingredient (EU, US FDA, Japan, China).

  • Listed in CosIng (EU) and PCPC (US) cosmetic ingredient databases.

❓ FAQ

Q1: What’s the difference between Niacin and Nicotinamide?
Both are forms of Vitamin B3. Niacin (nicotinic acid) can cause flushing, while Nicotinamide (niacinamide) does not, making it preferred in cosmetics.

Q2: Can Nicotinamide be combined with Vitamin C?
Yes, modern studies confirm they can be used together safely and effectively (old myths about incompatibility are outdated).

Q3: Does Nicotinamide help with acne?
Yes. It reduces inflammation, sebum production, and redness, making it useful in acne-prone formulations.

Q4: Is Nicotinamide suitable for all skin types?
Yes. It is especially recommended for sensitive, oily, aging, and hyperpigmented skin.

Q5: How long does it take to see results?
Visible improvements in brightness and hydration can be seen in 2–4 weeks, with wrinkle and elasticity benefits after 8–12 weeks of consistent use.