Niacinamide
A form of Vitamin B3, it helps improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation.
What is Niacinamide?
CAS Number
98-92-0
Formula
C6H6N2O
Molecular Weight
122.12 g/mol
Also known as: Nicotinamide, Vitamin B3, 3-Pyridinecarboxamide
What does Niacinamide do for skin?
Precursor to NAD+/NADPH coenzymes. Inhibits melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, reducing hyperpigmentation. Stimulates ceramide and free fatty acid synthesis in the stratum corneum, strengthening the lipid barrier. At 2-5% concentration, reduces sebum excretion rate and pore appearance.
Typical concentration: 2-10% (most clinical evidence at 4-5%)
Is Niacinamide safe?
Generally well tolerated at concentrations up to 10%. No significant adverse effects reported in clinical trials. CIR Expert Panel: safe as used in cosmetics (2005 review).
What does the research say about Niacinamide?
Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmentation
Bissett et al., Dermatologic Surgery, 2005
Effect of niacinamide on sebum and pore size
Draelos et al., Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 2006
Niacinamide stimulates ceramide synthesis
Tanno et al., British Journal of Dermatology, 2000
Regulatory Info
Can I mix Niacinamide with other ingredients?
Niacinamide and vitamin C are generally safe to layer — older concerns about flushing are largely debunked at normal usage concentrations. If your skin is very sensitive, wait a few minutes between application.
AHAs lower skin pH while niacinamide works best at neutral pH. Together they may reduce niacinamide's effectiveness. Consider using on alternate routines.
Great combo! Niacinamide soothes inflammation and strengthens the barrier, making retinoid easier to tolerate.
Excellent pair! Hyaluronic acid hydrates while niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier. Use together for plump, healthy skin.
Niacinamide + salicylic acid is a power duo for oily and acne-prone skin. Niacinamide calms any irritation from the BHA.
Both strengthen the skin barrier through different mechanisms. Together they're the ultimate barrier repair combo.
Niacinamide and zinc together are great for oily and acne-prone skin. They reduce sebum and calm inflammation.
Azelaic acid and niacinamide work synergistically for brightening. Both target hyperpigmentation through different pathways.
Centella soothes while niacinamide strengthens. Together they calm redness and rebuild the skin barrier.
Snail mucin and niacinamide are excellent together. Snail mucin hydrates and repairs while niacinamide brightens and strengthens.
Growth Factors
PDRN/EGF pairs well with niacinamide. Both support skin repair through different pathways without any conflicts.
Fermented Ingredients
Fermented ingredients like galactomyces enhance absorption of niacinamide. A staple K-beauty combination.
Tranexamic acid and niacinamide are a brightening power duo. Both fade dark spots through different mechanisms.
Zinc + niacinamide is a classic for oily/acne-prone skin. They regulate sebum and reduce inflammation together.
Peptides
Peptides and niacinamide both support the skin barrier and collagen. Safe and beneficial to combine.
Arbutin and niacinamide are a gentle brightening duo. Both target melanin through different pathways and are safe to layer together.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid and niacinamide are a gentle brightening duo. Kojic acid inhibits tyrosinase while niacinamide blocks melanosome transfer — complementary pathways with no conflict.
Read all ingredient interaction guides for layering order and science-backed advice.