Niacinamide – Skincare Guide
- Anzhelina Ivanova
- Dec 6, 2025
- 2 min read
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is one of the most researched and well-tolerated skincare ingredients. It supports barrier function, oil regulation, skin clarity, and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it suitable for nearly every skin type.
Key Benefits
1. Strengthens the Skin Barrier
Enhances production of ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol—key components that make the skin barrier more resilient and resistant to moisture loss.
2. Regulates Sebum (Oil) Production
Helps balance excess oil, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.
3. Reduces Redness & Inflammation
Provides anti-inflammatory support, calming irritation, sensitivity, and acne-related redness.
4. Brightens Skin & Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Helps inhibit melanin transfer, improving dark spots, uneven tone, and dullness.
5. Improves Skin Texture & Pore Appearance
Minimizes the look of enlarged pores and improves overall smoothness.
6. Antioxidant Protection
Protects against environmental stressors that accelerate aging.
Niacinamide by Skin Type
Normal Skin
Maintains hydration, clarity, and balance.
Use 2–5% formulations for daily maintenance.
Dry Skin
Strengthens the barrier and boosts ceramide production.
Combine with hyaluronic acid or ceramide-rich moisturizers.
Oily Skin
Regulates sebum production, reduces shine, and improves pore appearance.
Combination Skin
Balances oil production in the T-zone while supporting hydration in dry areas.
Sensitive Skin
Reduces redness, calms irritation, and supports a weakened barrier.
Start with low concentration (1%) to avoid initial flushing.
Acne-Prone Skin
Reduces inflammation, diminishes acne marks, and regulates oil production.
Can be paired with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Dehydrated Skin
Improves moisture retention and reduces tightness.
Works well layered under hydrating serums.
Mature / Aging Skin
Improves elasticity, brightens uneven skin tone, and supports collagen.
Use 5%+ concentrations in combination with peptides or retinol.
Warnings & Precautions
Concentration sensitivity: High concentrations may cause temporary flushing, tingling, or irritation—especially in sensitive skin.
Do not over-layer with strong acids: Combining high-strength niacinamide with AHAs/BHAs may cause redness in reactive skin.
Patch testing recommended for sensitive or compromised skin.
Choose stable, well-formulated products to avoid yellowing or oxidation.
Scientific References
Draelos, Z. D. (2019). Niacinamide: A multifunctional cosmeceutical ingredient. Dermatologic Surgery.
Bissett, D. L. (2009). Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Dermatology Research and Practice.
Gehring, W. (2004). Nicotinamide in dermatology. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 3(2), 88–93.
Surjana, D., Halliday, G. M., & Damian, D. L. (2010). Nicotinamide enhances DNA repair and reduces photodamage. Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
Hakozaki, T. et al. (2002). The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer. British Journal of Dermatology.
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