Niacinamide

Niacinamide/Nicotinamide is the amide form of Vitamin B3 (Niacin). It is an essential water-soluble vitamin that is not stored in the body. The terms Niacinamide and Nicotinamide refer to exactly the same compound which is a form of Vitamin B3. This should not be confused with Nicotinic acid which is another form of Niacin, which when taken orally causes flushing. In the context of skincare and cosmetic products, the term Niacinamide is more commonly used. Nicotinamide is often used in the scientific literature and is the term preferred for the oral form of Vitamin B3.

Dietary sources of Niacinamide include liver, meat, fish, green leafy vegetables, legumes, wheat, oats, yeast, mushrooms, nuts, tea and coffee.

Niacinamide is vital in producing energy in cells and also plays an important role in DNA repair. Niacinamide used as an ingredient in topical skincare products has multiple benefits which include soothing properties, the reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduction of pigmentation and skin sallowness. It helps to improve the skin’s barrier function by reducing transepidermal water loss. It can also be used to reduce the production of sebum and can help to improve large pores.

Therefore, in summary, Niacinamide as an ingredient in skincare products has multiple benefits and is generally very well tolerated.

Skincare products containing Niacinamide 

Dr Webster recommends:

• Huxley Brightly Ever After Essence
• Dr. Barbara Sturm The Better B Niacinamide Serum
• pHformula VITA B3 Cream
• SkinCeuticals Metacell Renewal B3
• Lamelle Nia-Sol Lotion