INCI Name: Niacinamide
Appearance: Fine white crystalline powder
Solubility: Water-soluble
Usage Rate: 2% – 6%
Function: Brightening, sebum regulation, barrier repair, anti-aging
Niacinamide is a multi-functional, water-soluble vitamin (B3) widely used in cosmetic formulations to brighten skin, improve tone and texture, minimize pores, regulate oil production, and support the skin barrier. It’s suitable for virtually all skin types including acne-prone, sensitive, dry, and mature skin.
Niacinamide is a well-tolerated powerhouse ingredient used across all skincare categories. Backed by clinical studies, it helps visibly reduce hyperpigmentation, balance oil production, tighten pores, and improve skin elasticity. It also strengthens the lipid barrier to reduce sensitivity and transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Because it works on multiple pathways at once: it improves barrier strength, reduces inflammation, regulates sebum, supports collagen, and reduces melanin transfer. Few actives deliver this wide a portfolio of benefits in a single molecule.
While Tranexamic Acid and N-Acetylglucosamine target pigmentation pathways more directly, Niacinamide prevents melanin transfer to skin cells. Together, they form a complementary trio for stubborn dark spots and uneven tone.
Yes. It reduces excess sebum production, calms inflammation, and improves post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This makes it one of the rare actives that addresses both breakouts and their after-effects.
Yes. Old myths about incompatibility with Vitamin C are outdated. Niacinamide actually complements actives by reducing irritation and strengthening the barrier, making it a great buffer in intensive routines.
Niacinamide boosts ceramide and fatty acid production, improving skin barrier resilience. It also stimulates collagen synthesis, which reduces fine lines and improves elasticity over time.
Yes. By reducing sebum output and improving skin elasticity, it helps pores look smaller and tighter. This effect is particularly noticeable when combined with exfoliants or retinoids.
Yes. By boosting ceramide and fatty acid production, Niacinamide reinforces the skin’s defenses, reducing irritation from urban pollutants, dust, and oxidative stress.
It supports the production of key structural proteins like keratin and filaggrin, which fortify the barrier and reduce susceptibility to external aggressors.
Yes. It reduces oxidative stress and UV-induced DNA damage, working synergistically with UV filters to protect against photoaging and pigmentation.
Yes. Its anti-inflammatory properties calm redness and blotchiness, making it one of the few actives that both strengthens the barrier and soothes irritation.
Yes. It improves scalp barrier health, regulates excess sebum, and supports follicle function, making it useful in scalp serums and strengthening treatments.
Because it addresses multiple concerns like pigmentation, barrier, oil control, redness, and fine lines while being compatible with almost all other actives. This versatility makes it a foundation ingredient across categories.
