Niacinamide

Vitamin B3 Derivative

Also known as: Nicotinamide, Vitamin B3 amide

Description

Niacinamide is the physiologically active amide form of vitamin B3. It is a versatile, well-tolerated compound with anti-inflammatory, sebum-regulating, and barrier-strengthening properties.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits sebocyte lipogenesis and reduces sebum production. Enhances synthesis of ceramides and other intercellular lipids, strengthening the epidermal barrier. Inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes. Suppresses NF-κB pathway activation.

Indications

  • Acne vulgaris
  • Rosacea
  • Melasma
  • Atopic dermatitis
  • Photoaging
  • Hyperpigmentation

Available Concentrations

2%4%5%10%

Side Effects

  • Mild flushing (rare at topical doses)
  • Mild irritation in sensitive individuals

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity

Pregnancy Category

A

Found In

Cosmetics containing Niacinamide

Acnelak CL Gel (Clindamycin 1% + Nicotinamide 4%)MenariniCeraVe Foaming Facial CleanserCeraVe (L'Oréal)CeraVe Moisturising CreamCeraVe (L'Oréal)Cetaphil Gentle Skin CleanserCetaphil (Galderma)Chemist at Play 5% AHA + 1% BHA Body LotionChemist at PlayCipla Excela MoisturiserCipla (Rivela Dermascience)Cipla Rivela Tint Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50Cipla (Rivela Dermascience)Conscious Chemist SunProtect+ SPF 50+ PA++++ SunscreenConscious ChemistDeconstruct Pore Control Serum — 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% NiacinamideDeconstructThe Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face SerumThe Derma CoDot & Key 10% Glycolic Acid Glow SerumDot & KeyDr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++Dr. Sheth'sFixderma Nigrifix Cream (for Hyperpigmentation)FixdermaFoxtale Essentials Dewy Finish Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++FoxtaleGarnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Booster Serum 30xGarnier (L'Oréal)Joy Revivify Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++Joy Revivify (RSH Global)La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo (+) Anti-Acne MoisturiserLa Roche-PosayMinimalist 10% Niacinamide Face SerumMinimalistOlay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting CreamOlay (Procter & Gamble)Pilgrim Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++PilgrimPond's Super Light Gel Oil-Free Moisturiser with Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin EPond's (Unilever)Re'equil Ceramide & Hyaluronic Acid MoisturiserRe'equilSuganda White Lotus Moisturiser with 5% NiacinamideSugandaThe Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%The Ordinary (DECIEM)VLCC 10% Azelaic Acid SerumVLCC

Related Conditions

Acne Vulgaris Sebum regulation and anti-inflammatory Rosacea Barrier repair and anti-inflammatory adjunct Melasma Inhibits melanosome transfer to keratinocytes Atopic Dermatitis Enhances ceramide synthesis and reduces inflammation Photoaging Improves fine lines, pigmentation, and barrier function Psoriasis Anti-inflammatory and barrier-repair adjunct Seborrheic Dermatitis Anti-inflammatory and barrier support Xerosis Stimulates ceramide synthesis and improves barrier