Niacinamide: What it is, How to Use It Safely, and Benefits

Niacinamide: What it is, How to Use It Safely, and Benefits

Share This Post

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that belongs to the niacin group of B vitamins. It can be taken as a dietary supplement or applied topically on the skin. Niacinamide has many benefits for the skin, such as improving complexion and reducing acne, also known as acne vulgaris. However, Niacinamide does have some side effects that should be noted before use. Find out more about what Niacinamide is, how it works, and where you can buy products with Niacinamide in it. 

What is Niacinamide and what are the benefits?

Niacinamide is a type of niacin, which is a form of vitamin B3, an essential vitamin. This naturally occurring substance can also be found in meat, fish, nuts, mushrooms, and some vegetables. You can even find it added in cereals, vitamin supplements, and other foods as it is water-soluble. Once you take niacin, your body will use as much as is needed and the excess will be converted to niacinamide. Some pills and topical solutions are available of just Niacinamide. Niacin and Niacinamide are used as dietary supplements, but they can also be found in some topical skincare products.

Niacinamide can be used to treat skin conditions such as acne, sun damage, and age spots. It’s also an effective skin-lightening agent that reduces redness on the face caused by rosacea or erythema dyschromicum perstans (EDP). Niacinamide is often mixed with other ingredients in topical skin care products because Niacinamide doesn’t work well alone. You can mix it with retinol, hyaluronic acid, and other moisturizers.  

What else can Niacinamide do?

Acne is not the only condition that this natural, wonder vitamin can combat. In fact, ongoing research has proven that Niacinamide has many benefits for the skin and other parts of the body too. It can reduce signs of aging and improve complexion, to name a few but check out our full list below.

  • The vitamin improves complexion with an uneven skin tone by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. 
  • Niacinamide is effective at treating sun damage because it stimulates skin cell turnover (when new skin cells form) which makes your skin look smoother with fewer wrinkles and dark spots. 
  • It helps treat pellagra, a condition caused by the lack of niacin in the body. 
  • It helps battle skin cancer. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has shown it has the ability to help reduce the risk of certain types of skin cancer. 
  • Niacinamide is effective at treating and preventing insulin-dependent diabetes, or type 1 diabetes in the prediabetic or early stages of the disease. 
  • The vitamin has been shown to reduce inflammation and increase joint flexibility in those with osteoarthritis
  • Niacinamide decreases pigmentation associated with hyperpigmentation and melasma.  [link to study https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02252945]
  • The vitamin helps with hyperphosphatemia. The condition occurs when there is too much phosphate in the blood, usually due to chronic kidney disease. When taking Niacinamide, clinical studies have shown it reduces hyperphosphatemia and kidney disease when used with other phosphate binders [link to study https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02252945]

Niacinamide truly is one of nature’s wonder vitamins when it comes to its ability to treat a wide variety of diseases. Let’s find out how it can help with your acne

Niacinamide vs. niacin vs. nicotinamide

To clear up some of the confusion, we will define and showcase the differences between these three seemingly similar scientific terms. 

First, Niacinamide is not the same as niacin. Both are forms of B3 vitamins but not the same type. Your body does produce niacinamide from excess niacin though, so you can produce one from the other. 

Nicotinamide is Niacinamide. They are the same thing with a different name which also means that your body can produce nicotinamide, since it is the same thing as niacinamide, from excess niacin. 

How does Niacinamide work?

Niacinamide is a niacin form of vitamin B, specifically vitamin B3. Niacinamide has been found to improve the appearance of the skin, reduce acne, and even prevent sun damage.

Niacinamide works by increasing blood flow to tissues through vasodilation, which means Niacinamide helps to temporarily dilate blood vessels. When topical Niacinamide is applied, the niacin in niacinamide increases the circulation of nutrients to cells, which may lead to clearer skin. This may result in a healthier-looking complexion as blood brings nutrients and oxygen which are necessary for healthy collagen production. Healthier skin brought on by Niacinamide use causes the sebaceous glands, the glands in your skin near hair follicles, to produce less sebum, the natural oil it produces for your body. With less oil production, your skin has a better chance of clearing up over time. In addition, niacin converts into Niacinamide, which helps niacin work better and for longer periods of time.

YouTube player

Side effects of Niacinamide

Let’s review some of niacinamide’s side effects. Niacin, not Niacinamide, can cause side effects when taken orally in high doses, particularly the skin flush reaction (also known as niacin rush), nausea, and stomach ache or cramps. These reactions are rare when niacin is applied to the skin because it does not enter through the bloodstream. It should be noted that niacinamide does not cause the flushing associated with niacin. 

The most common side effect of topical niacin or Niacinamide usage is a redness or tingling sensation that typically subsides after the application has been washed off. This will only happen if you use too much product on one part of your body at once, so apply as directed. 

Please note that Niacinamide is most likely safe in the recommended doses for both children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The most severe side effects are for those who take niacinamide orally which is not necessary for the prevention of acne but it can still be done. Be sure to always follow the recommended doses on any labels or as instructed by your dermatologist. 

As with any new medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist with any questions you may have and tell them any medications you are taking or plan to take in the future.

Where can I get Niacinamide? 

Niacinamide is not a prescription drug and is available over-the-counter so you should be able to easily find it at your local pharmacy or online. It is available in pill or capsule form, if taken orally. If taken as a topical treatment, you can find Niacinamide as a serum, cleanser, cream, and face mask.

There are a variety of brands available, some containing only Niacinamide while others mix other ingredients into the solution. Please talk to your physician to find what is right for you. 

We have listed our partners who have products with Niacinamide available through their websites. You can order from your couch and receive a discreet package right to your mailbox. If you want to consult a medical professional regarding your acne, our partners can also provide an easy service to talk to someone who can also prescribe other medications if you need something more. 

Hims 

Hers 

Nava MD 

Summary

Niacinamide is an inactive form of niacin, a B vitamin and is typically applied topically and does not enter the bloodstream like niacin which can cause side effects including skin flushing. When Niacinamide is applied topically it increases circulation to cells which leads to clearer skin and less sebum being produced by the sebaceous glands. There are few side effects from Niacinamide when it is applied topically but niacin can have serious side effects if taken orally as it enters the bloodstream although these are rare. Please consult your dermatologist or pharmacist regarding any questions you may have about the drug and always tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. If you can’t make it to your doctor, we have provided a way to receive Niacinamide right to your mailbox and a certified medical professional can conveniently chat with you about the possibility of prescription medicines to help determine the best results for you. 

References, Studies and Sources: 

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicotinamide

New England Journal of Medicine

Drugs.com Niacinamide

We are committed to providing our readers with only trusted resources and science-based studies with regards to medication and health information. 

Disclaimer: This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you suspect medical problems or need medical help or advice, please talk with your healthcare professional.

Share This Post

Popular Destinations

Recent Articles

Stress Acne: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Stress Acne: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Stress. It's a powerful emotion that can wreak havoc on your body. One way that stress can appear is on your skin in the form of stress acne. Stress causes acne by increasing oil production and clogging pores, which leads to an overgrowth of bacteria. To combat this unwanted side effect of stress, we have created a guide with everything you need to know about stress acne: its causes, prevention strategies, and treatments.

Read More »
Cystic Acne

Cystic Acne: What Is It, And How Do You Treat It?

Cystic acne is a type of acne that causes cysts to form deep in the skin. These cysts are often painful and may take weeks or months to heal. If you have cystic acne, then you may need a dermatologist's help. In this article, we will answer all your questions about cystic acne, what it is, who can get it, how do you diagnose it, how do you treat cystic acne, and more.

Read More »
A Guide to Anti Aging Cream for Men

A Guide to Anti Aging Cream for Men

It is frequently said that men are like fine wine – they get better with age. And while in general, men may seem to age more gracefully than women, having a regular skin care routine can help keep your skin looking revitalized. Below are some active ingredients to look for in your anti-aging creams that have been clinically proven to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Read More »
Fordyce Spots, A Mystery Revealed

Fordyce Spots, A Mystery Revealed

Fordyce spots, also called Fordyce granules, are small yellowish-white bumps that appear on the shaft of the penis, labia majora or labia minora, scrotum, around and inside the mouth, and nipples. These spots can grow to up to 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter and will become slightly bigger when sexually aroused. Fordyce spots are not harmful and do not require treatment but they can be an embarrassing problem for some people causing anxiety, stress, or discomfort when in public areas such as the locker room at the gym.

Read More »

Share On:

More To Explore

Stress Acne: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

Stress. It's a powerful emotion that can wreak havoc on your body. One way that stress can appear is on your skin in the

Cystic Acne: What Is It, And How Do You Treat It?

Cystic acne is a type of acne that causes cysts to form deep in the skin. These cysts are often painful and may take

A Guide to Anti Aging Cream for Men

It is frequently said that men are like fine wine – they get better with age. And while in general, men may seem to

Is Clindamycin Right for You as an Acne Treatment?

Learn more as we discuss clindamycin for acne, how clindamycin works, the different forms of treatment, and whether it is the right form of

Fordyce Spots, A Mystery Revealed

Fordyce spots, also called Fordyce granules, are small yellowish-white bumps that appear on the shaft of the penis, labia majora or labia minora, scrotum,

Clearing Up Butt Acne: Treatment, Prevention and More

Red bumps that appear like acne on the buttocks can occur in both men and women and is a common skin condition. Continue reading

How Much Does Accutane Cost?

As generic forms of the drug entered the market, the cost of the medication has come down, so how much does Accutane cost today?

Your Comparison Guide of Minocycline vs Doxycycline

Minocycline and Doxycycline are both second-generation tetracycline-class antibiotics. They both are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have been proven effective for the treatment of acne, also known as acne vulgaris, but what else is

How to Diagnose and Treat Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor is a common skin infection that causes red, scaly patches on the chest, back, or neck. You may also see flaky white

10 Best Ways to Help Prevent and Remove Blackheads

Blackheads develop when sebum from oil glands gets trapped in hair follicles or pores. Bacteria build up after time, so removing blackheads is important

What Is Minocycline?

Minocycline is a second-generation antibiotic in the tetracycline class of antibiotics. Second-generation, in this case, means that it is a semi-synthetic compound; first-generation tetracyclines are naturally

What is Accutane?

What is Accutane and can it really be used to treat acne? Read our latest blog for more details!

The Difference Between Tretinoin, Retinol, and Retinoids

Topical treatments like tretinoin, retinol, and retinoids for acne and wrinkles can be a little confusing to understand what each one is and what

What is Melasma and How Do You Treat It?

Melasma, sometimes referred to as chloasma, is a skin disorder characterized by darker spots on the skin. The patches can vary in color

A Comprehensive Guide to Minocycline for Acne

If you suffer from acne, there is a targeted medication for treating acne–minocycline. Minocycline is a prescription drug used to treat infections by preventing

Tretinoin Strengths and How They Work With Acne

Tretinoin is a topical medication that is used for the treatment of acne, also called acne vulgaris, and the most common brand in the

How to Get Rid of Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation, or dark spots on the skin, can be tricky to get rid of. If you are dealing with this condition, you are not

How to Deal with Blood Blisters

Blood blisters are a medical condition where fluid-filled bubbles grow out of blood vessels in the skin. They form under the skin and can

Geologie Review: Does This Personalized Men’s Skincare Work?

Geologie offers personalized skin care products tailored to each male customer they have. The personal touch is certainly nice, but do their products really

Understanding Melasma Treatments

Melasma is a skin conition that is characterized by hyperpigmented spots on the skin. Melasma is sometimes referred to as chloasma. The spots are most

Everyday Tips for Anti-Aging Skin Care

With so many anti-aging products available on the market, it is overwhelming to find which products actually work and are worth spending money on

Body Acne 101: Prevention and Treatment

Body acne is a common condition that affects many people, especially during puberty. It can appear anywhere on your body and can be unsightly

Paronychia: What You Need to Know

Many people are unaware that paronychia is a nail infection. Paronychia usually affects one or more of your fingers, but can also affect your

The ABCs of Skin Lesions

Skin lesions can be a source of anxiety for many people. Whether they're due to an infection, injury, or disease, skin lesions are often

Perioral Dermatitis: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Perioral dermatitis is a common skin condition that occurs around the mouth. It often starts with red, inflamed patches and may then progress to

Niacinamide and Vitamin C: Benefits for Your Skin

Niacinamide and Vitamin C are two popular ingredients that you can use to improve the health of your skin. Niacinamide is a form of

Hyperpigmentation and Acne

Acne is the most common skin condition that affects people of all ages. In fact, roughly 80 percent of people ages 11 to 30 have

What is Clindamycin Phosphate?

Clindamycin phosphate is a salt form of the antibiotic medicine clindamycin. Clindamycin phosphate provides coverage for bacteria that are resistant to erythromycin, methicillin, or penicillin. Clindamycin is used to treat acne, also known as acne vulgaris,

15 of the Most Common Types of Skin Lesions and Prevention Strategies

Skin lesions are common skin conditions that appear as an abnormal growth. There are many skin lesions, each of which is caused by a

Collagen Supplements: Does the Research Support the Hype?

The use of collagen supplements is becoming a popular health trend. Collagen is an important protein in your body, and collagen supplements may have