NIACINAMIDE
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 and is part of the vitamin B complex. It has a wide range of skin-care benefits. Niacinamide is a thoroughly researched active ingredient that has been shown in numerous studies to be effective in improving the appearance of the skin.(1-8)
Effects of niacinamide:
Regulation of Sebum Production: A clinical study showed that 2% niacinamide can reduce the skin's sebum production, thereby minimizing blemishes and oily shine.(1)
Lightening of Pigment Spots & Even Skin Tone: Niacinamide can inhibit the transfer of melanosomes to surrounding skin cells, which can visibly reduce hyperpigmentation.(4)
A 2010 study also showed that a combination of niacinamide and N-acetylglucosamine (NAG) can lead to a significant lightening of pigment spots.(8)
Strengthening the Skin Barrier & Reducing Moisture Loss: By promoting ceramide and lipid synthesis, niacinamide improves the epidermal barrier function and reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), making the skin smoother and less prone to irritation.(3)
Anti-Aging & Skin Refinement: Studies show that niacinamide can improve the appearance of the skin by reducing fine lines, redness, and roughness.(2)
Thanks to its multifunctional effects on sebum regulation, skin brightening, barrier reinforcement, and anti-aging, niacinamide is a versatile and scientifically proven active ingredient that is suitable for many skin types and skin concerns. (8)
(1) Draelos ZD, Matsubara A, Smiles K. (2006). The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production. J Cosmet Laser Ther., 8(2), 96-101.
(2) Bissett DL, Miyamoto K, Sun P, Li J, Berge CA. (2004). Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotches, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin. Int J Cosmet Sci., 26(5), 231-238.
(3) Tanno O, Ota Y, Kitamura N, Katsube T, Inoue S. (2000). Nicotinamide increases the biosynthesis of ceramides and other stratum corneum lipids, thereby improving the epidermal permeability barrier. Br J Dermatol., 143(3), 524-31.
(4) Hakozaki T, Minwalla L, Zhuang J, Chhoa M, Matsubara A, Miyamoto K, Greatens A, Hillebrand GG, Bissett DL, Boissy RE. (2002). The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppressing melanosome transfer. Br J Dermatol., 147(1), 20-31.
(5) Boo, Y. (2021). Mechanistic Basis and Clinical Evidence for the Applications of Nicotinamide (Niacinamide) in Controlling Skin Aging and Pigmentation. Antioxidants, 10.
(6) Wohlrab, J., Kreft, D. (2014). Niacinamide—Mechanisms of Action and Its Topical Use in Dermatology. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 27, 311–315.
(7) Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Final report on the safety assessment of niacinamide and niacin. Int J Toxicol. 2005;24 Suppl 5:1-31.
(8) Kimball AB, Kaczvinsky JR, Li J, Robinson LR, Matts PJ, Berge CA, Miyamoto K, Bissett DL. (2010). Reduction in the appearance of facial hyperpigmentation after use of moisturizers containing a combination of topical niacinamide and N-acetylglucosamine: results of a randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial. Br J Dermatol., 162(2), 435-41.
