Niacinamide

Name: Niacinamide
Creator: Val Yermakova

Nicotinamide (vitamin B3)

Barrier repair, pore minimising, and brightening

HyperpigmentationDark SpotsPore SizeAcneLoss of Collagen

In plain English

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that has a remarkably long list of skin benefits backed by solid evidence: it reduces pigmentation, strengthens the skin's moisture barrier, minimises the appearance of pores, reduces redness, and helps with acne. It is one of the gentlest actives available and rarely causes irritation, which makes it suitable for almost all skin types including sensitive and reactive skin.

Safe for skin types

Safe forAll Fitzpatrick types I–VI

Avoid ifKnown niacin allergy (very rare)

Niacinamide is one of the most universally well-tolerated actives. It reduces melanosome transfer, making it especially useful for Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin with hyperpigmentation.

Common misconceptions

✕Myth

“Niacinamide and vitamin C cannot be used together.”

✓Reality

The concern originates from a reaction that can form nicotinic acid under high heat and prolonged contact. At normal skincare conditions (room temperature, short contact times, cosmetic concentrations), this reaction does not occur at clinically meaningful levels. Combining them is safe and some formulations use both ingredients together.

✕Myth

“Higher niacinamide concentration always means better results.”

✓Reality

Most published efficacy data is at 2% to 5%. Concentrations above 10% may trigger flushing reactions in sensitive individuals with little additional benefit over well-formulated lower-concentration products.

✕Myth

“Niacinamide shrinks pores permanently.”

✓Reality

Niacinamide reduces sebum production, which temporarily reduces the appearance of pore size. Pores do not structurally shrink. The cosmetic benefit is real but requires ongoing use to maintain.

Quick Facts

DurationDaily use; results in 8–12 weeks

Studies150+

FDA StatusOTC cosmetic ingredient

Price$10–$60 / 30 ml

Should You Try This?

Probably okay to try

Educational content only. This page summarises published clinical research and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about your care.

Researched by

Val Yermakova

Informed Girl · informedgirl.com

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