In the world of skincare, few ingredients have as solid and versatile a scientific foundation as niacinamide. Also known as vitamin B3 (or nicotinamide, depending on the context), it is a water-soluble active ingredient widely used for its ability to improve various aspects of the skin at once: sebum balance, texture, uneven tone, redness, and early signs of aging.
In this guide, you will see what niacinamide is, what it is for, how to use it, and what the evidence says about its benefits, with linked public sources.
Important note: topical niacinamide (cosmetic) is not the same as oral nicotinamide (supplement). In the article, we differentiate both uses when applicable.
What is niacinamide and how does it work on the skin?
Niacinamide is an active form of vitamin B3. In skincare, it stands out for its “multi-target” approach: it helps improve the overall health of the skin by supporting processes related to the barrier function, inflammation, and tone.
It is considered an ingredient with good tolerance in most skin types and is usually easily integrated into cleansing, treatment, and moisturizing routines.
Benefits of niacinamide (with evidence)
1) Strengthens the skin barrier
One of the most consistent benefits is its support for the skin barrier. Studies have described that niacinamide can stimulate the synthesis of ceramides and other lipids in the stratum corneum, which is associated with better water retention and reduced transepidermal water loss.
Reference: Tanno et al., 2000.
2) Helps regulate sebum and improves the appearance of pores
In combination or oily skin, niacinamide is used for its ability to promote a more balanced appearance. In real-use studies with cosmetic products containing it, improvements have been observed in parameters such as hydration and overall appearance after several weeks. Recent example (cosmetic study in real conditions): Załęcki et al., 2025 (Applied Sciences).
3) Support for acne and blemishes
Clinical evidence suggests that topical formulations with niacinamide can be comparable to topical antibiotics in moderate inflammatory acne, with the added benefit of avoiding the problem of bacterial resistance associated with antibiotics.
- Double-blind trial (8 weeks): 4% nicotinamide gel vs 1% clindamycin gel: Shalita et al., 1995.
- Double-blind trial (moderate inflammatory): 4% nicotinamide gel vs 1% clindamycin gel: Khodaeiani et al., 2013.
4) More even tone and hyperpigmentation
Niacinamide is used in skincare to help improve uneven tone and the appearance of spots. It is usually described as an active ingredient that promotes more even skin with continued use. (Response and time vary depending on skin, consistency, and overall routine.)
5) Soothes and reduces redness (sensitive skin)
Due to its tolerance profile and common use in formulas aimed at sensitive skin, niacinamide is frequently included in routines that seek to reduce the feeling of reactivity and redness.
6) Antioxidant and anti-aging support
In anti-aging routines, niacinamide is used as support to improve the appearance of fine lines and elasticity, mainly due to its role in hydration, barrier function, and skin comfort.
Niacinamide and the skin microbiome
In cosmetic literature, possible relationships between niacinamide and skin balance (including the idea of supporting a more stable skin environment) are explored. As with many microbiome concepts applied to skincare, it is best presented as a developing line of research and not as a guaranteed promise for all cases.
Oral nicotinamide and non-melanoma skin cancer: what the evidence says
Some studies have evaluated oral nicotinamide (supplementation) in relation to the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer. A cohort study (with large sample data) published in 2025 reported an association with reduced skin cancer risk, with a greater effect when started after the first skin cancer. Source on PubMed: Breglio et al., 2025.
Important: this refers to oral supplementation and a specific clinical context. It does not replace classic prevention measures (sun protection, appropriate clothing, dermatological check-ups) nor does it imply that a cosmetic with niacinamide “prevents” skin cancer.
How to incorporate niacinamide into your routine
Niacinamide in the cleansing step
A good entry point for this active ingredient is cleansing, especially if you seek a gentle and balancing gesture. For example, a cleansing milk with niacinamide such as Niacinamide Cleansing Milk – 100 ml can help cleanse without a tight feeling and leave the skin prepared for the next steps.
Recommended order (general)
- Morning and/or night: cleansing.
- Afterwards: serum or treatment (if you use one).
- Then: moisturizer.
- In the morning: broad-spectrum sun protection.
Niacinamide is an “all-terrain” cosmetic ingredient: it stands out for its versatility, good tolerance, and evidence in key areas such as skin barrier, balance, and comfort. Consistently integrating it, with realistic expectations and a coherent routine, is usually the most effective way to notice results.
Frequently asked questions about niacinamide
What is niacinamide used for on the skin?
It is used to support the barrier function, improve balance (especially in combination/oily skin), help with the appearance of pores, uneven tone, and redness, and provide skin comfort.
Is niacinamide suitable for sensitive skin?
Generally, yes. It is usually considered well tolerated, but as with any active ingredient, it is advisable to introduce it gradually if the skin is very reactive.
How long does it take to notice niacinamide?
It depends on the goal and consistency. Changes in comfort and hydration may be noticed sooner; uneven tone and texture usually require several weeks of continued use.
Can niacinamide be used with vitamin C or retinol?
Usually yes. It is a common combination. If your skin is sensitive, spacing out introductions and adjusting frequency helps avoid irritation.
Does a cosmetic with niacinamide prevent skin cancer?
No. The cited evidence about risk reduction refers to oral nicotinamide in clinical contexts and does not replace sun protection or dermatological check-ups.
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