Niacinamide Benefits for the Skin

There is no doubt that niacinamide is the star of the show when it comes to skincare, but is it all hype? When we dive deep into the research, it appears Niacinamide has everything going for it.

Enhance barrier function 

Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide plays an essential role in soothing and helping to restore the skin barrier. It is a precursor to the co-factors NAD(H) and NADP(H), which are essential in a variety of cellular pathways that affect skin physiology.

In their reduced forms, NADH and NADPH act as powerful antioxidants and enhance barrier function. NADPH is a cofactor for the synthesis of fatty acids and lipids, such as ceramides, that are crucial for epidermal barrier function. Studies have demonstrated that topical application of niacinamide reduces skin sensitivity to irritating surfactants, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and can improve the tolerability of retinoids. Some cosmeceuticals will combine niacinamide and retinol for this reason.

Anti-inflammatory and Anti-ageing

Both oral and topical forms of niacinamide are used to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Clinically, niacinamide is shown to reduce pore size, improve skin texture, and reduce the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. A 12-week clinical study of a topical 5% niacinamide emulsion demonstrated a 21% improvement in fine lines, a 14% skin tone clarity, and 15% radiance improvement.

Skin Lightening

Niacinamide has also demonstrated remarkable skin-lightening properties by acting as both a tyrosinase inhibitor and preventing the transfer of melanosomes to keratinocytes, a property seen at higher concentrations.

A study of 120 Japanese women found that those who used SPF15 with 2% niacinamide for 12 weeks showed noticeable skin-lightening benefits compared with those who used SPF15 alone. As a skincare ingredient, it is easy to formulate, readily penetrates the stratum corneum, and is well-tolerated with a very low irritation profile. The benefits of niacinamide are enhanced when combined with other anti-ageing ingredients such as prescription retinoids, vitamin C, and sunscreen. If you are seeking a niacinamide and vitamin A combination, check out Retinamide Regénerist.

References: 

1. Farris, P. The Anti-aging effects of Niacinamide. Dermatology Times (2015).
2. Bissett, D et al. Niacinamide: AB vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance. Journal of Dermatologic Surgery. 2005 Jul;31:860-5