Niacinamide

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is one of skincare's most well-studied active ingredients. It is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3 and a so-called cell-communicating ingredient – it can signal to the skin cells to function better. In this ingredient guide, we go through what niacinamide is, how it works in the skin, and what the research says. If you want to see products with the ingredient, you can find them in the collection niacinamide (vitamin B3).

What is niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also spelled niacinamid in Swedish and sometimes called nicotinamide, is a derivative of vitamin B3. Unlike niacin (nicotinic acid), niacinamide does not cause a so-called flush effect – the redness and feeling of heat that niacin can cause. This makes niacinamide a mild and stable form that is well suited for topical skincare. The ingredient is water-soluble, which means it is often formulated in easily absorbed products like serums and toners.

How does niacinamide work in the skin?

When niacinamide is absorbed by the skin, it can "tell" living skin cells to produce more lipids and ceramides, as well as strengthen the cells' natural functions and improve the skin's barrier function. A well-functioning barrier binds moisture and keeps irritating ingredients out, which leads to calmer and more resilient skin. Niacinamide is also a precursor to the coenzymes NAD+ and NADP+, which are central to the cells' energy metabolism and defense against oxidative stress.

Because niacinamide is water-soluble and has a relatively small molecular size, it is well absorbed by the skin and is stable in most formulations. It therefore works in a broad pH range and retains its effect even in combination with other active ingredients – one of the reasons why it is found in so many different product types.

Benefits of niacinamide

Niacinamide is a clinically proven skincare ingredient. Research links regular use to several different effects:

• Reduces the appearance of visibly enlarged pores
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Evens out hyperpigmentation and acne scars by slowing down the transfer of melanin to the skin cells
• Regulates sebum production, which benefits oily skin
• Calms redness and has an anti-inflammatory effect
• Strengthens the skin barrier and reduces moisture loss

Niacinamide for pores and sebum

By using a serum with niacinamide, you promote the skin's elasticity and help the skin tighten enlarged pores. Niacinamide also contributes to balancing the skin's sebum flow. When sebum production is more even, the pores become less prone to clogging, which is one of the reasons why the ingredient is so popular with those who have oily or combination skin.

Niacinamide for pigmentation and uneven skin tone

Niacinamide has been shown in clinical studies to reduce the visibility of pigmentation and uneven skin tone. The effect is due to niacinamide inhibiting the transfer of pigment (melanin) from the pigment-producing cells to the skin's outer layer – without blocking the pigment production itself, which makes the mode of action gentle compared to many bleaching ingredients.

Niacinamide and the skin barrier

The skin barrier – the outermost layer of skin cells and lipids – is the skin's first defense against dehydration and external factors. Niacinamide strengthens the barrier by stimulating the skin's own production of ceramides, free fatty acids, and cholesterol. The result is skin that retains moisture better, reacts less to irritants, and recovers faster. This makes niacinamide a rewarding choice after exfoliation or for those who feel that their skin is reactive and dehydrated.

Which skin types is niacinamide suitable for?

Niacinamide has a calming effect and suits most skin types – from oily and acne-prone to dry and sensitive skin. It is also well tolerated with redness and rosacea thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. For sensitive skin, a lower concentration is recommended at first.

How is niacinamide combined with other ingredients?

Niacinamide can be combined with vitamin C or retinol and works well together with most other active ingredients. It pairs particularly well with moisture-binding hyaluronic acid and mild exfoliating acids. Because niacinamide strengthens the barrier, it can even reduce the dryness and irritation that retinol sometimes causes.

FAQ about niacinamide

Are niacinamid and niacinamide the same thing?

Yes. Niacinamide is the English spelling and niacinamid the Swedish – it is the same ingredient, a form of vitamin B3.

When during the day should you use niacinamide?

Niacinamide is gentle and can be used both morning and evening. It is stable in daylight and therefore fits well under sunscreen in the morning.

Can niacinamide be combined with vitamin C?

Yes. The myth that they neutralize each other does not apply to modern, stable formulations. Together they contribute to a more even skin tone and extra glow.

What concentration of niacinamide is needed?

Most studies show a clear effect already at 2–5%, and 5–10% is common in serums. A higher concentration does not automatically give better results.

Can niacinamide cause irritation?

Niacinamide is well tolerated and rarely causes irritation. In high concentrations, however, it can feel tingling on sensitive skin – in that case, start lower and gradually increase.

Products with niacinamide

Do you want to add niacinamide to your routine? Explore the entire selection in the collection niacinamide (vitamin B3) – from serums for pores and uneven skin tone to gentle face cleansers with vitamin B3.