Niacinamide is used primarily as a form of vitamin B3 to prevent and treat niacin deficiency (pellagra). It is also widely used in skincare to improve skin health, including treating acne, reducing inflammation and redness, minimizing the appearance of pores, lightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation, supporting the skin's protective barrier, and improving skin elasticity. Additionally, oral niacinamide may help reduce phosphate levels in people on hemodialysis and might slow the progression of type 1 diabetes. It is favored in some treatments because it does not cause skin flushing like niacin (nicotinic acid) does.
Medical and Nutritional Uses
- Prevents and treats pellagra caused by niacin deficiency.
- May help manage diabetes progression and osteoarthritis symptoms.
- Reduces phosphate levels in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Skin Care Uses
- Helps treat acne via anti-inflammatory effects and sebum regulation.
- Supports skin hydration by strengthening the lipid barrier.
- Reduces redness, irritation, and inflammation from various skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.
- Diminishes dark spots, uneven pigmentation, and fine lines.
- Protects skin from oxidative stress and UV damage.
Niacinamide is generally safe both orally and topically, with minimal side effects at recommended doses.
