Home | THE LAB • Canadian Beauty+Skincare+Lifestyle Blog | Clinically-Proven Actives | Niacinamide

Gina-Lily Cooper

Founder / Formulator

What is Niacinamide?

Also known as nicotinamide, niacinamide is the active, water-soluble form of Vitamin B3. Naturally present in our cells, it supports essential energy and repair processes by replenishing coenzymes NAD? and NADP?.

In topical skincare, it’s readily absorbed into the epidermis, where it reinforces the lipid barrier, enhances moisture retention, and helps defend against environmental stressors. Its gentle versatility makes it one of the most widely researched and recommended ingredients in dermatology.

Benefits of Niacinamide For Skin

Niacinamide stands out for its remarkable range of benefits. Unlike single-action actives, it supports multiple aspects of skin health —from reinforcing acid mantle / skin barrier to refining skin tone and texture —making it one of the most functional and adaptable ingredients in modern skincare.

Strengthens the Barrier and Boosts Hydration

Niacinamide helps rebuild the skin’s natural lipid matrix by stimulating ceramide, fatty acid, and cholesterol production—key elements of a healthy barrier. In clinical studies, this has been shown to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improve skin smoothness and elasticity, leaving the complexion supple, calm, and resilient (PubMed).

Calms, Balances, and Refines Skin Texture

Through its anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide reduces the release of inflammatory mediators such as interleukins and NF-?B, visibly soothing redness and irritation. It also helps regulate sebum activity to maintain balanced hydration—supporting clarity in both oily and sensitive skin types. The result is a more even, glowing complexion (PubMed).

Brightens Skin and Defends Against Visible Aging

As a precursor to NAD?, niacinamide fuels skin’s natural energy and DNA repair pathways. It visibly improves uneven pigmentation, refines texture, and supports collagen renewal. Clinical research demonstrates that consistent use can reduce dark spots, soften fine lines, and enhance overall luminosity—revealing skin that looks restored and radiant (MDPI, PubMed).

Improves Acne, Rosacea, and Reactive Skin by Regulating Inflammation and Oil Production

Niacinamide helps calm the inflammatory pathways that contribute to acne and redness while gently regulating excess sebum production. By restoring lipid balance and reinforcing the skin’s barrier, it reduces congestion and supports clearer, calmer skin without dryness or irritation. Clinical research shows that niacinamide used at 2–5% concentrations can significantly improve acne lesions, reduce post-inflammatory redness, and enhance overall skin clarity—making it an effective and well-tolerated solution for acne, rosacea, and other reactive skin conditions (PubMed, PMC).

Works Well With

Particularly effective when used with hyaluronic acid, panthenol, peptides, ceramides, gentle retinoids, and vitamin C derivatives.

How to use

Apply a niacinamide serum to cleansed, slightly damp skin, morning and/or evening. Layer beneath emollients or sunscreen to lock in hydration and strengthen the barrier over time.

What to Watch Out For

Niacinamide is one of the most well-tolerated active ingredients in cosmetic formulation (PubMed). Mild tingling or transient redness may occur at higher concentrations, especially in sensitive skin, but these effects are temporary. For optimal results, introduce gradually and avoid combining with extremely low-pH actives in the same layer.

TLDR

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a clinically proven, multi-benefit ingredient that supports barrier function, calms redness, refines texture, and helps to restore skin’s natural radiance. Gentle yet highly effective, it’s a foundational active for balanced, healthy skin.

References

REFERENCES

At a Glance

Niacinamide

Type of Ingredient

Anti-Inflammatory Agent, Acid Mantle Support, Antioxidant

Benefits & Properties

Strengthens the skin barrier, Calms visible redness, Refines tone and texture, Supports hydration, and Improves elasticity.

Who Is It For?

Great for anyone looking to brighten uneven tone, support hydration and firmness, and soothe skin. Ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, or mature skin.

What Experts Say

“Niacinamide’s ability to reduce inflammation, enhance barrier lipids, and improve pigmentation has been widely documented. It’s one of the most stable, well-tolerated actives in dermatology.” — Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, PMC8389214

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