What it is
Niacinamide, known chemically as pyridine-3-carboxamide, is a water-soluble member of the vitamin B3 family with a pyridine ring carrying a primary amide group. In cells it is a precursor to the coenzymes NAD+ and NADP+, which drive energy-related oxidation-reduction reactions. Applied to skin, cosmetics research reports that around 2 percent niacinamide increases the synthesis of ceramides and other barrier lipids, which supports hydration and reduces water loss, and it is widely used for its soothing, barrier-supporting role. It is a common companion ingredient in sunscreens and other leave-on skincare.
Safety & warnings
Niacinamide is broadly well tolerated and is often described in cosmetics references as suitable for nearly all skin types, including sensitive skin. As with any active, some users may notice mild reactions, so people with very reactive skin may prefer to introduce it gradually and patch test, particularly at higher concentrations.
Origin & sourcing
Niacinamide used in cosmetics is produced industrially rather than extracted; one established route hydrolyzes nicotinonitrile using the enzyme nitrile hydratase from the bacterium Rhodococcus rhodochrous J1. It is manufactured at large scale, with tens of thousands of tons sold annually across food, feed, supplement, and cosmetic uses.
History
Nicotinamide was identified in the mid-1930s, with sources placing its discovery between 1935 and 1937, during the broader research effort that connected the B3 vitamins to deficiency disease. This work grew out of decades of investigation into pellagra and the vitamin nature of niacin.
Questions everyone asks
What does niacinamide do for the skin?
Research reports that around 2 percent niacinamide boosts ceramide and barrier-lipid synthesis, supporting hydration and reducing water loss, and it is valued for soothing, barrier-supporting effects.
Is niacinamide the same as niacin?
They are related forms of vitamin B3. Niacinamide is the amide form (pyridine-3-carboxamide), which is the form typically used in skincare.
Can most people use niacinamide?
Cosmetics references describe it as well tolerated for nearly all skin types, though very sensitive skin may prefer to introduce it gradually and patch test.