Niacinamide (Nicotinamide)

Niacinamide — synonym nicotinamide — is vitamin B3’s amide form and arguably cosmetics’ most reliable active. Its documented portfolio includes increased ceramide and fatty acid synthesis (stronger barrier), reduced sebum output, blunted melanosome transfer (brighter, more even tone), and anti-inflammatory benefit for acne and rosacea. At 2–5% nearly every skin type tolerates it; 10% offers faster results at slightly higher sting risk. It layers with everything — the classic pairing myth with vitamin C has been debunked. Few ingredients deliver so broad a benefit profile with so little downside. A foundation active for any rational routine.