INCI Name: Niacinamide

Welcome, glow-getters and formulation fanatics! Whether you’re a passionate skincare enthusiast, an Ayurvedic devotee, a budding natural skincare entrepreneur, or a student dreaming of your own handcrafted skincare label—today’s star ingredient is one that truly lives up to the hype: Niacinamide.

Often called a “jack-of-all-trades” in the skincare world, Niacinamide is the golden child of modern dermatology and cosmetic science. But what’s so magical about it? And how can you use it effectively in your formulations?

Let’s dive deep and glow up together! ✨

🌿 What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is the water-soluble form of Vitamin B3. It’s an essential nutrient that supports many cellular processes in the skin and scalp. Unlike some actives that can be a bit temperamental, niacinamide is extremely versatile, stable, and non-irritating—making it suitable for nearly every skin type, including sensitive skin.

INCI: Niacinamide

• Solubility: Water-soluble
• pH stability: Ideal pH range: 5.0–7.0
• Compatibility: Works well with most actives including hyaluronic acid, peptides, ceramides, zinc, AHAs, and BHA.

Multifunctional Magic: What Can Niacinamide Do?

Let’s break down the science-backed, research-proven benefits of niacinamide for skin and hair, especially studies from 2020 to 2025.

1. Brightening & Hyperpigmentation Reduction

Niacinamide works as a tyrosinase inhibitor, slowing melanin production and reducing existing dark spots.

Research Highlight:

• A 2022 clinical study published in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that a 5% niacinamide serum, applied twice daily for 8 weeks, significantly reduced hyperpigmentation and improved skin tone uniformity in 81% of participants.

✨ Formulation Tip:

• Use 4–5% Niacinamide in brightening serums, face creams, or Ayurvedic gels with botanical extracts like liquorice or Manjistha.

2. Pore Refining & Texture Smoothing

Say goodbye to visible pores! Niacinamide reduces sebum production and improves skin elasticity, which minimizes pore appearance.

Study Snippet:

• A 2021 meta-analysis in International Journal of Dermatology revealed that 2–5% niacinamide consistently reduced pore size and surface roughness when used daily over 6–12 weeks.

Formulation Tip:

• Add 3–5% Niacinamide to facial toners, gel serums, or matte moisturizers, especially for oily or combination skin types.

3. Anti-Acne & Skin Barrier Repair

Niacinamide regulates oil, minimizes inflammation, and strengthens the skin’s protective barrier—all crucial for acne-prone skin.

2023 Insight:

• A randomized trial published in Dermatologic Therapy compared 4% niacinamide gel with 1% clindamycin gel. Results showed comparable acne reduction, but with fewer side effects in the niacinamide group.

Formulation Tip:

• Combine 4% Niacinamide with calming herbs like neem, turmeric, or calendula in face masks, spot treatments, or Ayurvedic anti-acne blends.

4. Anti-Aging & Wrinkle Reduction

Niacinamide boosts collagen production, improves skin elasticity, and reduces fine lines.

2020 Study:

• The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that a 6% niacinamide cream, applied twice daily for 12 weeks, significantly reduced wrinkles and increased skin firmness in women aged 40–60.

 Formulation Tip:

• Use 5–6% Niacinamide in anti-aging formulations, paired with Gotu kola extract, bakuchiol, or hyaluronic acid for added synergy.

5. Scalp Health & Hair Strengthening

Yes, Niacinamide works wonders for your scalp too! It improves microcirculation, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the hair shaft.

2024 Research:

• A clinical pilot published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology reported improved hair density and reduced scalp flakiness with 2–3% niacinamide-based scalp tonics over 10 weeks.

Formulation Tip:

• Include 2–3% Niacinamide in herbal scalp serums, leave-in conditioners, or ayurvedic hair masks with bhringraj or amla.

How to Formulate with Niacinamide

Niacinamide is one of the easiest actives to work with!

✔ Suitable Formulations:

• Water-based serums
• Gel creams & emulsions
• Clay masks
• Lotions
• Toners
• Scalp serums
• Shampoos & conditioners (low % for hair)

✔ Compatibility:

• YES with: Hyaluronic acid, panthenol, zinc PCA, peptides, ceramides, glycerine
• Caution with: Low pH actives like Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)—either buffer the pH or apply in separate routines.

📊 Ideal Usage Levels

💡 Pro Formulator Tips

1. Start Low, Go Slow: For new users or sensitive skin, start with 2–3%.
2. Pair Wisely: Combine with calming or antioxidant-rich Ayurvedic herbs like tulsi, aloe vera, or rose water.
3. Keep pH in Check: Maintain the pH of the final product between 5.0–6.5 for optimal stability.
4. Marketing Tip: Highlight it as a “multitasker vitamin” or “Vitamin B3 booster” in your product copy for better appeal on social media.

🌿 Ayurvedic Angle: Does Niacinamide Align with Natural Skincare?

Absolutely! While niacinamide is synthetically produced for consistency, it is biocompatible and non-toxic, making it a gentle and functional addition to Ayurvedic-inspired skincare. When paired with traditional herbs, it bridges modern science and ancient wisdom beautifully.

Imagine this: A saffron-infused glow serum with 5% niacinamide and manjistha extract. Pure magic!