Niacinamide (vitamin B3) (Nicotinamide)
Synopsis of niacinamide (vitamin B3)
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is one of the two main forms of vitamin B3, the other being nicotinic acid. While both are converted in the body to NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and NADP, essential cofactors for energy metabolism and cellular repair, niacinamide lacks the vasodilating and cholesterol-lowering effects of nicotinic acid. Instead, its strengths lie in cellular protection, anti-inflammatory activity, skin health, and neurological support.
Niacinamide plays a critical role in maintaining cellular energy, DNA repair, and immune function. It acts as a precursor to NAD+, which is essential for hundreds of enzymatic reactions and sirtuin-mediated longevity pathways. Niacinamide is involved in oxidative phosphorylation, antioxidant regeneration, and apoptosis regulation, making it vital to the health of rapidly dividing cells and metabolically active tissues like skin, brain, and the immune system.
In clinical and supplement settings, niacinamide is used for:
- Skin health: It is a powerful dermatological agent used to treat acne, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, eczema, and aging-related skin concerns. It reduces inflammation, strengthens the skin barrier, and improves hydration and elasticity. It also helps regulate sebum production and reduce redness.
- Joint health: High-dose niacinamide has been studied for osteoarthritis, with some evidence suggesting it improves joint flexibility and reduces inflammation.
- Neurological support: It has been investigated for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, due to its ability to protect neurons and enhance mitochondrial function.
- Autoimmune and inflammatory regulation: Niacinamide may modulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, and influence pathways involved in autoimmune diseases.
- Blood sugar and metabolism: Some studies suggest it may support pancreatic beta-cell health and protect against diabetic complications.
Unlike nicotinic acid, niacinamide does not cause flushing, making it more tolerable at higher doses. Typical doses in supplements range from 100–500 mg, though higher doses may be used therapeutically under medical supervision.
Historical Use
Niacinamide, while chemically distinct, shares its roots with niacin in the early 20th century when researchers were investigating the cause of pellagra—a niacin deficiency disease marked by dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and death. In the 1930s, nicotinamide was identified as a non-flushing, bioactive form of vitamin B3, capable of preventing and treating pellagra. Its use soon expanded into other medical areas.
Though niacinamide itself was not present in traditional herbal medicine, the conditions it treats—such as skin inflammation, fatigue, and memory decline—were historically managed with tonic herbs, nutrient-dense broths, and organ meats that were naturally high in B vitamins.
Its modern dermatological application began in the mid-20th century, and it is now one of the most studied and widely used ingredients in cosmeceuticals. It appears in serums, creams, moisturizers, and oral supplements, often used for both cosmetic enhancement and therapeutic skin repair.
Niacinamide is also gaining attention in the longevity and anti-aging fields due to its role in NAD+ replenishment, with newer compounds like nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and nicotinamide riboside (NR) acting as next-generation NAD precursors.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is used for these health conditions
Acne (Scientific)
Age Spots (Scientific)
Alzheimer's Disease (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Cancer (prevention) (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Circulation (poor) (Scientific)
Dermatitis (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Hair (loss or thinning) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Liver Detoxification (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)
niacinamide (vitamin B3) is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Scientific)
Blood (Scientific)
Brain (Scientific)
Circulatory System (Scientific)
Hepatic System (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Liver (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
