Niacinamide: What It Can and Cannot Do
Vitamin B3 · Nicotinamide
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) supports the skin barrier and may help oiliness and uneven tone look better for some people. Evidence varies by formula and concern.
Label names (INCI): Niacinamide
Written by the Oliareen editorial teamDermatologist review: pendingLast updated: 6 November 2026How we write
Myth vs fact
- Myth
- Every oily skin needs niacinamide.
- Fact
- It isn't required. Plenty of oily skin does well with a gentle cleanser, a light moisturiser and sunscreen. Niacinamide is an optional extra, and higher-strength formulas can sting some people.
What it is
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3. Labels list it as Niacinamide (sometimes called nicotinamide). You'll find it in serums, moisturisers and even sunscreens.
What it does
Studies show it helps skin make more of its own ceramides, which supports the barrier. Some studies also found less visible oil and lighter-looking marks, but changes come slowly over several weeks. It is a cosmetic ingredient, not an acne or melasma medicine.
Often discussed for
This doesn't mean everyone with these needs it.
Skin types
How to approach it
It's usually applied once or twice a day as part of a serum or moisturiser. A higher percentage doesn't mean better results; the overall formula matters more. Follow the product's directions.
Morning or evening
Morning or evening both work. It doesn't make skin more sun-sensitive, though daytime sunscreen still matters.
If you're new to it
Start one new active at a time and give it at least two to four weeks before adding another. Patch test first: a little on the side of the jaw or behind the ear for a few days. Keep the rest of the routine simple: a gentle cleanser, a moisturiser and sunscreen by day.
General education, not a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Works well with
Examples of common pairings, not guaranteed combinations.
Use carefully with
Stacking several actives raises the risk of irritation. If you're on any prescribed medicine, ask your doctor before adding an active.
- Flushing or stinging possible at >=10%
- Safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Not photosensitising
Possible reactions
A few seconds of mild tingling or a little dryness can happen at first. Stop if burning doesn't settle, or if a red rash, itching, swelling or peeling keeps getting worse. Swelling of the face, lips or eyes, or trouble breathing, needs urgent medical care.
When to see a doctorEvidence and timing
- Evidence
- Evidence: strong
- Time to see a change (weeks)
- 4-8
Evidence comes from studies of specific formulas and strengths. Your product may behave differently.
Questions people ask
Can I use niacinamide with vitamin C?
Most people can. The old warning came from early lab tests and isn't a big problem in normal use on skin. If the pair stings, use one in the morning and the other at night.
Does niacinamide shrink pores?
Pores don't open or close. When skin looks less oily, pores can look less noticeable for some people, but it isn't a permanent change.
Is 10% or 20% niacinamide better?
Not necessarily. Most studies used lower strengths, and higher strengths make some people flush or sting.
Read next
Sources
- Wohlrab J, Kreft D. Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2014
- Bissett DL et al. Dermatol Surg 2005 (5% niacinamide RCT, 12 wk)
- Draelos ZD et al. J Cosmet Laser Ther 2006 (2% niacinamide, sebum)
- https://doaj.org/article/e97a19d4f56c4a5c97a6f6ea3889fa2d