Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a form of vitamin B₃ found in food and used as a dietary supplement and medication. It’s often touted to help manage acne, rosacea, pigmentation issues, and wrinkles. Niacinamide supports the skin barrier, increases its resiliency, and improves texture by making pores appear smaller. It also helps balance oil production. Further, it has skin brightening benefits and it’s good for all skin types.
Niacinamide or Nicotinamide (NAM) is a form of vitamin B3 found in food and used as a dietary supplement and medication. As a supplement, it is used by mouth to prevent and treat pellagra (niacin deficiency). While nicotinic acid (niacin) may be used for this purpose, niacinamide has the benefit of not causing skin flushing. As a cream, it is used to treat acne. It is a water-soluble vitamin. Niacinamide is the supplement name while Nicotinamide (NAM) is the scientific name.
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| Pronunciation | /ˌnaɪəˈsɪnəˌmaɪd/, /ˌnɪkəˈtɪnəmaɪd/ |
| Other names | 3-pyridinecarboxamide niacinamide nicotinic acid amide vitamin PP nicotinic amide vitamin B3 |
| AHFS/Drugs.com | Consumer Drug Information |
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| Routes of administration | by mouth, topical |
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| ECHA InfoCard | 100.002.467 |
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| Formula | C6H6N2O |
| Molar mass | 122.127 g·mol−1 |
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| Density | 1.40 g/cm3 g/cm3 |
| Melting point | 129.5 °C (265.1 °F) |
| Boiling point | 334 °C (633 °F) |
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Side effects are minimal. At high doses liver problems may occur. Normal amounts are safe for use during pregnancy. Niacinamide is in the vitamin B family of medications, specifically the vitamin B3 complex. It is an amide of nicotinic acid. Foods that contain niacinamide include yeast, meat, milk, and green vegetables.
Niacinamide was discovered between 1935 and 1937. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. Niacinamide is available as a generic medication and over the counter. Commercially, niacinamide is made from either nicotinic acid (niacin) or nicotinonitrile. In a number of countries grains have niacinamide added to them.
