Skincare
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Real, modest benefits for barrier function, redness and sebum — routinely oversold as a pore-shrinking or brightening headline act.
Also called: b3 serum · niacinamide 10% · nicotinamide
Verdict — mixed
Real in part — the claim outruns what it actually does.
Evidence grade B
At least one good randomised trial, or consistent findings across controlled studies.
Mechanism
Precursor to NAD+ and NADP+; increases ceramide synthesis, reduces melanosome transfer to keratinocytes, and damps inflammatory cytokine signalling.
Citations
- The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transferBritish Journal of Dermatology · 2002
- Topical niacinamide improves the epidermal permeability barrier and microvascular functionInternational Journal of Cosmetic Science · 2005
The full read
Good supporting player, poor lead. Controlled trials show measurable improvement in barrier function, transepidermal water loss, sallowness and modest reduction in hyperpigmentation over 8–12 weeks at 2–5%. Pores do not shrink; they can look smaller as sebum output and surrounding inflammation fall. The 10%+ formulations popularised online buy little extra and flush or sting for a lot of people. Well tolerated, layers with almost everything, and not the product that will change your face.
