Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is the water-soluble, active form of vitamin B3, which is often used in skincare. It is naturally present in small quantities in yeast, lean meats, fish, nuts and legumes.
People take nicotinamide tablets to treat acne, skin barrier, pigmentation, redness and other common skin concerns. It is also found in cosmetic products that women use to fix skin issues.
Nicotinamide also reduces facial sebum production, which contributes to noninflamed comedones and inflammatory acne lesions.
Several trials have shown that using 2% nicotinamide moisturiser for 4-6 weeks reduces sebum production with significant differences in facial shine and oiliness.
In other clinical studies, topical nicotinamide improved fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and elasticity.
If you live in hot and humid areas, you can use topical nicotinamide products to improve your skin texture.