Niacinamide – Effects, Uses and Care Benefits for Natural Skin Balance

Niacinamide , also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinamide, is one of the most popular active ingredients in modern skincare – in both conventional and natural formulations. It strengthens the skin barrier, reduces redness, and balances sebum production without irritating the skin. It is considered a true all-rounder, especially for sensitive or blemish-prone skin.

What makes niacinamide so special?

Niacinamide supports skin cell regeneration by participating in enzymatic processes necessary for energy production and cell repair. According to the German Pharmacists' Journal (2022), its effectiveness is well-documented: Regular use can reduce moisture loss, refine pores, and diminish pigmentation irregularities.

Effects in skincare

• Strengthening the skin barrier: Niacinamide promotes the formation of ceramides – the “mortar” between skin cells – and thus reduces transepidermal water loss.
• Balancing sebum production: Studies show a regulating effect on oily or combination skin without drying it out.
• Brightening effect: The active ingredient inhibits the pigment transfer from melanocytes, thus ensuring a more even complexion.
• Soothing effect: Particularly helpful for sensitive skin and redness, as niacinamide reduces inflammatory reactions.

Concentration and application

Even concentrations as low as 2% show visible results. Products containing 5–10% niacinamide are frequently used in serums to regulate sebum, blemishes, and hyperpigmentation. According to dermanostic (2024), the pH of a formulation should be between 5 and 6 to ensure the active ingredient remains stable and skin-friendly.

Niacinamide in natural cosmetics

In certified natural cosmetics, niacinamide is usually produced synthetically, but in an environmentally friendly way – often from plant-based nicotinic acid. Brands in the natural cosmetics segment rely on combining it with aloe vera, oat extract, or plant oils to gently support its effects. As Avène (2024) describes, the active ingredient demonstrably improves skin texture without causing irritation – a crucial advantage over more aggressive anti-aging ingredients.

Science meets nature

While many natural cosmetics brands rely on hand-stirred formulations, modern skincare lines like NATURFACTOR® combine scientifically validated active ingredients with natural components. The Porcelain Skin Serum, for example, uses a similar approach – niacinamide in combination with plant-based amino acids and hyaluronic acid to strengthen the skin barrier while simultaneously achieving a refining and lifting effect.

Compatibility and combination

Niacinamide can be easily combined with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, or antioxidants. Only simultaneous use with high-dose vitamin C requires pH adjustment to avoid irritation. Because it soothes the skin, it is also excellent for sensitive skin types or those prone to rosacea.

Conclusion

Niacinamide is one of the best-researched and most versatile active ingredients in modern skincare. It combines efficacy with gentleness – ideal for customers seeking natural yet clinically effective care. Those who have previously relied on niacinamide serums from the natural cosmetics sector will find a luxurious alternative with a scientifically sound formulation in innovative brands like NATURFACTOR® – without compromising on naturalness and tolerability.

Sources

1. German Pharmacists' Journal (2022): Niacin for the skin – is its effectiveness proven?
2. dermanostic (2024): Drug Lexicon – Niacinamide in Dermatology
3. Avène Germany (2024): Powerful vitamin for your skin – What is niacinamide good for?
4. La Mer Cuxhaven (2024): Niacinamide – Does the beauty vitamin work for your skin?

Tags: niacinamide, natural cosmetics, vitamin B3, skin barrier, porcelain skin serum, NKM alternative