Meta Information

ID:niacinamide-serum

Name:Niacinamide Serum

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Vitamin B3 topical
• Nicotinamide topical

Active Compound

Niacinamide

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Delivery

Route:

topical_skin

Scope:

• local

Is Skin Health

True

Regulatory Status

• us:otc_drug
• eu:cosmetic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Topical application to support skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and mitigate signs of photoaging.

Typical Protocol

• Apply a serum containing 2-10% niacinamide to clean skin once or twice daily.

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

10

High Cost:

50

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Monthly cost for a quality niacinamide serum, not typically covered by insurance.

Summary

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a precursor to NAD+ and NADP+, critical coenzymes in cellular metabolism. Topically, it enhances skin barrier function by increasing ceramide synthesis, reduces trans-epidermal water loss, and offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It can mitigate signs of photoaging and improve skin texture, contributing to skin healthspan.

Purpose

Improves skin barrier function, reduces inflammation, and mitigates signs of skin aging.

Card Summary

Topical Niacinamide enhances skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and improves appearance of photoaging.

Drug Class

null

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

4.5

Justification:

Effective for specific skin pathways, improves dermal health, and cosmetic appearance.

Evidence

Grade:

B

Score:

6.5

Justification:

Multiple human studies show benefits for skin barrier, inflammation, and aging.

Safety

Score:

2.5

Justification:

Generally recognized as safe for topical use with minimal adverse effects.

Flags

• Rarely, can cause temporary flushing or irritation, especially at higher concentrations.

Verdict

Effective for improving skin health, barrier, and reducing photoaging.