Meta Information

ID:topical-niacinamide

Name:Niacinamide

Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

• Nicotinamide
• Vitamin B3 (Topical)

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

10

High Cost:

40

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Widely available OTC in various skincare formulations; not covered by insurance.

Summary

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that, when applied topically, acts as a precursor to NAD+, a critical coenzyme in cellular energy metabolism and DNA repair. It improves skin barrier function, reduces inflammation, and may mitigate UV-induced cellular damage, thereby addressing key drivers of skin aging.

Purpose

A topical vitamin B3 supporting skin health and mitigating visible aging.

Card Summary

A topical Vitamin B3 that supports skin barrier function and mitigates UV damage.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:

4.2

Justification:

Highly effective for skin healthspan but lacks systemic, multi-organ longevity impact.

Evidence

Grade:

A

Score:

8.5

Justification:

Multiple human RCTs confirm benefits for skin barrier, wrinkles, and pigmentation.

Safety

Score:

1.5

Justification:

Extremely well-tolerated; rare, mild skin irritation is the primary risk.

Flags

• High concentrations (>10%) may cause skin irritation or flushing.
• Efficacy is formulation-dependent; choose reputable brands.

Verdict

A safe, evidence-based topical for improving skin health and appearance.

Created

2026-04-26T18:25:16.966937Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

topical_skin

Scope:

• local

Is Skin Health

True

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that, when applied topically, acts as a precursor to NAD+, a critical coenzyme in cellular energy metabolism and DNA repair. It improves skin barrier function, redu...

Typical Protocol

• Apply a 2-10% concentration formulation to the face once or twice daily.