What is niacinamide?
Nov 06, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Nicotinamide is the active form of vitamin B3 and an essential water-soluble vitamin required by the human body. It participates in energy metabolism, helps maintain skin barrier function, and supports the health of the nervous and digestive systems. Deficiency may lead to discomfort. If symptoms occur, medical advice should be sought promptly. Nicotinamide can be converted into coenzymes in the body.
Niacinamide is the active form of vitamin B3 and an essential water-soluble vitamin required by the human body. It plays a role in energy metabolism, helps maintain skin barrier function, and contributes to the health of the nervous and digestive systems. Deficiency may lead to various discomforts; if symptoms occur, medical advice should be sought promptly.
Within the body, niacinamide can be converted into coenzymes that participate in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, providing energy for bodily functions. It also promotes epidermal keratinocyte renewal, enhances the skin's moisture retention capacity, reduces water loss, regulates sebaceous gland secretion, and improves oily skin conditions.
Niacinamide is widely used in dietary supplements to help prevent or improve vitamin B3 deficiency. It is also commonly found in skincare products to assist with dryness, rough texture, and other skin concerns. In clinical settings, it may be used to treat certain skin disorders, but must be used under medical supervision to ensure safety.
In daily life, niacinamide can be obtained through foods such as lean meats, fish, nuts, and whole grains. Maintaining a balanced diet is important. When using skincare products containing niacinamide, start with low concentrations to build tolerance and avoid over-cleansing the skin.
