Research
Niacinamide
59 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.
Studies
Sorted by quality and recency
Supramolecular salicylic acid combined with niacinamide in chloasma: a randomized controlled trial.
Multicentre randomized controlled trial assessing the efficacy and safety of 30% supramolecular salicylic acid combined with 10% niacinamide in treating chloasma. The treatment group showed significantly lower mMASI scores compared to placebo, indicating effectiveness in managing chloasma.
Benefits and harm of niacin and its analog for renal dialysis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of five RCTs with 230 renal dialysis patients assessing niacin and niacinamide. Niacin and niacinamide significantly decreased serum phosphorus levels and increased HDL levels. Niacin increased the risk of flushing, while niacinamide increased the risk of thrombocytopenia, though the latter finding has low certainty.
Safety and efficacy of niosomal and conventional tranexamic acid/niacinamide vs. hydroquinone creams in melasma: A randomized, double-blind, case-controlled clinical trial.
This randomized, double-blind, case-controlled clinical trial compared the efficacy of niosomal and conventional tranexamic acid/niacinamide creams with hydroquinone cream in melasma patients. All treatment groups showed a reduction in melanin index and mMASI scores, with niosomal and conventional TXA/NCA creams being as effective as HQ cream but with fewer adverse reactions.
Topical Formulation with Niacinamide Combined with 5 MHz Ultrasound for Improving Skin Ageing: A Double-blind, Randomised, Placebo-controlled Clinical Study.
This double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled clinical study assessed a topical formulation with niacinamide combined with 5 MHz ultrasound for improving skin ageing in 67 female subjects. The niacinamide formulation improved skin hydration, reduced transepidermal water loss, and decreased sebum content, with subjective evaluations indicating improvements in skin appearance, firmness, elasticity, and reduced wrinkles.
Enhancing Facial Rejuvenation Outcomes With a Novel Retinaldehyde-Based Cream: A Comparative Randomized Intra-Individual Study.
A randomized, split-face study evaluated a cream containing retinaldehyde, niacinamide, and haritaki fruit extract in 66 subjects post-facial rejuvenation procedures. The cream significantly improved signs of aging, including wrinkles, skin firmness, texture, tone homogeneity, and radiance, with good skin tolerance.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Serum Containing Niacinamide, Tranexamic Acid, Vitamin C, and Hydroxy Acid Compared to 4% Hydroquinone in the Management of Melasma.
This randomized study compared the efficacy of a serum containing niacinamide, tranexamic acid, vitamin C, and hydroxy acids (Serum B3) to 4% hydroquinone in treating melasma in 60 females. Both treatments significantly reduced pigmentation, but Serum B3 showed better local tolerance and patient acceptability.
Efficacy of a multitargeted, salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic cream compared to benzoyl peroxide 5% in Acne vulgaris: Results from a randomized study.
RCT comparing a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream containing salicylic acid and other ingredients to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in 150 subjects with mild to moderate acne. Both treatments significantly reduced lesion counts, with no between-group difference. The dermocosmetic cream was better tolerated and appreciated by subjects.
A single-center, randomized, controlled study on the efficacy of niacinamide-containing body emollients combined with cleansing gel in the treatment of mild atopic dermatitis.
A single-center, randomized, controlled study evaluated the efficacy of niacinamide-containing body emollients and cleansing gel in adults with mild atopic dermatitis. The study found significant improvements in clinical symptoms, quality of life, and skin barrier function in the treatment groups compared to the control group.
Topical niacinamide (Nicotinamide) treatment for discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE): A prospective pilot study.
Prospective randomized double-blind clinical trial on 60 subjects with Discoid lupus erythematosus using topical Nicotinamide 2% and 4% preparations. Topical Nicotinamide showed good cosmetic results and minimal side effects, with 4% being more effective but causing more irritation.
Superior even skin tone and anti-ageing benefit of a combination of 4-hexylresorcinol and niacinamide.
The study evaluated the synergistic effect of 4-hexylresorcinol and niacinamide on skin health. In vitro and human trials showed the combination significantly improved skin tone, reduced hyperpigmentation, and enhanced anti-ageing benefits compared to niacinamide alone, with no adverse events.
Cosmetic benefits of a novel biomimetic lamellar formulation containing niacinamide in healthy females with oily, blemish-prone skin in a randomized proof-of-concept study.
A randomized proof-of-concept study evaluated the cosmetic benefits of a niacinamide-containing moisturizer in 132 women with oily, blemish-prone skin. The test regimen showed significant improvements in skin moisturization and blemish count compared to the control regimen.
A retrospective assessment and comparison of the effectiveness of benzoyl peroxide; the combination of topical niacinamide, gallic acid, and lauric acid; and the combination of benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin in acne vulgaris.
RCT comparing the effectiveness of benzoyl peroxide, a combination of topical niacinamide, gallic acid, and lauric acid, and a combination of benzoyl peroxide and erythromycin in 90 patients with acne vulgaris. All treatments were effective, with the niacinamide combination offering an alternative to prevent resistance against topical antibiotics.
Topical niacinamide enhances hydrophobicity and resilience of corneocyte envelopes on different facial locations.
The study examined age-related differences in corneocyte envelope maturation parameters and evaluated the effect of topically applied niacinamide on these parameters in a 4-week placebo-controlled study.
The effects of a daily facial lotion containing vitamins B3 and E and provitamin B5 on the facial skin of Indian women: a randomized, double-blind trial.
RCT of 246 Indian women aged 30-60 with epidermal hyperpigmentation, testing a facial lotion containing niacinamide, panthenol, and tocopheryl acetate. The lotion significantly reduced hyperpigmentation, improved skin tone evenness, and enhanced skin texture over 10 weeks, with improvements seen as early as 6 weeks.
Reduction in the appearance of facial hyperpigmentation after use of moisturizers with a combination of topical niacinamide and N-acetyl glucosamine: results of a randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial.
A 10-week, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial assessed the effect of a topical formulation containing 4% niacinamide and 2% N-acetyl glucosamine on facial hyperpigmentation in women aged 40-60 years. The combination was significantly more effective than the control in reducing facial spots and pigmentation.
Management of bullous pemphigoid: recommendations for immunomodulatory treatments.
Systematic review of treatments for bullous pemphigoid, highlighting the effectiveness of tetracyclines and niacinamide (nicotinamide) with fewer adverse effects compared to systemic corticosteroids. More RCTs are needed to confirm these findings.
New clinical approach in facial mild-moderate acne: Re-stabilization of skin microbiota balance with a topical biotechnological phytocomplex.
Open-label clinical study in 44 subjects with mild-moderate acne treated with a facial cream gel containing a biotechnological phytocomplex, niacinamide, and succinic acid for 8 weeks. The study found increased bacterial diversity, decreased C. acnes abundance, and reduced acne severity, lesions, sebum, and erythema. The product was well tolerated.
Efficacy of ceramides and niacinamide-containing moisturizer versus hydrophilic cream in combination with topical anti-acne treatment in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: A split face, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.
This 8-week, double-blinded, split face RCT compared a ceramides and niacinamide-containing moisturizer (CCM) to a hydrophilic cream in combination with topical anti-acne treatment in 40 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris. CCM significantly improved acne lesions and various skin health metrics compared to the hydrophilic cream, with no serious side effects reported.
The Effect of Niacinamide Supplementation on Phosphate Concentrations in Dutch Dialysis Patients: A Randomized Crossover Trial.
Double-blind placebo-controlled randomized crossover trial of niacinamide (NAM) as an add-on treatment to phosphate binders in 26 dialysis patients. NAM significantly reduced serum phosphate concentrations compared to placebo, with no significant differences in platelet counts. NAM was well-tolerated, with 3 drop-outs due to side effects.
Clinical and Dermoscopic Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety of 5% Fluorouracil Topical Cream and 1% Niacinamide Topical Gel in the Treatment of Actinic Keratosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
RCT comparing 5% fluorouracil cream and 1% niacinamide gel in 26 patients with actinic keratosis. Fluorouracil showed better outcomes but more side effects, while niacinamide was less effective but had fewer complications.
Mitigation of retinol-induced skin irritation by physiologic lipids: Evidence from patch testing.
This study investigated the efficacy of phytosteryl/octyldodecyl lauroyl glutamate (PLG), a physiologic lipid mixture (PLM), and niacinamide in mitigating retinol-induced skin irritation. A 5-day occlusive human patch test on 18 participants showed that both 2% PLG and 5% PLM reduced retinol-induced erythema and inflammation, with PLG being more effective. Niacinamide did not provide relief. A subsequent 4-week consumer test confirmed the soothing effects of PLG.
The clinical efficacy of a new emulsion for acne and conspicuous facial pore amelioration.
A 56-day clinical trial evaluated a novel emulsion containing niacinamide, lens esculenta seed extract, and white willow bark extract on 30 subjects with oily skin. The emulsion significantly improved skin sebum secretion, acne, facial pores, and blackheads, with high participant satisfaction.
Pigmentation effects of blue light irradiation on skin and how to protect against them.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study investigated the effects of blue light on skin pigmentation and the protective effects of active ingredients. Significant changes in skin chromophores and visible hyperpigmentation were observed after blue light irradiation. Both a microalgal product and niacinamide were found to mitigate hyperpigmentation and skin reddening.
Randomized controlled study for the anti-aging effect of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide after laser therapy.
Double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled study evaluating the effect of topical post-laser treatment with adipocyte-derived stem cell-containing medium (ADSC-CM) combined with niacinamide on aging skin. The treatment improved wrinkle and melanin indices, patient satisfaction, and esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream. In vitro assays showed decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased Type 1 collagen expression.
Cosmetic benefit of a biomimetic lamellar cream formulation on barrier function or the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in randomized proof-of-concept clinical studies.
Two randomized proof-of-concept clinical studies evaluated a niacinamide-containing moisturizing cream. The cream significantly decreased transepidermal water loss and improved skin moisturization, wrinkle dimensions, and elasticity compared to no treatment. No serious adverse events were reported.
Effect of a Tranexamic Acid, Kojic Acid, and Niacinamide Containing Serum on Facial Dyschromia: A Clinical Evaluation.
A 12-week clinical study evaluated a topical serum containing 3% tranexamic acid, 1% kojic acid, and 5% niacinamide for treating melasma, PIH, and hyperpigmentation in Brazilian females. Significant improvements in PIH, hyperpigmentation, melasma, skin texture, and tone homogeneity were observed, with a decrease in melanin index by week 12.
Sirtuin and pan-class I/II deacetylase (DAC) inhibition is synergistic in preclinical models and clinical studies of lymphoma.
The study investigates the synergistic effects of pan-DAC inhibitors and niacinamide in treating diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Preclinical models and a phase 1 clinical trial showed that this combination produced remissions in a mouse model and a response in 24% of patients with relapsed or refractory lymphoma, with 57% experiencing disease stabilization.
Two randomized, controlled, comparative studies of the stratum corneum integrity benefits of two cosmetic niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers vs. conventional body moisturizers.
Two 35-day RCTs evaluated the effects of niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers on stratum corneum integrity in 121 female subjects. The niacinamide/glycerin moisturizers showed better improvement in cosmetic xerosis and stratum corneum barrier function compared to other moisturizers and no treatment.
Reduction in the appearance of facial hyperpigmentation by topical N-undecyl-10-enoyl-L-phenylalanine and its combination with niacinamide.
Two double-blind, 10-week split-face clinical studies were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a combination of 5% niacinamide and 1% N-undecylenoyl phenylalanine in reducing facial hyperpigmentation. The combination formulation was significantly more effective than the vehicle and 5% niacinamide alone in reducing hyperpigmentation after 8 weeks.
The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production.
Clinical trials in Japan and the USA evaluated the effect of topical 2% niacinamide on sebum excretion rates and casual sebum production. In Japanese subjects, niacinamide significantly lowered sebum excretion rates after 2 and 4 weeks. In Caucasian subjects, casual sebum levels were significantly reduced after 6 weeks, but sebum excretion rates were not.
Ultrasound enhanced skin-lightening effect of vitamin C and niacinamide.
RCT investigating the effect of high-frequency ultrasound with a skin-lightening gel containing ascorbyl glucoside and niacinamide on facial hyperpigmentation in Japanese women. Ultrasound enhanced the absorption of skin-lightening agents and significantly reduced facial hyperpigmented spots compared to no treatment and gel alone after 4 weeks.
Facilitating facial retinization through barrier improvement.
Paired double-blinded study assessing the effect of a barrier-enhancing cosmetic moisturizer containing vitamins (niacinamide, panthenol, tocopheryl acetate) on facial retinization with tretinoin. The study found that preconditioning the skin with the vitamin-containing moisturizer mitigated irritation and improved treatment response.
Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance.
RCT with 50 female subjects with facial photoaging signs, applying 5% niacinamide to half of the face and vehicle control to the other half for 12 weeks. Niacinamide significantly improved skin appearance, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and yellowing, and improved skin elasticity.
Niacinamide-containing facial moisturizer improves skin barrier and benefits subjects with rosacea.
This randomized, investigator-blind, controlled observational study assessed the effects of a niacinamide-containing facial moisturizer on subjects with rosacea. The study found improvements in stratum corneum barrier function and hydration, providing clinical benefits for rosacea management.
Effective inhibition of melanosome transfer to keratinocytes by lectins and niacinamide is reversible.
The study investigated the effects of lectins and niacinamide on melanosome transfer in an in vitro melanocyte-keratinocyte coculture model and a human clinical trial. Niacinamide inhibited melanosome transfer and reduced hyperpigmented lesions in a dose-dependent and reversible manner.
An Exploratory Study of Six-Month Niacinamide Supplementation on Macular Structure and Electrophysiology in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma.
This exploratory study evaluated the effects of six-month oral niacinamide supplementation on macular structure and electrophysiology in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The study found overall functional, structural, and electrophysiological stability, with no clinically meaningful improvement or progression, supporting short-term safety.
Changes in Quality of Life Among Glaucoma Patients Following Six Months of Niacinamide Supplementation.
A prospective, non-randomized, single-arm clinical trial investigated the effect of 500 mg daily niacinamide supplementation on quality of life in 58 glaucoma patients over 6 months. Results showed significant improvements in quality of life scores, including central and near vision, peripheral vision, and glare and dark adaptation, as well as a reduction in intraocular pressure.
Evaluating the Safety and Efficacy of a Topical Formulation Containing Epidermal Growth Factor, Tranexamic Acid, Vitamin C, Arbutin, Niacinamide and Other Ingredients as Hydroquinone 4% Alternatives to Improve Hyperpigmentation: A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Split Face Study.
This prospective, randomized, controlled split face study evaluated the safety and efficacy of a topical formulation containing niacinamide, vitamin C, arbutin, tranexamic acid, and epidermal growth factor as an alternative to hydroquinone 4% for treating hyperpigmentation. The formulation showed statistically significant improvement in hyperpigmentation appearance and was better tolerated than hydroquinone, with fewer adverse reactions.
Randomized control trial outcomes of tranexamic acid combination serum as a depigmenting agent for the use in healthy individuals.
Three-arm RCT comparing tranexamic acid (TA) combination serum with hydroquinone in 44 healthy individuals. Both 2% and 3% TA serums, combined with galactomyces ferment filtrate, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin, significantly improved skin brightness and pigmentation intensity over 4 weeks, with no differences compared to hydroquinone.
Reducing the oral isotretinoin skin side effects: efficacy of 8% omega-ceramides, hydrophilic sugars, 5% niacinamide cream compound in acne patients.
RCT evaluating the efficacy of a cream containing 8% omega-ceramides, hydrophilic sugars, and 5% niacinamide in reducing side effects of oral isotretinoin in acne patients. The cream significantly reduced dryness, itching, and redness, improving adherence to isotretinoin treatment.
Randomized, double-blinded, vehicle-controlled, split-face study to evaluate the effects of topical application of a Gold Silk Sericin/Niacinamide/Signaline complex on biophysical parameters related to skin ageing.
An 8-week randomized, double-blinded, vehicle-controlled, split-face study among 40 female subjects evaluated the effects of a Gold Silk Sericin complex on skin ageing. The complex significantly improved SC hydration, barrier function, elasticity, and surface topography compared to the vehicle control.
Reduction in facial hyperpigmentation after treatment with a combination of topical niacinamide and tranexamic acid: a randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial.
RCT involving 42 Korean women assessing the effectiveness of a topical formulation containing 2% niacinamide and 2% tranexamic acid for reducing facial hyperpigmentation. The combination was significantly more effective than the vehicle control in reducing pigmentation.
Influence of niacinamide containing formulations on the molecular and biophysical properties of the stratum corneum.
The study investigated the effects of niacinamide-containing formulations on the stratum corneum (SC) of 20 healthy volunteers. Results showed that niacinamide improved SC barrier function by increasing corneocyte maturity and surface area, decreasing inflammatory activity and TEWL, and increasing SC thickness.
The effect of oral niacinamide on plasma phosphorus levels in peritoneal dialysis patients.
An 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of niacinamide in reducing plasma phosphorus levels in peritoneal dialysis patients. The niacinamide group experienced a significant reduction in plasma phosphorus levels compared to placebo. However, adverse effects were noted in some patients, which may limit its use.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of niacinamide for reduction of phosphorus in hemodialysis patients.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial assessed the safety and efficacy of niacinamide in hemodialysis patients with high phosphorus levels. Niacinamide significantly reduced serum phosphorus and increased HDL cholesterol compared to placebo, with stable levels of other markers and similar adverse effects between groups.
Evaluation of anti-wrinkle effects of a novel cosmetic containing niacinamide.
A randomized, placebo-controlled, split face study evaluated the anti-wrinkle effects of a cosmetic containing 4% niacinamide in 30 healthy Japanese females. The cosmetic showed significant improvement in wrinkle reduction compared to the control, with marked improvement in 64% of subjects. The study indicated the lotion was well tolerated.
Measuring the effects of topical moisturizers on changes in stratum corneum thickness, water gradients and hydration in vivo.
The study validated the use of confocal Raman spectroscopy (CRS) to measure stratum corneum (SC) thickness and investigated the effects of three moisturizers on SC thickness, water gradients, and hydration over a 3-week period. Only one formulation, containing niacinamide, improved SC thickness, water gradients, and hydration.
The effect of niacinamide on osteoarthritis: a pilot study.
Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 72 osteoarthritis patients treated with niacinamide for 12 weeks. Niacinamide improved global arthritis impact, increased joint mobility, reduced inflammation, and allowed reduction in anti-inflammatory medications compared to placebo.
Topical 6-aminonicotinamide plus oral niacinamide therapy for psoriasis.
Ninety-nine psoriasis patients were treated with topical 6-aminonicotinamide and oral niacinamide. In a double-blind study, 1% 6-AN gel was superior to 0.1% triamcinolone acetonide in most comparisons. Substantial improvement or complete clearing of plaques occurred in 85 of 99 patients. The combination therapy shows promise as an effective and safe treatment for psoriasis.
Niacinamide Antimicrobial Efficacy and Its Mode of Action via Microbial Cell Cycle Arrest
The study explores niacinamide's antimicrobial mode of action against four common cosmetic pathogens. Findings indicate that niacinamide causes microbial cell cycle arrest, preventing complete cell division and interacting with DNA to hinder amplification.
Evaluation of a hydroquinone-free skin brightening product using in vitro inhibition of melanogenesis and clinical reduction of ultraviolet-induced hyperpigmentation.
The study evaluated a hydroquinone-free skin brightening product using in vitro and clinical methods. The product, containing multiple active ingredients like licorice extract and niacinamide, showed greater reduction in melanin production and distribution compared to hydroquinone, indicating its potential as an alternative treatment for hyperpigmentation.
Serum levels of autoantibodies to BP180 correlate with disease activity in patients with bullous pemphigoid.
Diagnostic study investigating the correlation of circulating anti-BP180 autoantibodies with disease activity in bullous pemphigoid. Patients were treated with either doxycycline and niacinamide or dapsone and prednisolone. Disease activity correlated with serum levels of autoantibodies to BP180 NC16A, suggesting its relevance in therapeutic management.
Observations on the use of tetracycline and niacinamide as antipruritic agents in atopic dogs.
Tetracycline and niacinamide were administered in combination to 19 atopic dogs to assess their effectiveness in controlling pruritus. Pruritus was controlled successfully in only one dog, and one dog experienced severe diarrhea leading to discontinuation of the medication.
Effects of megavitamin therapy on children with attention deficit disorders.
The study evaluated the effectiveness of a megavitamin regimen in 41 children with attention deficit disorders over a two-stage trial. Stage 1 showed significant behavior improvement in 29% of subjects, but stage 2 found no significant difference in behavior scores between vitamin and placebo groups. Children exhibited more disruptive behavior with vitamins, and 42% exceeded serum transaminase levels, indicating potential hepatotoxicity.
A new topical biotechnological phytocomplex for truncal mild-moderate acne restores skin microbiota balance.
Open clinical study in 43 subjects with truncal mild-moderate acne treated with a lotion containing a biotechnological phytocomplex, niacinamide, and succinic acid for 8 weeks. The study found increased bacterial diversity, decreased Cutibacterium acnes abundance, and improvements in acne severity, inflammatory lesions, erythema, and desquamation.
An open-label, investigator-initiated, single-center, prospective, pilot clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of a skin whitening serum applied twice daily combined with a spot-preventing SPF50+ sunscreen in healthy female subjects with melasma hyperpigmentation.
Pilot clinical study evaluating a skin whitening serum containing niacinamide and other compounds, combined with SPF50+ sunscreen, in 12 women with melasma. Significant improvement in melasma hyperpigmentation was observed with no irritation or discomfort.
Niacinamide leave-on formulation provides long-lasting protection against bacteria in vivo.
The study investigates the effects of a niacinamide leave-on formulation on bacterial protection in vivo. Niacinamide treatment in mice enhanced antimicrobial peptides, providing long-lasting protection against skin infections.
A dermocosmetic formulation containing Vichy volcanic mineralizing water, Vitreoscilla filiformis extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E regenerates and repairs acutely stressed skin
This narrative review presents in vivo and ex vivo studies on a dermocosmetic formulation containing Vichy volcanic mineralizing water, Vitreoscilla filiformis extract, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E. The formulation showed benefits in preventing and repairing stressed skin, accelerating skin renewal, enhancing antioxidant defense, and improving skin microbiome recovery. It also demonstrated depigmenting properties on dark spots in Asian women.
Male skin and ingredients relevant to male skin care.
The paper evaluates current research on shaving technology and ingredient selection for male skin care, focusing on post-shave moisturizers containing glycerine and emollients. It discusses how these can improve barrier function and highlights the role of niacinamide in enhancing skin health.