Authority source
Safety basis: CIR
Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) assessment
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3Nicotinamide
Skin-conditioning agent
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that helps improve the look and feel of skin. It can make skin appear smoother, reduce redness, and strengthen its protective barrier.
What it is
Niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin that helps skin cells function better and supports a healthy skin barrier.
Found in
serums, moisturizers, toners, cleansers, sunscreens, anti-aging products
The concern
No significant concerns identified when used as directed in cosmetic products; some individuals may experience mild irritation at high concentrations.
Legal status
Niacinamide is widely permitted for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU, with no major restrictions on concentration.
Low Concern
Niacinamide is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products at typical concentrations.
Evidence & sources
Article / explainer
Article / explainer
No highly relevant article explainer found yet.
Community questions
Community questions
Community discussions are not used as safety evidence and no highly relevant discussion is shown for this ingredient.
Related ingredient guides
Compare this ingredient with related ingredients and common alternatives.
Retinol
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Retinal
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Retinyl Palmitate
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Adapalene
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Tretinoin
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Bakuchiol
Another retinoid or retinoid-adjacent ingredient commonly compared in skincare routines.
Last updated: July 30, 2026