Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)
Niacinamide is the stable amide form of vitamin B3 and is one of the most widely used ingredients in cosmetics due to its high stability and broad compatibility with various formulations. It is a white, water-soluble powder that is non-irritating when used in recommended amounts.
Niacinamide acts as a skin-supporting agent from a cosmetic perspective, contributing to improved skin barrier function, a more even skin tone, and reduced dryness. It exhibits good stability across a suitable pH range, making it appropriate for daily use in skincare and haircare products without any therapeutic claims.
Benefits
- It helps improve the appearance of even skin tone (cosmetically).
- It contributes to enhancing the appearance of smoothness and elasticity of the skin.
- Supports a feeling of comfort and reduces the appearance of dryness.
- It helps improve the appearance of pores and overall texture.
- Compatible with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol, and caffeine
How to use
- Manufacturing stage: Water stage or cooling stage
- Temperature: Thermally stable, preferably added below 60°C
- Recommended pH range: 5 to 7
- Stylistic notes:
- It dissolves easily in water.
- Highly acidic environments (<4) should be avoided to prevent conversion to nicotinic acid.
- Compatible with most preservation systems and cosmetic active ingredients
Recommended ratios
- Facial care products: 1% – 5%
- Concentrated serums and creams: up to 10% (according to sensory and compositional design)
- Body care products: 0.5% – 3%
- Maximum recommended for cosmetic use: depends on the type of product and the final pH range.
Melting
- Water: completely soluble
- Glycolates: Soluble
- Oils: Insoluble
- Notes: It is easily incorporated into the aqueous phase and does not require special solvents.
Applications
- Facial serums and creams
- Skin tone evening products
- Skincare products for oily and combination skin
- Body lotions and creams
- Scalp care products (cosmetic)
Storage
- Store in a tightly sealed container.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
- Chemically stable under suitable storage conditions
- Avoid exposure to moisture to maintain the quality of the powder.
Organizational notes:
- For cosmetic use only
- Permitted under EU legislation and the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA)
- It is used as a cosmetic ingredient to enhance appearance, not as a treatment.