It is well known that ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage our skin, especially after years of repeated exposure. This damage can appear as sunburns, inflammation, premature aging, and in some cases skin cancers. Thankfully, there are several ways to protect your skin, including limiting sun exposure, wearing sun protective clothing, and applying sunscreen. Recently, oral supplements have gained attention as another possible support. Niacinamide is often discussed by skin care physicians for individuals who have had skin cancer or who may be at higher risk. But what exactly is niacinamide, why is it used, and could it be helpful for you?
In this article, we cover some frequently asked questions about niacinamide supplements.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is one of the main supplement forms of vitamin B3. Another form is niacin, or nicotinic acid. In the body, excess niacin is converted into niacinamide.
All forms of vitamin B3 are ultimately converted into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD). NAD is required by every cell in the body for normal function, which is why vitamin B3 is considered essential.
Are Niacinamide & Vitamin B3 the same thing?
Yes and no. Niacinamide is one form of vitamin B3, but there are other forms as well. While closely related, each behaves differently in the body. If you have been advised to take a specific form, it should not be substituted without guidance from a health care provider.
Niacin can cause flushing and skin irritation at some doses. Niacinamide does not typically cause this effect because it is processed differently in the body.
What does Niacinamide do in the body?
Vitamin B3 is a precursor to NAD+, NADH, and NADP+. These molecules help produce cellular energy and support several repair processes, including DNA repair. This includes DNA in skin cells that may be damaged by UV radiation. Some foundational research on how niacinamide supports these pathways is available in studies such as this PubMed overview of nicotinamide in skin health.
NAD+ levels can decline with age. It is thought that providing a precursor may support the body’s natural ability to maintain normal cell function.
Is Niacinamide a replacement for other sun protection?
No. Niacinamide supplements do not replace sunscreen or sun protective practices. While niacinamide may help support the skin’s natural repair processes and has anti-inflammatory properties, sun safety behaviours remain the primary way to reduce UV related damage.
Where is Niacinamide found naturally?
Vitamin B3 is found in many everyday foods, including:
- Poultry
- Beef
- Pork
- Fish
- Milk
- Eggs
- Nutritional yeast
- Green vegetables
- Beets
- Mushrooms
- Whole grains
- Nuts and legumes
Many breads and cereals in North America are also fortified with B vitamins.
Why take a Niacinamide supplement?
Vitamin B3 is water soluble, so the body does not store it long-term. Deficiencies are uncommon in North America due to food variety and fortification.
Niacinamide is well absorbed when taken orally and is often included in low doses in B complex supplements. Some people take it to support general skin health or because they have been advised to do so by a health care professional.
What are potential Niacinamide benefits?
Niacinamide is an approved treatment for pellagra, a disease caused by severe niacin deficiency. You can read more about pellagra on the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology website.
Researchers have also studied niacinamide for its potential role in several conditions including acne, osteoarthritis, and certain metabolic concerns. Evidence varies and more study is needed in most of these areas.
Niacinamide and skin cancer
Some clinical studies suggest that niacinamide supplementation may help reduce the number of new precancerous spots and certain nonmelanoma skin cancers in people who are already high risk. One of the most frequently cited studies is the 2015 New England Journal of Medicine trial on nicotinamide and skin cancer prevention.
This study involved high-risk participants with a history of multiple nonmelanoma skin cancers. Results apply specifically to that population and should not be generalized without caution. More research is needed for people without a previous history of skin cancer.
If you have had skin cancer in the past and are curious about whether niacinamide could support your overall skin health, it is best to speak with a health care professional.
Niacinamide skin benefits
Niacinamide has also been studied in cosmetic dermatology for its potential to improve the appearance of fine lines, redness, and uneven skin tone. Research is ongoing. Many skin care companies now include niacinamide in topical products for these reasons.
Research involving Niacinamide
As noted above, the NEJM study is one of the most prominent clinical trials examining oral niacinamide in a high-risk population. It showed fewer new nonmelanoma skin cancers during the study period for participants taking niacinamide compared to placebo. A health care provider can help determine whether supplementation may be appropriate for your situation.
Niacinamide and Sun Exposure
Niacinamide should always be considered an addition to, not a substitute for, proven sun safety practices. Limiting UV exposure, seeking shade, wearing sun protective clothing, and applying a broad spectrum sunscreen remain the most effective ways to reduce UV related damage.
If you have questions about niacinamide or your skin health, our team is here to help. Feel free to get in touch to book a consultation.
