activesFine Powder

Niacinamide

Niacinamide

antioxidantskin protectantconditioning
CAS Number:98-92-0

INCI Name

Niacinamide

Functions

3 Roles

Sustainability

7/10

Category

actives

What It Does

Niacinamide is the amide form of vitamin B3 (nicotinic acid), synthesized through the reaction of nicotinic acid with ammonia. It's one of the most versatile and well-researched cosmetic actives, clinically proven to strengthen the skin barrier by increasing ceramide production, regulate sebum production, reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanosome transfer, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Formulators favor it for its exceptional stability across a wide pH range (unlike many vitamins), its compatibility with nearly all other ingredients, and its ability to deliver visible results at concentrations of 2-10% without causing irritation.

Neutralizes damaging free radicals
Protects skin from environmental stress
Prevents formula oxidation
Supports anti-aging benefits

Technical Properties

pH Range

5.0-7.0

Optimal working range

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Ingredient Compatibility

Known Interactions

ASCORBIC ACIDUse CautionpH Conflict

Niacinamide and L-Ascorbic Acid can interact at low pH, potentially forming nicotinic acid (causes flushing). They work optimally at different pH ranges (Niacinamide pH 5-7, Ascorbic Acid pH 2.5-3.5). Consider using a Vitamin C derivative stable at higher pH, or separate products.

GLYCOLIC ACIDUse CautionpH Conflict

Glycolic Acid's low pH (3.0-4.0) can convert Niacinamide to nicotinic acid, causing flushing and reduced efficacy. Use in separate products or buffer the pH above 4.5.

FERULIC ACIDNotepH Conflict

Ferulic Acid is typically formulated at low pH (2.5-3.5) with Vitamin C, while Niacinamide works at pH 5-7. Not a destructive interaction, but pH compromise reduces the benefit of one active.

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

7/10

Biodegradability

readily biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

nicotinic acid derivative

Available Variants

13 forms available

Fine Powder

Fine Powder USP

Fine Powder USP Grade

Fine Powder, Pharmaceutical Grade

Fine Powder, USP Grade

Fine Powder, USP Grade, Pre-Dispersed in Glycerin

Oil-Soluble Grade Powder

Pharmaceutical Grade Fine Powder

Pharmaceutical Grade Powder

Powder

Standard

USP Grade Fine Powder

USP Grade Powder

Quick Reference

Full INCI Name
Niacinamide
Common Name
Niacinamide
CAS Number
98-92-0
Category
actives

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