What Is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that helps support ceramide production and the skin barrier, reduce the appearance of redness, and limit the transfer of pigment-containing melanosomes that can contribute to visible dark spots. It appears in toners, serums, moisturizers, and eye treatments because it offers several complementary benefits and is generally well tolerated by most skin types.

Niacinamide vs. niacin: what's the difference?

Niacinamide and nicotinic acid are both forms of vitamin B3, but they behave differently. Nicotinic acid, often simply called niacin, can cause temporary warmth, flushing, itching, and redness when taken orally at supplemental doses. Niacinamide—also known as nicotinamide—is the form most commonly used in skincare and does not typically cause the classic niacin-flush reaction. If a skincare label lists niacinamide or nicotinamide, these names refer to the same form of vitamin B3.

How niacinamide works on skin

Niacinamide works through several complementary pathways, which is one reason it appears in such a wide range of formulas.

It supports ceramide production. Ceramides account for approximately half of the intercellular lipids in the skin’s outermost layer and play an essential role in barrier function. Niacinamide can stimulate ceramide synthesis, helping the skin retain moisture and supporting a stronger, more resilient barrier.

It helps limit pigment transfer. Melanosomes are pigment-containing structures transferred from melanocytes to surrounding keratinocytes. Niacinamide can interfere with this transfer, helping reduce the appearance of existing hyperpigmentation over time. That’s why it frequently appears in brightening and dark-spot formulas.

It may help balance excess oil. Some studies suggest that topical niacinamide can reduce facial sebum levels over time, making it useful for oily and combination skin. Because it also supports the skin barrier, it can help address oiliness without relying on aggressive or drying exfoliation. (take what is relevant)

What percentage of niacinamide should you use?

Most skincare products use niacinamide in the 2% to 10% range. Concentrations around 2% to 5% are common in daily moisturizers and are generally well tolerated by sensitive skin. Higher concentrations, closer to 10%, tend to show up in targeted serums built for dark spots or oil control. Concentrations above that range have less research behind them and raise the chance of irritation, particularly when layered with retinol or an exfoliating acid. Skin that's new to niacinamide generally does better starting on the lower end.

How to add niacinamide to a routine

Niacinamide layers easily with most other ingredients. It pairs well with hyaluronic acid for hydration and with vitamin C for brightening, and it can offset some of the dryness that comes with retinol use. If you're combining niacinamide with an exfoliating acid like glycolic acid, space out application or use them at different times of day to avoid over-exfoliating.

Apply a niacinamide serum after cleansing and before moisturizer. Most formulas work morning and night, since niacinamide doesn't increase sun sensitivity the way retinol does.

Who benefits most from niacinamide

Because niacinamide addresses barrier strength, oil, and pigment in one ingredient, it works across a range of concerns.

Oily and acne-prone skin benefits from niacinamide's oil-regulating effect, which can reduce the look of enlarged pores over time.

Skin dealing with dark spots and uneven tone benefits from niacinamide's role in slowing pigment transfer.

Dry or compromised skin benefits from the ceramide support, which helps with hydration and reduces water loss.

Skin showing early lines and wrinkles benefits from niacinamide's role in supporting skin structure, which is part of why it's often paired with retinol in anti-aging formulas.

Murad products with niacinamide

Murad builds niacinamide into several formulas, each aimed at a different concern. Nutrient-Charged Water Gel combines niacinamide with vitamins B5, B6, B9, and E in a lightweight, oil-free gel moisturizer. Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream pairs niacinamide with a dipeptide to strengthen the skin barrier overnight while retinol works on fine lines. Revitalixir Recovery Serum combines niacinamide with caffeine to target the look of dullness and under-eye puffiness linked to stress. Vita-C Eyes Dark Circle Corrector uses niacinamide alongside gold-stabilized vitamin C to target dark circles.

Is niacinamide safe during pregnancy?

Murad carefully assesses our products and ingredients to ensure they are safe for use. Because every person and pregnancy is unique, we recommend you seek your doctor's advice if you are unsure or have any questions about the products you use during pregnancy and/or lactation.

Niacinamide earns its reputation as a multitasking ingredient because it works on the barrier, oil, and pigment at the same time, and most skin types can use it daily without irritation. Whether the goal is smaller-looking pores, fewer dark spots, or a stronger barrier, there's a Murad niacinamide formula built around it. Browse the full niacinamide collection to find the right fit.