INCI: Niacinamide · CAS: 98-92-0
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
A multitasking active that brightens, calms, and supports the skin barrier.
About Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is the amide form of vitamin B3 used widely in skin and hair care. It supports skin barrier function by increasing ceramide synthesis, helps reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and fine lines, and visibly improves uneven tone and enlarged pores. It also shows anti-inflammatory benefits, making it suitable for blemish-prone and sensitive skin. In hair care, it can support scalp comfort and strengthen fiber integrity in multi-active systems.
Function: skin conditioning, barrier support, brightening, anti-inflammatory, sebum-balancing, anti-wrinkle/anti-aging, antioxidant-support
Recommended Usage
Skin care: 1–5% typical; up to 10% used in some leave-on formulas. Buffer pH to ~5–7 to minimize niacin formation and improve skin tolerance.
Hair care: 0.5–3% in shampoos/conditioners/leave-ons for scalp soothing and fiber care; maintain formula pH ~4.5–6.5.
Regulatory Status
- EU (max No specific maximum set for cosmetics; formulate to safety (commonly up to 10% in leave-on).): Not listed as restricted in Annex II/III for general cosmetic use; permissible as a vitamin/skin conditioning active. Observe purity limits for heavy metals and residual solvents as per supplier specs and product category.
- US (max No specific federal limit; formulate to safety (commonly up to 10% in leave-on).): Permitted in cosmetics; not pre-approved by FDA (except color additives). Must be safe for intended use and labeled properly. USP/PC grades available for quality compliance.
- ASEAN (max No explicit maximum; typical leave-on usage up to 10%.): Allowed in cosmetics under ASEAN Cosmetic Directive; not listed as a restricted substance. Ensure safety assessment, impurity control, and appropriate labeling.
Suppliers & Distributors
- Vertellus (Manufacturer)
- DSM-Firmenich (Manufacturer)
- Lonza Group AG (Manufacturer)
- MakingCosmetics Inc. (Distributor)
- Shay and Company (Distributor)
- Bulk Naturals Wholesale (Distributor)
Common questions about Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
What is Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)?
A multitasking active that brightens, calms, and supports the skin barrier.
What is the INCI name for Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)?
The INCI name for Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is Niacinamide. INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) is the standardized naming system used on cosmetic product labels worldwide.
What is the CAS number for Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)?
The CAS number for Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) (Niacinamide) is 98-92-0. The CAS number is the unique chemical identifier assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service.
What does Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) do in cosmetic formulations?
In cosmetic formulations, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) (Niacinamide) functions as: skin conditioning, barrier support, brightening, anti-inflammatory, sebum-balancing, anti-wrinkle/anti-aging, antioxidant-support.
What percentage of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is typically used in cosmetics?
Typical use levels for Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) (Niacinamide) in cosmetic formulations: In skin care: 1–5% typical; up to 10% used in some leave-on formulas. Buffer pH to ~5–7 to minimize niacin formation and improve skin tolerance.. In hair care: 0.5–3% in shampoos/conditioners/leave-ons for scalp soothing and fiber care; maintain formula pH ~4.5–6.5.. Always confirm against the supplier's technical data sheet and the regulatory limits for your target market.
Is Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) allowed in cosmetics in major markets?
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) (Niacinamide) is regulated as follows in major markets: EU (max No specific maximum set for cosmetics; formulate to safety (commonly up to 10% in leave-on).); US (max No specific federal limit; formulate to safety (commonly up to 10% in leave-on).); ASEAN (max No explicit maximum; typical leave-on usage up to 10%.). See the Regulatory Status section above for the specific restrictions and conditions in each territory.
Who manufactures Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)?
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) (Niacinamide) is manufactured by suppliers including Vertellus, DSM-Firmenich, Lonza Group AG, BASF SE. Sign in to Chemdex to see full contact details, SDS / TDS documents, and regional offices for every supplier.