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INGREDIENT DICTIONARY

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Niacinamide

INCI: Niacinamide | CAS #: 98-92-0

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a water-soluble cosmetic active used in formulations to support barrier function, improve skin tone uniformity, and refine overall skin appearance. It is widely used across serums, creams, and toners due to its compatibility and stability in a broad range of systems.

It is supplied as a high-purity powder with consistent composition, supporting reliable formulation performance.

What is Niacinamide & why is it used?

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 used in cosmetic formulations as a functional active. It is incorporated to support barrier function and improve overall skin appearance while maintaining good formulation compatibility.

It is commonly used alongside humectants and soothing ingredients to create balanced, well-tolerated formulations.

QUALITY MATTERS

Why specification quality matters

Our niacinamide is a high-purity cosmetic grade ingredient with a verified assay of 99.98% and low moisture content (0.13%), supporting stability and consistent formulation performance. COA-backed specifications confirm compliance with USP standards and clean microbial and heavy metal profiles.

Solubility Water soluble
Primary function Active
Use level 1.0–5.0%

Behaviour in formulations

Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 used in cosmetic formulations as a functional active. It is incorporated to support barrier function and improve overall skin appearance while maintaining good formulation compatibility.

It is commonly used alongside humectants and soothing ingredients to create balanced, well-tolerated formulations.

Sensory notes

Niacinamide does not significantly contribute to sensory profile but integrates cleanly into formulations without impacting texture when used within typical ranges. It is commonly combined with humectants and emollients to achieve a balanced skin feel. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent; bench testing is recommended.

Formulation considerations

PROCESSING
  • Add to the water phase with mixing until fully dissolved.
  • Suitable for cold-process and heated systems.
  • Ensure complete dissolution before emulsification or viscosity build.
  • Avoid excessive heat or prolonged exposure to low pH during processing.
  • Ensure final formulation pH is within an appropriate range
COMPATIBILITY
  • Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
  • Sensitive to low pH conditions
  • Works well with humectant systems and barrier-support actives
pH
Stable across pH ~5–7. Avoid strongly acidic conditions to minimise risk of conversion to nicotinic acid.
FORMULATION EXAMPLES

Hydrating serum or essence

  • Niacinamide: 2–5%
  • Humectants (e.g. glycerin, propanediol): 3–6%
  • Actives as required
  • Preserved aqueous base to 100%

Supports barrier function while maintaining a lightweight skin feel.

Barrier-support lotion or cream

  • Niacinamide: 2–4% (water phase)
  • Emollients and emulsifier system as required
  • Preserved to finished formula
  • Provides active support within a balanced emulsion system

Supports visible skin tone balance and barrier comfort when used within recommended ranges.

Toner or mist

  • Niacinamide: 2–3%
  • Humectants as required
  • Preserved aqueous base to 100%

Delivers active support in lightweight aqueous systems.

Use level considerations

Recommended range 1.0–5.0%
Suggested starting level 2–4% for most cosmetic formulations%

Niacinamide is typically used at 2–5% in leave-on formulations, where it provides effective performance with good tolerance. Lower levels (1–2%) may be used in rinse-off systems.

It is important to maintain formulation pH within an appropriate range (~5–7), as strongly acidic conditions may increase the risk of conversion to nicotinic acid, which can lead to flushing.

Formulation summary

Niacinamide is a widely used cosmetic active valued for its versatility, stability, and compatibility across formulation systems. When used within recommended levels and pH ranges, it provides consistent performance without compromising formulation balance.

Quality notes

Our niacinamide is a high-purity cosmetic grade ingredient with a verified assay of 99.98% and low moisture content (0.13%), supporting stability and consistent formulation performance. COA-backed specifications confirm compliance with USP standards and clean microbial and heavy metal profiles.

EXPLORE

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