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Niacinamide Powder | Vitamin B3 Cosmetic Grade Active

$16.00
Tax included.

Niacinamide — also known as Vitamin B3, Nicotinamide, and by its INCI name Niacinamide — is one of the most clinically validated, consumer-demanded, and versatile cosmetic actives available today. A water-soluble B-vitamin derivative, it has earned its position as the definitive multi-correcting skincare active through decades of peer-reviewed clinical evidence demonstrating benefits across pigmentation, pore appearance, skin barrier function, sebum regulation, fine lines, skin texture, and anti-inflammatory activity — all in a single, well-tolerated, affordable ingredient.

No other single cosmetic active delivers as many simultaneously proven benefits at such low concentrations. This is why niacinamide now appears in the ingredient lists of virtually every leading prestige skincare brand globally and has become the most searched skincare active ingredient in Australia. Consumers know it, request it, and seek it — making it one of the highest-value additions you can make to a cosmetic formulation range.

Our Niacinamide is cosmetic and pharmaceutical grade — minimum 98% purity, white crystalline powder, water soluble, and easy to incorporate into serums, moisturisers, toners, essences, eye creams, and cleansers at usage rates of 2–10%. It is stable across a wide pH range, heat stable, and compatible with the vast majority of cosmetic ingredients.

One important formulation note: at concentrations above approximately 2%, niacinamide can form a yellow compound called Nicotinic Acid (niacin) when combined directly with Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) in aqueous formulations — potentially causing flushing and yellowing of the product. This interaction is pH and temperature dependent and can be managed through formulation strategy — full guidance is provided below.

HOW IT WORKS — THE MECHANISMS

Niacinamide delivers its wide-ranging benefits through multiple distinct biological pathways:

1. Melanin Transfer Inhibition — Brightening and Pigmentation

Niacinamide reduces the transfer of melanin-containing melanosomes from melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) to keratinocytes (skin cells). It does not inhibit melanin production itself — it blocks the handover of pigment from the melanocyte to the skin cell. This mechanism is responsible for its well-documented brightening effect, reduction of hyperpigmentation, melasma management, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) reduction. Clinical trials demonstrate significant reduction in pigmentation at 5% over 8–12 weeks.

2. Sebum Regulation

Niacinamide measurably reduces sebum excretion rate — the amount of oil produced by sebaceous glands. At 2% in a controlled clinical study, sebum production was reduced by approximately 60% compared to vehicle control over 4 weeks. This directly reduces enlarged pore appearance (pores appear larger when filled with sebum and dead cells), shine in oily skin, and the propensity for acne and comedone formation.

3. Skin Barrier Enhancement — Ceramide Synthesis

Niacinamide stimulates the synthesis of ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids — the three lipid classes that comprise the stratum corneum intercellular lipid matrix (skin barrier). A stronger barrier means less transepidermal water loss (TEWL), better hydration retention, reduced sensitivity to external irritants, and improved skin integrity in conditions like eczema, rosacea, and dry skin. This is a fundamental structural benefit rather than a surface moisturising effect.

4. Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Redness

Niacinamide suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduces the inflammatory cascade in skin. Clinically, this translates to reduction of erythema (redness), calming of rosacea symptoms, reduction of post-acne redness, and anti-inflammatory support in reactive skin conditions.

5. Anti-Ageing — Collagen and Protein Synthesis

Niacinamide stimulates collagen synthesis and increases keratin production in skin cells. It also inhibits the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) — enzymes that degrade collagen and elastin. These mechanisms contribute to clinically documented improvements in fine lines, skin firmness, and skin texture with regular use at 5%.

6. NADH and NADPH Replenishment — Cellular Energy

As a vitamin B3 precursor, niacinamide replenishes cellular NAD+ and NADP+ — essential coenzymes in cellular energy metabolism and DNA repair pathways. This contributes to skin's ability to repair UV damage and maintain healthy cellular function — a foundational anti-ageing mechanism.

RECOMMENDED USAGE RATES

Facial serums (primary niacinamide serum)

  • Niacinamide: 5–10%
  • Notes: The "hero" application; 5% is the most widely clinically supported rate; 10% is used in more intensive formulations; above 10% increases risk of flushing/irritation without proportionally greater benefit
  • Typical serum: 5% niacinamide + 1% zinc PCA (sebum control) + hyaluronic acid + niacinamide-compatible preservative + distilled water

Facial moisturisers and day creams

  • Niacinamide: 2–5%
  • Notes: Supporting active in a broader moisturiser formulation; 2% delivers meaningful barrier and brightening benefit in daily moisturisers

Toners and essences

  • Niacinamide: 2–5%
  • Notes: Water-based delivery vehicle; highly compatible with toner formulation chemistry; fast-absorbing aqueous applications ideal for niacinamide delivery

Eye creams

  • Niacinamide: 2–4%
  • Notes: Lower rate appropriate for the delicate periorbital area; brightening and anti-puffiness benefits well-suited to eye care

Body lotions (brightening and barrier)

  • Niacinamide: 2–5%
  • Notes: Excellent for whole-body brightening, barrier support, and anti-ageing; body applications require larger volumes — factor cost at scale

Cleansers and face washes

  • Niacinamide: 2–3%
  • Notes: Rinse-off application; lower rate sufficient; some benefit from brief skin contact during washing; sebum regulation and brightening benefits accumulate with regular use

Shampoos and scalp treatments

  • Niacinamide: 1–3%
  • Notes: Emerging application; scalp barrier support, sebum regulation, and anti-inflammatory benefits for dandruff-prone and sensitive scalp

Spot treatments (acne and pigmentation)

  • Niacinamide: 5–10%
  • Notes: Higher concentration spot application for targeted pigmentation or acne; combine with zinc PCA for enhanced acne activity

Anti-ageing night creams

  • Niacinamide: 4–5%
  • Notes: Overnight delivery maximises collagen synthesis and barrier repair benefits; pairs well with retinol (separate application timing recommended)

Product Info

Specs
  • INCI Name: Niacinamide
  • CAS Number: 98-92-0
  • Chemical Name: Pyridine-3-carboxamide; Nicotinic Acid Amide
  • Chemical Formula: C₆H₆N₂O
  • Molecular Weight: 122.12 g/mol
  • Common Names: Niacinamide, Nicotinamide, Vitamin B3, Niacin Amide
  • Grade: Cosmetic / Pharmaceutical Grade
  • Purity: ≥98% Niacinamide (typically 99%+)
  • Appearance: White fine crystalline powder
  • Odour: Odourless to very faint characteristic
  • Taste: Slightly bitter
  • pH (10% solution): Approximately 5.5–7.5 — near neutral
  • Solubility: Freely soluble in water (approximately 10% at 20°C); sparingly soluble in ethanol; insoluble in oils
  • Phase Addition: Water phase — dissolve in warm or cool water phase; water soluble at cosmetic use concentrations at room temperature
  • Melting Point: 128–131°C
  • Stability: Stable across pH 4.0–8.0; heat stable to 80°C; stable in standard cosmetic preservative systems; avoid strongly acidic or alkaline extremes
  • Usage Rate: 2–10% of total formulation weight
  • Recommended Standard Rate: 5% for most applications
  • Shelf Life: 3+ years in sealed storage
  • Storage: Store sealed in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight

TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

  • Niacinamide serums (primary hero product)
  • Facial moisturisers and day creams
  • Toners and essences
  • Eye creams
  • Night creams and anti-ageing treatments
  • Spot treatments for acne and pigmentation
  • Body lotions (brightening and barrier)
  • BB creams and tinted moisturisers
  • Cleansers and face washes
  • Shampoos and scalp treatments
  • Sheet mask serums and gel masks
  • Primer formulations
Benefits
  • The most clinically proven multi-correcting cosmetic active available — simultaneous brightening, pore-minimising, barrier-strengthening, sebum-regulating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ageing benefits in a single ingredient
  • The most consumer-recognised and searched skincare active in Australia — adding niacinamide to your formulations directly answers an established, high-demand consumer request
  • Highly effective at 5% — the most widely clinical supported concentration; meaningful results at an affordable formulation cost
  • Exceptional tolerance profile — suitable for all skin types including sensitive, reactive, rosacea, and acne-prone; one of the few actives that simultaneously treats multiple concerns without significant irritation risk
  • Water soluble — dissolves at room temperature at cosmetic use concentrations; easy to incorporate in water phase without heating
  • Stable across pH 4.0–8.0 and to 80°C — formulation-flexible; no strict pH or temperature constraints
  • Compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients — works alongside hyaluronic acid, retinol, AHAs, peptides, ceramides, zinc, and most actives
  • Low usage rate of 2–10% — highly cost-effective per unit; niacinamide powder is affordable at bulk quantities
  • Colourless and odourless in formulation — adds no aesthetic compromise
  • Long shelf life (3+ years) — stable in storage; low purchasing frequency for production operations
Product Safety
  • Cosmetic and pharmaceutical grade — safe for direct skin contact in all leave-on and rinse-off formulations at 2–10%
  • Excellent safety profile — well-tolerated across all skin types; no significant sensitisation risk at cosmetic use concentrations
  • Mild flushing risk at very high concentrations (above 10%) — due to potential nicotinic acid formation; do not exceed 10% in finished formulations; 5% is optimal for efficacy without risk
  • Avoid contact with eyes in concentrated powder form; if contact occurs rinse thoroughly with water for several minutes
  • Not for ingestion as a standalone supplement without medical guidance
  • Keep out of reach of children
  • Store sealed away from moisture — niacinamide is hygroscopic; absorbs atmospheric water if left unsealed; store in a dry sealed container
  • Avoid storage or formulation at very high temperatures or very low pH which can degrade niacinamide to nicotinic acid over time
Shipping

Collections from Springvale: Please allow 24 hours for all collection in store. If same day pickup is required, please contact us to discuss.

Shipping: We ship Australia Wide

FAQs

Questions

What is the INCI name for Niacinamide?

The INCI name is simply Niacinamide. This single name appears on finished cosmetic product ingredient lists globally. It is also known as Nicotinamide, Vitamin B3, and Nicotinic Acid Amide — but on product labels, INCI Niacinamide is the required declaration.

What is the best usage rate for Niacinamide?

5% is the most widely clinically supported rate for the broadest range of benefits including brightening, pore minimisation, sebum regulation, and barrier support. This is the rate used in the majority of published clinical trials and the concentration most consumers recognise from hero products. 2–3% is effective for barrier and anti-inflammatory benefits in sensitive skin formulations. 10% is used for intensive treatment products — beyond 10% there is no documented additional benefit and the risk of mild flushing increases.

Can I use Niacinamide with Vitamin C?

Yes — with appropriate formulation strategy. The concern about niacinamide and L-Ascorbic Acid forming a flushing-causing yellow complex is real but manageable. Using stabilised vitamin C derivatives (Ascorbyl Glucoside, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate) instead of pure L-Ascorbic Acid avoids the reaction entirely. If using L-Ascorbic Acid alongside niacinamide, formulate at a moderate pH of 5.5–7.0, keep temperatures below 40°C during manufacture, and recommend morning/evening separation to consumers as an extra precaution.

Is Niacinamide suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes — niacinamide is one of the best actives specifically for sensitive skin. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and reactivity, its barrier-strengthening mechanism builds tolerance over time, and it lacks the potential irritancy of AHAs, retinol, and high-concentration vitamin C. It pairs particularly well with allantoin and centella asiatica for maximum sensitive skin benefit.

How quickly does Niacinamide show results?

Clinical studies show:

  • Sebum reduction: 4–6 weeks of consistent use
  • Pore appearance improvement: 4–8 weeks
  • Brightening and pigmentation reduction: 8–12 weeks
  • Barrier improvement and hydration: 2–4 weeks
  • Anti-inflammatory / redness reduction: 2–4 weeks

    Results are cumulative — consistent daily use is required for maintained benefit.

Can Niacinamide be used in cold process soap?

Yes — at 0.5–1% of total water weight, dissolved in the water phase before adding lye. Niacinamide is water soluble and alkali-stable enough to survive the saponification process in cold process soap to a meaningful degree. It adds a skin-brightening and conditioning claim to the finished bar. Dissolve fully in warm distilled water, cool to room temperature, then proceed with lye addition as normal.

What is the difference between Niacinamide and Niacin (Nicotinic Acid)?

Niacinamide (nicotinamide) and Niacin (nicotinic acid) are both forms of Vitamin B3 but have different properties. Niacinamide is the cosmetically active amide form — non-flushing, well-tolerated, and suitable for topical cosmetic use. Niacin (nicotinic acid) is the acid form — it causes transient skin flushing (vasodilation) and redness, which is why exposure to nicotinic acid in cosmetics is undesirable. The concern with niacinamide formulation at high temperatures with L-Ascorbic Acid is precisely the potential conversion of niacinamide to nicotinic acid via the complex formation described above.

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