Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Niacinamide is the active form of vitamin B3 that serves as a precursor to NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), essential for cellular energy production and DNA repair. It regulates sebum production, reduces inflammation through inhibiting nuclear factor-kappa B, and supports skin barrier function.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 found in foods like meat, fish, and eggs. It is synthesized for supplements and skincare products due to its non-flushing properties.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Nicotinamide has been studied in various clinical trials for its role in skin health and energy metabolism. Its efficacy in reducing acne and inflammation is well-supported.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Nicotinamide (niacinamide) is the amide form of vitamin B3 (niacin), with a molecular weight of 122.12 g/mol. It is a water-soluble vitamin and a precursor to the essential coenzymes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP⁺), which participate in over 400 enzymatic reactions. Typical supplemental doses range from 500–1500 mg/day for systemic benefits and 2–5% topical concentrations for dermatological use. Oral bioavailability is high (approximately 90–100%) with rapid absorption in the small intestine. It does not cause the flushing reaction associated with nicotinic acid. Niacinamide is not stored significantly in the body; excess is methylated in the liver to N-methyl-nicotinamide and excreted renally. Endogenous conversion from dietary tryptophan is possible (60 mg tryptophan ≈ 1 mg niacin equivalent), but supplementation provides far more efficient NAD⁺ repletion. Contains no macronutrients, fiber, or minerals itself—it is a single bioactive compound.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Niacinamide converts to NAD+ through the salvage pathway via nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) enzyme. NAD+ functions as a coenzyme in glycolysis, citric acid cycle, and electron transport chain for ATP synthesis. It also activates sirtuins and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases involved in DNA repair and cellular stress response.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Multiple randomized controlled trials demonstrate niacinamide's efficacy for acne and hyperpigmentation. A 12-week study with 60 participants showed 35% reduction in sebum production with 4% topical niacinamide. Another 16-week trial of 120 subjects found significant improvement in melasma with 5% niacinamide cream. Oral supplementation studies are limited, with most dermatological evidence from topical applications at 2-5% concentrations.
Also Known As
Research updates — and 25% off your first order
Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.