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Beauty ingredient

Niacinamide: what it is and where it’s used

Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 used to condition the skin in serums, moisturisers, toners and sunscreens. On a cosmetic label it appears under its INCI name, “Niacinamide”. Ingredients above 1% are listed in order of amount, so its position hints at how much is there. Bravoora shows where it sits in the list.

By Bravoora teamUpdated Sources checked 2 sourcesHow we check

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What is niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. In cosmetics it appears under its ingredient (INCI) name “Niacinamide” and is used as a skin-conditioning ingredient. The same molecule is sold as nicotinamide in some supplements.

Where is niacinamide found?

  • Serums and moisturisers use it most often.
  • Toners and sunscreens sometimes include it.
  • Some supplements sell the same molecule as nicotinamide.

Label code: Niacinamide (INCI)

What are the other names for niacinamide on a label?

On a label, niacinamide can also appear as “Nicotinamide” or “Vitamin B3”.

NicotinamideVitamin B3

Does niacinamide fit a vegan or fragrance-free routine?

For niacinamide: vegan and fragrance-free profiles get Fits you.

VeganFits youThe version used in cosmetics is made synthetically.
Fragrance-freeFits youNiacinamide itself is not a fragrance.

A packed product can still carry a “may contain” warning, so check the pack.

Does niacinamide fit you?

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How does Bravoora check for niacinamide?

Bravoora shows where niacinamide sits in the ingredient list. Ingredients above 1% are listed in order of amount, so its position gives a rough idea.

How Bravoora decides, in full

More questions about niacinamide

Who looks out for niacinamide?

Niacinamide matters most to anyone comparing skincare labels or building a routine around specific ingredients.

Is niacinamide vegan?

Yes. The version used in cosmetics is made synthetically.

Is niacinamide fragrance-free?

Yes. Niacinamide itself is not a fragrance.

Sources and how to cite this guide

  1. European Commission: CosIng ingredient database
  2. EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009

To cite this guide: Bravoora, “Niacinamide: what it is and where it’s used”, bravoora.app/ingredients/niacinamide/, updated 22 September 2026.

Spotted something wrong or missing? Tell us.

General information, not medical advice. Rules differ by country and products change, so always check the pack.

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