Conditions Acne (Acne Vulgaris) Niacinamide
Ni
Moderate evidence

Niacinamide for Acne (Acne Vulgaris)

A multitasker that calms redness, evens out skin tone, and helps oily skin balance out. One of the safest do-a-little-of-everything ingredients.

Why it works for Acne (Acne Vulgaris)

Calms redness and inflammation, cuts down oil, and fades the dark marks acne leaves behind. It is vitamin B3. In a 1995 trial (Shalita et al., PMID:7771923), 4% niacinamide gel worked as well as 1% clindamycin (a prescription antibiotic) for inflamed acne after 8 weeks. It is safe to use during pregnancy and gets along with every other active in your routine, so it is an easy one to keep using long term.

How Niacinamide works

Reduces transepidermal water loss, inhibits melanosome transfer, and dampens inflammatory cytokines.