Vitamin B3 (nicotinamide) applied to the skin is an effective and inexpensive treatment to reduce signs of sun damage, e.g. pigmentation and wrinkles.
Topical vitamin B3 (i.e. applied directly to the skin as a cream) has been shown to reduce many of the visible signs of sun damage and ageing as well as enhancing wound healing. It is inexpensive and readily available in moisturisers and as a stand-alone product.
Vitamin B3 cream or serum, also known as niacinamide or nicotinamide, is one of the most effective topical cosmetic products. It has been shown in multiple trials to improve visible signs of sun-damaged and ageing skin in many ways:
Topical vitamin B3 has been shown in an experimental setting to improve skin healing after excision procedures (Esfahani 2015).
Topical vitamin B3 is sometimes used in the treatment of dermatitis and acne.
Topical vitamin B3 is easily absorbed into the skin and unlike some other topical skin repair treatments, it rarely causes any side effects or skin irritation. (Farris 2015)
It should be applied to the skin daily and can be used in combination with other ski treatments, moisturiser and sunscreen.
Results will take several months to become apparent.
Nicotinamide for topical use is available in many skin preparations, including Solarcare vitamin B3 mostiuriser (available for purchase at Spot Check Clinic). For people with sun-damaged skin and a history of BCC, SCC or solar keratoses, we recommend Propaira SPF50+ sunscreen, which contains nicotinamide.
Route of administration:
Dosage:
Apply twice daily to sun-damaged or dry skin
Description of nicotinamide (vitamin B3) and its effects on the skin. Includes a discussion of mechanisms of action and use in skin cancer prevention, anti-ageing skin care, rosacea, acne and other dermatological conditions.