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Niacin

What Niacin is & what it does

Nicotinic acid, a form of vitamin B3 that supports skin energy and conditioning, related to niacinamide. It can cause a temporary flush, so niacinamide is usually preferred.

Is Niacin safe?

Niacin, a form of vitamin B3, is commonly used in cosmetic formulas and is generally regarded as safe for topical use at typical concentrations. It is a water-soluble vitamin with a long history of use in skincare. As always, patch testing a new product is sensible for those with reactive skin.

What does Niacin do in skincare?

Niacin functions as a skin-conditioning agent and is closely related to niacinamide, the more common B3 derivative in skincare. In a formula it helps support the skin's surface and overall feel. It is water-soluble and blends easily into water-based products.

Is Niacin vegan?

The niacin used in cosmetics is typically produced synthetically, which makes it suitable for vegan formulas. Because sourcing can vary by manufacturer, anyone seeking a certified vegan product should check the brand's labeling.

Sunscreens with Niacin

We rate 11 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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