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Nicotinamide vs. Niacinamide- Two Different Coins Or Are They One And The Same?

Nicotinamide vs. Niacinamide- Two Different Coins Or Are They One And The Same?

by Gataca Admin in News

Introduction

If you are a skincare enthusiast, then hunting for good products that work will take a lot of your time. This is because it was normal for us all to say - ‘I do skincare but my skin does NOT care’. Though it is more of a joke, it is important to understand that not all products work on everyone- and this is exactly illustrated by that skincare and skin DON’T care quote. Among all the options available in the skincare universe, none is more celebrated than niacinamide. Structurally similar to its sibling nicotinamide- both are derivatives of Vitamin B3- and they play different but highly specific roles within the body. These terms may appear more often than you realise in the ingredients list of your favourite skincare products. But, if they are structurally almost the same, why and how are they different? If this question bugs you pretty often, then we are here to help you decide once and for all- that both are good for you. No confusion needed at all! 

Nicotinamide or Niacinamide- Should I Really Overthink?
Yep, totally. This is because structurally they are the same! It is a simple, water-soluble amide of Niacin (Vitamin B3). But with respect to usage for different aspects- the naming changes. When skincare is the point of focus- it is called niacinamide. When longevity and better health are major concerns- it is termed nicotinamide. This compound can be derived from niacin- which is Vitamin B3 (the parent compound). This is why it is important to understand that both niacin and niacinamide are different from each other. Niacin has been used to treat skin conditions like dermatitis or pellagra, from many centuries but an unfortunate side effect is present- excessive flushing of the skin is observed. This is why it is not such a great option for most people. 

Nicotinamide is a derivative of niacin sure, but it is not often used in skincare products because its role is more tailored to helping cells maintain their metabolism, while also providing them with energy in the form of NAD+ - which is a compound that all cells need to survive and function flawlessly. NAD+ levels plummet when someone gets older- so, it is in the interest of healthcare buffs to try to replenish reserves and to maintain health in the long run. However, it can be used in skincare too, as it will NOT give you the annoying flush. The principle here is that if you improve cellular health, you are improving your appearance and skin texture eventually, 

Niacinamide is another derivative of Vitamin B3 or niacin but is more commonly used in skincare products because it is oh-so-good for you! It is an excellent compound that will help your skin feel more lush and hydrated, works diligently on fine lines and wrinkles and is also great for treating acne breakouts- as it can calm your skin down due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It also works on dark spots or uneven skin tone and can work on redness and irritation. It helps protect against pollution and damage due to sun exposure as it has anti-oxidative properties. You could try creams or serums with 2-10% of nicotinamide or niacinamide in them. You don’t have to change any part of your skincare routine either, when you use this product, as it is not going to interfere much in any way at all. But, if you go any higher, you risk having to deal with unpleasant side effects like irritation. Another major positive with niacinamide is it is NOT like retinoids- which means it can be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding too. 

Don’t Worry, It Is All Good For You! 
As we mentioned before, the different names may seem a little confusing, but you don’t need to overthink at all. This Vitamin B3 derivative is good for sensitive skin and can help retain or improve the skin barrier function, because of its pronounced anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Be confident when you see ingredient labels with different terms.They will offer the same benefits as niacinamide containing products - because remember this- they are literally the SAME!  If you are still worried, it makes sense to get serums or products that have a low percentage of the active ingredient present in them- like 2% which is the lowest. You can slowly build it up to 5 and 10% later, if you notice good results.

Conclusion

Niacinamide or nicotinamide is a celebrated ingredient in the skincare universe as it can help with a variety of concerns- like fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, acne, and hydration, while strengthening the skin barrier by reinforcing collagen production. Thousand’s of studies have shown how efficient nicotinamide is for skincare- plus it does NOT give you the dreaded niacin flush just like its sibling niacinamide. It is not nicotinamide’s fault that it is used for other aspects of healthcare right? So, the next time you see a good deal on a nicotinamide based product, why don’t you try it out and see the goodness for yourself? Let us know if you loved it, liked it, hated it or just couldn’t be bothered with it- with some constructive feedback here! 

FAQs
1. Is niacinamide the same as nicotinamide?
Yes, they are the same type of Vitamin B3 derivative with different names. Niacinamide has been used in popular culture for skincare, while nicotinamide is used when the same vitamin is used for health and longevity related needs. 

2. Is niacinamide a form of vitamin B3?
Yes, they are the same- derived from Vitamin B3 or niacin. It is a versatile molecule that finds use in many sectors- skincare and healthcare especially. It is easily found in fruits and vegetables and animal based products, but when applied topically or taken as supplements in slightly higher percentages, it is very beneficial as it helps cells regain their functionality soon.

3. Does niacinamide cause skin flushing like niacin?
Niacin can cause your skin to look red or flushed if applied topically as it is not well tolerated by most folk. But niacinamide has a different structure which makes it easier for your skin to absorb - and it is great for sensitive skin too. 

4. Is nicotinamide better than niacin for health benefits?
Nicotinamide is better for skin and the eyes as it is easily absorbed, when compared to niacin itself. Since Nicotinamide is needed to make NAD, your body handles it better than niacin alone. 

5. Are there any side effects of using niacinamide in skincare?
Some people may be allergic to it or react poorly if the active ingredient is present at a high percentage. You can also take it as a capsule - if better health is your goal. 

Tags: NAD+ updates

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