Precautions when using Nicotinamide

Nicotinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a form of vitamin B that is soluble in water. It is often used as an ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products because of its many benefits for the skin.

Nicotinamide in cosmetics is considered safe for most skin types when used in accordance with the recommendations and in the recommended doses. This active ingredient is well tolerated in most cases and does not present any significant health risks.

In rare cases, taking high doses of oral vitamin B3 as a food supplement can cause liver toxicity and liver damage.

In rare cases, the use of skincare products containing Nicotinamide may cause skin rashes, including pimples, redness and irritation. However, in most cases, Nicotinamide is considered a safe and beneficial skincare ingredient.

If you have sensitive or reactive skin, it is recommended that you test a small area of skin before using any skincare products containing Nicotinamide. If you notice any redness, itching or irritation, discontinue use immediately and consult your doctor.

Yes, in general, it's safe to mix Hyaluronic acid and Nicotinamide in your skincare routine. In fact, these two ingredients can complement each other and help improve the appearance of your skin.

Hyaluronic acid is an effective moisturiser that will deeply quench the skin, while Nicotinamide helps to reduce the appearance of pores, improve skin texture and reduce the signs of ageing.

It's best to avoid combining Glycolic acid and Nicotinamide as they can have contradictory effects on the skin. Glycolic acid is a powerful exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin and a clearer complexion, while Nicotinamide is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce skin irritation and inflammation.

Because of their conflicting properties, it's best to use products containing Glycolic acid and Nicotinamide separately. If you wish to use both ingredients, it's best to use them at different times of the day or on different days.

To find out more about the possible and inadvisable combinations of our serums, see the article Face serums, how to use and combine them?

High concentrations of Nicotinamide can cause skin irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. It's therefore important to choose products that contain a moderate concentration of Nicotinamide, generally between 1 and 7% for your homemade cosmetic recipes and up to 10% in ready-to-use serums like our 10% Nicotinamide, Copper & Zinc serum concentrate.

Nicotinamide can react with acidic ingredients, such as Glycolic acid, and cause skin irritation. It is therefore recommended to avoid combining products containing Nicotinamide with acidic products.

Firstly, there are no contraindications to the application of cosmetic skincare products containing Nicotinamide at the recommended doses.

The precautions below relate to oral supplements with vitamin B3 (nicotinamide/niacinamide).

People with a known allergy to Nicotinamide or other forms of vitamin B3 should avoid its use. In addition, people with a history of liver disease, gout or chronic diarrhoea should consult a doctor before taking food supplements containing oral vitamin B3.

It is also important to note that Nicotinamide taken orally may interact with certain drugs, such as statins used to reduce cholesterol, anti-diabetic drugs and blood pressure medication. If you are taking any of these drugs, you should consult your doctor before taking vitamin B3 supplements.

Finally, it is recommended that you avoid using Nicotinamide during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, as there is insufficient data on the safety of its use during this time.

The most common side effects of oral Nicotinamide supplements are mild and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach upset and headache. In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur, causing skin rashes, itching and breathing difficulties. If you notice any of these symptoms, call first aid immediately.

Overall, Nicotinamide is considered safe, but if you experience any side effects or have any concerns about its use, it's important to consult your doctor.