Vitamin B3 and Skin

Vitamin B3, better known in skincare as niacinamide, is one of the most widely studied active ingredients in dermatological formulas. It is valued for its role in supporting the skin barrier, regulating the look of excess oil and helping to minimise the appearance of visible pores and uneven skin tone. Explore our expert guides to understand more about niacinamide skincare, the skin concerns niacinamide benefits most, and how to combine it with the rest of your anti-ageing routine.



What are the Benefits of Niacinamide for Hyperpigmentation and Dark Spots?

READ MORE

Read our Expert Advice on Vitamin b3 and skin

Browse our full collection of expert articles on vitamin B3 and skin. From what niacinamide does and the concerns it is most often used for, to the concentrations to look for and how it pairs with vitamin C, retinol and hyaluronic acid, each guide is designed to help you make more informed skincare choices.

Discover Bestselling Skincare by Vichy

BEST SELLER

VICHY Liftactiv B3 Pigment Specialist Anti-Dark Spots Serum

A NIACINAMIDE-POWERED SERUM FORMULATED TO HELP TARGET THE APPEARANCE OF DARK SPOTS AND UNEVEN SKIN TONE.

DISCOVER

Frequently Asked Questions
Vitamin B3 and Skin

What does niacinamide do for skin?

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that works across several fronts in Vichy's anti-ageing skincare, from supporting the skin's moisture barrier to helping minimise the appearance of enlarged pores and helping even the look of uneven skin tone.

What are the benefits of vitamin B3 for skin?

Vitamin B3 is unusual in that a single ingredient is relevant to several different concerns. The most commonly cited benefits are barrier support, a more even-looking complexion, a smoother-looking skin surface and help with the appearance of visible pores. It is also valued for its comfort profile, which makes it a practical option if you want an active ingredient but find retinol or acids too demanding on your skin

Is niacinamide suitable for sensitive skin?

Niacinamide is generally considered one of the better-tolerated actives and is frequently formulated into products intended for sensitive skin. As with any new product, introduce it gradually and patch test first, particularly at higher concentrations in serums. If your skin is currently compromised or reactive, focus on restoring comfort with gentle cleansers and moisturisers before adding any new active.

Can niacinamide help with the appearance of dark spots?

Niacinamide is widely studied in relation to the appearance of uneven skin tone and dark spots, and it is a component of our Liftactiv B3 Tone Correcting Retinol Night Cream targeting this concern. Results are gradual and depend on consistent use alongside daily broad-spectrum sun protection, since continued UV exposure influences how visible pigmentation appears. If you have pigmentation that is changing in size, shape or colour, see a doctor or dermatologist for assessment.

Can I use niacinamide with vitamin C or retinol?

Yes. The idea that niacinamide and vitamin C cannot be combined is largely outdated, and modern formulas are commonly designed to include both. Niacinamide is also frequently paired with retinol in night creams, where it is used to help support skin comfort during the adjustment period. If you are introducing several actives, add them one at a time so you can see how your skin responds, and use them on alternate evenings if your skin feels sensitised.

What percentage of niacinamide should I look for?

Most cosmetic formulas fall somewhere between 2% and 10%. Higher is not automatically better: the overall formulation, the other ingredients and how consistently you use the product matter more than the number on the pack. If you are new to niacinamide or your skin is reactive, starting at a lower concentration and building up is a sensible approach.