Available Dosage Strengths
4%
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Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for cellular metabolism. Niacin and niacinamide are both forms of vitamin B3 but have slight structural differences. Topically, niacinamide has been shown to be helpful for acne vulgaris, melasma, psoriasis and aging skin. It has been shown to support the skin barrier, act as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and skin-brightening agent.
Niacinamide has various mechanisms of activity to support skin health. Niacinamide is a precursor to the NAD(P) family of coenzymes. These coenzymes are important for metabolic activity in the skin. The reduced form, NAD(P)H, has antioxidant activity and works to neutralize free radicals. Niacinamide provides anti-inflammatory activity and decrease sebum excretion. It has been shown to improve acne vulgaris by affecting neutrophil chemotaxis and suppresses cytokine-mediated induction of nitric oxide synthase. In addition, niacinamide may improve the barrier function of the skin, may prevent photoimmunosuppression and photocarcinogenesis, prevent loss of collagen in the dermal layer of the skin and improve the barrier function of the skin.
Niacinamide may help with skin lines and wrinkles 1) by increasing collagen production or 2) by reducing the amount of dermal glycosaminoglycans that are seen with photodamaged or wrinkled skin. Niacinamide supports the barrier function of the skin by increasing the lipid and protein stratum corneum. This increase in lipid and protein decreases the trans-epidermal water loss and provides resistance to skin damage from damaging agents. Niacinamide also is thought to inhibit the transfer of melanin from the melanocytes to keratinocytes to decrease hyperpigmentation of skin.
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Precautions:
Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F), in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep container tightly closed and out of reach of children [5].
This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible drug information about this product. Call your doctor for medical advice and/or about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. A Wells Pharmacy Network pharmacist will be happy to answer any questions. For consultation, please call 1-800-622-4510.
