Niacinamide (vitamin B3) at 15% is a high-concentration active used to improve skin barrier function, reduce hyperpigmentation, regulate sebum, and diminish the appearance of fine lines and redness. It is generally well tolerated, though higher concentrations can increase the likelihood of transient irritation.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Transient flushing or warmth | Uncommon | More associated with oral niacin than topical niacinamide, but mild flushing can occur in sensitive individuals. |
| Mild stinging, tingling, or burning | Uncommon | More likely at high concentrations such as 15%, especially on compromised or sensitive skin. |
| Erythema (redness) | Uncommon | Usually mild and transient, resolving with discontinuation or reduced frequency. |
| Dryness or peeling | Rare | Can occur, sometimes related to other ingredients in the formulation. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | True allergy to niacinamide is uncommon; patch testing can confirm. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.