---

Track your Biohacking Protocols & Supplements with the Biohackr IOS app

---

Your Guide to Nicotinamide: Benefits, Dosage, and More

Looking to optimize your health or performance with Nicotinamide? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about this popular form of Vitamin B3, from its benefits and dosage to the latest research and biohacker insights.

---

What is Nicotinamide?

Nicotinamide, also known as niacinamide, is one of the two primary forms of Vitamin B3 (niacin). Unlike nicotinic acid, the other form of Vitamin B3, nicotinamide does not typically cause the "niacin flush."

---

Key Potential Benefits & Uses

Based on research and biohacker experiences, Nicotinamide is often used for:

• Skin Health: Helps improve skin barrier function, reduce redness and inflammation, and may aid in managing acne and rosacea.
• Joint Health: May help reduce inflammation associated with joint discomfort and improve mobility.
• Cellular Energy: As a precursor to NAD+ and NADP+, it plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and energy production.
• Antioxidant Properties: May help protect cells from oxidative damage.
• Mechanism: Serves as a key precursor for the synthesis of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) and Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADP+), vital coenzymes involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, particularly those related to energy transfer and cellular repair.

---

Scientific Evidence: What Does the Research Say?

• Research on Nicotinamide is extensive, particularly regarding its topical application for skin health, showing good evidence for reducing inflammation, improving barrier function, and potentially aiding in managing skin conditions. Oral supplementation has some evidence for skin benefits and emerging research for other areas like joint health and metabolic roles.
• Strength of Evidence: Moderate for topical skin benefits; Emerging for oral systemic benefits.

---

How to Take Nicotinamide

• Common Forms: Capsules, Tablets, Powder, Topical Creams/Serums.
• Typical Dosage: Oral: 250mg to 500mg per day is common, sometimes higher under medical supervision. Topical: 2-5% concentration in skincare products. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosage.
• Timing: Oral forms can be taken anytime, often with meals to enhance absorption and minimize potential mild stomach upset. Topical forms are typically applied as part of a skincare routine.
• Bioavailability Tips: Oral nicotinamide is generally well-absorbed.

---

Synergies & Stacking

• Nicotinamide is often stacked with other B vitamins for overall metabolic support.
• Topical Nicotinamide is frequently combined with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or Vitamin C in skincare formulations.

---

Potential Side Effects & Precautions

Like any supplement, Nicotinamide may cause side effects, though they are typically mild and rare at typical doses. These can include:

• Gastrointestinal Upset: Mild nausea, stomach discomfort, or diarrhea, especially at higher doses.
• [Precautions]: Nicotinamide is generally well-tolerated. Individuals with liver disease or a history of peptic ulcers should consult a healthcare professional before taking high doses. Consult a doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.

---

Choosing the Right Form & Quality

• Form Comparison: Oral supplements provide systemic benefits related to vitamin B3 status and NAD+ levels. Topical applications directly target skin health and concerns.
• Quality Tips: Look for products from reputable brands that ideally undergo third-party testing for purity and potency. Check for appropriate concentration in topical products.

---

Biohacker Insights & Community Experiences

• Common Experiences: Many biohackers and skincare enthusiasts report noticeable improvements in skin texture, reduced redness, and fewer breakouts with topical use. Some users of oral forms note subtle improvements in energy or general well-being.
• Pro Tip: Topical nicotinamide is a staple in many anti-aging and acne-fighting routines due to its versatility and good tolerability.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is Nicotinamide the same as Niacin (Nicotinic Acid)?
  • Answer: No, they are different forms of Vitamin B3. Nicotinamide does not cause the common "niacin flush" side effect associated with nicotinic acid.
• Can I use Nicotinamide topically and take it orally at the same time?
  • Answer: Yes, topical and oral forms target different areas and effects and can be used concurrently if desired, though consult with a healthcare provider is recommended.

---

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.