Description
Niacinamide PC
Cosmetic Grade · Vitamin B3 · Multi-Functional Brightening Active
The upgraded Vitamin B3 — ultra-low nicotinic acid, broader formulation tolerance, exceptional multi-pathway skin performance.
INCI Name
Niacinamide
Appearance
White crystalline powder
Solubility
Water & alcohol soluble
Typical Use Level
2–10%
Optimum pH
4.0–7.0
Nicotinic Acid
<100 ppm
What is Niacinamide PC?
Niacinamide PC is the cosmetic-grade form of Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide). While standard niacinamide is an effective ingredient in its own right, this grade goes further — it is specifically produced to contain less than 100 ppm residual nicotinic acid, the compound responsible for the flushing, heat sensations, and skin irritation that can occur with lower-grade variants.
The result is a niacinamide that formulators can use with greater confidence, across a wider formulation context, with less risk of adverse skin response — particularly important when working at higher concentrations (5–10%) or in formulations targeted at sensitive skin.
Why PC grade matters: Residual nicotinic acid in standard niacinamide causes the skin flushing many consumers report. The PC grade eliminates this concern — making it the preferred choice for professional and clinical skincare formulations.
Key Benefits
Skin Brightening
Inhibits the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes, reducing pigmentation and uneven skin tone without acting as a harsh bleaching agent.
Barrier Repair
Stimulates synthesis of ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids, and filaggrin — the key lipids that make up the skin’s protective barrier. Improves moisture retention and reduces transepidermal water loss.
Pore Minimising
Clinically shown to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, making it a key ingredient for sebum-regulating and mattifying formulations.
Anti-Ageing
Stimulates collagen and hyaluronic acid production. Smooths the skin surface, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and inhibits photocarcinogenesis.
Anti-Inflammatory
Reduces redness and skin sensitivity. Can be used alongside retinoids to mitigate irritation — a useful pairing in anti-ageing and acne formulations.
Blue Light & Pollution Protection
Shown to amplify blue light protection in combination with sunscreens, and to offer protection against both air-borne and water-borne pollution stressors.
Formulation Guidelines
pH & Stability
Most stable and effective at pH 4.0–7.0. Avoid highly acidic formulations — at pH below 4, niacinamide can hydrolyse to nicotinic acid over time.
Do not combine with strong acids (e.g., Vitamin C in L-ascorbic acid form) in the same product without careful pH management. Formulate these in separate steps or separate products.
Stable to air, light, and humidity under normal storage conditions.
Heat stable — can withstand temperatures up to 80°C for short periods. Can be added to the water phase prior to heating if needed.
Incorporation Tips
Freely soluble in water; dissolve in the water phase at the start of formulation. Warming to 40°C aids dissolution.
Soluble in alcohol and glycerol — can be predissolved in glycerin as an alternative water-free approach.
Practically insoluble in mineral oil and ester oils (e.g., IPP) — keep in the aqueous phase.
Works across a broad range of product types: serums, creams, toners, cleansers, sunscreens, and leave-on treatments.
Suggested Use Levels
General skin benefits: 2–5%
Targeted brightening or anti-ageing: 4–5%
High-strength / clinical formulations: up to 10%
Ingredient Compatibility
Works well with
Botanical brightening actives
Alpha-arbutin
Hyaluronic acid
Ceramides
Peptides
Panthenol (B5)
Azelaic acid
Retinol (helps buffer irritation)
Salicylic acid
Zinc
Sunscreen actives
Handle with care
L-ascorbic acid — pH conflict; best formulated separately or with careful buffering
AHAs at low pH — risk of conversion to nicotinic acid over time
Applications
Suitable for inclusion in the following product categories:
Brightening serums
Anti-ageing creams
Moisturisers
Toners
Sunscreens
Facial cleansers
Eye creams
Body lotions
Hair serums
Scalp treatments
After-sun products
Sensitive skin formulations
Menopausal skin care
INCI & Technical Reference
Niacinamide
CAS No: 98-92-0 | EC No: 202-713-4 | Readily biodegradable | For external use only
Storage
Store in a cool, dark, dry place.
Avoid temperatures above 80°C for extended periods.
Keep container tightly sealed when not in use.
This is a cosmetic raw material intended for external use only in cosmetic formulations. Not for internal use.
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