New Delhi: Niacinamide also known as nicotinamide is a water-soluble member of vitamin B3. Lately, it has found wide use in skin and hair care products. There have been few studies conducted on its efficacy in treating hair loss, especially female pattern hair loss. By reducing inflammation in the scalp, improving blood circulation, and assisting in the generation of keratin, a crucial protein for the health of our hair, niacinamide can work wonders.


Also, Niacin, another kind of Vitamin B3, should not be confused with niacinamide. In contrast, if your body has too much niacin, it will turn it into niacinamide. In this regard, ABP Live sought the opinions of experts who highlighted the benefits of niacinamide for hair health.


Benefits Of Niacinamide On Hair Health:


Dr. Rinky Kapoor who is a consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist & dermato-surgeon at The Esthetic Clinics told that niacinamide has an insane amount of health benefits and explained how this wonderful ingredient can help to get strong and lustrous hair. Here are a few things listed by her.


1. It boosts circulation when it comes to the scalp: Niacinamide can help one to get strong, healthy hair by offering nourishment to the strands through its circulation-boosting properties. It helps to enhance blood flow and circulation to the scalp with an increased amount of oxygen and other nutrients right where your hair needs them. 


2. It is known to tackle issues such as redness and inflammation: The inflammation-reducing properties of niacinamide can help to soothe and calm the scalp by reducing itchiness which can also lead to hair loss and thinning. 


3. It curbs hair loss and promotes hair thickness: Niacinamide not only boosts blood circulation in the scalp but also reduces hair fall by increasing the nutrients available to the scalp that aid in hair production. These essential nutrients in it promote faster and thicker hair growth. 


Talking about how niacinamide promotes hair fullness, Dr. Monica Bambroo, Head of Dermatology and Cosmetology at Artemis Hospital Gurgaon said, "Even patients having androgenic alopecia also show clear improvement in density and thickness of hair. Its mechanism of action is not clearly known but possibly promotes hair growth by preventing premature catagen entry into the falling stage. Oral niacinamide through its complex mechanism including metabolic pathways also plays an important role in both skin ageing and hair health."


Citing a few more benefits of niacinamide, Dr. Navnit Haror who is the founder and director of Derma Miracle Clinic said, "Niacinamide has been found to regulate sebum production, helping to balance oiliness and prevent scalp conditions such as dandruff. Another additional benefit of niacinamide for hair is its ability to improve the moisture content of the hair, resulting in increased hydration and reduced frizz. It helps to maintain the hair's natural moisture barrier, leaving it smoother and more manageable."


Sources Of Niacinamide:


The best approach to consuming micronutrients like vitamin B-3 is through a balanced diet. If you are using supplements, use them only under a doctor's guidance to cure deficiencies.


You may get some of the advantages of niacinamide from the foods you eat when it comes to general skin health.


Vitamin B-3 is found in:



  • eggs

  • cereals

  • green veggies

  • beans

  • fish

  • milk