What 4% Niacinamide Actually Does for Your Skin

Niacinamide — also known as vitamin B3 — is one of the most trusted, research-backed ingredients in skincare today.

At concentrations up to 4%, niacinamide is clinically shown to improve skin tone, reduce acne, control oil, and strengthen the skin barrier — all without harsh side effects.

Here’s exactly what the science says, and why we chose to use 4% in our Multi-Purpose Face Solution.

1. Brightens Skin and Fades Pigmentation

Niacinamide helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, melasma, and uneven skin tone by slowing down melanin transfer in the skin.

🔬 A double-blind clinical study found that 4% niacinamide significantly improved pigmentation in melasma patients after just 8 weeks — with fewer side effects than hydroquinone.

Source: Navarrete-Solís et al., 2011 (PubMed)

2. Regulates Oil and Sebum Production

If you struggle with oily or acne-prone skin, niacinamide may be your best friend.

🔬 A study using 2% niacinamide found it effectively reduced oil production and casual sebum levels in both Japanese and Caucasian participants.

Source: Draelos et al., 2006 (PubMed)

Even though this study used 2%, the results suggest oil control benefits at concentrations up to 4%.

3. Strengthens the Skin Barrier

Niacinamide enhances the skin’s barrier function by stimulating the synthesis of ceramides and other lipids, leading to improved moisture retention and reduced sensitivity.

🔬 Research indicates that topical application of niacinamide increases ceramide and free fatty acid levels in the stratum corneum, improving the epidermal permeability barrier.

Source: Tanno et al., 2000

4. Reduces Acne and Inflammation

🔬 In a clinical trial, 4% niacinamide gel was found to be as effective as 1% clindamycin (a prescription acne treatment) in reducing acne — with none of the antibiotic side effects.

Source: Shalita et al., 1995 (PubMed)

It helps calm redness and inflammation while supporting a clearer complexion.

5. Improves Skin Texture and Minimizes Pores

By controlling oil and enhancing skin elasticity, niacinamide helps reduce pore size visibility and smooth overall texture — especially when combined with ingredients like zinc and salicylic acid.

Why We Use 4% Niacinamide in Our Formula

At Bareborn, we selected 4% niacinamide because it’s the maximum concentration backed by research for daily use— effective, yet gentle.

In our Multi-purpose face solution, it works alongside:

• ✅ 1% Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C) – for antioxidant and brightening

• ✅ 2% Bakuchiol – a plant-based retinol alternative

• ✅ 1% Salicylic Acid + Zinc PCA – to unclog pores and reduce shine

• ✅ Centella, Green Tea & Glycerin – to hydrate, calm, and support the barrier

No fluff. No filler. Just a streamlined, high-performance formula.

TL;DR – Benefits of Niacinamide (Up to 4%)

• ✅ Fades dark spots and melasma

• ✅ Regulates oil and reduces breakouts

• ✅ Strengthens the skin barrier

• ✅ Improves skin texture and tone

• ✅ Calms redness and inflammation

• ✅ Supported by multiple peer-reviewed studies