Nicotinic acid, also known as vitamin B3 or niacin, is a white powder that can be used in cosmetics to smooth and reduce static. It has a slightly sour taste and is converted to its active form, niacinamide, in the body. Niacin is important for preventing vitamin deficiencies and treating conditions such as high cholesterol and heart disease. Severe deficiency can lead to a disease called pellagra. Nicotinic acid can also act as a vasodilator (widening blood vessels) and has been linked to liver injury at high doses or certain formulations. It is found naturally in fruits and plants but may need to be taken as a nutrient supplement.
What is the purpose of Niacin in personal care products?
It is used for its anti-static and smoothing
characteristics.
Niacin prevents static electricity buildup and evens out skin's surface and texture of ingredients.
Names and identifiers that we found for this substance include: Niacin, Nicotinic acid, Pyridine-3-carboxylic acid, and Vitamin B3 (niacin or nicotinic acid).
Niacin has anti-static characteristics.
Anti-static ingredients are used in cosmetic products to help prevent static electricity from building up on your skin or hair. Static electricity can cause your hair to stick to your face, your makeup to cling to your skin unflatteringly, or even cause an uncomfortable shock.
These ingredients create a barrier on the surface of your skin or hair, which helps neutralize any electrical charge that might be present. This means that static electricity is less likely to build up, so your hair and makeup stay in place, and you don't have to worry about uncomfortable shocks.
Niacin has smoothing characteristics.
Smoothing ingredients even out the skin's surface, creating a more uniform texture and appearance. Depending on the specific ingredient used, these ingredients can work in different ways, such as creating a thin film over the skin to fill in uneven areas or exfoliating to remove dead cells and promote cell turnover. The result is a smoother and more even skin surface.
In food, smoothing agents are used to improve the texture of food products by preventing the formation of large crystals, which can cause a gritty or rough texture. Examples of food products that use smoothing agents include ice cream, chocolate, and margarine.
Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.