niacinamide
what it is
The amide form of vitamin B3 — INCI name Niacinamide. Water-soluble, stable, and one of the few cosmetic actives with a genuinely deep research file.
why we use it
It supports the skin's own barrier: studies show it increases skin's production of its own ceramides and reduces water loss. There is also reasonable research on the look of pores and excess surface oil. We use 4.00% because that sits inside the 2 to 5% range most published studies actually tested — more is not automatically better, and above this range irritation reports rise faster than benefits do.
where you'll find it
In cloud at 4.00%.
evidence
Strong evidence for barrier support and reduced transepidermal water loss; moderate evidence for the appearance of pores and surface oil. Graded honestly, it is one of the better-evidenced ingredients in cosmetics.
safety
Well tolerated at 4% and considered safe as used. One honest note: a small number of people feel a brief warmth or flush when they start using niacinamide — usually traces of niacin, a related molecule that briefly widens surface blood vessels, or simple individual sensitivity. It typically fades within minutes and stops recurring with continued use. If stinging persists, stop; persistent discomfort is information, not initiation.