What is Niacinamide Riboside Chloride?
Niacinamide Riboside Chloride, also known as Pyridinium, 3-(aminocarbonyl)-1-β-D-ribofuranosyl-, chloride (1:1), is a form of vitamin B3 that is derived from yeast and milk. It is a unique member of the B3 vitamin family, which also includes niacin and niacinamide. This ingredient is known for its antioxidant and skin-protecting properties, making it a popular choice in the cosmetic industry.
The use of Niacinamide Riboside Chloride in cosmetics can be traced back to its discovery as a vitamin B3 derivative. Over the years, research has shown that this ingredient has significant benefits for the skin, leading to its incorporation in various skincare products. The production of Niacinamide Riboside Chloride involves a complex process of extraction and purification from its natural sources, followed by a chemical reaction to form the chloride salt.
Compared to other forms of vitamin B3, Niacinamide Riboside Chloride stands out due to its ability to convert into NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism. This conversion process makes it more efficient in delivering the benefits of vitamin B3 to the skin.
Typically, Niacinamide Riboside Chloride is used in a variety of skincare products such as moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its antioxidant properties help to protect the skin from environmental stressors, while its skin-protecting function aids in maintaining the skin’s barrier function. This makes it a versatile ingredient that can be beneficial in a wide range of cosmetic formulations.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Niacinamide Riboside Chloride:
Antioxidant Properties
Niacinamide Riboside Chloride is officially recognized for its antioxidant properties. In layman’s terms, this means it helps protect your skin cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm the cellular structure of your skin, leading to premature aging and other skin issues. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, Niacinamide Riboside Chloride helps maintain the health and vitality of your skin.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Niacinamide Riboside Chloride is skin protection. This ingredient forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, shielding it from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. This protective function helps prevent skin damage and keeps your skin looking healthy and youthful.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Niacinamide Riboside Chloride. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, as consumers, it’s crucial to base our understanding and expectations on verified information to avoid being misled by brands and manufacturers.
Safety Profile
Niacinamide Riboside Chloride is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it may not be suitable for all skin types.
While it is not known to be a common allergen, some people may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to Niacinamide Riboside Chloride. It’s always recommended to do a patch test before using any new product on a larger area of skin.
Potential side effects of topical application of Niacinamide Riboside Chloride include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Burning sensation
- Dryness
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently limited data on the safety of topical use of Niacinamide Riboside Chloride during pregnancy or breastfeeding. As such, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using products containing this ingredient during these periods.
Adverse reactions to Niacinamide Riboside Chloride are not common, but it’s always a good idea to patch test new products to ensure they don’t cause irritation or an allergic reaction.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant, using sources including the CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), and other various publicly available sources.
