Information and Solutions for Men and Women

Niacin and Niacinamide

Fish, chicken, meat, eggs, coffee, and milk are all good sources of niacin and niacinamide.

Niacin and niacinamide are both forms of vitamin B3. The recommended dose for healthy hair growth is 20-500 mg/day. 49

Dietary Sources of Niacin or Niacinamide

Physiological Effects and Benefits of Niacin and Niacinamide

  • Vitamin B3 deficiency causes hair loss. 10, 32
  • A natural vasodilator, niacin can improve blood flow to hair follicles222
  • Niacin is a common ingredient in creams and cosmetics as a moisturizer and for hair conditioning. 10
  • Niacinamide is commonly used in shampoos and cosmetics as a moisturizer and for hair conditioning. 10
  • In a study involving patients with female pattern hair loss, application of topical niacin derivatives improved hair growth. 10

Precaution

Note: if you have gout, experts recommend avoiding too much niacin (over 1,000 mg/day) because it may increase uric acid levels. Avoid time-released niacin supplements which may cause liver damage. 222

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Also called nicotinamide.
In the presence of B2 and B6, metabolized from the tryptophan in this food.
In the presence of B2 and B6, metabolized from the tryptophan in this food.
In the presence of B2 and B6, metabolized from the tryptophan in this food.
In the presence of B2 and B6, metabolized from the tryptophan in this food.