I'm interested because I use niacinamide, but I'm unfamiliar with the differences between niacin and niacinamide topically and fermented products. Here's what I noted:
-Niacin and niacinamide are forms of Vitamin B3. -Niacin can convert to niacinamide when ingested, but not directly. -Both niacin and niacinamide are precursors to NAD and phosphorylated NADP. -Niacin improves circulation and lowers blood lipid levels (lowers LDL "bad" cholesterol). -Niacinamide does not lower blood lipid levels. -Niacin causes flushing while niacinamide does not. Wikipedia.
-Niacinamide is the ideal form of Vitamin B3 for skin use because it is anti-inflammatory and nonirritating. -Prolonged use (8-12 weeks) of niacinamide on skin reduces wrinkles. -Niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation after steady use (4 weeks) then plateaus. -Niacinamide restored NAD+/NADH in skin from aged to youthful levels. -There are two pathways for niacin and niacinamide to convert to NAD, and niacinamide has one less step than niacin. Niacin > NaMN > NaAD > NAD+ Niacinamide > NMN > NAD+ Examine.
-low NAD (NAD+/NADH) levels cause sun sensitivity in skin. PubMed.
-Vit C and niacinamide should not be combined because they will be rendered useless. And with exposure to UV light+Oxygen may form hydrogen peroxide. Futurederm- because people downvoted u/cicwang.
-Fermented skin care is claimed to improve skin bc the microorganisms break down structures which fortifies active ingredients, allowing the ingredients to penetrate skin better. LG H&H Korea.
-Above supported by Red Ginseng study: Fermented Red Ginseng had increased concentrations of uronic acid, polyphenols, and flavonoids, and antioxidants than Red Ginseng, plus higher ginsenoside metabolite. Fermented Red Ginseng increased anti-wrinkle efficacy, whitening efficacy, and reduced toxicological potency compared to Red Ginseng. PubMed.
-Fermentation pH level of 5 optimal for Lactobacillus bulgaricus. PubMed.
-Probiotic bacteria present in fermented foods. AJCN. Focuses on milk, yogurt, cheese. Not sure about yeast.
tl;dr My understanding is that NAD presence is what matters for niacin/niacinamide use and I benefit more from niacinamide bc it has one less step than niacin to convert to NAD. I couldn't find specific niacin topical studies, which I believe is due to its flushing and potential irritation for sensitive skin. Also, the fermentation process includes low (5 pH) levels and microorganisms that break down ingredients to penetrate skin better and both may also contribute to positive results.
tl;dr tl;dr I think niacinamide is more effective than niacin. the pH level and broken down ingredients may contribute to fermented positive results as well.
I'm wondering: -Is NAD presence what causes positive skin results with niacin/niacinamide? -Does niacinamide convert to NAD at faster rates or higher levels than niacin because it requires one less step?
I'd love more insight!