Vitamin B3: From Energy Booster to Skin Cancer Defence
Vitamin B3, or niacin, is one of the body’s quiet workhorses. In today’s post Moondust Cosmetics® looks at the currently known benefits of how it supports energy production, healthy skin, brain function, and heart health. We also explore the recent attention for another vital role: its ability to help protect against certain forms of skin cancer. Good news for skin cancer survivors, and those who’ve been told they are prone to skin cancer.
The Basics
Niacin helps convert food into usable energy through coenzymes NAD and NADP, which power countless metabolic reactions. It also assists in maintaining the nervous system, digestion, and skin integrity. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, skin problems, and even cognitive decline.
Heart, Brain, and Skin Benefits
Vitamin B3 helps regulate cholesterol levels, improve circulation, and support the brain’s communication networks. In skin health, topical forms such as niacinamide are already popular for reducing redness, strengthening the barrier, and evening skin tone. Now, research shows that this same molecule can do even more beneath the surface—helping cells defend themselves against DNA damage that can lead to cancer.
B3 and Skin Cancer Prevention- New Findings
According to a new study published in JAMA Dermatology (reported by NPR’s Allison Aubrey), nicotinamide—a form of Vitamin B3—significantly reduced the recurrence of non-melanoma skin cancers among U.S. veterans. The research, which included about 34,000 participants, found that those who took 500 mg of nicotinamide twice daily for at least one month experienced a 53% lower risk of developing additional skin cancers compared with those who did not take the supplement.
How Nicotinamide Works
“When sunlight hits the skin, UV radiation can cause DNA breaks and mutations. These are the initial steps toward cancer. Nicotinamide supports the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, helping to correct this damage before it becomes a problem,” said Dr. Sarah Aaron, a San Francisco Bay area dermatologist, interviewed alongside Dr. Wheless. It’s believed to enhance cellular energy stores, allowing cells to recover more efficiently after UV exposure.
Unlike other forms of niacin, nicotinamide does not cause flushing and has minimal side effects at the studied doses. It’s also inexpensive and available over the counter.
Dr. Wheless, who led the study, called the “degree of risk reduction surprising.” There is also a growing body of evidence that is compelling enough to have dermatologists recommend B3 supplements to patients after their first skin cancer diagnosis.
Dr. Moondust, cancer biologist and founder of Moondust Cosmetics, concurs with the early findings of Dr. Lee Wheless of Vanderbilt University – fewer DNA breaks mean there is less chance of triggering apoptosis, which is directly linked to skin cancer.
What It Means for Prevention
For now, most experts emphasize that nicotinamide’s strongest evidence lies in secondary prevention—helping people who’ve already had one skin cancer to reduce the risk of recurrence. More research is needed to confirm whether it can prevent cancer in those who haven’t yet had an occurrence. Yet, early signs are promising.
Dr. Arron suggests that even individuals with precancerous skin changes or high UV exposure might benefit from B3 supplementation under medical guidance. Naturally, the first measure against skin cancer is what Dr. Moondust has advocated in the many sun safety posts: sun care products, shade, and protective clothing. (see tips in these vacation posts)
In Summary
Vitamin B3 is a nutrient worth discussing with your healthcare provider. For individuals with a history of non-melanoma skin cancer—or those living under strong sun exposure, it continues to impress with its qualities such as energizing metabolism and supporting cardiovascular and cognitive health to offering an emerging shield against UV-induced skin damage.
Sometimes, the smallest molecules make the biggest difference in protecting the skin we live in.
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