As a plastic surgeon at Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic (OCRC), I help many patients treat sun-damaged skin. Because of this, I stay curious and open to research that may keep skin healthier. Recently, I learned of one simple supplement has gathered attention: nicotinamide, also called vitamin B3.
This vitamin is low-cost, easy to find, and has a strong safety record. Even better, evidence suggests it may help lower the risk of certain skin cancers in people who already have a history of them. Let’s walk through the research together and see what it really means.
What the 2015 Study Found
In 2015, researchers in Australia ran a well-designed study with 386 adults who had a recent history of nonmelanoma skin cancer. They wanted to see whether nicotinamide could protect the skin from future damage. So, they gave participants either:
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Nicotinamide 500 mg twice a day, or
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A placebo pill
After one year, the results were encouraging. The group taking nicotinamide had:
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A 20–30% drop in new nonmelanoma skin cancers
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Fewer precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses)
However, once people stopped taking the supplement, the protective effect went away. This tells us that nicotinamide works only while you continue to take it.
How Nicotinamide Helps the Skin
Researchers believe nicotinamide helps the skin in several ways. Together, these actions create a stronger and more resilient barrier against UV radiation.
1. It boosts cell energy
UV light drains energy from skin cells. Nicotinamide helps restore that energy so cells can respond more effectively.
2. It improves DNA repair
Sun exposure breaks DNA strands inside skin cells. Nicotinamide helps the body repair this damage faster and more completely.
3. It supports the immune system in the skin
UV rays can weaken the skin’s natural defenses. Nicotinamide helps the immune system stay active while the skin heals.
Because these benefits work together, nicotinamide may lower the chance that damaged skin cells turn into cancer over time.
Who Might Benefit Most?
I usually discuss nicotinamide with people who:
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Have had more than one nonmelanoma skin cancer
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Have many actinic keratoses
Before starting any supplement, it’s always wise to talk with your doctor—especially if you have kidney disease, liver problems, or take other medications.
Why Sunscreen Still Matters
Even though nicotinamide may help, it should never replace sunscreen. Sunscreen protects your skin from UV radiation every day, and it remains one of the strongest tools we have to prevent skin cancer.
Easy, affordable habits like sunscreen use and clothing for skin protection support long-term skin health.
My Perspective as a Plastic Surgeon
I enjoy sharing research that gives patients more control over their health. Nicotinamide stands out because it is:
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Affordable
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Safe for most people
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Easy to take
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Supported by a strong research study
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Helpful while combined with regular sunscreen use
For many high-risk patients, it can be a simple tool that provides meaningful support. If you have skin cancer and want to explore treatment options, I’m always happy to discuss what may work best for you at Oregon Cosmetic and Reconstructive Clinic.
