Can niacinamide trigger vitiligo? Is it safe to use if someone has a family history of vitiligo?

Thank you for your thoughtful question.

Niacinamide is generally considered a safe and non-triggering ingredient for individuals with vitiligo or those with a family history of the condition. It is a form of vitamin B3 that helps strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and improve pigmentation irregularities without altering melanocyte activity in a harmful way.

To directly address your concerns:

Niacinamide does not trigger vitiligo. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that it induces or worsens autoimmune processes involved in vitiligo.

It is safe to use in patients with vitiligo and in those with a genetic predisposition.

In fact, its anti-inflammatory and skin barrier–supporting properties may be beneficial in reducing oxidative stress on the skin, which is thought to be a contributing factor in vitiligo.

In summary, niacinamide is safe and appropriate for most skin types, including those affected by or predisposed to vitiligo. If you ever experience irritation from a product, it’s more likely due to a formulation issue (e.g., preservatives or fragrances) rather than niacinamide itself. Always patch test new products if you have sensitive or reactive skin.

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. Niacinamide is generally considered safe for use on skin with vitiligo and may even offer some benefits, such as improving skin texture and hydration. It is a gentle ingredient and doesn’t typically trigger adverse reactions related to vitiligo. For individuals without vitiligo but with a family history, niacinamide is also deemed safe. Current research does not suggest that niacinamide can trigger the onset of vitiligo. However, as with any skincare product, it's best to perform a patch test first. I hope this helps and best of luck!