Vitamin B3 Reduces Skin Cancer Risk

A common vitamin might quietly be doing something extraordinary—helping prevent skin cancer.

 

In a study published in JAMA Dermatology, researchers found that adults who took vitamin B3 (niacinamide) twice daily had significantly fewer new cases of non-melanoma skin cancer.

 

That includes basal cell and squamous cell cancers, the two most common types in the United States.

 

Why It Works

 

Niacinamide helps your body’s cells repair DNA damage caused by sunlight. It also boosts your skin’s natural barrier and supports immune response.

 

The best part?

 

It’s inexpensive, widely available, and doesn’t affect blood pressure or heart rate like some other forms of B3.

 

Dermatologists emphasize that supplements aren’t a substitute for sunscreen—but they can be a useful addition, especially for people who’ve already had precancerous spots or lesions.

 

A Local Connection

 

With Arkansas’s bright summers and plenty of outdoor activity in the River Valley, skin protection is a year-round concern.

 

Local clinics have begun discussing B3’s benefits during annual wellness visits.

 

Takeaway

 

If you spend time outdoors, consider talking with your healthcare provider about whether niacinamide might be right for you.

 

Combined with sunscreen, shade, and regular checkups, it could make a big difference in keeping your skin healthy for years to come.