Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45?

Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 is a lab-crafted molecule formed by linking niacin, also known as vitamin B3, to Hexapeptide-45, a short chain of six amino acids. Joining these two pieces gives the peptide added stability and lets it deliver the skin-friendly traits of both niacin and bioactive peptides in one compact ingredient.

The compound first appeared in cosmetic research as brands searched for peptide blends that could offer multiple benefits at once. By the early 2010s formulators began pairing niacin with select peptides to boost antioxidant power and support the skin barrier, which led to the adoption of Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 in premium skincare lines.

Production starts with solid-phase peptide synthesis, where each amino acid is added step by step to build Hexapeptide-45. The finished peptide is then chemically coupled with nicotinic acid under controlled conditions, purified and dried into a fine powder that dissolves easily in water-based formulas.

You will most often spot Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 in anti-aging serums, daily moisturizers, brightening essences, sheet masks, eye creams and hybrid sunscreen-treatment products where its protective and revitalizing properties can shine.

Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This versatile peptide brings several helpful actions to a formulation

  • Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals produced by pollution and sunlight, which can reduce the look of dullness and support a more even skin tone
  • Skin Protecting: Strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, improving resilience against moisture loss and daily environmental stress
  • UV Filter: Adds an extra layer of defense by absorbing a portion of UV rays, complementing primary sunscreen agents and helping to limit photoaging

Who Can Use Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45

Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 is gentle enough for most skin types including normal, dry, oily, sensitive or acne-prone. Its lightweight water-soluble nature means it will not clog pores and it suits both younger and mature skin. People with extremely reactive skin should start with lower concentrations because the niacin part of the molecule can sometimes cause a brief flush.

The ingredient is produced by synthetic peptide chemistry with no animal or insect derivatives, so it is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly.

No data suggests that Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 poses a risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used topically. Even so this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any product to their doctor before use just to be safe.

The peptide does not increase photosensitivity. In fact it helps absorb a slice of UV light which adds a mild protective effect, although it should never replace a dedicated sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 differ from person to person. The points below cover potential reactions only and most users will not notice any of them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Transient flushing or warmth
  • Mild redness or irritation on very sensitive skin
  • Itchiness or tingling at the application site
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as a rash or swelling
  • Stinging if applied to broken or freshly shaved skin
  • Watery or irritated eyes if the formula migrates close to the lash line

If you experience any of these effects stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5 (non-comedogenic)

Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 is a lightweight water-soluble peptide with no oily carriers or waxy residues that could block pores. It disperses easily in aqueous or gel bases and is used at very low concentrations, so it has virtually no potential to form plug-like deposits inside follicles.

Because of this rating it is considered suitable for skin that is prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

Keep in mind that the overall comedogenicity of a finished product depends on every ingredient in the formula. Pairing this peptide with rich butters or heavy silicones could raise the pore-clogging risk even if the peptide itself scores a clean zero.

Summary

Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 delivers antioxidant, skin protecting and mild UV filtering benefits thanks to the combined activity of niacin and a bioactive hexapeptide. The niacin portion donates electrons to neutralize free radicals while the peptide sequence supports barrier proteins and attracts a slice of UV radiation before it can reach living cells. Together they help keep skin smoother, brighter and more resilient.

The ingredient is still a niche player found mostly in higher-end serums and hybrid sunscreen treatments, largely because peptide synthesis is costly and formulators often reserve it for targeted products.

Current safety data shows a very low irritation profile with no known systemic concerns, making it suitable for most users including sensitive or acne-prone skin. As with any new skincare ingredient you should patch test a small area when trying a product that contains Nicotinoyl Hexapeptide-45 to make sure your skin agrees with it.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search