Skin Absorption of Vitamin B3 and NAG

Regarding your question about whether a formula containing Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) and N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG) needs a delivery agent for absorption into the skin, it's true that not all active ingredients require a specific delivery system to be absorbed.

The ability of a substance to penetrate the skin depends on its chemical properties and the overall formulation. Both Niacinamide and N-Acetyl Glucosamine are water-soluble ingredients that have demonstrated efficacy when applied topically in various cosmetic formulations like serums, lotions, or creams.

Research, including studies by P&G mentioned in the product information for GlucoBright (Acetyl Glucosamine), shows that a topical formulation combining N-Acetyl Glucosamine and Niacinamide is effective in reducing hyperpigmentation and increasing hyaluronic acid in the skin. This indicates that these ingredients can be absorbed or act within the skin layers to provide their benefits without necessarily requiring a separate, dedicated delivery agent.

In summary, while delivery systems can sometimes enhance penetration or stability, Vitamin B3 and NAG can be effectively absorbed and provide benefits when formulated appropriately in a topical product, based on their properties and documented research.