A quantity of 3000 μg of Nicomenthyl® was applied to a sample of RHE (in vitro Reconstructed Human Epidermis). A very high rate of penetration through the stratum corneum was observed, reaching an amount of 53.8% of the applied dose in only 30 minutes. The whole process of absorption and hydrolysis into its two components, menthol and niacin, gets practically completed in a period of 24 hours after application. HPLC analysis revealed a total amount of 254 μg of released niacin having penetrated through the skin barrier (from the initial 1413 μg contained in the 3000 μg applied dose of Menthyl nicotinate), i.e. a niacin absorption rate of approx. 18% of the applied dose in 24 hours.

The vitamin B3 (niacin), released by Nicomenthyl into the skin, increases the levels of the coenzyme NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), one of the most important and interesting molecules in human energetic metabolism. Defined by some researchers as “the molecule of life”, NAD is required for over 500 enzymatic reactions. It plays key roles in the regulation of almost all major biological processes, including those concerning immune response and DNA repair against damages caused by aggressive chemicals or radiations. The percutaneous delivery of vitamin B3 by Nicomenthyl® is from 3 to 8 times higher than the one by the common niacinamide.

A Doppler Laser Blood-flow Velocity Test has been carried out on twenty volunteers of both sexes, using a topical preparation containing 3% of Nicomenthyl®, compared to a negative control (placebo). Increases in microcirculatory flow values reached remarkable levels, up to nearly 150% at 30 minutes and 90% at 60 minutes after application, without any irritating or sensitizing effects.

Being an amphiphilic substance (i.e possessing both hydrophilic, water-loving, and lipophilic, fat-loving) properties, it has self-emulsifying properties, which may result in the formation of stable micro-emulsions. Nicomenthyl^®️ is an ideal ingredient for “LESS IS MORE” type of formulations.

Recent studies has shown Nicomenthyl®’s protective and detoxifying efficacy against Oxidant Agents & UV Radiations, Cigarette Smoke & Urban Dust, Blue Light & Wi-Fi.

Nicomenthyl® acts as a fixative, carrier and booster for other beneficial lipophilic actives such as vitamin E, vitamin F, vitamin A, omega 3, phosphatidylcholine, essential oils. Furthermore, it modulates and/or enhances the sensorial strength and longevity of other sensates such as menthol, vanillyl butyl ether, menthyl lactate, etc.

Niacin flushes your system by increasing blood flow. It causes small veins, called capillaries to dilate, allowing blood to flow more freely. This is considered a natural, helpful and beneficial effect of niacin, because toxins tend to build up in the stored fatty tissue of the body where larger vessels don't get to. The increase of blood flow helps flushing toxins out of the fatty tissue and out of your body. Such activation of the microcirculation causes the skin to warm up and look blushed, and may be accompanied by a kind of “tingling” sensation. It is only a temporary manifestation, usually lasting about ten minutes or so. This phenomenon, called niacin-flush, is totally harmless and is indicative of an enhancing microcirculation.