The present invention relates to a topical composition comprising from 0.001 to 10% by weight a compound of formula (I), i.e. N-cyclopropyl nicotinamide, that provides improved antimicrobial effect through generation of antimicrobial peptides when applied to an external surface of the human body. A combination of compound of formula I and at least one ingredient selected from niacinamide, picolinamide and iso-nicotinamide triggers generation of AMPs in a synergistic way.
