Can I Use Niacinamide to Help Treat My Acne?
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, has rapidly gained popularity in the skincare world, often seen as an essential part of many TikTok skincare routines. Its fame is well-deserved, given its impressive range of benefits for the skin. Known for its ability to brighten dark spots, reduce redness, and even out skin tone, niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that many swear by.
But what about its potential for treating acne? Is it as effective for acne-prone skin as it is for general skin concerns like hyperpigmentation or fine lines? We asked board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Marisa Garshick and Dr. Jessie Cheung, to weigh in on whether niacinamide can help manage and treat acne.
What Is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin known for its wide array of benefits for the skin. Dr. Garshick explains, “Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that can target several skin concerns, such as redness and discoloration, all while being gentle on the skin.”
One of its most significant benefits is its ability to boost ceramide production. Ceramides are lipids that help maintain the skin’s barrier function, which is essential for keeping the skin hydrated and protected from environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution. Additionally, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe redness and irritation, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.
Does Niacinamide Work for Acne?
Yes, niacinamide can certainly help with acne. Dr. Cheung points out that niacinamide works by balancing oil production in the skin, which is crucial for preventing clogged pores—one of the primary causes of acne. It also helps reduce the appearance of pores, which can become enlarged due to excess oil and acne breakouts.
Dr. Garshick adds that niacinamide can also improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots left behind by acne lesions. These post-acne marks can be one of the most stubborn and frustrating aspects of acne, but niacinamide’s brightening effects can help fade them over time.
In short, niacinamide tackles acne by addressing multiple factors: it reduces inflammation, helps control oil production, and fades scars—all key components in acne treatment.
How to Add Niacinamide to Your Skincare Routine
If you’re considering adding niacinamide to your skincare routine to help with acne, here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:
1. Patch Test First
As with any new ingredient, it’s important to patch test before applying niacinamide to your entire face. To do this, apply a small amount of the product on a small area of skin, like the inside of your wrist or behind your ear. Wait 24-48 hours to see if any irritation or allergic reaction occurs. This will help you determine if niacinamide is suitable for your skin.
2. Start with a Lower Concentration
Dr. Cheung recommends starting with a lower concentration of niacinamide, especially if you have sensitive skin. A concentration of 2-5% is typically well-tolerated by most people, and even higher concentrations (up to 10%) can be used if your skin shows no signs of irritation. Starting small allows you to gauge how your skin responds to the ingredient.
3. Choose the Right Product
Niacinamide is available in various skincare products, including serums, toners, moisturizers, and even spot treatments. When selecting a product, consider your skin type and the specific skin concerns you’re trying to address. For example, if you have oily, acne-prone skin, a niacinamide serum may be ideal for controlling excess oil and reducing pore size. On the other hand, a moisturizer with niacinamide might be a great choice if you’re concerned with both hydration and acne treatment.
4. Don’t Overdo It
When it comes to niacinamide, more is not necessarily better. Overuse of the ingredient can lead to irritation or sensitivity, especially in higher concentrations. Stick to the recommended usage instructions on your product and allow time for niacinamide to work its magic.
5. Be Patient
Like most skincare ingredients, niacinamide takes time to show visible results. You may not notice a dramatic difference overnight, so consistency is key. It may take a few weeks for you to see noticeable changes in your acne, hyperpigmentation, or skin tone.
Recommended Niacinamide Products for Acne-Prone Skin
If you’re looking to incorporate niacinamide into your routine, Dr. Garshick recommends a few products that have worked well for acne-prone skin:
TruSkin Niacinamide Serum: This serum is effective at improving discoloration and brightening the skin without being greasy or irritating.
MaeLove’s NIA 10 Serum: Especially great for those with sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin, this calming serum combines niacinamide with other soothing ingredients like zinc and white tea extract.
ISDIN Melaclear Advanced: This product combines niacinamide with tranexamic acid and licorice root extract to treat dark spots, including those caused by acne or melasma.
These products are formulated to be gentle yet effective, helping to address acne while improving the overall appearance of the skin.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While niacinamide is generally considered safe for most people, it’s still important to be mindful of how it interacts with other ingredients in your skincare routine. Dr. Cheung advises that niacinamide should not be applied at the same time as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), as the high pH of niacinamide can interfere with the absorption of these acids. However, niacinamide pairs well with other ingredients, such as kojic acid, arbutin, or tranexamic acid, which can enhance its brightening effects.
Niacinamide is typically well-tolerated, but in higher concentrations (above 10%), it may cause irritation or sensitivity in some individuals. Always pay attention to how your skin feels, and if irritation occurs, reduce the concentration or frequency of use.
The Final Takeaway
Niacinamide is a powerhouse ingredient that can be very effective in treating acne. It helps balance oil production, reduces inflammation, minimizes the appearance of pores, and fades post-acne marks—all of which are important for managing acne-prone skin. Whether you’re dealing with active breakouts or acne scars, niacinamide offers a gentle yet powerful solution.
If you’re considering adding niacinamide to your skincare routine, follow the guidelines provided by dermatologists, start slowly, and be patient. With consistent use, you may begin to see significant improvements in the health and appearance of your acne-prone skin. With its brightening, soothing, and protective properties, niacinamide is an ingredient that can truly make a difference for those struggling with acne.
