What is Niacinamide? And What Benefits Does It Have for Skin Care?
In the world of skin and beauty products, buzzwords are popping up all the time, with a new “it” ingredient popping up in nearly every product on the market. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is one of those ingredients. Like many trendy ingredients, it has a long history in the professional beauty world and has been used in dermatology practices for decades.
It’s certainly reassuring to know that the pros are fans of Niacinamide, but you can’t blame them if you don’t really know what Niacinamide is. Or what benefits it has for your skin. That’s why we’re here to clear things up.
What is Niacinamide?
Also known as niacinamide, Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that’s scientifically proven to help treat acne, rosacea and pigmentation issues, as well as signs of aging like wrinkles. Your skin constantly needs Niacinamide to stay healthy, but it can’t produce the ingredient naturally. Taking a supplement or applying it topically to your skin with a Niacinamide-rich skincare product will ensure long-lasting, healthy, happy skin for all skin types and ages.
What Benefits Does Niacinamide Have for Skin?
It would be easier to list the skin care benefits that Niacinamide does not offer. It’s no wonder that the popularity of this ingredient in the industry continues unabated among experts and beauty enthusiasts. Here are some of the benefits that you can expect from using Niacinamide.
Benefits of Niacinamide for Skin:
Niacinamide protects the skin from environmental damage
Niacinamide supports collagen production
Niacinamide supports the production of hyaluronic acid that occurs naturally in the skin
Niacinamide improves skin hydration
Niacinamide reduces signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles
Niacinamide fights acne and breakouts
Niacinamide shrinks enlarged pores
Niacinamide can help lighten pigmented areas of the skin
Pretty impressive, don’t you think? Niacinamide is a master of skin multitasking and can be used as a standalone ingredient in your skin care routine, but is also very compatible with other active ingredients and can be easily incorporated into your routine without worrying about irritation, reactions, or other issues.
You may also want to know that Niacinamide is a cell-communicating ingredient, which basically means that it can communicate with different cells in the body and tell them to create younger, healthier cells. Combine that with niacinamide’s powerful antioxidant properties and its ability to protect and create other molecules for the skin, and you have yourself a very powerful skin-improving ingredient.
Can all skin types use niacinamide?
Yes, they can. Considering your skin type can help you incorporate niacinamide into your skin care routine. It has been added to many different products in the skincare world.
For oily, blemish-prone skin types, lightweight gel cleansers and face washes are the best choice. This allows niacinamide to work its magic without disrupting the skin’s protective barrier. For dry skin, consider using a moisturizer or serum, as they stay on the skin longer and lock in moisture to a dry face, restoring comfort and strengthening the skin barrier. In addition to the fact that you can choose the product that best suits your skin type, you’ll find that niacinamide alone can target all of your skin’s problem areas or skin. Its precise effects mean that it can deliver fast and impressive results.
When should I use niacinamide?
Niacinamide is an all-rounder and, as already mentioned, is well tolerated by almost everyone, regardless of age and skin type. Niacinamide’s feather-light texture means it absorbs quickly into the skin and can be used every morning and night without causing irritation. Unlike other skin ingredients such as retinol, you don’t have to worry about your skin not being able to tolerate this powerful vitamin, and it’s very easy to incorporate into your existing skincare routine.
How often should I use niacinamide?
You now know that niacinamide is safe to use every day, for as long as you like. But everyone has a different routine, and it’s considered a good idea for skincare enthusiasts to create their own cocktail of ingredients to treat different skin areas and issues on different days.
What are the side effects of niacinamide?
When using niacinamide topically on the skin, the following side effects may occur:
Mild burning sensation
Itching
Redness of the skin
There are many precautions to take when using niacinamide. It is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but as always, we recommend that you seek advice from your GP or doctor.
How long does it take for niacinamide to work?
You can see results almost immediately. The face looks plumper and more youthful due to the hydration of the skin. When buying a product fortified with niacinamide, it’s best to make sure it contains at least 5% on the ingredient list, as this percentage will show results after 8-12 weeks without causing irritation. Higher concentrations of niacinamide are available, but are usually formulated for specific areas and can be a bit too harsh and cause irritation.
Another benefit of niacinamide is its ability to be combined with other ingredients such as AHAs and BHAs. By combining these powerful skin protectors, you’ll find that your skin looks brighter, visibly younger, and has a smoother, more even complexion.
It’s no wonder how and why niacinamide has become so popular among skin care experts and seasoned beauty enthusiasts for decades. If you’re frustrated that you didn’t learn about the countless benefits of niacinamide for your skin sooner, I can’t blame you. Now excuse us while we rush to stock up!
