Niacinamide May Seem Like The New Kid On The Block

We’re seeing a rise in beauty products containing Niacinamide but what is it? Should we be adding this to our daily skincare routine? We’ve done all the research to help you navigate your way through its benefits and how to use this popular ingredient.

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What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a type of vitamin B3 that can be found in eggs, milk, meat, and a few other food types but your body can’t naturally produce the vitamin. It’s also found in supplements and skincare products. It has been studied for years by many dermatologists and is recommended to patients to address multiple skin issues. It’s found to be better suited than vitamin c for sensitive skin as it’s gentle on the skin and less likely to cause irritation.

Why use products with Niacinamide in it?

Niacinamide has many benefits as it creates a protective barrier in the skin from natural elements. It steadily penetrates the skin’s surface in the targeted applied areas and people usually see results within a month of adding this ingredient into their daily skincare routine.

It’s recommended for all skin types, including those suffering from acne or eczema. The protective barrier produces a ceramide (lipid) barrier which keeps the moisture locked in for hours.

Not only does niacinamide keep moisture locked in, but it can also reduce the size of pores, wrinkles, and fine lines. Over time it improves the texture of the skin by helping skin cells repair and defends themselves from the environment.

Niacinamide also contains anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce irritation, and hyperpigmentation including scarring and spots caused by acne. These anti-inflammatory properties also reduce redness and yellowing in the skin.

Can you integrate Niacinamide into your daily skincare routine?

Topical niacinamide can be found in products such as facemasks, serums, lotions or creams which can be incorporated into your everyday routine. It’s compatible with most skincare products and for best results use it as a moisturizer. You can also pair niacinamide with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, they all help to protect the skin barrier and support the overall skin health.

There’s a common misconception that mixing niacinamide with vitamin C is harsh on the skin causing redness. This is in fact the opposite, with new methods of manufacturing of products, it makes them completely safe to use together. Their combined antioxidant actually provides healthier, smoother skin! Apply the niacinamide product first then wait 15 minutes for it to fully absorb into the skin before applying the vitamin C.

When should you use niacinamide?

To gain the most benefits from using niacinamide, apply these products after cleansing and exfoliating before you use your normal moisturizer or face oils. It’s best to apply to the whole face or areas of concern first and let it absorb into the skin before applying additional products. If you apply an additional product before the niacinamide serum has been absorbed it could affect its effectiveness. You can use the product any time of the day, it’s a gentle ingredient on your skin. Most use it up to twice a day but you can incorporate it to what suits you.