The skincare community loves to throw around new hyped-up ingredients and it can be confusing what each of them does. Niacinamide is one of those ingredients that has stolen many people’s hearts recently, and why? Niacinamide is a standout because of its versatility to suit almost any skin type and concern.
So stay with us for a deep-dive into everything you need to know about niacinamide – what is it, why you should use it, and my top picks.
What is Niacinamide?
Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin that works with the natural substances in your skin to help visibly minimise and tighten pores, improve uneven skin tone, soften fine lines and wrinkles, diminish dullness, and strengthen a weakened skin surface.
Niacinamide also reduces the impact of environmental damage because of its ability to improve the skin’s barrier, plus it also plays a role in helping skin to repair signs of past damage.
Related: The Ordinary Skincare Regime + Product Reviews (Vegan!)
Why should you be using it?
Niacinamide is uniquely compatible with any of the products in your skincare routine, including those that contain retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, AHAs, BHA, vitamin C, and all types of antioxidants.
You can use multiple niacinamide-containing products in your routine, and it will still be non-sensitising as this clever vitamin is well tolerated by all skin types even sensitive or Rosacea-prone skin.
Other helpful benefits of niacinamide for skin are that it helps renew and restore the surface of the skin against moisture loss and dehydration by helping skin improve its natural production of skin-strengthening ceramides. When ceramides become depleted over time, the skin is left vulnerable to all sorts of problems, from persistent patches of dry, flaky skin to increasingly becoming extra-sensitive.
Extensive research has shown niacinamide also works to protect skin from environmental damage and also helps skin make more collagen and hyaluronic acid. Research also shows that a concentration of 2% (or more) is highly effective to help red blemishes fade more quickly. This means products containing niacinamide are a good choice for those with acne-prone skin.
How to use Niacinamide
Niacinamide is uniquely compatible with any of the products in your skincare routine so it is easy to introduce into your current skincare regime. It is important to approach skincare with a multi-ingredient approach just like your normal diet. Niacinamide is not the only ingredient your skin needs to look and feel its best so do consider other ingredients that will work for your skin concerns.
For best results, use leave-on niacinamide products and apply them to cleansed skin twice daily. Serums can be used on their own or mixed into your favourite moisturiser, based on personal preference. It is always best to experiment to see what works best for your skin!
Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. But like any new product, conduct a patch test on your arm before smearing it all over your face just to be sure!
Related: AHAs and BHAs: Beginner’s Guide to Liquid Exfoliant
Niacinamide Top Picks:
Everyone can benefit from a dose of niacinamide in their skincare routine. However, your skin type will determine which kind of product you should choose:
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% – Affordable whilst potent, the addition of zinc will control oil production and keep pores clear.
The Inkey List Niacinamide 10% + HA 1% – Also budget-friendly with added Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration and effective delivery.
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