What Is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide has become incredibly popular in skincare formulations over the last few years, and for a good reason! Niacinamide has a seemingly endless list of benefits for the skin.
In this article, we’ll discuss what Niacinamide is, how it works, and what it does.
Breaking Down Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of Vitamin B-3; an essential nutrient for the healthy function of multiple organs in our bodies. It’s a water-soluble vitamin that works with the natural substances in your skin to provide several benefits.
After niacinamide is applied topically, it breaks down into the form of Vitamin B-3 that our cells can use - the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. This coenzyme is responsible for the many benefits niacinamide provides to the skin.
Benefits of Niacinamide
This ingredient is multitalented and beneficial for anyone of any skin type to incorporate into their routine. Although it may provide more benefits to those with certain concerns or conditions, everyone will gain from using niacinamide.
Let’s discuss the specific benefits niacinamide offers.
Minimizes enlarged pores
One of the main benefits niacinamide is known for is reducing the appearance of enlarged pores. This plays a huge role in keeping oil and debris from clogging pores, which leads to bumpy skin texture. When the skin is congested, this causes the pores to stretch to compensate for the build-up inside the pores.
Sun damage can also cause enlarged pores, leading to what is known as “orange peel skin”. Stronger formulations of niacinamide can visibly tighten the pores, often clearing up this orange peel texture on the skin.
Adds moisture
Niacinamide helps restore the surface of the skin and prevents moisture loss and dehydration. If you struggle with dry skin, this powerhouse ingredient has been proven to boost hydrating abilities of moisturizers. This helps the skin’s surface to better resist the moisture loss that leads to dryness and flaky texture.
Brightens the skin
Niacinamide also works to treat discoloration and uneven skin tone. Both concerns come from excess skin pigment showing on the skin’s surface.
Niacinamide formulations of 5% or higher work incredibly well at preventing further discoloration from appearing. It also reduces the appearance of existing dark spots and discoloration, leading to a more even skin tone.
Controls excess oil production
Because niacinamide also controls excess sebum production, it’s a great ingredient for those with oily or acne-prone skin to incorporate into their routine. Using a daily niacinamide serum or cleanser with a higher concentration will do wonders to bring down shine!
What To Consider With Niacinamide
Although niacinamide is widely tolerated due to its soothing properties, for some it can cause a flushing effect on the skin when applied topically. This flushing may occur if the formulation of the product you’re using contains too much free niacin.
As with any new product you introduce into your routine, you should also do a patch test to ensure it won’t cause a reaction or irritation to your skin.
When To Use Niacinamide
Since niacinamide is a gentle and soothing ingredient, it’s safe to use morning and night. Daily use of this powerhouse ingredient will only accelerate your results! Niacinamide is compatible with all skin types and comes in nearly every formulation of skincare product available. Pairing niacinamide and retinol can make tolerating retinol much easier. Niacinamide as we know helps to hydrate the skin, which reduces the risk of irritation caused by retinol.
Answering Your Most Asked Questions About Niacinamide
Is niacinamide good for acne?
Yes! It not only works to control excess sebum production, which will help with clogged pores and congestion, but it’s also an anti-inflammatory. Meaning it will help reduce the redness and irritation associated with acne.
Is niacinamide safe during pregnancy?
Yes! Niacinamide is perfectly safe to use topically during pregnancy and there is currently no research suggesting otherwise.
Niacinamide is a powerful ingredient that can benefit anyone looking to add it into their routine. Due to its rising popularity in the last few years, it can also be found in many different products and formulations. Finding a formulation that works best for your skin type is the key to getting the best possible results with this powerhouse ingredient.
