Niacinamide has sprung up as the skincare ingredient recently and is considered a holy grail ingredient in the beauty scene. Why? It’s the ultimate solution to brightening and clearing most skin types. In conjunction with retinol and vitamin C, niacinamide is high on the list of ingredients known to make a noticeable difference on the skin.
This is a very versatile ingredient, and here’s why:
What is Niacinamide?
Also known as nicotinamide, niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is water-soluble. It’s also an essential nutrient. This means that niacinamide is not stored in the body, so replenishing when needed is necessary if you’d like to avoid developing a B3 deficiency, which can lead to disorders of the skin, kidneys, and brain.
Vitamin B-3 is also found in eggs, cereals, green veggies, beans, fish, and milk.
Benefits of Niacinamide
Niacinamide holds several benefits, and studies have shown that the ingredient may also help treat certain skin conditions like acne and eczema. Let’s zoom in on the many benefits of niacinamide:
- Brightening and clearing skin
- Reverses and prevents signs of ageing
- Smoothes skin
- Calms inflammation and redness
- Reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Decreases the appearance of pores
- Hydrates and supports the skin barrier
This ingredient is similar benefits to retinol, but is slightly more gentle on the skin and is more compatible with other products. What’s more, is its hydration boosting properties. So, why isn’t it a staple in your skincare yet?
How to apply Niacinamide
To reap all the benefits, the best formula of niacinamide comes in a topical cream lotion, or serum – anything that will stay in contact with your skin (unlike cleansers that wash off).
Generally speaking, niacinamide can be applied at any time of day and generally in combination with other products without issue.
Typically, niacinamide serums are the most potent and have the highest concentrations of active ingredients.
Pro Tip: High concentrations will cause skin irritation. Be aware!
You can use niacinamide in conjunction with retinol and vitamin C to see significant results. They won’t happen overnight, but you should see results within 2-4 weeks.
Niacinamide Products
Silki – R189
Silki – R189
Skin Functional – R240
Skin Functional – R240
La Roche-Posay – R699
La Roche-Posay – R699
Standard – R175
Standard – R175
Jorgobé – R645
Jorgobé – R645
The Ordinary – R370
The Ordinary – R370
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Featured Image: Pexels
