Table of content
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide has come up as one of the most popular skincare ingredients in recent years. It is well-researched, works for almost every skin type, and has several advantages from helping to clear up acne and brightening dull skin. So today, let’s talk about niacinamide. Let’s discuss what it is, where it comes from and what makes it so beneficial.
Let's begin with the fundamentals. Nicotinamide, another name for niacinamide, is a type of vitamin B3. This ingredient is necessary for your body to function. It is essential for your body to be able to produce energy and maintain healthy cells, especially skin cells.
Niacinamide for skin is applied topically in moisturisers, serums, and creams. It dissolves in water rather than oil and can easily be formulated into elegant lightweight serums and moisturizers that feel good on application.
Where Does Niacinamide Come From?
In the body, niacinamide might be produced from niacin, which is another type of vitamin B3. Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 and is found in various foods. This is generally found in food like meat, eggs, green vegetables, and legumes. In skin care however, a lab-synthesized version is usually used. This ensures purity and stability.
Niacinamide is often stated on ingredient labels in concentrations between 2% and 10%. But most dermatologists recommend starting with a concentration between 2% and 5%. This prevents irritation while still producing noticeable effects.
How Does Your Skin Benefit from Niacinamide?
According to research - and there is a lot of it, niacinamide is a multipurpose nutrient. It offers several advantages, particularly when used regularly.
1. Niacinamide makes your skin barrier stronger
The skin barrier is the outermost layer of your skin. It guards against infection, environmental harm, and moisture loss. Strengthening it is one of niacinamide's primary roles. It achieves this by boosting the synthesis of ceramides. Ceramides are organic lipids that maintain the hydration and strength of your skin.Over time, decreased dryness, irritation, and sensitivity are associated with a stronger barrier.
2. Controls the Production of Oil
People with oily skin enjoy niacinamide because it helps regulate oil production. It achieves this without drying out the skin. Unlike strong acne treatments, this results in fewer outbreaks and less discomfort.
3. Decreases Inflammation and Redness
Niacinamide can help if you have sensitive skin, rosacea, or acne-related redness. According to studies, its anti-inflammatory properties soothe skin, and lessen redness. This enhances the general look of irritated skin.
4. Makes Skin Brighter and Reduces Pigmentation
Niacinamide lightens dark spots and balances out skin tone. These are some of its most well-known properties. It reduces the rate at which melanin (pigment) is transferred to skin cells. This helps lessen the visibility of sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and post-acne markings.Regular use of niacinamide has been shown to enhance skin tone and brightness. Results can be seen in as little as 4–8 weeks.
5. Reduces the Visibility of Pores
Niacinamide controls oil production and increases flexibility around the pore lining. This helps enhance skin texture and lessen pore visibility.
When and How You Should Use Niacinamide in Your Routine
The good news is that niacinamide products are very versatile when it comes to when to use them. Both morning and evening use of niacinamide is safe. Serums and creams are usually gentle when formulated right.
We have multiple options of niacinamide products at AccuFix. Our Niacinamide Serum is formulated with 5% niacinamide and is perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
The crème B3-B5-E has 4% niacinamide. It targets pigmentation and texture while keeping the skin hydrated.
We also have a Niacinamide Body Lotion with 2% niacinamide. It also helps improve skin tone and texture.
Niacinamide also works well with ceramides, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid. All are prevalent chemicals in skincare products. It can even be safely used with exfoliants like glycolic acid. Although, it's best to avoid layering them directly if you have sensitive skin.
Does Everyone Benefit from Niacinamide?
Almost always, yes, is the quick response.
All skin types can benefit from using niacinamide. This includes those with sensitive, dry, mature, and acne-prone skin. This is because it is non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores.
Start with a lesser concentration (about 2–5%) if you're new to using niacinamide. Increase if necessary. Sometimes using too much too soon can sometimes cause minor flushing or discomfort. But this is uncommon and typically transient.
Conclusion: Why Your Skin Craves Niacinamide
In conclusion, what is niacinamide? There are more uses for this type of vitamin B3 than just sitting on your skin. It reduces pigmentation, calms redness, controls oil, and improves overall skin texture. It also actively works to restore, protect, and strengthen your skin's natural barrier.
It is one of the most dependable, adaptable, and mild ingredients for you. So if you've been wondering what it does for your skin, now you know!
Bonus Tip: For optimal effects, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day. Also, opt for a mild, pH balanced cleanser in conjunction with your niacinamide serum.