What Are the Benefits of Niacinamide for the Skin?

The use of niacinamide dates back decades, but it has only recently become popular for its antioxidant powers. Oral formulations are essential for the proper function of the body and are usually available in most multivitamin pills. When used topically, niacinamide can help various skin concerns and has become a valuable part of many skincare routines.

What is niacinamide?

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, also known as niacin or nicotinic acid, which can be manufactured from amino acids. In addition to its protective antioxidant properties, it helps convert nutrients into energy for the body and helps repair DNA damage. Recently, it has gained favor for its topical anti-aging capabilities. Topical formulations have a superior impact on the skin.

How can niacinamide help the skin?

Topical niacinamide helps the skin in various ways and is a must-have for your daily anti-aging routine. It can benefit every skin type and tone.

• Antioxidant. Niacinamide is a potent antioxidant, which scavenges up free radicals released from UV rays from the sun. Free radicals are responsible for damaging our collagen, leading to wrinkles, and DNA, leading to skin cancers.
• Hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide inhibits the production of the pigment melanin in the skin. Melanin is responsible for dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by the sun's UV rays.
• Dry, inflamed skin. Niacinamide preserves the skin's barrier function to prevent water loss and dehydration of the skin. By restoring barrier function, it also decreases inflammation in the skin, which alleviates facial redness. This is especially helpful for patients with sensitive skin caused by impaired barrier function.
• Acne. Niacinamide can decrease sebum (oil) production. Excess oil can clog the pores and trap dead skin cells and bacteria, which leads to acne.

How to use niacinamide in skincare

For the best results, apply niacinamide once to twice a day after cleansing your skin but before applying your moisturizer. It is often combined with other anti-aging ingredients, such as vitamin C or E, retinoids, or hyaluronic acid. Serums containing niacinamide absorb best, but if you prefer, it is also found in creams and lotions.

Does niacinamide have side effects?

Niacinamide is usually very well tolerated with little chance of side effects. However, some, especially those with very sensitive skin or certain skin conditions like eczema, may develop irritation from it. When you begin any new product, it is always best to try a test spot first. Also, start with the lowest concentration of niacinamide and use it only once a day, every other day. You can slowly build up to using it twice a day as tolerated by your skin.

Niacinamide & other skin products

Niacinamide can be combined with other ingredients to achieve faster results for your skin care needs. Often, niacinamide is already combined in many skincare products to give you more bang for your buck. If you are looking for a powerful antioxidant serum, look for niacinamide combined with vitamins C and E.

Niacinamide is the newest anti-aging wonder serum. Its antioxidant properties help protect collagen from premature destruction and wrinkle formation while reducing inflammation, dark spots, and oil production and preventing dehydration of the skin. For maximum benefits, you should use it daily in combination with other anti-aging ingredients. Always consult your dermatologist for the best anti-aging advice for your skin.