What’s so great about niacinamide?

Niacinamide is one of the hot new ingredients of 2020! Basically, it is the active form of niacin, a form of Vitamin B3. It’s a water-soluble vitamin, which means it doesn’t dissolve in oil. So if you’re not into oily or creamy textures, niacinamide might just be your thing!

Niacinamide is considered a great active ingredient for those with sensitive skin. It is non-acidic and its pH value is neutral – unlike other actives like Vitamin C and Retinoids. Thus, it does not cause irritation and is easily absorbed by the skin.

The benefits of Niacinamide

• Fights free radicals and protects the skin from harmful UV rays

Niacinamide protects the skin from free radicals and environmental stresses (sunlight, pollution, and toxins) by increasing the skin’s antioxidant capacity and the rebuilding of healthy cells.

• Reduces wrinkles

Niacinamide helps generate and stabilize collagen in the dermis, keeping the skin surface flexible.

• Reduces acne and regulates oil production

The anti-inflammatory nature of niacinamide helps to reduce redness and swelling. It also balances the amount of acne-causing oil secreted by the sebaceous glands in the skin.

• Strengthens the skin barrier

Niacinamide helps produce a protein called keratin that ensures the skin remains firm and healthy. It can also help the skin produce a lipid known as ceramide, which forms a barrier to help trap in the moisture. Which is usually beneficial for people with dry and aged skin.

• Minimizes pores

It also has the ability to retain moisture. This eventually helps in the natural reduction of pores over time. It does so by preventing excess production of sebum that could cause the pores to clog and enlarge.

• Prevents hyper-pigmentation

Niacinamide aids in reducing the uneven pigmentation by delaying the transfer of melanin to your skin’s epidermis.

Any side effects?

For a small minority of us with existing allergies, using niacinamide in high concentrations could lead to redness and irritation despite it being know for its soothing and calming effects.

This being said, it is generally considered safe for usage, as skin care products usually do not contain high concentrations. If you’re keen to include this in your skin care routine, here are some of the famous niacinamide serums to start: