In the ever-changing world of skincare, trendy ingredients come and go (and come back again). Niacinamide is an ingredient we’ve loved for some time now, and it’s in the spotlight again recently with TikTok skinfluencers raving about how it’s literally transformed their complexion. According to Dr Alek Nikolic, this is because it’s proven to work on so many skin issues, from softening fine lines and brightening skin to improving hydration and supporting the skin barrier (who doesn’t love a multi-tasker?).
Whether you already have a product with niacinamide in your bathroom cabinet or are completely new to the ingredient, it’s always a good idea to learn about what you’re putting on your skin, so let’s get to it, shall we?
What exactly is niacinamide, and how does it benefit the skin?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 found in foods such as meat, eggs, milk, fish and dark, leafy greens. Like other B vitamins, it’s essential for proper cell function in all parts of the body. So what does that mean for your skin? Niacinamide has been shown to be beneficial to the skin both when taken orally and used topically. Ahead, we dive deeper into the topical skin benefits of vitamin B3:
- Brightens hyperpigmentation: It helps improve discolouration by blocking tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for excess pigment production.
- Fortifies the skin barrier: It boosts the natural production of ceramides — aka lipids, or fats — in your skin, thus improving the skin’s barrier function.
- Hydrates: By supporting the skin’s barrier, it also helps protect against moisture loss and leaves skin hydrated.
- Keeps skin youthful: It’s been shown to reverse and prevent signs of ageing skin by increasing collagen production and decreasing UV damage as an antioxidant.
- Treats acne: It helps balance sebum production and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, making it a great ingredient for those with acne-prone skin.
- Calms: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for soothing skin conditions like rosacea and eczema.
How should I use niacinamide?
Since it’s so well-tolerated by all skin types, you can safely use niacinamide in your morning and evening routine, every day of the week. That said, while the ingredient doesn’t tend to cause irritation, it’s still a good idea to start with a concentration of 2-5% and increase if needed.
As for when to use it in your routine, it’s found in all kinds of skincare products, from serums to moisturisers and cleansers, so it all depends on what form you’re using. In case you’ve forgotten, here’s the exact order to apply your skincare products:
| DAY
Cleanser Toner Serums Eye Cream Treatments Moisturiser Sunscreen |
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 |
NIGHT
Cleanser Toner Serums Eye Cream Treatments Moisturiser Face Oil |
Are there any ingredients I shouldn’t mix with niacinamide?
Another great thing about this popular ingredient is that it plays well with other skin-brightening antioxidants, like vitamin C (which is why they’re frequently used together in products). Research also shows that the way niacinamide keeps skin calm can even help counteract any irritation caused by active ingredients like retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids.
We can see why it’s so popular! Want to get in on the action? Here are our picks for the best niacinamide products.
