Niacinamide: A winner in any skincare ingredient race
You’re seeing it do the rounds in a lot of skincare products. Are you overwhelmed or intrigued? Here’s why you must invest in this high-performance skincare ingredient. According to popular dermatologists’ votes, Niacinamide would emerge as a winner in any skincare product race.
But first, let’s address the elephant in the room.
What is Niacinamide?
This multifunctional ingredient is a derivative of Vitamin B3 or niacin. Vitamin B3 is one of the eight vitamins in the vitamin B complex family and is considered an essential vitamin. Though found in food like whole grains, and some greens, the synthetic forms of Niacinamide have been infused in serums and moisturizers, paving the way for revolutionary skincare products. The bottom line: It’s great for you.
What can Niacinamide do for your skin?
A whole lot of good! Niacinamide is a powerhouse in dealing with several skin conditions.
1) Combats signs of aging: Niacinamide increases skin elasticity, reduces the appearance of fine lines, and adds luminosity.
2) Decreases acne: Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective remedy in the treatment of pimples, and non-inflammatory acne. It helps to reduce the redness from eczema, acne and other inflammatory skin conditions.
3) Reduces hyperpigmentation: It blocks the enzyme responsible for melanin (or pigmentation) production, and also blocks the transfer of melanocytes (pigment-forming cells) to the skin surface. This makes Niacinamide a favorite in skin lightening creams and serums.
4) Strengthens the skin barrier: By increasing the production of ceramides (the lipids that maintain the skin’s protective barrier), Niacinamide repairs and maintains the skin. It prevents moisture loss, keeping the skin soft.
5) Evens out skin texture: It maintains an even and smooth skin texture by boosting cellular turnover and exposes new skin cells on the surface.
6) Regulates sebum production: Niacinamide is very effective in treating oily (and combination) skin since it helps to regulate sebum production and reduces the appearance of pore size.
7) Boosts hydration: Interestingly Niacinamide boosts the hydrating ability of moisturizers, helping dry skin to resist moisture loss. This reduces the ‘stretched’ feeling and flaky appearance that accompanies dry skin. Since Niacinamide is a non-irritating compound, it is especially effective in dealing with dry and sensitive skin.
The best part? These benefits will show up with minimal effort and is great for all skin types.
How do I incorporate Niacinamide into my routine?
Niacinamide is a simple and low-risk ingredient. There are several options to include Niacinamide in your routine through a serum, or moisturizer. If you’re using it as the former, apply it after toning and before moisturizing.
In rare cases, you might experience a little redness or irritation initially. If that occurs, build your routine slowly by using it on alternate days. After 6-8 weeks of regular usage, you will see the results for yourself.
On very rare occasions, you might experience a skin phenomenon called purging. It’s essentially a process of skin detoxification. Don’t worry if you find pimples, whiteheads or blackheads appearing on your face. You will get clearer and younger-looking skin after the purge is over. However, it’s important to understand the difference between a purge and a breakout. Headhere to discover more.
A friendly word of advice: It’s natural to dismiss something we don’t understand. Yet sometimes the road not taken becomes the very path we need. Include Niacinamide in your routine, and let your experience determine the way ahead.
