Niacinamide, also referred to as nicotinamide or niacin, is a form of vitamin B3. Your skin, brain, heart, nerves, kidneys, digestive system, & other organs can all benefit greatly from this essential nutrient.
You can find niacin naturally in foods like leafy greens, whole grains, lean meats, soy milk, eggs, yeast, salmon, and more. When your body has excess niacin, it converts it into niacinamide. Moreover, your body can produce niacinamide from an amino acid known as tryptophan.
Niacinamide is used in skincare due to its relaxing qualities. By decreasing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and increasing hydration in the outermost layers of the skin, it helps retain moisture. These characteristics make it a popular component in skincare for moisturised, smooth and even-toned skin. Keep reading to find out more about the advantages of niacinamide serum.
Top 8 Niacinamide Serum Benefits
Niacinamide is one of the most widely used ingredients in skincare products as it helps to brighten up the skin, fight against signs of ageing, and treat issues such as eczema and acne. It assists the skin by increasing protein synthesis and retaining moisture that keeps it safe from environmental harm.
Some of the incredible niacinamide benefits for skin are:
1. Hydration
Niacinamide can improve your skin's natural lipid barrier, which is a protective layer of water and oil. This helps in holding the moisture in while blocking all kinds of pollutants and irritants. It leaves your skin feeling moist & less sensitive.
2. Skin Tone and Texture
Niacinamide is an excellent choice if you struggle with dark spots, hyperpigmentation, scars, or uneven skin tone & texture. It aids in reducing redness and puffiness as well as irritation to give you calmer and healthier skin. Hyperpigmentation can show up as redness, freckles, age spots, or dark patches, often caused by hormonal changes, UV exposure, stress, or harsh skincare products. Niacinamide works to even out your skin tone by reducing dark spots and minimising other discolourations.
3. Calm Redness
Niacinamide is known for the anti-inflammatory effects it provides, particularly for acne, rosacea, and eczema redness. It can also calm irritation from exfoliants like retinol or glycolic acids that may sometimes cause temporary sensitivity when removing dead layers of skin. Additionally, for those struggling with dark under-eye circles, niacinamide can act as the best dark circle corrector, offering brightening and smoothing effects to the delicate skin around the eyes.
4. Signs of Ageing
Niacinamide supports skin firmness and flexibility by boosting collagen and elastin production, helping to soften fine lines and wrinkles for a more youthful appearance. Its antioxidant properties protect the skin from damage caused by ageing, stress, and sun exposure, reducing dullness and promoting healthier, radiant skin.
5. Regulates Oil Production
Niacinamide is a great ingredient for those with combination or oily skin. It regulates the level of sebum to prevent pore clogging without dehydrating the skin.
6. Protects Against Skin Cancer
Niacinamide can help in repairing DNA damage from UV exposure, lowering the chances of developing skin cancer. It works as a supportive ingredient in preventing further damage from the sun’s harmful rays.
7. Minimises Pore Appearance
Niacinamide helps tighten and refine pores by improving skin elasticity and regulating oil production. With consistent use, it gives the skin a smoother, more polished look.
8. Protection Against Sun Damage
While niacinamide isn’t a substitute for sunscreen, it does offer added protection against the harmful effects of UV rays. It supports the skin’s barrier function and helps repair oxidative damage caused by sun exposure.
Quick Recap on Niacinamide Serum Benefits
Niacinamide is a strong, effective ingredient that can improve your skin and help with various skin concerns. It's safe to use and can be easily included in both your morning and evening skincare routine. If your skin is sensitive to new products or ingredients, start with niacinamide products that have a lower concentration before moving to higher-strength formulas. If you experience any irritation, you must consult a doctor.
While niacinamide offers incredible advantages for your skin, it's not the only ingredient to consider. Exploring other options, like understanding caffeine benefits for skin, can help you build a more comprehensive skincare routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does niacinamide do for your face?
Niacinamide helps reduce inflammation, making it effective at calming redness from conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema. It can also soothe irritation caused by strong exfoliants like retinol or glycolic acid, which remove dead skin cells.
Is it good to use niacinamide every day?
Yes, niacinamide is safe to use daily. For best results, it’s advised to apply it twice daily. Regular use can help improve skin discolouration, brighten your complexion, and give you clearer-looking skin.
Does niacinamide reduce dark marks?
Niacinamide is effective at lightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation over time, often showing noticeable improvement after several weeks of use.
What should you avoid using with niacinamide?
Avoid pairing niacinamide with exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid, as it can make your skin more sensitive. Additionally, if you’re allergic to niacinamide, you should avoid using products with it.
Who should not use niacinamide?
People with very sensitive or reactive skin may need to avoid niacinamide, as it can occasionally cause redness or irritation. Additionally, those allergic to niacinamide or with certain skin conditions should consult a dermatologist before use.
