"I have acne, acne scarring and signs of aging at the same time."
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is indicated to reduce the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion. Niacinamide is a standout because of its versatility for almost any skin care concern and skin type. Niacinamide, which is also called nicotinamide, is found in supplements (the other is nicotinic acid). It’s often touted to help manage acne, rosacea, pigmentation issues, and wrinkles.
After 1 week of Niacinamide usage (source link)
Here’s what you should know before adding it to your skin-care routine:
1. Reduces Acne & Inflammation
Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an attractive treatment for skin conditions marked by inflammation, like acne. It will help ease redness from acne, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Research suggests that a 2 percent topical niacinamide may also inhibit the production of oil, which could be beneficial to people dealing with acne. Plus, niacinamide is relatively non-irritating compared to other acne treatments, making it an especially attractive option for people with dry or sensitive skin. Niacinamide may be helpful for severe acne, especially inflammatory forms like papules and pustules. Over time, you may see fewer lesions and improved skin texture.
2. Helps to Fade Dark Spots and Hyperpigmentation
5% Niacinamide concentrations can be helpful in lightening dark spots. This benefit may be due to increased collagen production as niacinamide has been shown to boost the hydrating ability of moisturizers so skin’s surface can better resist the moisture loss that leads to recurrent dry, tight, flaky skin.
Based on the available evidence, well-studied options like prescription retinoids (and sunscreen!) or other antioxidants, like vitamin C, will probably do more for you than niacinamide if hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or wrinkles are your primary concerns. But if your skin is too sensitive to handle those other options, or you’re just looking for a gentler treatment for whatever reason, niacinamide might be a helpful alternative.
3. Prevents Dehydration and Moisture Loss
Niacinamide helps renew and restore the surface of skin against moisture loss and dehydration by helping skin improve its natural production of skin-strengthening ceramides. When ceramides become depleted over time, skin is left vulnerable to all sorts of problems, from persistent patches of dry, flaky skin to increasingly becoming extra-sensitive.
Read more about Ceramides (here).
Topical niacinamide can increase the production of ceramides (lipids that help maintain the skin’s protective barrier), which may contribute to its topical effects on wrinkles, fine lines, and the skin’s moisture barrier. All of this is probably why you’re seeing niacinamide listed in a bunch of skin-care products!
The benefits of moisture retention aren’t just for those with dry skin types. Niacinimide can also help regulate the amount of oil the sebaceous glands produce and prevent your glands from going into overdrive.
Many topical niacinamide products come in the form of serums. Think of serums as extra treatments that address individual skin concerns outside of regular cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.
Here are some Fickle Beauty recommendations of products containing the star ingredient, Niacinamide:
Shop for products containing Niacinamide (here)!
