Niacinamide is a popular ingredient in many skincare products. Here, I'm explaining what niacinamide is, the benefits for skin, and how to add it to your everyday routine.
If you're a skincare junkie, or even just slightly interested in healthier skin and skincare products, you may have seen niacinamide popping up as a star ingredient. But what is niacinamide and what does it do for skin? I'm breaking it down for you here!
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What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide, also called nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3, or niacin. It is generally the form that is used topically, and is the active ingredient in many skincare products.
Niacinamide is also available as a supplement, and can be taken for preventing B3 deficiency.
Niacinamide Vs Niacin
Niacin can sometimes be used as the blanket term for vitamin B3 and its derivatives, however, niacin is not the same as niacinamide. Niacin is an acid (nicotinic acid or pyridine-3-carboxylic acid), whereas niacinamide is an amide (nicotinamide or pyridine-3-carboxamide), which has a different chemical structure. Niacin is generally less expensive and more easily found in the drugstore, but can also cause flushing and isn't quite as targeted for skincare.
Is It Clean?
Niacinamide is found in many clean beauty formulations. EWG's Skin Deep database gives it a rating of 1 (on a scale of 1-10 with 1 being on the safe end and 10 being unsafe). Since it is a form of vitamin B3, it can be naturally derived, but not all products containing niacinamide are necessarily clean or natural.
Benefits of Niacinamide for Skin
Overall, niacinamide helps moisturize and prevent signs of aging, and it appears to be helpful for a wide range of skin types and conditions including sensitive, dry and acne prone skin. Here are some of the more specific potential benefits of niacinamide:
- Hydrates. Niacinamide was shown to prevent evaporation of the skin's moisture in one study. It also helps form your skin's lipid barrier, which helps lock in moisture.
- Calms inflammation. It has anti-inflammatory affects in acne, rosacea, and other innflammatory skin conditions.
- Strengthens the skin barrier. Niacinamide helps build keratin, a protein that keeps skin healthy and firm.
- Improves acne. With its ability to calm inflammation and regulate sebum production, niacinamide can be beneficial in treating acne over time.
- Fades dark spots. One study showed that niacinamide faded dark spots associated with melasma.
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Some research has suggested that niacinamide may reduce fine lines and wrinkles associated with skin damage and aging.
- Protects from environmental stressors, like the sun and pollution. According to a review, niacinamide builds the skin barrier, helping to protect it from UV rays and oxidative stress.
Side Effects of Niacinamide
Some negative side effects of niacinamide appear to be associated with high oral doses. However, topically, it seems much less likely to cause side effects. Skin irritation may occur with topical concentrations higher than 5%, so be sure to read labels. If you have sensitive skin, it may be best to start with a concentration of 2% or less and test a small area of your skin first.
Is It Best To Use In Skincare or As a Supplement?
While vitamin B3 is important for healthy skin (and in general), most people get the amount needed daily from food. To reap the skincare benefits, it's more effective to use topically in serums, creams, or other skincare products. It can be found in many products, including some of your favorite clean skincare brands!
How To Use It
There is a wide variety of products containing niacinamide, but the most effective ones are those that stay on your skin, such as serums and moisturizers. Apply to your face after toning and before moisturizing if it is a serum. In concentrations of 5% or less, niacinamide can be used twice a day. Niacinamide can be used alongside other active ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid or vitamin C.
