What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, is a versatile skincare ingredient. It improves enlarged pores, uneven tone, fine lines, and dullness. Known for strengthening the skin's barrier, it retains moisture and reduces sensitivity. Whether for acne or anti-aging, niacinamide is a powerful addition to any routine.

How does this ingredient work in skincare?

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, plays a crucial role in skin health. Niacinamide promotes collagen synthesis by stimulating fibroblast cells, which are responsible for producing collagen and other structural proteins. This leads to improved skin elasticity and reduced fine lines and wrinkles. It  inhibits melanin production by blocking the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to keratinocytes. This action helps in reducing hyperpigmentation and promoting a more even skin tone. 

Additionally, niacinamide regulates sebum production by balancing the activity of the sebaceous glands, which can minimize the appearance of enlarged pores and control acne. Finally, it supports the skin barrier by boosting the production of ceramides, essential lipids that maintain the barrier's integrity. A strengthened barrier retains moisture, prevents water loss, and protects against environmental stressors, resulting in healthier, more resilient skin.

How does this ingredient compare to others?

Niacinamide stands out for its gentle yet effective nature, brightening skin, reducing hyperpigmentation, and strengthening the skin barrier without causing irritation. Vitamin C shines as a potent antioxidant, brightener, and collagen booster, although its instability requires careful storage. Vitamin A, in the form of retinoids, offers powerful anti-aging benefits by speeding up cell turnover, but can initially cause dryness and sensitivity. Peptides target firmness and collagen production, while hydroquinone is a targeted solution for specific pigmentation issues, though it must be used cautiously due to potential side effects.

When considering these ingredients together, niacinamide emerges as a versatile and stable option suitable for most skin types. Its ability to brighten, improve elasticity, and regulate sebum production make it a valuable addition to skincare routines. 

Potential benefits of this ingredient for the skin

• Improved Skin Texture: Niacinamide can help refine the skin's texture, making it smoother and softer to the touch.
• Brightening: It promotes a more radiant complexion by reducing the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and dullness.
• Strengthened Skin Barrier: Enhancing the skin's barrier function, niacinamide improves moisture retention, reduces sensitivity, and protects against environmental stressors.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: It has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for soothing redness, irritation, and inflammatory skin conditions like acne and rosacea.
• Balanced Sebum Production: Niacinamide can regulate oil production, making it useful for both oily and dry skin types.
• Protection Against Environmental Damage: As an antioxidant, niacinamide helps neutralize free radicals, which can damage skin cells and accelerate aging.

Products we use this ingredient in

Turmeric Hesperidin Fading Serum

References

• Wohlrab, Johannes, and Daniela Kreft. “Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatology.” Skin pharmacology and physiology vol. 27,6 (2014): 311-5. doi:10.1159/000359974
• Madaan, Piyush et al. “Cosmeceutical Aptitudes of Niacinamide: A Review.” Recent advances in anti-infective drug discovery vol. 16,3 (2021): 196-208. doi:10.2174/2772434416666211129105629
• Zhen, Ao Xuan et al. “Niacinamide Protects Skin Cells from Oxidative Stress Induced by Particulate Matter.” Biomolecules & therapeutics vol. 27,6 (2019): 562-569. doi:10.4062/biomolther.2019.061
• Rani, Sandhya et al. “Formulation and Evaluation of Dermatological Product Containing Niacinamide.” Advances in experimental medicine and biology vol. 1337 (2021): 331-337. doi:10.1007/978-3-030-78771-4_37