Niacinamide in skincare

skincarevitaminsniacinamidevitamin Bdark spotshyperpigmentation
Written By Daniella Ndirira


Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide, is a naturally occurring ingredient. Niacinamide can be found in various foods, including red meat, chicken, fish, nuts, vegetables and more.

How is Niacinamide used by the body?:

Niacinamide is a precursor of Reduced NAD, an essential coenzyme in the production of ATP and many redox reactions in the body. ATP is used by the body to release energy. Cutaneous cells also use ATP to release energy. Niacinamide also triggers DNA repair in the skin.  

Niacinamide is antibacterial. It also has anti-inflammatory (inhibits the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines) and antioxidative properties, and is therefore effective against inflammatory acne, caused by P.Acnes bacteria. In addition to being antibacterial, niacinamide also reduces hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to other skin cells.

Due to its multifunctionality, niacinamide is used to target various skin concerns, including oxidative stress in the skin, skin ageing, skin inflammation, acne, and hyperpigmentation. Niacinamide can also be used for managing melasma and psoriasis. Niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to other skin cells.

How to use it in skincare? :

-          Used to reduce skin dullness (oxidative stress)

-          Used for combatting inflammatory acne( it is antibacterial, and it regulates sebum production)

-          Used for reducing the size of pores by reducing sebum production

-          Used for decreasing hyperpigmentation

Concentration:

For beginners, opt for concentrations between 2 and 5%. You can gradually increase the concentration as your skin gets used to the ingredient. However, a higher concentration does not equate to being more effective. If you have more sensitive skin, consider sticking to a lower concentration.

Risks and side effects:

Your skin can have a negative reaction to niacinamide. Common side effects include: breakouts, skin dryness, skin tightness and allergic reactions.



Product recommendations + product links

The ordinary niacinamide serum [10%niacinamide]

Claims:

  • % zinc serum to minimise excess oil and shine.

  • Refines pores and improves skin texture.

  • Supports a strong and balanced skin barrier.

  • Lightweight and fast-absorbing skincare serum.

  • A hydrating face serum for reducing shine.

Price: 5£ for 30ml

Rating: 4.4/5.0 stars on www.theordinary.com

Available at: https://amzn.to/4lmyWHO


Paula's choice clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment

Claims: Tightens and minimises pores

Great for fighting enlarged or Clogged Pores, Uneven Tone, and Blackheads

And Dullness

Suitable for all skin types

52£

rating: 4.0/5.0 stars on https://www.paulaschoice.com/

Available at: https://amzn.to/3J96VX3

La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Serum:

  • Visibly reduces a range of skin discolourations, including sunspots, age spots, post-acne marks (or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

  • Helps visibly correct even stubborn dark spots

  • Respects skin's natural tone

  • Reveals brighter and more radiant skin

  • Skin imperfections look reduced after 2 weeks

  • 85% showed a reduction of dark spots

  • 48£

Available at: https://amzn.to/411UVg9

Rating: 4.1/5.0

 

Daniella Ndirira
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Vitamin C in skincare