Among the plethora of most-loved skin-loving ingredients, Niacinamide is the un-sung hero. It is a must-have ingredient that tackles multiple skin concerns, helping to maintain overall skin health. A form of Vitamin B3 (niacin or nicotinic acid), Niacinamide is also found in small amounts in food and is often taken as a daily dietary supplement. However, when used topically in skincare, Niacinamide has incredible anti-inflammatory and reparative properties, helping to support overall skin health and improve the skin’s appearance.
What are the benefits of Niacinamide in skincare?
Redness + Acne
The anti-inflammatory capabilities of Niacinamide make it the ideal ingredient to use to combat redness and inflammation on the skin. These benefits have also been shown to alleviate the inflammation and redness associated with eczema, acne and other skin conditions. Especially beneficial for acneic and oily skin types, Niacinamide can regulate the production of sebum produced by the sebaceous glands within the skin. As excess sebum can block pores resulting in increased blackheads and breakouts, In turn, Niacinamide can help to reducethe amount of breakouts on the skin, reducing redness and inflammation to reveal an overall brighter, clearer looking complexion.
Anti-Ageing
Niacinamide is also a key ingredient that contributes to the overall improvement of the skin’s appearance, shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as stimulate collagen production in the skin. In the same way that Vitamin B3 in our diets is crucial for healthy cell function and the production of essential lipids, Niacinamide used topically has been shown to have multiple benefits for reducing the signs of ageing; increasing collagen production, maintaining a healthy skin barrier and improving the skin’s elasticity to give it a more youthful appearance.
Improved Barrier Function
As well as balancing sebum production and tackling the signs of aging in the skin, Niacinamide notably helps to repair the skin and protect it against oxidative stress and reducing the risk of further damage. Niacinamide stimulates enzymes in the skin, that work as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from oxidative damage. As we age, the presence of these enzymes in the skin is reduced, which weakens the effect of the barrier function. Regular use of Niacinamide helps to maintain the barrier function, which in turn helps to reduce the risk of the skin becoming sensitised or irritated whilst maintaining moisture within the skin for a plumped, glowing complexion.
How Can Niacinamide Help Tackle Pigmentation?
Amongst the other benefits, Niacinamide is a gentle, yet effective ingredient known to reduce hyperpigmentation in the skin. Niacinamide disrupts the enzymes that are responsible for producing melanin, responsible for creating dark spots on the skin as the result of damaging UV exposure. By inhibiting this production of melanin, Niacinamide helps to reduce the appearance of pigmentation whilst preventing the risk of further damage.