Why Niacinamide Should Be Your New Favourite Skincare Ingredient
In 2023 we’re all about the ingredients list on our products, and an ingredient we’ve all been seeing a lot in the skincare world lately is niacinamide. It is important to know what’s in your skincare and which active ingredients can help you reach your skincare goals. To help you understand this emerging ingredient and whether its right for you, we’re here to breakdown what niacinamide actually is, its benefits, and how it works to give you beautiful glowing skin...
What is niacinamide?
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 that is water-soluble and plays an essential role in many biological processes in the body. It is an important nutrient required for the proper function of the nervous system, metabolism, and energy production. It has been used for years as a dietary supplement to support skin, joint, and digestive health. Recently however, niacinamide has gained popularity in the skincare world for its numerous benefits when applied topically.
What are the benefits of niacinamide?
So, what are the perks of niacinamide? Why has it become so popular in recent years? Well, this special ingredient can bring so many benefits to your skin to help you glow with youth and radiance...
Improves skin barrier function
A significant benefit of niacinamide is that it can improve the function of the skin’s moisture barrier, which is vital as the skin barrier acts as the body’s first line of defence against toxins and free radicals, helps the skin to retain moisture to keep it looking smooth and youthful, and aids in anti-ageing by protecting the skin from damage and dehydration. Niacinamide nourishes the skin barrier by boosting ceramide production, reducing trans epidermal water loss and strengthening the skins natural defences against environmental pollutants and UV radiation.
Reduces inflammation
A further benefit of niacinamide is that it has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness, acne, and irritation in our skin. This is because niacinamide inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the skin, which are the molecules that trigger inflammation in the skin. Niacinamide also reduces oxidative stress and suppresses the activation of immune cells, both of which can exacerbate skin inflammation. Moreover, niacinamide can help to regulate sebum production which can cause inflammation in the skin in the forms of clogged pores and acne.
Reduces hyperpigmentation
Another great strength of niacinamide is that it can reduce hyperpigmentation caused by age, the sun, or acne scarring by inhibiting the transfer and production of melanin. This can help to even skin tone and give the appearance of smoother and more clear skin.
Improves skin texture
Niacinamide is a great option for those of us who are wanting to improve our skin texture. This is because niacinamide can act as an exfoliant by increasing cell turnover. It aids in shedding dead skin cells and replacing them with healthy new ones, to reveal a more radiant complexion.
Minimises fine lines and wrinkles
Niacinamide is an excellent option for those of us who are starting to notice signs of ageing or have even been experiencing them for a while. This is because niacinamide can help to boost collagen production in the skin, improving skin elasticity and plumpness.
Who can use niacinamide?
It is likely that one of the reasons that niacinamide has become such a skincare staple is because it is suitable for almost everyone. It can be used by people of all ages and skin types, including those with sensitive skin, making it a great entry or alternative to retinol use. Provided it is patch tested and you consult with your dermatologist before use, niacinamide use usually gets a green light!
How can I experience the benefits of niacinamide?
Niacinamide can be found in a variety of different skincare products such as our 8 in 1 Real Complexion Cream, leave on serums, moisturisers, toners and sunscreens. Niacinamide also comes in different concentrations, but products with a concentration of 5% or higher will provide the best results. You can also take niacinamide supplements to let it works its magic from the inside out.
Niacinamide’s effectiveness has been backed up by scientific research, which has helped to increase its credibility and popularity in the skincare community, so you can be sure that you are in fact nourishing your skin. Given the plethora of benefits it has, its safety profile, and the fact that it is a reliable ingredient, it is no wonder that niacinamide has become a staple in many skincare routines. If your skin is looking a bit blah and you’re wanting to give it some love, niacinamide might just be the secret ingredient your skin needs!
