How & Why Niacinamide Is The Secret Superhero In Skin Care?

NIACINAMIDE.

If you are anywhere near the skincare or cosmetic industry, you might have heard of this ingredient. 

Dermatologists from all over the world sing praises of niacinamide and how fabulous it is. This superhero ingredient has gotten seals of approval for concerns ranging from skin brightening to clearing the skin to even reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Most of TikTok and Instagram reels also went crazy when talking of niacinamide, and all in good reason since it is one of the best and most versatile ingredients in the skincare industry. 

Got curious? Let’s go through a comprehensive guide to niacinamide.

Let’s start with the basics of niacinamide.

WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, an essential nutrient. This nutrient is not produced by the body’s natural process which is why we have to receive it from external sources. Consequently, it has become a part of many skin care products for its proven effectiveness. In order to reap the benefits of niacinamide, it is necessary to either take supplements or apply the same topically. It can be used either in the morning or at night without having any adverse reactions. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
In short, niacinamide is extremely restorative to the skin. 

  • Skin restoration: it aids in the restoration of cellular energy, prevents the harmful effects of UV rays, and repairs damaged DNA. It also helps rebuild keratin, a protein that keeps the skin healthy and firm.

  • Keeps it youthful: it can combat both external and internal stress factors that result in the deterioration or breakdown of the skin which results in fine lines and wrinkles.

  • Maintenance of lipid barrier: niacinamide helps in the growth of the skin’s lipid barrier resulting in the retention of moisture inside the skin. This is of benefit for all skin types since the skin requires hydration to stay healthy. 

  • Reduces the appearance of enlarged pores: it has a normalizing effect on the pore linings which in turn influences the oil and debris build-up. Oil and debris build-up can cause clogged pores and acne, niacinamide aids in minimizing the pores, thereby preventing it.  
  • Skin brightening: discoloration and uneven skin tone are problems that arise due to melanin in excess quantities. Niacinamide helps in keeping these discolorations in check. Continued use over time can also reduce existing skin color inconsistencies.

  • Provides better hydration: topical application of niacinamide is very effective in maintaining the hydration of the skin and boosting hydrating capabilities of moisturizers.

  • Minimizes inflammation: niacinamide is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help ease redness due to various inflammatory skin conditions. 

  • Regulation of oil production: it has shown to have a regulatory effect on the production of oil from sebaceous glands and prevent them from going into overdrive mode.

  • Prevents oxidative stress: it helps build new skin cells while simultaneously protecting them from various external stress factors.

  • Helps treat acne: as aforementioned, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne especially inflammatory forms such as pustules or papules. Over time, there may be reduction of visible signs such as lesions and overall improvement in the texture of the skin.

    • HOW TO USE IT?
    Finding products having niacinamide is easy in this process:

    1. Cleansers
    2. Toners
    3. Exfoliants
    4. Serums, treatments, moisturizers (even those containing niacinamide) in order of thinnest to thickest texture
    5. During the day, complete your skincare regimen with the help of SPF 

    As easy as it may be to find products that contain niacinamide, it isn’t the only skingredient required to make your skin look and feel good. It is best paired with other ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid amongst more. It is mostly compatible with other active ingredients to ensure your skin looks its best. 

    HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GIVE RESULTS?
    Niacinamide ideally takes at least 2 to 4 weeks to show results, if it is being used twice a day with devotion. It is recommended to keep using it to see a consistent result. Results may keep improving as time goes on, but do not expect your skin to be poreless, that is not possible despite any product you may put to use. A realistic expectation would be that your pores begin to look smaller, your skin tone becomes even, visible reduction of wrinkles and fine lines, and an overall healthy glow on the skin. 

    WHAT ARE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS?
    Like any other product, niacinamide is not a 100% safe and effective. Every ingredient, when used in excess, has the potential to bring out probable side effects. 

    Niacinamide in high concentrations has the capability of issuing a histamine release. This can cause the skin to get irritated or if your skin is very sensitive, it may cause dermatitis. It is best practice to perform a patch test to ensure your skin reacts to it correctly.

    CONCLUSION
    Wrapping up, niacinamide can have many positive effects on the skin when used daily in the correct manner. This particular ingredient can target and tackle various skin concerns. It may take a few weeks to see visible improvement, so maintain your patience and stay devoted your daily skincare routine to get best results. 

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