Niacinamide isn’t a new ingredient, but it certainly is a powerful one. A remedy for pretty much any kind of skin concern, this versatile ingredient can be found in serums, toners cleansers, moisturisers, sunscreens and more and is suitable for all skin types. Ever-growing in popularity, this gentle ingredient has captured the long-term attention of skin experts and enthusiasts and has become a staple in people’s skincare routine because it can easily be used alongside any other skincare products.
Read on to discover more about this skincare superhero and the benefits of adding it to your skincare routine.
WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE?
Also known as vitamin B3 and nicotinamide, niacinamide is a water-soluble vitamin that helps the skin produce more ceramides, ingredients that are essential for maintaining a strong and healthy skin barrier. As we age, our ceramide production reduces which causes the skin barrier to become weak and vulnerable which can lead to a range of problems.
WHAT DOES IT DO FOR THE SKIN?
Niacinamide is the epitome of a multipurpose skincare ingredient because it provides the skin with endless benefits. As well as bolstering the skin barrier function and improving its resilience, niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory and calming properties make it the perfect treatment for skin conditions such as eczema and acne. Research shows that it protects the skin from environmental stressors and sun damage, improves hydration levels, balances the skin’s natural oil levels, encourages cell renewal and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps to improve hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone, as well as shrinking enlarged pores and reducing blackheads.
WHEN SHOULD YOU USE IT?
Every skin type can benefit from using niacinamide and it is suitable to use in your morning and evening skincare routine. Look for products that contain a 4 to 5 percent concentration of niacinamide to make sure your skin is getting enough of it. If you choose to use a niacinamide serum, we suggest applying it after cleansing and before your moisturiser so it can effectively penetrate the skin.
IS IT SAFE TO USE WITH VITAMIN C?
Both niacinamide and vitamin C are used to address hyperpigmentation and in the past, there has been some debate about whether the two ingredients can be used alongside each other. Research shows that there’s no reason that these two ingredients can’t be used simultaneously. If you do have sensitive skin, it is advised that you stick to using niacinamide instead of vitamin C as vitamin C has been known to cause mild irritation.
A SIMPLE WAY TO ADD IT TO YOUR ROUTINE
If you’re a skincare minimalist but want to start using niacinamide, using a sheet mask that features this powerful multitasking ingredient will allow you to reap the rewards. Our Instant Rescue Purifying Mask features a powerful combination of niacinamide and allantoin which work together to gently calm and soothe sensitive and irritated skin in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect solution for people dealing with acne or problem skin. This mask also reduces inflammation and encourages cell regeneration to leave you with an instantly calmer and revitalised complexion.