Niacinamide for Skincare: Its Benefit and How to Use It

Key takeaways:

• Niacinamide is great for oily skin as it helps to reduce sebum production. 
• Niacinamide can be combined with other ingredients but should be cautiously used with Vitamin C.
• Oral niacinamide supplements are safe to use but must be prescribed by a doctor.

Niacinamide (pronounced “NYE-a-sin-a-mide”) is a form of vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin needed for cell growth and function. This versatile ingredient is commonly found in many skincare products, and you can even find it in some products on its own.

Niacinamide is considered one of the holy grails of skincare—and for good reasons. Read on to find out the various benefits of niacinamide, how to layer this product, and what to look for when purchasing niacinamide. 

Niacin vs. niacinamide: Are they the same?

You may also have encountered the compound niacin. Although it sounds like a sibling to niacinamide, they do not mean the same thing or have the same function.

Niacin and Niacinamide are forms of vitamin B3 and are great for the skin. However, niacinamide is often preferred for topical use due to its gentler profile. Unlike niacin, which can cause flushing, itching, and headaches, niacinamide is generally well-tolerated.

It is important to note that tolerance is dependent on skin type and sensitivity. You can talk to a dermatologist to know which will be best for your skin.

In addition, aside from skincare, niacin may also be prescribed to treat high cholesterol and heart disease; however, niacinamide is mostly used to treat skin conditions.

Benefits of niacinamide

Niacinamide’s benefits extend far beyond just blemish reduction. Here are some of niacinamide’s bevy of benefits:

• Slows the progression of diabetes: Some studies have found that oral niacinamide supplements may help slow down the progression of type 1 diabetes.
• Retains skin moisture: Niacinamide also has hydrating properties on the skin. Studies have found that this compound can help reduce transepidermal water loss, thereby retaining moisture on the skin.
• Reduces excess melanin production: Niacinamide can help reduce hyperpigmentation, which is caused by an excess production of melanin in certain areas of the skin. It fades dark spots and age spots, resulting in even-toned skin and a brighter complexion.
• Soothes irritation: It has anti-inflammatory effects on irritated skin and lessens inflammation brought on by conditions like acne and rosacea.
• Stimulates collagen production: It boosts the production of collagen, which helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Reduces signs of aging: An increase in collagen production equates to more elastic skin, which makes the skin look firmer and more youthful.
• Reduces pore size: While more research is needed, niacinamide appears to shrink pore size and control excess sebum production, which makes it a promising ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin.
• Prevents pellagra: Pellagra is caused by a deficiency of niacin, and oral niacinamide can be used in its treatment and prevention.

What to look out for when purchasing niacinamide products

These are some of the things to look out for before purchasing any niacinamide product:

• Concentration: This is usually the first thing you’d see on the body of the product. Most effective niacinamide products are usually within the range of 2% to 10%. Any product containing higher concentrations might sting and irritate the skin. However, a dermatologist might recommend concentrations up to 20% for more advanced skin conditions. 
• Ingredients: It is important to look out for complementary ingredients that enhance its efficacy. For instance, zinc is an active ingredient in the popular niacinamide serum from “The Ordinary.” Some complementary ingredients to look out for are hyaluronic acid, retinol, and ceramides.
• Product type: Although niacinamide is more popular in serums, you might want to consider a product type that would effectively fit into your routine. Appropriate concentrations of niacinamide can be found in body and face washes, toners, moisturizers, and supplements.
• Skin type compatibility: A more water-based and lightweight formulation would be best for oily and acne-prone skin, while oil-based and more hydrating formulas would be better for dry skin.
• Clinical testing and brand reputation: Opt for products that have been clinically tested and dermatologically approved for specific skin types. Also, don’t ignore reviews from those who have used them. If the brand seems shady, that’s your cue to look elsewhere. 
• Allergens: While you check the ingredients for the concentrations of the ingredients, make sure to look out for ingredients you might be sensitive to and steer clear.

How to include niacinamide  in your skincare routine

Including niacinamide in your skincare routine is easy, as it pairs well with many ingredients. However, layering it with vitamin C might reduce the efficacy of the products.

This is because vitamin C is most effective at lower skin pH (2–3.5) and tends to be unstable, whereas niacinamide performs best at a higher or neutral pH (5-7). 

Since they do not work maximally at the same or close-ranged pH, pairing them would destabilize their effectiveness. Hence, applying these two products a few minutes apart is recommended, or better yet, use one during your AM or PM routine.

Niacinamide can be found in cleansers, serums, moisturizers, eye creams and body care products. So, pick the formulation that fits your skincare routine and use it at the appropriate step.

Food sources of niacinamide

Beauty that works effectively is from the inside out, which is why gym trainers would advise you to focus more on your diet. Your diet plays a huge role in transforming your body, including your skin, into what you want it to be. 

Some food sources of niacinamide are meat and poultry, fish, dairy products, grains and cereals, legumes, nuts and seeds, vegetables, and fruits.

If you’re lactose intolerant and/or a vegan, make sure to look into the best options for you.

Products that contain niacinamide

Here is a list of popular skincare products containing niacinamide:

• The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% and 1% Zinc.
• Balance Active Formula Niacinamide Blemish Recovery Serum. 
• Paula’s Choice Clinical Niacinamide 20% Treatment.
• The Inkey List Niacinamide.
• CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser. 
• Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner.
• Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser. 
• Eucerin Advanced Repair Cream
• Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier SPF 45