Niacinamide is all over the market these days, beloved as an acne-clearing, skin-healing, moisture-barrier-renewing skincare ingredient. What exactly is niacinamide? It’s one of the two major forms of Vitamin B3. Many scientists believe it is a precursor to two biochemical cofactors, both central to the chemical reactions your skin needs to heal and repair itself. But, what does niacinamide actually do for your skin?
It helps with hyperpigmentation: Niacinamide has been shown to prevent the transfer of pigment within the skin, which overall helps to decrease current dark spots and prevent future spots from forming. It also helps to preserve hydration in the skin, restore the moisture barrier and help with the production of healthy fats, all which lead to creating a more healthy and even texture of the skin.
It’s good for anti-aging: Niacinamide is one of the best ingredients for helping to restore the skin. It helps to renew cellular energy, damaged DNA and reduce damage from the sun. It works to fight off both internal and external stressors from the environment that lead to fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps to make the pores of your skin appear smaller, helping to improve the overall texture of the skin and make it appear more youthful and radiant.
It’s helpful for treating and preventing acne: Niacinamide is known to be anti-inflammatory, which helps to soothe and repair the inflammation and swelling that goes along with acne breakouts. Niacinamide is also believed to work to inhibit the overproduction of oil, which often clogs pores and leads to acne. It also helps that niacinamide is considered to be a generally non-irritating ingredient, making it safe for those with rosacea and sensitive skin as well.
Niacinamide tends to work well with all other ingredients, but like anything in skincare, irritation is always possible, so be sure to pay attention to your skin, especially when you’re using it in conjunction with other irritating ingredients.
How can you add niacinamide into your skincare routine?
Niacinamide is often found in products used to hydrate and heal your skin, like serums and moisturizers. Below, we’ll line up some of the best products that feature niacinamide loved and approved by a dermatologist.
The Allies of Skin Multi Hyaluronic Antioxidant Hydration Serum is jam-packed with ingredients for hydrating and renewing your skin. It’s formulated with 3 forms of hyaluronic acid, multiple antioxidants, niacinamide, and other natural extracts to promote collagen production, strengthen the skin barrier, enhance hydration, and improve signs of aging.
The DefenAge 24/7 Barrier Balance Cream does just what’s in the name- it helps replenish and balance the skin’s natural barrier, along with improving the overall tone of the skin and helping it look more radiant. It contains hyaluronic acid, peptides, and niacinamide for brighter and firmer skin.
The PCA Skin ReBalance is a lightweight yet effective moisturizer that works to gently hydrate and balance the skin. It’s made with Vitamin E, antioxidants and niacinamide for optimal hydration while also restoring the skin and healing irritation. It’s also safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
The EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex strengthens the moisture barrier and works to visibly improve signs of damage and the overall appearance of the skin. A blend of ceramides plus niacinamide help to visibly minimize the appearance of aging and improve skin texture, while biotin and squalane help to replenish moisture in the skin.
The Senté Ultralight Defense Moisturizer provides antioxidant benefits while working to make the skin look and feel hydrated, smooth and soft. It contains a powerhouse blend of hydrating ingredients, like dimethicone, glycerin, and niacinamide, along with antioxidants and other natural botanicals.
This list just scrapes the surface of all of the great products out there that utilize niacinamide. Be sure to visit DermWarehouse to check out even more great skincare finds!
