Pharmacist
"Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) strengthens the skin barrier, prevents moisture loss, reduces the appearance of pores, and regulates sebum balance, contributing to a smoother, brighter, and more even-toned complexion. With regular use, it soothes the skin, reduces the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes, and promotes a healthier skin appearance."
Title:
| WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE AND WHAT DOES IT DO?
| WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NIACINAMIDE?
| HOW AND WHEN TO USE NIACINAMIDE?
| WHICH SKIN TYPES IS NIACINAMIDE SUITABLE FOR?
| WHAT IS THE IDEAL STARTING RATE FOR NIACINAMIDE SERUM?
| IS NIACINAMIDE GOOD FOR ACNE?
| DOES NIACINAMIDE EVEN SKIN TONE?
| DOES NIACINAMIDE REDUCE PORES?
| CAN NIACINAMIDE BE USED DURING PREGNANCY?
| CAN NIACINAMIDE AND VITAMIN C BE USED TOGETHER?
| CAN NIACINAMIDE BE USED WITH RETINOL?
| WHICH SKINCARE INGREDIENTS CAN BE COMBINED WITH NIACINAMIDE?
| WHAT SHOULD WE LOOK FOR WHEN PURCHASING A PRODUCT CONTAINING NIACINAMIDE?
| ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS OF NIACINAMIDE?
WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE AND WHAT DOES IT DO?
Niacinamide, frequently found in skincare products, is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3 and an antioxidant. It has significant effects on skin health. Chemically known as nicotinamide, it strengthens the skin barrier, hydrates, balances sebum (oil) production, reduces inflammation, prevents hyperpigmentation, and has anti-aging properties.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NIACINAMIDE?
Balances sebum in the skin, supports the prevention of acne formation. Improves the appearance of skin texture; reduces the appearance of pores. Fights age-related changes by stimulating collagen, keratin, filaggrin synthesis; reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Inhibits melanosome transfer, lightens skin blemishes and improves uneven skin tone. It enhances the barrier functions of the outermost layer of the skin by promoting the production of ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol. This helps maintain the skin's moisture balance and prevents water loss. Additionally, it reduces inflammation, alleviating redness and sensitivity. It also safeguards the skin from environmental damage by reducing oxidative stress. Furthermore, it helps relieve symptoms associated with skin conditions such as rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis, contributing to a healthy, balanced, and vibrant complexion.
HOW AND WHEN TO USE NIACINAMIDE?
Serums containing niacinamide are usually applied to cleansed, dry skin in the morning and/or evening. A moisturizer is applied on top. Niacinamide should be used with sunscreen in the morning routine. While sunscreen protects your skin directly from UV rays, niacinamide, which has an antioxidant effect, protects the skin by neutralizing free radicals caused by the harmful UV rays of the sun. Morning use helps to balance the excess oiliness on the skin during the day. Evening use supports the repair process of the skin barrier.
WHICH SKIN TYPES IS NIACINAMIDE SUITABLE FOR?
It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, dry, oily and acne-prone skin. Sensitive skin can start using niacinamide with low concentration products.
WHAT IS THE IDEAL STARTING RATE FOR NIACINAMIDE SERUM?
A ratio between 2-5% is recommended for a starting level. The higher the percentage of niacinamide, the higher the effect, but higher is not always better. For sensitive skin, high concentrations can cause sensitization. Ratios above 5% can be drying for the skin. Dry, atopic, mature skin may prefer products with 2-5% concentration; oily skin, blemishes and acne may prefer products with 4-10% niacinamide.
IS NIACINAMIDE GOOD FOR ACNE?
Yes, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties and helps prevent acne breakouts by also reducing the excess oiliness of the skin that can cause acne. It also soothes the redness and sensitivity of acne with its anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show that products containing 2-5% niacinamide can be as effective as benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of mild to moderate acne. Good complementary actives such as salicylic acid, zinc, centella can be sought in the ingredient list of a niacinamide product to be preferred for acne.
DOES NIACINAMIDE EVEN SKIN TONE?
Yes, niacinamide helps reduce blemishes and skin tone inequalities by regulating melanin transfer in the skin with regular use. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces redness and contributes to a more even skin tone. It is effective on sun spots, post-acne scars, dark spots caused by hormonal changes. In clinical studies, significant equalization of skin tone and reduction in the appearance of blemishes were observed with regular use of niacinamide for 4-12 weeks. The use of niacinamide in combination with other ingredients that suppress tyrosinase activity and regulate melanin formation (e.g. arbutin) may also increase the effectiveness on blemishes.
DOES NIACINAMIDE REDUCE PORES?
With regular use, niacinamide makes pores appear less visible by balancing oil production and strengthening the skin barrier. By regulating oil production, it prevents clogged pores and provides a tighter appearance. However, it is important to remember that pore size is determined by genetics and cannot be completely eliminated.
CAN NIACINAMIDE BE USED DURING PREGNANCY?
Yes, niacinamide is safe to use during pregnancy. It is recommended to perform a patch test before use to observe any skin reactions. If you have concerns about your skin, consult a doctor.
CAN NIACINAMIDE AND VITAMIN C BE USED TOGETHER?
When formulated with a balanced pH, these ingredients can be used together. The combination enhances antioxidant effects, evens out skin tone, and tightens pores.
CAN NIACINAMIDE BE USED WITH RETINOL?
Yes, niacinamide and retinol (Vitamin A) can be used together. Retinol accelerates cell turnover, helping to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, and improve skin texture. However, retinol can cause dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. Niacinamide helps reduce these side effects by soothing the skin, making it easier for the skin to adapt to retinol.
WHICH SKINCARE INGREDIENTS CAN BE COMBINED WITH NIACINAMIDE?
Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that can be safely used with many active ingredients. Its effects can be enhanced when combined with the following ingredients:
- Hyaluronic acid, when combined with niacinamide, strengthens the skin barrier and provides deep hydration.
- Peptides repair the skin, and support collagen production. With niacinamide, it creates an effective combination against signs of aging.
- Although it was previously thought that the combination of Vitamin C and niacinamide ingredients may cause irritation, new research shows that their antioxidant effects are strengthened when used together with appropriate formulations.
- While retinol promotes skin regeneration, niacinamide may improve skin tolerance by reducing the irritation that retinol can cause. This combination is highly effective in reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines.
- BHA and AHA (salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid): niacinamide's calming and barrier-strengthening properties protect the skin from irritation while promoting skin regeneration through exfoliation.
WHAT SHOULD WE LOOK FOR WHEN PURCHASING A PRODUCT CONTAINING NIACINAMIDE?
When choosing skincare products, it’s important to select brands known for their quality. Products made with low-quality raw materials can lead to skin irritation. The choice of niacinamide products should be tailored to your specific skin type, needs, and sensitivity. For those with sensitive and dry skin, it is recommended to use niacinamide products with a concentration of 2-5%. On the other hand, if you have oily, acne-prone, or blemished skin, consider products that contain niacinamide at a concentration of 4-10%. Additionally, individuals with sensitive skin should avoid products that contain potential irritants such as alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils. By selecting the right niacinamide product, you can take advantage of its beneficial effects and achieve healthier, more beautiful skin.
ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS OF NIACINAMIDE?
Niacinamide is a generally well-tolerated ingredient that works well with almost all skin types. However, a patch test on a small area is recommended before starting a new product. Niacinamide may cause hyperemia (redness and itching), mild irritation, or dryness in some cases. Skin hyperemia may occur as a result of the use of poor quality, poorly purified niacinamide in the product. A product containing niacinamide in an inappropriate ratio for the skin may cause sensitization or irritation. Products containing high levels of niacinamide that are not formulated with moisturizing ingredients may cause further drying of dry, atopic skin.
Care should be taken to ensure that the niacinamide product selected is of good quality, contains niacinamide in the appropriate ratio for the person's skin and is formulated with appropriate complementary ingredients. If a skin reaction occurs when used, stop using the product and consult a doctor.
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3.Wohlrab J and Kreft D, Niacinamide - mechanisms of action and its topical use in dermatology. (2014).
4.Forbat E, Al-Niaimi F, and Ali FR, Use of nicotinamide in dermatology. (2017).
