Take deep dive into Niacinamide’s skin benefits

Niacinamide is the hero ingredient skin-thusiasts are adding to their ever-growing skin care selections. Boasting an array of beautifying properties, niacinamide has grown a loyal global fanbase, and the biggest names in beauty are crafting new, enticing formulas with this skin saviour. With this in mind, it can be difficult to decode Niacinamide’s skin benefits and decide which products belong in your shelfie. That’s where we come in!

We’re here to break down the basics and benefits of niacinamide and its wonderful skin-saving properties so you can reap the rewards.

Firstly, what is it?

Niacinamide, or nicotinamide for the chemistry buffs among us, is actually a form of vitamin B3, which is an essential nutrient for our bodies. We don’t produce it naturally, but this uber-cool chemical (niacin) can be found in a bunch of different foods like meat, fish and veggies. The niacinamide that's used in skin care products usually comes from a lab where scientists work their magic to create a high-quality, purified version of the vitamin. So, whether you're chowing down on some tasty tuna or slathering on some niacinamide serum, you can rest assured that this little vitamin is doing big things for your skin.

What does niacinamide do for your skin?

When it comes to our complexions, niacinamide’s skin benefits know no bounds! It's been shown to help reduce the appearance of fine lines, brighten dull skin and even out skin tone. Plus, it's super gentle, making it safe for use on even the most sensitive skin types. So, if you're looking for a friendly little helper to add to your skin care routine, niacinamide might just be your new best friend!

Thought we were done? The benefits don’t stop there…

Pollution protection

Niacinamide displays antioxidant properties and can help protect your skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. This means that it can help prevent signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. Plus, it can help even out your skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Oil and sebum-be-gone!

Are you tired of dealing with excess shine and breakouts? Well, have no fear because niacinamide is here to save the day! This superstar ingredient is especially beneficial for those with oily skin because it can help regulate sebum production. Sebum is the oily substance that our skin naturally produces, but when it's produced in excess, it can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Niacinamide helps to balance out sebum production, which means less shine and fewer pimples.

Fight acne and reduce redness

In addition to all of this, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and irritation. So, if you struggle with acne, rosacea, or any other skin condition that causes inflammation, niacinamide may be just what you need to calm things down.

Save your skin barrier

But wait, there's more! Niacinamide is also known for its ability to strengthen the skin's barrier, which is important because a strong barrier can help prevent moisture loss and keep your skin hydrated. This can be especially beneficial if you have dry or sensitive skin.

It's clear to see that niacinamide’s benefits span far and wide! Whether your skin is congested, dehydrated, acne-prone or dull, this could be the solution you need to help solve your skin woes for good (we hope!).

The bountiful benefits of niacinamide serums, moisturisers and creams

There are tons of wonderful ways you can incorporate this powerhouse into your skin care routine. Whether you want a stripped-back, potent niacinamide formula or a cocktail of skin-loving ingredients, there’s a solution out there for you.

Niacinamide serums

Niacinamide serums are a popular choice for those looking to incorporate this ingredient into their routine. Serums are lightweight and easily absorbed, making them a great choice for all skin types. Niacinamide serums can help even out skin tone, reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation and regulate sebum production.

Zelens Power B Revitalising and Clarifying 10ml

46.33€

Allies of Skin Prebiotics and Niacinamide Pore Refining Booster 50ml

80.00€

31.64€

11.20€

Dr. Barbara Sturm The Better B Niacinamide Serum 30ml

140.00€

Niacinamide moisturisers

Niacinamide moisturisers are a great choice for those with dry or dehydrated skin. This hero ingredient can help strengthen the skin's barrier, preventing moisture loss and boosting hydration for a fuller and plumper complexion. Niacinamide moisturisers can also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Dr.Jart+ Vital Hydra Solution Biome Water Cream 50ml

33.90€

Youth To The People Polypeptide 121 Future Cream 59ml

65.54€

Then I Met You Calming Tide Gel Cream 50ml

47.10€

The Nue Co. Barrier Culture Moisturiser 50ml

51.90€

Dr Dennis Gross Skincare B3Adaptive Superfoods Stress Repair Face Cream 60ml

84.70€

Niacinamide cleansers

Niacinamide cleansers are a newer addition to the skincare game, but they're already gaining popularity. Cleansers with niacinamide can help regulate sebum production and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Plus, they can help improve the overall texture and tone of your skin.

CeraVe Blemish Control Face Cleanser with 2% Salicylic Acid & Niacinamide for Blemish-Prone Skin 236ml

14.60€

Augustinus Bader The Foaming Cleanser 100ml

74.00€

Kate Somerville Eradikate Clarifying Blemish Gel Cleanser

42.90€

La Roche-Posay Effaclar H Cleansing Cream for Sensitive Blemish-Prone Skin 390ml

25.90€

Niacinamide toners

Niacinamide toners are a great choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Toners can help balance out sebum production and reduce inflammation, which can help prevent breakouts. Plus, they can help improve the overall texture of your skin.

INNISFREE Dewy Glow Toner with Jeju Cherry Blossom 200ml

19.21€

good light Moon Glow Milky Toning Lotion

23.70€

44.00€

66.60€

Shani Darden Skin Care Sake Toning Essence

57.00€

We answer your niacinamide FAQs

Still stuck on what to do with niacinamide? We’ve answered some of the most common queries on this skin-loving vitamin.

How long does it take for niacinamide to work?

As with any skin care solution, results can vary from individual to individual. Experts suggest that you should be able to see niacinamides’ wonders work after a few weeks of daily use, but it’s best to continue using your products for several months to fully reap the rewards.

How often should you use niacinamide?

To take advantage of all the lovely benefits of niacinamide, it’s best to use it morning and night as part of your daily skin care routine. This could be in the form of a serum, cream, toner or powder - whichever tickles your fancy!

How should you apply niacinamide?

If you’re using a niacinamide serum, apply a thin layer to a freshly-cleansed and toned face. On the other hand, niacinamide toners can be used straight after cleansing and creams can be used after slathering your serums on. Avoid using niacinamide products with vitamin C though, as this can render both ingredients useless!

Check out our guide to layering skin care for the real tea on how to expertly apply your skin care products.

Can you use niacinamide and hyaluronic acid together?

Yes! If your skin is gasping for moisture, apply hyaluronic acid before your niacinamide products for the ultimate hydration boost. Hyaluronic acid acts like a magnet for moisture and niacinamide helps to repair the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss. A duo better than Batman and Robin!

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Cult Beauty Writer and expert

We take a deep dive into Niacinamide’s skin benefits

Firstly, what is it?