Why Niacinamide is one of the most in demand ingredients of 2023.
meet Niacinamide: The Skincare Superstar
If you're a skincare enthusiast, then you've probably heard of Niacinamide. This multi-beneficial ingredient has been making waves in the beauty industry for the past few years and for a good reason, yet its recent 2023 boom is due to it being in spotlight again with TikTok skinfluencers raving about how it’s “literally transformed” their skin’s complexion.
"Instagram and TikTok have given skin-care experts — dermatologists, cosmetic chemists, etcetera — and skin-care brands a platform to educate consumers about lesser-known but powerful ingredients used in products," cosmetic chemist Shuting Hu shares.
From reducing hyperpigmentation to improving skin texture, niacinamide is a game-changer in the world of skincare - let’s see exactly why…
So what is Niacinamide, and why is it so popular?
Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a water-soluble form of vitamin B3 that can be found in foods like meat, fish, and grains and has actually been quite well known and used for decades to treat various skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and eczema.
MeetGlimpse shows us that interest in Niacinamide grew 21% over the past year, compared to the year before, putting it at a current volume of 390K searches per month and holds the Top 5 Most Searched skincare ingredients of 2022 and still standing.
One of the reasons Niacinamide is becoming a skincare lover's staple at home is because of its gentle effect on the most sensitive of skin types. "As we understand the importance of being gentle to our skin and supporting our skin barrier, niacinamide has become more popular as it provides a great option on its own to help target skin-care concerns, such as discolouration and redness while being gentle on the skin," explains New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, M.D. It's a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin or rosacea.
“Niacinamide is an amazing ingredient that strengthens the skin's barrier, restores moisture, reduces pore size, and brightens. It also works well with most other active ingredients, making it a great addition to any product.” - Jeni Montoya, Heyday Skincare Educator
where science meets incredible benefits
Niacinamide has been extensively studied for its many benefits to the skin. Its main findings showed that this ingredient is incredible at improving the function of the skin barrier, which is the outermost layer of the skin.
It also:
Reduces Hyperpigmentation: Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that can be caused by a variety of factors. Niacinamide has been shown to reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone by inhibiting the transfer of pigment to the skin cells.
Improves Skin Texture: Niacinamide can help to improve the texture of the skin by increasing the production of ceramides. Ceramides are a type of lipid that plays a crucial role in the skin barrier function. By improving the skin barrier, niacinamide can help to prevent moisture loss and keep the skin looking hydrated and healthy.
Reduces Inflammation: Inflammation in the skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including acne and rosacea. Niacinamide has been shown to reduce inflammation in the skin, which can help to alleviate these conditions and improve overall skin health.
Minimises the Appearance of Pores: Niacinamide has been shown to regulate the production of sebum, which is the oil that our skin produces. By reducing sebum production, niacinamide can help to minimise the appearance of pores and prevent breakouts.
Protects Against Environmental Stressors: Niacinamide is a powerful antioxidant, which means it can help to protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation. This can help to prevent premature ageing and keep the skin looking youthful and healthy.
Stimulates Collagen Production: Collagen is a protein that plays a crucial role in the structure of the skin. As we age, our natural collagen production decreases, which can lead to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Niacinamide has been shown to stimulate collagen production in the skin, which can help to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What you need to know before buying your first niACINAMIDE product…
When looking to buy your new niacinamide product, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
Make sure the product is at LEAST 2-5% niacinamide: Studies have shown positive outcomes from concentrations as low as 2-5%. Higher amounts up to 20% may be helpful for more significant textural or other skin issues, so best to stay around 2-10% at most.
High in humectants: Water-attracting ingredients (such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and aloe) are other ingredients that niacinamide serums work very well with, as they further increase the moisture in your skin.
Stay away from silicone: Some products use silcone to give the illusion that your skin is smooth and moisturised, when actually it simply forms a film on the surface of your skin. This not only adds uncecesary layering but can also trap debris that cause acne under this layer.
Low in fragrance: As always with ANY products, try and avoid synthetic fragrance and essential oils as they are a common cause of skin irritation.
How to add niacinamide into your daily skincare routine:
Niacinamide can be used in a variety of ways, depending on your skincare needs. If you're new to niacinamide, we recommend starting with a low concentration product and gradually increasing the concentration as your skin gets used to it.
The most common way to use niacinamide is by applying it as a serum or moisturiser that contains the ingredient, but it can also be found in toners, cleansers, and masks.
A basic skincare routine usually follows these order of steps: Cleanser, then Toner, Serums, Moisturiser, Sunscreen, and finish with Makeup on top if you wear it.
If you buy it in moisturiser form: Use a moisturiser infused with Niacinamide at the same step in your skincare routine you would use your current moisturiser. Ideally, this would be 2 times a day and always after cleansing, exfoliating, or applying serums.
If you buy it in serum form: A Niacinamide serum involves a slightly different routine. You would use your serum straight after your step 1 cleansing, and while your skin is still damp. Once absorbed, apply a moisturiser immediately afterward to seal in all that hydration.
niacinamide Products We love
The Inkey List - Niacinamide Serum
The Inkey List Niacinamide Serum is an affordable 10% niacinamide product that has naturally occurring B3 vitamin helps to effectively reduce excess oil, blemishes and redness. It’s moisturising enough to completely replace your usual hydration serum because of its added squalane oil and 1% hyaluronic acid for extra plump. It has no fragrances or silicones and is great at keeping excess oil in check for any oily skin type concerns.
2. Paula’s Choice - 10% Niacinamide Booster
Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster is another great 10% niacinamide serum and their best seller. This ultra-light formula is packed full of other delicious extra ingredients like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, liquorice extract and provitamin B5, perfect for any multi-taskers out there. It is also fragrance, oil and silicone free.
3. alpyn beauty - WILD NETTLE & NIACINAMIDE FIRMING SERUM
This multi-awarding winning product combines a silky-smooth on the skin blend of Vitamin C, Wild Nettle, Niacinamide, Rambutan (a plant-based Retinol alternative) and Niacinamide. A serum for visibly smooth, plump and moisturising to all skin types (even sensitive).
The Bottom Line
It’s a no brainer isnt it? Get yourself a Niacinamide, the skincare superstar that can provide a wide range of benefits for your skin. From reducing hyperpigmentation to improving skin texture, it’s a versatile ingredient that can help to address a variety of skin concerns. If you're looking to incorporate niacinamide into your skincare routine, we recommend starting with a low concentration product and gradually increasing the concentration as your skin gets used to it. With regular use, niacinamide can help to keep your skin looking healthy, youthful, and radiant.
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