The ‘B’ of the ABCs of skincare, niacinamide or vitamin B3 is one of the skincare essentials. Non-irritating and with a myriad of benefits, almost everyone could be using it. Here’s why.
What is it, and what does it do?
Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, and is a powerful antioxidant. It helps to improve skin barrier function and skin hydration and reduces inflammation, so is great for those with dry and sensitive skin. It reduces oil production and may reduce pore size. It increases collagen production, and helps to protect the skin against UV damage. It also helps reduce the irritation which can occur from using topical retinoids.
Why should I use it?
Niacinamide is very well tolerated by most skin types and has numerous benefits. Because it helps improve the skin barrier and is anti-inflammatory, it’s useful if you have sensitive skin and/or rosacea. It helps reduce oil production and pore size so is useful for those with oily, acne-prone skin. It helps even out skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation. It also helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and protects the skin from UV damage, so is a good anti-ageing tool as well. It’s safe to use in pregnancy.
How should I use it?
Niacinamide can be applied once or twice daily, before moisturiser and sunscreen. It’s available in different formulations including serums and creams either alone or in combination with other ingredients, and some moisturisers and sunscreens contain it as an added ingredient. It works well with most other ingredients. Niacinamide has the added benefit of reducing irritation which can occur when using a topical retinoid. You could look for a product which contains both a retinoid and niacinamide, or apply niacinamide before you apply your retinoid.
