Niacinamide
RATING: EXCELLENT
- CAS number: 98-92-0
- Origin(s): Plant, Animal, Synthetic
- INCI name: NIACINAMIDE
QUICK FACTS
- Also known as vitamin B3 and nicotinic acid
- Highly effective anti-ageing ingredient and rapidly diminish wrinkles and fine lines with concentrates of 4-5%
- Can help reduce the appearance of pigmentation to the skin caused by UV exposure and acne scarring
- Niacinamide is a humectant meaning it is able to lock in moisture and hydrate the skin
- Has been proven to improve many skin conditions, such as rosacea and dermatitis
WHO CAN USE NIACINAMIDE?
All skin types, hyper-sensitive and those with skin concerns still use with caution
WHAT IS NIACINAMIDE?
Niacinamide is a highly effective skin-restoring ingredient that has grown in popularity in recent years. You can expect to find it in a number of hydrating serum and moisturiser formulations with its humectant properties enabling it to lock-in moisture from the surrounding area. Signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles are nourished with a topical application of niacinamide as well as any dryness or dehydration to the face. With its antioxidant benefits niacinamide is also able to combat any damage caused by free radicals, such as exposure to UV rays, pollution and other environmental aggressors. The weakened skin surface is restored with the help of this rejuvenating ingredient helping the natural skin barrier to obtain the correct levels of water and oil allowing it to function keeping the complexion looking healthy and feeling hydrated.
SIDE EFFECTS OF NIACINAMIDE
There are many who have stressed concern about using niacinamide and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) together can cause skin irritation. This can easily be combated by alternating the timing of your application of these ingredients in your skincare routine. For example, apply a vitamin C enriched serum in the morning and a nightly serum containing niacinamide in the evening to receive the best results.
SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE
- Walocko, Frances M., et al. “The role of nicotinamide in acne treatment.” Dermatologic Therapy (2017).
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Volume 13 (4) – Dec 1, 2014, A review of nicotinamide: treatment of skin diseases and potential side effects
- Skin Pharmacol Physiol 2014;27:311-315, Niacinamide – Mechanisms of Action and Its Topical Use in Dermatology
- Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 2004 Apr;3(2):88-93., Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin.
- Shalita, Alan R., et al. “Topical nicotinamide compared with clindamycin gel in the treatment of inelammatory acne vulgaris.” International journal of dermatology 34.6 (1995): 434-437.
- Navarrete-Solís, Josefina, et al. “A double-blind, randomized clinical trial of niacinamide 4% versus hydroquinone 4% in the treatment of melasma.” Dermatology research and practice 2011 (2011).
- Tanno, O., et al. “Nicotinamide increases biosynthesis of ceramides as well as other stratum corneum lipids to improve the epidermal permeability barrier.” British Journal of Dermatology 143.3 (2000): 524-531.
