Don’t let yourself get caught up in the intricacies of complex words in the skincare realm— but feel free to catch feelings for the match made in heaven that is Niacinamide and your skin.
An industry darling for its ability to improve epidermal barrier function, and decrease hyperpigmentation, among many other benefits, Niacinamide is a staple in skincare formulations—it’s an ingredient that truly does a little bit of everything.
Curious why Niacinamide is one of the first ingredients formulators reach for when demystifying common skin issues and dreaming up of topical solutions? Read on.
What is Niacinamide?
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3. At its very basic function, Vitamin B3 offers high antioxidant that support cell repair. Dubbed an essential nutrient because the body cannot produce it on its own, Niacinamide deficiencies aren’t uncommon. A lack of this vitamin can result in skin, brain, and kidney disorders among other health effects.
Our bodies need consistent niacinamide to ensure fats and sugars in the body are properly absorbed — this vitamin is commonly found in foods like fish, meats, cereal, bread, and legumes.
What’s the best way to incorporate Niacinamide into your skin routine?
Niacinamide is a pretty incredible vitamin with a range of benefits — that’s why skincare formulators prioritize Niacinamide. Generally, when used in the 2-10% range, Niacdimade isn’t harsh, making it appropriate for all skin types.
You’ll find Niacinamide in many common formulas. If using it on its own, we recommend using as a precursor to heavier products. In our opinion, Niacinamide functions best with products that support its function — like the Flawless Face Mask.
A gentle mask designed to balance skin’s PH, remove oil, dirt, toxins, and clear dead skin cells is supported by Niacinamide as a key ingredient.
How does Niacinamide impact the skin?
Primarily known as a brightener, Niacinamide plays nicely with skin as it helps restore cellular integrity and damaged DNA.
Niacinamide is regarded as an impactful vitamin for skin because it sets the stage for co-enzymes ([nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+/NADH) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP+)]. These co-enzymes are necessary for the chemical reactions that help repair cell damage — note that these functions have to have niacinamide to work.[1] At a foundational level, Niacinamide is a support system to creating NAD+.
Most trials and research assessing the impact of this vitamin uses the split face approach, essentially having subjects use Niacinamide in some capacity on on side of the face to compare changes from the other un-targeted side. Generally, improvement skin conditions — whether it be redness, melasama, or wrinkles— are the result of these studies.[2]
A few targeted power moves this vitamin makes…
Regulates Oil: Research shows just 2% topical application of niacdimiade directly influences oil production — pointing to this vitamin as a ally in acne prevention.[3] Note that this vitamin is generally non-irritating, which suits those with sensitive skin.
Strengthens Ceramide Barrier: Niacinimade boosts barrier lipid and ceramid synthesis — this means the skin barrier is significantly strengthened. Moisture will be retained and the skin will be protected when faced with external stressors.[4]
Builds Keratin for Firmer Skin: Within the epidermis, keratin is a protein that adheres cells to each other. A literal glue, keratin is important to ensuring a protective layer of skin. External influences and stress can weaken keratin…enter Niacinamide. Niacinamide increases protein synthesis, which improves surface structure of the skin. [5]
Minimizes Visual Skin Irritation: In addition to fostering the function and content of NAD+, studies point to the improvement of elasticity, irritation, and fine lines.[6] Note that a specific study concluded that a 5% concentration improves hyperpigmentation after four weeks. [7]
Reduces Oxidative Stress: Stay with us during some science-heavy lingo. Oxidative stress occurs when the production of reactive oxygen species and their elimination is imbalanced — this means the production of oxygen isn’t being processed and detoxified by the body as it normally should. A long-term state of oxidative stress impacts the skin because it speeds up the loss of collages and elastin fibers, making skin more susceptible to texture shifts and wrinkles.
Niacinamide (and the resulting NAD+ ) is known to protect skin cells by neutralizing these free radicals, the rogue molecules that can damage skin.[8]
Targets Irritation: When topically applied, niacinamide may repair the stratum corneum — the outermost layer of skin — creating a more resilient skin barrier.
ALMAdeLIA’s Flawless Sheet Mask clears and clarifies all types of skin, especially for those who has acne and scar prone skin. It’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties purifies and detoxifies your skin. The mask is gentle on the skin and is especially crafted to provide the empowered woman with a clean and clear, healthy glow.
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[1] https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/niacin
[2] Bisset et al, Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2004 Sept. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-2494.2004.00228.x
[3] Zoe Diana Draelos, Akira Matsubara & Kenneth Smiles (2006) The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production, Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, 8:2, 96-101, DOI: 10.1080/14764170600717704
[4]Tanno O, Ota Y, Kitamura N, Katsube T, Inoue S. Nicotinamide increases biosynthesis of ceramides as well as other stratum corneum lipids to improve the epidermal permeability barrier. Br J Dermatol. 2000 Sep;143(3):524-31. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2000.03705.x. PMID: 10971324.
[5]Gehring W. Nicotinic acid/niacinamide and the skin. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2004 Apr;3(2):88-93. doi: 10.1111/j.1473-2130.2004.00115.x. PMID: 17147561.
[6] Tanno O, Ota Y, Kitamura N, Katsube T, Inoue S. Nicotinamide increases biosynthesis of ceramides as well as other stratum corneum lipids to improve the epidermal permeability barrier. Br J Dermatol. 2000 Sep;143(3):524-31. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2000.03705.x. PMID: 10971324.
[7]Hakozaki T, Minwalla L, Zhuang J, Chhoa M, Matsubara A, Miyamoto K, Greatens A, Hillebrand GG, Bissett DL, Boissy RE. The effect of niacinamide on reducing cutaneous pigmentation and suppression of melanosome transfer. Br J Dermatol. 2002 Jul;147(1):20-31. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2133.2002.04834.x. PMID: 12100180.
[8]Ilkhani F, Hosseini B, Saedisomeolia A (2016) Niacin and Oxidative Stress: A Mini-Review. J Nutri Med Diet Care 2:014.