If there is one ingredient that everyone, from dermatologists to skin care enthusiasts, can agree on for its benefits, it is undoubtedly, Niacinamide. Often overlooked in favour of other actives like Hyaluronic acid, and Vitamin C, this multi-purpose ingredient is a boon for anyone with oily or sensitive or acne prone skin. Niacinamide when paired with other products works wonders for skin texture and brightness. Let’s get intimate with everything to know about this “jack-of-all-trade” of the skincare world.

What is Niacinamide?

Did you know that Niacinamide is actually a form of Vitamin B3. There are three types of Vit B3 namely, niacinamide, niacin, and nicotinamide riboside. Of these, niacinamide is the one used in skincare. While we get our Vit B3 from our diet, we unfortunately cannot store this in our skin or blood cells. Hence the need to apply it topically.

Top Niacinamide Benefits for Skin

• Boosts Skin Hydration When applied topically, niacinamide helps to enhance skin hydration by locking in moisture and minimising moisture loss. This is key for preventing dry, flaky, and dehydrated skin. By strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier, niacinamide ensures your skin remains soft, smooth, and plump.
• Supports a Healthy Skin Barrier Niacinamide promotes the production of ceramides, which are vital for maintaining a strong and intact skin barrier. This barrier is crucial for all skin types as it helps retain moisture while preventing harmful irritants from penetrating the skin. A robust skin barrier is essential for overall skin health and protection against external aggressors.
• Soothes and Calms Inflammation Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide helps calm irritated or inflamed skin. Whether you're dealing with conditions like acne, rosacea, or eczema, niacinamide reduces redness and swelling, providing relief and promoting a more even skin tone.
• Regulates Oil Production Niacinamide plays a key role in balancing the skin’s oil production. This is especially beneficial for those with oily or combination skin, as it prevents excess oil buildup, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. By controlling sebum production, niacinamide helps maintain a smooth, shine-free complexion.

 

 

• Treats Acne and Breakouts Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties make it effective in treating acne. It soothes the skin and reduces acne-related inflammation, while also clearing clogged pores of excess oil and bacteria. Regular use can lead to fewer breakouts and improved skin texture.
• Minimising the Appearance of Pores Niacinamide helps keep skin smooth and clear, which can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. By improving skin texture and elasticity, niacinamide makes pores appear smaller and less noticeable over time.
• Brightens Skin Tone One of the standout benefits of niacinamide is its ability to brighten the skin. It reduces hyperpigmentation and dark spots, resulting in a clearer, more even complexion. Niacinamide’s ability to reduce melanin production helps fade dark spots and enhances your natural radiance.
• Fights Signs of Aging Niacinamide is packed with antioxidants that help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun spots. Niacinamide’s antioxidant properties not only protect the skin from oxidative stress but also promote collagen production, which is essential for firm, youthful-looking skin.
• Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles By increasing collagen synthesis, niacinamide helps improve skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This makes it an excellent ingredient in anti-aging skincare routines, as it supports a more youthful, smoother complexion.
• Revitalizes Skin Niacinamide’s combination of hydration, soothing, and antioxidant properties work together to rejuvenate the skin. It supports the skin's natural repair processes, promoting a healthier and more radiant appearance.

How Niacinamide Works in Combination with Other Ingredients

 

Niacinamide and Vitamin C

Niacinamide when used along with Vitamin C helps in clearing dark spots, brightening skin tone, and improving skin texture. Vitamin C being an antioxidant helps reduce dark spots by boosting collagen production. This however can be irritating for sensitive skin. This is where niacinamide steps in with its  calming properties reducing inflammation and redness. The duo thus make a great pair for achieving an even-toned complexion.

IIRA’s Hyper C keeping these benefits in mind, is formulated with niacinamide along with L-Ascorbic acid.

Niacinamide and Zinc

Zinc is an established cure for targeting acne-causing bacteria and controlling excess oil. This when combined with niacinamide brings double the benefits while also maintaining an even skin tone.

Niacinamide and Retinol

Like Vitamin-C, retinol also can irritate skin when used without caution. While retinol itself is the gold standard skincare ingredient, to tame the irritation that can possibly result from it, niacinamide is a great addition. This more so in the nighttime skin care routine, when retinol is usually used.

Niacinamide for Acne-Prone and Oily Skin

Niacinamide even when used at 5% concentration levels is good at controlling sebum production making it a boon for people with oily skin. Further with its ability to soothe irritated skin, it is greatly appreciated by those with sensitive and acne prone skin, helping keep breakouts at bay. Naturally, less acne means less acne-related scarring and blemishes.

Why Choose IIRA’s Vitamin C Serum?

IIRA’s Vitamin C Serum combines niacinamide with Vitamin C, offering a dual-action formula that not only brightens and evens skin tone but also addresses oil control. This blend makes it especially suited for those with acne-prone or oily skin, providing hydration without heaviness and supporting a smoother, clearer complexion over time.

Niacinamide in Skincare: How to Use It

For a simple and well-rounded morning skin care regimen, start by cleansing with non-drying face wash and follow it up with Niacinamide serum, preferably 5% but not more than 10%. You can choose to follow up with a vit-c serum.

As a next step apply non-fragrant moisturiser and finish the skincare routine with a broad-spectrum spf 30 and above sunscreen.

Niacinamide and Hydration: Hyaluronic Acid Synergy

For the dry skin girlies out there, try to include hyaluronic acid along with niacinamide in your skincare to get that extra moisture you know you need.

FAQs about Niacinamide

 

1. Can I Use Niacinamide with Retinol?
   Yes, niacinamide pairs well with retinol. Niacinamide’s soothing properties help counteract the irritation and dryness that retinol can sometimes cause, making it easier for sensitive skin to tolerate retinol. Together, they promote smoother, clearer skin without the harsh side effects.
2. Does Niacinamide Help with Acne?
   Absolutely! Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties help calm existing breakouts and prevent future ones. It works to reduce redness, soothe irritation, and create an environment where acne is less likely to thrive.
3. Is Niacinamide Good for Oily Skin?
   Yes, niacinamide is ideal for oily skin. It helps regulate sebum production, preventing excess oil without over-drying. This balance keeps skin from appearing greasy and reduces the likelihood of clogged pores.
4. How Long Does It Take to See Results from Niacinamide?
   Many users start to notice improvements in texture, tone, and overall clarity within a few weeks of consistent use. For more noticeable changes, such as reduced pore size and refined skin texture, expect results over a period of several weeks to a few months.