What is niacinamide in skin care and why should you use it?

Niacinamide is not exactly the catchiest name for a skin care ingredient. It’s a bit of a mouthful and sounds like part of a science experiment but it packs a punch in terms of benefits for your skin.

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Terri Vinson, Founder of Synergie Skin, has answered all of our questions about the skin care ingredient below...

What is niacinamide?

“Niacinamide (also referred to as vitamin B3) is an active cosmeceutical with an extraordinary array of skin benefits,” says Terri. “Vitamin B3 is found in a variety of food including green vegetables, grains, eggs, dairy products, meat, fish, milk, and grains so we are unlikely to have a deficiency. However, current studies from The National Institute of Health suggests that B3 works more effectively on the skin when used topically rather than ingesting it orally. So it’s best to add this little dynamo to your skin care regimen daily!”

What does niacinamide do?

“I like to think of niacinamide as the go-to ingredient for everyone. I can’t think of any skin type that would not benefit from this cosmeceutical dynamo,” Terri says.

What skin types would benefit most from using niacinamide in their skin care routine?

Terri explains that the ingredient can help with inflammation, fine lines, dehydration, flaking skin, pigmentation and even skin immunity. “Niacinamide is able to work on so many levels when used topically and everyone will benefit from this skin vitamin,” she says.

What is the best way to incorporate niacinamide into your skin care routine?

“I prefer to formulate niacinamide in the form of a serum. The niacinamide is water soluble, stable and a water-based serum allows optimal penetration into the skin,” Terri says. “Serums, in general, are lightweight and more concentrated with higher levels of active ingredients. However, over-the-counter serums may not be as potent as serums provided by skin aestheticians and cosmetic clinics. Always read the ingredient labels and ask your skin specialist about the active ingredients. Look for a product that contains over 10% niacinamide and you’ll be assured that it packs a punch.”

Products with niacinamide to try...