Niacinamide isn’t getting the same attention as ingredients such as retinol and vitamin C, yet the beauty guru is a hero worthy of the same acclaim. It’s what defines multitasking, even being found in a variety of top drugstore shampoos–offering many different advantages that make it an excellent choice for various skin issues. Niacinamide is an active ingredient in many inexpensive skincare brands. One of the brands mentioned, CeraVe, also makes an amazing eye cream for the eyes. However, incorporating it into your existing routine of skincare isn’t simple. Do you have to use Niacinamide in conjunction with vitamin C or Retinol? What is the case with Hyaluronic Acid? We consulted experts to provide their opinions on what you must learn about using Niacinamide and give us their top product picks.
What Is Niacinamide?
Simply, it’s a B vitamin, one of two types of vitamin B3 associated with many vital cellular functions that affect the skin, according to Gretchen Frieling, MD, a dermatologist triple board certified in the Boston region.
What Benefits Does It Have for Skin?
Be prepared, as this list is long. Niacinamide is a fantastic choice for those who suffer from acne-prone skin. “Niacinamide reduces sebum production, which can both help prevent acne and diminish shine,” says Kenneth Howe, MD dermatologist board-certified by UnionDerm in New York City. Pick a moisturizer suitable for oily skin, such as EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer. It will also aid in helping the epidermis absorb and store moisture. Make sure you choose one with a higher amount of Niacinamide in the skincare ampoules if you wish to manage oil and improve the appearance of pores.
You can also opt for the makeup spray for a setting containing Niacinamide, which helps regulate sebum production and reduce the shine. The vitamin is also well-known for its anti-inflammatory effects that help treat acne and conditions like eczema. The dermatologist, Dr. Frieling. Cosrx AC Collection Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer is one of the most effective moisturizers for skin that is sensitive and is an excellent example of a calming niacinamide formula that can be used for acne-prone skin. Looking for a top Night cream? Check out the brand’s Ultimate Nutrishing Rice overnight spa Mask.
According to dermatologists, Niacinamide can help strengthen the skin barrier, which is a massive benefit for people suffering from eczema or sensitive skin. It’s famous for brightening the skin and fighting hyperpigmentation because it blocks the flow of pigment from a cell that produces pigment (melanocytes) and the skin cells that are on the surface of the skin where discoloration can be seen, according to dermatologist Dr. Howe. Face Radiance by First Aid Beauty Niacinamide Dark Spot Serum is a fantastic option.
If all that wasn’t enough, there’s a little research that shows that Niacinamide may aid in reducing wrinkles and photoaging, as it helps ensure cells function correctly and also helps to repair DNA damage, according to Professor Dr. Howe. 2 In the end, there’s no limit to what Niacinamide could accomplish.
Can You Use Niacinamide With Retinol?
Yes! Dermatologists believe that retinol with Niacinamide is the best combination for faster results. Niacinamide’s soothing properties can fight the adverse effects and irritation often associated with retinol’s wrinkle-fighting powers.
Does It Work Well With Other Ingredients?
As a rule, the answer is yes. This is why it’s present in numerous skincare products, such as the range of copper-peptides, and is relatively easy to integrate into your routine. Niacinamide is frequently coupled with salicylic acid for the benefits of fighting acne. According to doctors, it’s an alpha-hydroxy acid that’s the main ingredient in acne products. Frieling. Combining Niacinamide’s anti-oil properties and salicylic acid’s capability to remove excess oil is an excellent method of keeping the pores clean and acne at bay. You’ll see it in many of the most effective face wash products to treat oily skin.
Niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory and skin barrier-strengthening effects also make it an excellent pairing option with alpha-hydroxy acids. These chemical exfoliants have the potential to cause some skin irritation. Combining these can increase the effectiveness of Niacinamide since the AHAs remove dead skin cells, which can cause problems for the Niacinamide to get into the skin, says Dr. Frieling. 4 In addition, Niacinamide is usually paired with hyaluronic acids because both may help reduce dryness, she states.
The one ingredient on which the jury isn’t yet out? Vitamin C. Experts were divided on this topic. Dr. Howe says that Vitamin C may inhibit the activity of Niacinamide. She recommends that you separate the application for 15 minutes. Although Dr. Frieling indeed notes that there is a debate about the issue, she notes that to have the two react, they’ll need to be heated. And more and more cosmetics are using both in skin-enhancing formulations. The bottom line is that if you’re using a makeup that includes vitamin C and Niacinamide, chances are it was explicitly designed to ensure they will work together. If you’re using two products containing these ingredients, you should wait 15 minutes between application or reserve one for use in the morning and the other for evening use.
Should I Be Using Niacinamide?
In a nutshell, it’s a resounding yes. According to the doctor, one of the best things about Niacinamide’s properties is its myriad benefits and its ability to be acceptable even for people with sensitive skin. Howe. If you’re seeking a plant-based, natural, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic niacinamide bathing product, Necessaire is one of the top. This is a good option for people whose skin might not take on more conventional acne treatments or brightening ingredients like benzoyl-peroxide or retinoids.
Are you unsure where to begin? Ahead are six dermatologist-approved niacinamide products worth trying.
A skin-saving mask Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Mask
Switch your regular night cream with this mask whenever your skin needs extra care. “This ultra-soothing, moisturizing mask incorporates niacinamide into the mix for deep-level, anti-inflammatory effects,” said Dr. Howe.
A spot-fading serum: skin medical’s Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum
It’s costly, however, to fade discoloration, doctor. Howe says this potent alternative is well worth the cost. Niacinamide is effective in synergy with tranexamic acids, a cutting-edge lightening ingredient, and it also assists in calming and calming the skin, Dr. Howe says.
A multi-purpose moisturizer: La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer Toleriane
Dr. Frieling believes it’s an all-around excellent facial moisturizer using the nutrient niacinamide to nourish, repair, and strengthen the skin. It’s a perfect choice for people with sensitive skin because it’s void of irritating ingredients, such as synthetic fragrances and preservatives, she says. It also offers a beautiful cleanser for the skin.