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Skincare’s tried-and-true ‘It’ ingredient, niacinamide largely serves as your ride-or-die for common beauty woes – but we suppose the information overload about this potent powerhouse has left you overwhelmed. Standing tall amongst other actives, niacinamide is known to fade dark spots, curb hyperpigmentation, diminish the appearance of pores, even out your skin tone, regulate sebum secretions, reverse signs of premature ageing, and support barrier health. In short, it’s totally worth the hype.
If you’re yet to stock up on this skincare marvel – or are hesitant to give it a shot – we’re here to clear things up. Right from breaking down this ingredient to exploring its many benefits and sharing our top recs, let’s delve deeper into all things niacinamide.
Niacinamide: What’s All The Rage About?
Our longtime beauty obsession, niacinamide has been making strides in the skincare world for years. Essentially, our body requires eight different kinds of B vitamins for optimal cellular function, and niacin – vitamin B3 – when absorbed by the body, is converted into niacinamide to support healthy skin growth while lending anti-inflammatory properties. The water-soluble may also be referred to as ‘nicotinamide,’ and is best applied topically in serum form.
The Endless Benefits Of Niacinamide
The wonder ingredient boasts a long list of benefits, the most notable being improved skin texture and a glowing complexion. Apart from the aforementioned advantages it offers, niacinamide rebuilds the lipid layer, minimises the appearance of enlarged pores, and helps prevent UV damage and inflammation. Moreover, it pairs well with other active ingredients, including vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, retinol, and salicylic acid.
For the uninitiated, niacinamide has been found to boost collagen, targeting wrinkles and fine lines, while also regulating sebum oversecretion to keep breakouts at bay. All in all, it’s a good option for those with acne, rosacea, and generally sensitive skin.
How To Introduce Niacinamide Into Your Regimen
While niacinamide can be found in cleansers, creams, toners, oils, ampoules, sunscreens, and even foundations, dermatologists make a compelling case for serums, given their ability to deliver a high concentration of an active ingredient directly to the skin. Plus, since niacinamide is water-soluble, in serum form, it easily penetrates the skin to target specific skin concerns.
However, choosing the best formulation may depend on the problem you’re hoping to solve. For glow, perhaps a serum may work better, while to soothe dry, irritated skin, a hydrating face wash is ideal. A product with a concentration of 2–10% niacinamide is well-tolerated by the skin.
Editor-Approved Product Picks
Meet this hardworking elixir that promises brightened, smooth skin with improved skin barrier integrity and resilience. The lightweight texture penetrates deep within to reduce the appearance of blemishes, control sebum, and reveal a spotless complexion.
Another way to incorporate niacinamide into your daily skincare routine is by investing in an uber-soothing face wash, much like NIVEA’s efficacious formula. Regulating oil production and reducing blemishes, the dermatologically tested offering claims to clear your skin within a week, owing to a powerful medley of niacinamide and salicylic acid.
Invite this amalgam of niacinamide, glycerine, and panthenol to your top shelf pronto. Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser boosts hydration, relieves roughness, and replenishes a weakened epidermal barrier. Better yet, this no-nasties, non-comedogenic formula won’t clog your pores either.
Those plagued by pesky pimple marks, be all ears. 91% of consumers reported tightened pores and faded acne scars after consistent use of The Derma Co’s 10% Niacinamide Face Serum. A couple of drops twice a day will do the magic!
A beauty non-negotiable, Dot & Key’s Tinted Sunscreen is tried, tested, and loved by Indian consumers – for good reason. Featuring niacinamide, it blends seamlessly to offer uniform coverage, maximises skin luminosity, and targets stubborn dark spots, too.
No white cast, non-sticky, lightweight – need I say more? WishCare’s SPF 50 PA++++ formula balances sebum secretions while moisturising your skin for a silky, smooth feel. Niacinamide, Zinc PCA, ceramides, and Centella Asiatica join forces to deliver optimal sun protection and restore your skin barrier.
Acne, damaged skin, and an uneven tone will no longer be a concern with Minimalist’s power-packed potion. Best suited for oily, acne-prone skin, the elixir is a unique blend of highly effective ingredients – including niacinamide, matmarine, zinc, and acetyl glucosamine – for your best skin yet.
While one rarely experiences an adverse reaction to niacinamide, it goes without saying that you should test out a new product on a small section of your inner wrist or neck before applying it to the face.
