Niacinamide - action and application in skincare
In today's article in our skincare series, we will look at one of the key ingredients – niacinamide. This versatile ingredient is gaining increasing popularity in the world of cosmetology and skincare. Find out what niacinamide actually is, how it works, how to use it, and what to combine it with to enjoy beautiful and healthy skin.
Niacinamide – what is it?
Niacinamide – what exactly does it mean? Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3 or vitamin PP, is a compound belonging to the B vitamin family. It is essential for the proper functioning of the body, and its action is also significant in skincare. Niacinamide has the ability to penetrate the skin barrier, making it an effective ingredient in many cosmetic products.
Action and properties of niacinamide
Niacinamide exhibits a range of beneficial properties for the skin. What does niacinamide help with?
Niacinamide – action
Reduction of acne and reduction of discoloration – niacinamide regulates sebum production, which helps in fighting acne. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce redness and skin irritation,
improvement of skin texture – regular use of niacinamide can result in reduced visibility of pores and improvement of overall skin texture,
counteracting skin aging – niacinamide acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. This, in turn, can contribute to delaying aging processes,
reduction of hyperpigmentation – this ingredient is known for its ability to brighten skin discoloration, making it effective in combating hyperpigmentation,
protection against UV radiation – niacinamide can strengthen the skin's protective barrier, helping to reduce damage caused by UV radiation.
Niacinamide concentrations in cosmetics
In cosmetic products, niacinamide most often occurs in concentrations from 2% to 10%. Beginners should start with lower concentrations (2–5%), while more experienced users can reach for products with a higher concentration.
How to use niacinamide?
How to apply niacinamide to get maximum benefits? It is worth following a few rules:
Rules for using niacinamide
Patch test – before fully implementing niacinamide into your skincare routine, it is recommended to perform a patch test to avoid potential allergic reactions,
gradual introduction – niacinamide can be strong, especially for sensitive skin. Start with a low concentration and gradually increase the amount,
regularity – use niacinamide regularly to achieve visible effects. Remember that results will not appear immediately, they require time,
layering products – niacinamide can be combined with other ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or vitamin C. However, avoid using it in combination with products containing retinoids to avoid irritation.
When to expect the first effects?
The first results of using niacinamide can be noticed as early as after 2–4 weeks of regular use. Full effects, especially in the case of reducing discoloration, may be visible after 8–12 weeks.
Morning or evening application?
Niacinamide can be used both in the morning and evening. Thanks to its protective properties, it works perfectly in the morning routine under a cream with SPF filter.
Niacinamide – what not to mix with?
When using niacinamide, it is worth avoiding certain ingredients and products to prevent unwanted skin reactions:
What to avoid when using niacinamide?
Retinoids – the combination of niacinamide with retinoids may lead to reduced efficacy of both ingredients. It is better to use them in different parts of the skincare routine,
acids AHA/BHA – too aggressive a combination of niacinamide with fruit acids or salicylic acid can lead to irritation and redness,
too many active ingredients – do not combine niacinamide with too many other active ingredients, as this can overload the skin.
Niacinamide – what to combine with? Safe combinations
Niacinamide blends perfectly with:
hyaluronic acid,
ceramides,
vitamin C (in appropriate concentrations),
peptides,
antioxidants.
Niacinamide – what is it and how to use it? Summary
Niacinamide is an ingredient gaining recognition in the skincare world thanks to its versatile properties. The action of niacinamide includes acne reduction, texture improvement, protection against harmful external factors and many other benefits. However, remember to use it correctly and avoid certain combinations that can lead to irritation. Use the potential of niacinamide in your daily care and enjoy beautiful, healthy skin.