Taking care of your skin is a big deal, and there are lots of ingredients out there claiming to make your skin look great. One ingredient that's getting a lot of attention is niacinamide. It's like a superhero for your skin because it has the goodness of vitamin B3. But with so many choices, it's hard to figure out what's best for your skin. To solve this query, we spoke to our expert Dr Rashmi Shetty, Cosmetic Dermatologist, Ra Skin and Aesthetics - Mumbai and Hyderabad, who explained the benefits of niacinamide and how to use it.
What Is Niacinamide
Niacinamide, also known as Nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3 that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and functionality of both the skin and the brain.
“This versatile nutrient has gained favour among dermatologists and skincare experts due to its gentle nature, making it suitable for all skin types. Unlike some other skincare ingredients, niacinamide is well-tolerated and does not cause irritation”, said Dr Shetty. Moreover, it boasts remarkable stability, as it does not readily oxidise, ensuring its effectiveness over time.
Also Read: Niacinamide To Hyaluronic Acid, Common Skin Care Ingredients And Their Benefits
Benefits of Niacinamide in Skincare
Addressing Skincare Concerns
The benefits of niacinamide in skin care are extensive and diverse. It addresses a wide range of concerns, making it a valuable addition to any skincare routine. Dr Shetty said that niacinamide is a multi-faceted ingredient and listed some of its benefits as follows:
- Combating the signs of ageing
- Promoting skin brightness
- Treating acne scars
- Reducing pigmentation
Key Functions of Niacinamide
Maintains Firmness of the Skin
One of its key functions is in the synthesis of keratin, a structural protein that provides strength and resilience to the skin. “By promoting keratin production, niacinamide helps maintain the firmness and overall health of the skin”, said Dr Shetty.
Keeps Your Skin Hydrated
Also, niacinamide plays a crucial role in the formation of the ceramide barrier, a protective lipid layer that helps retain moisture within the skin. This barrier is essential for preventing excessive water loss, and keeping the skin hydrated and supple.
Soothes Skin Irritation
Niacinamide possesses anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable tool in soothing irritated skin. It can help reduce redness and inflammation associated with conditions like acne and eczema, providing relief and promoting a more balanced complexion.
According to the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, niacinamide helps prevent processes in the skin that can lead to issues like protein damage and discolouration through its antioxidant abilities. One such process is the Maillard reaction, which produces yellowish-brown compounds called Amadori products. As we age, these products accumulate in the skin components, like collagen, due to oxidative stress.
Also Read: Mastering Your Skincare Routine: Expert Tips for Healthy, Radiant Skin
How To Maximise Benefits Of Niacinamide
To maximise the benefits of niacinamide in a skincare routine, it can be effectively combined with other key ingredients.
“During the day, it is recommended to follow niacinamide application with a moisturiser and sunscreen. This ensures that the skin remains adequately hydrated and protected from harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate various skin concerns”, informed Dr Shetty.
In the evening, tailored combinations can be used to address specific skin issues. This powerful combination targets blemishes and signs of ageing, supporting a smoother and more youthful complexion.
- For those dealing with dullness, pairing niacinamide with vitamin C can be particularly effective in promoting a brighter, more radiant complexion.
- For individuals with dehydrated skin, combining niacinamide with hyaluronic acid helps replenish moisture levels, resulting in a plump and revitalised appearance.
- Those grappling with acne, fine lines, or wrinkles can benefit from the synergistic effects of niacinamide and Retinol.
Bottomline
Dr Shetty concluded, “Niacinamide is a highly versatile form of vitamin B3 that offers a myriad of benefits for skin health. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for all skin types, and its stability ensures long-lasting effectiveness. When strategically combined with other ingredients, it becomes a powerful tool in achieving a healthy, radiant complexion.”
[Disclaimer: The article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. We advise you to consult your expert before trying any skincare ingredient, especially if you are dealing with any skin conditions.]